$226,305Average Value$150Average Price per Sq Ft24Homes For Sale
Noise like thunder in Big Bull Falls
In the early 19th century, Native Americans and local fur traders named a portion of the Wisconsin River “Big Bull Falls” after the area’s loud, churning rapids. It was the Ojibwe tribe who nicknamed the area “Wausau.” Though translations vary from “far away place” to “noise like thunder,” the nickname stuck. From the 1800s lumber mills to turn-of-the-century technology, modern Wausau is a culmination of its sweeping natural landscape and rich industrial history.
“Our challenge as a city has been attracting younger people. But once they’re here, they stay,” says Gizo Ujarmeli, a real estate broker and owner of Amaximmo, LLC in Downtown Wausau. “For a small city, we have lots of things to do. It reminds me of the cities in Germany and Switzerland that I moved here from: It’s safe, there are good schools and wonderful people.”
The Wisconsin River flows through Wausau, and is easily accessible to residents of East Towne.
You can launch your own kayak near the southeastern side of DC Everest County Park in Wausau.
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Rib Mountain State Park is a haven for outdoor recreation
In the heart of Wausau, a renovated city square known as the 400 Block transforms from a holiday-themed ice rink in the winter to a lively green space in the summer. From there, residents can easily ride their bikes to waterfront parks like Barker-Stewart Island and the Isle of Ferns.
South of the Wisconsin River, the Ojibwe people once used Rib Mountain as a lookout point. Today, the billion-year-old hill has transformed into a sprawling tourist attraction, home to the largest ski area in Wisconsin: Granite Peak. “We’re trying to become the state capital of outdoor recreation,” Ujarmeli says. “We have some of the best kayaking on the river because of the rapids. Then there’s the hiking, skiing and snow-shoeing. Many bikers even brave the winter and bike in the snowy landscape.” The only downside, he continues, is the weather. “It’s so cold here, you’d think we’d never grow. When I first moved here, I couldn’t stand it. But now I’ve lived here for 24 years, and my favorite part of the year is when the ice rink opens downtown.”
The 400 Block of Wausau its the city's center, and every winter hosts an ice skating rink.
At nearly 2,000 feet elevation, Granite Peak at Rib Mountain in Wausau is a top ski spot.
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From Big Bull Falls Blues Fest to ARTrageous Weekend
Residents flock to the Isle of Ferns each summer for Big Bull Falls Blues Fest. The annual concert is one of many held throughout the city in the warmer months. "Wausau is all about the arts," Ujarmeli says. "We have the Grand Theatre downtown, which is quite unique for a small city like ours. Then we have concerts at the 400 Block that last the entire summer.” Also held downtown, Wausau's ARTrageous Weekend spans four locations, featuring live performances, art exhibits and even a chalk drawing competition.
The Grand Theater in Wausau offers a variety of live performances, from comedy to ballet and more.
Residents of Southeast Side Wausau have easy access to the amazing Leigh Yawkey Woodson Art Museum.
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Downtown Grocery & the Velveteen Plum
Beyond the 400 Block, Downtown Wausau is known for its small businesses and eateries. “Our ‘Main Street’ is Third Street, and it’s actually really cute,” Ujarmeli says. “We have a few nice restaurants like Ciao and Lemongrass Asian Fusion, and then this place called Downtown Grocery. Everything is local produce there. And they must be vegetarians since they basically sell everything but meat.” Known as the Wausau River District, Third Street and its surrounding avenues offer pubs, cafés and boutiques.
For the essentials, residents head to Highway 51 for chain grocery stores like Festival Foods and County Market. “There’s this restaurant over there called Velveteen Plum on top of a newly constructed apartment building,” he continues. “It’s one of the closest rooftop bars outside of Madison!” Rib Mountain also houses various big-name grocers and retailers, from Sam’s Club to Best Buy and Walmart Supercenter.
Wausau residents can head to Festival Foods for all their grocery needs.
Janke Book Store on Third Street is the oldest book store in Wisconsin.
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A historic housing market in Wausau
Wausau’s average home price is around $228,000, well below the national average. The city boasts two historic districts on the east side of the river: The Andrew Warren Historic District and East Hill. Both flaunt various traditional architectural styles built between 1868 and 1934. “If you drive the East Hill, you’ll see that the older properties are well-maintained,” Ujarmeli says. “We’re even known to host haunted tours there!” Closer to the city center, midcentury bungalows and ranch-style homes make up the bulk of the market. Newer developments have steadily increased on the outskirts of the city, particularly in areas like Rib Mountain and Riverview.
The eastern portion of Wausau has some of the larger historic builds, including Victorian styles.
Wausau has a variety of houses to choose from, including bungalows starting in the $180k range.
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Public schooling through the Wausau School District
The Wausau School District enrolls public school students citywide, including those farther south in Rib Mountain. The district earns an A-minus on Niche and ranks second in the county. Wausau is also home to three separate colleges: The University of Wisconsin–Stevens Point at Wausau, Rasmussen University–Wausau and Northcentral Technical College.
With only an 11-1 Student teacher ratio, John Marshall Elementary School in Wausau is a great place for young learners.
The University of Wisconsin–Stevens Point location in Wausau is a two-year campus.
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Trading lumber mills for medical centers
A century ago, the lumber industry was a major player in Marathon County. “Back then, to deal with injuries from the lumber factories, they started the first insurance company in Wausau,” Ujarmeli says. Today, Liberty Mutual owns Wausau Insurance and ranks as one of the largest employers in the city. Aspirus Hospital and manufacturing companies like Wausau Window and Wall Systems closely follow.
“Most people work within Wausau proper or surrounding communities like Schofield,” he continues. “We don’t see a lot of outward commuters because we have our entire infrastructure established.” Overall, residents are car-dependent. Wausau provides Metro Ride bus service throughout the city, while Route 51 and Interstate 39 are major arteries for commuters. Wausau Downtown Airport is a city-owned public-use airport, meaning residents usually fly out of Central Wisconsin Airport, 15 miles south.
Crime statistics in Wausau
Property and violent crime rates in Wausau over the last 5 years have been slightly higher than the state average but lower than the national average. The CAP Index identifies the downtown area as experiencing a higher overall crime risk. Generally, violent and property crime rates in Wausau sit well below the national average.
Written By
Dana Chesser
Photography Contributed By
Jesse Snyder
Video By
Wengel Abiy
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On average, homes in Wausau, WI sell after 21 days on the market compared to the national average of 57 days. The median sale price for homes in Wausau, WI over the last 12 months is $230,000, up 2% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
CANNOT BE SHOWN UNTIL 5/09/2026 Nestled in Wausau’s iconic Hillcrest neighborhood, this 4 bed, 3 bath home awaits its new family. It holds the space and potential that’s getting harder to find. With over 3,000 square feet of living space, this home features a functional layout designed for both everyday living and flexibility, including multiple living areas and generously sized bedrooms. The
Welcome to this well-maintained 5-bedroom, 2.5-bath home ideally located in the heart of Wausau. Offering a strong combination of location, value, and neighborhood setting, this property presents an opportunity you won’t want to miss. Whether you’re looking for a welcoming outdoor space to entertain, a comfortable place to put down roots, or a home with versatile living areas, this property is
Exceptional 4 bedroom, 3.5 bathroom home just west of Wausau in the Town of Stettin. Set on 3 scenic acres overlooking Wausau’s countryside, this property offers 4,088 finished square feet of meticulously maintained and beautifully updated living space. The remodeled kitchen is the true centerpiece of the main level. Stunning quartz countertops and a spacious quartz island set the tone, while
Set on a full acre in Rib Mountain, this ranch-style home offers space, comfort, and thoughtful design inside and out. With over 2,100 total finished square feet, this home blends classic construction with practical updates and flexible living areas that make everyday life feel easy and inviting. The main level features a bright and spacious living room anchored by a brick fireplace with built-in
145683 Flint Creek Circle is a custom English Tudor estate in the Wausau area with 4 bedrooms, 3 full baths, 2 half baths, over 7,000 finished square feet on 23 private acres with Flint Creek frontage, a private bridge, gated entrance, wooded trails, fenced pasture, and a beautifully built barn/stable. This home has a replacement value of $3.6 million dollars, not including the land. Located in
*Seller financing is available to qualified buyers*. Welcome to this exceptional Wisconsin Riverfront property, offering 120 feet of pristine sandy shoreline and a rare combination of luxury, flexibility, and natural beauty. Heading downstream provides easy access to the public docks at Wausau on the water. Ideally situated on a private, park-like setting just 10 minutes from downtown Wausau,
This stunning executive home, inspired by Frank Lloyd Wright design, seamlessly blends timeless architecture with modern updates - all in an unparalleled location with direct ski access. Nestled in a highly sought-after neighborhood, this property offers rare, direct access to the natural beauty of Rib Mountain State Park. Enjoy skiing at Granite Peak right from your backyard or step onto some of
Move-in ready and modernized, this 3-bedroom (with 4th bonus room), 1-bath home on the East side of Wausau offers comfort, updates, and a convenient location - on a 0.16-acre corner lot with driveway access off N 9th Ave. A detached 2-car garage connects via a covered walkway to the side entry, and the property includes a nice side yard. Enjoy the inviting front deck - an ideal outdoor seating
Imagine sipping your morning coffee on a covered front porch, looking out over peaceful, rolling hills. Welcome to 306 S 20th Street, a brand-new 2024 build tucked away on a quiet cul-de-sac in the highly sought-after D.C. Everest School District. This stunning home commands immediate attention with its striking stone and pristine vinyl facade, a welcoming covered front porch, and an elevated
Turn-key duplex in the City of Wausau, ideally set on a quiet road near scenic walking trails along the Wisconsin River. Enjoy a short commute to downtown Wausau and Rib Mountain, making this a strong, long-term investment, or owner-occupy opportunity. Each unit has been extensively updated! Both feature 3 bedrooms, 2 full bathrooms, main-level laundry, an attached 2-car garage, and 1,672 square
This 80-acre parcel, located just 20 minutes from Wausau, offers outstanding wildlife habitat and recreational potential. The land features diverse cover including northern hardwoods, hemlock stands providing excellent security and thermal cover, close agriculture and a defined creek bottom that enhances wildlife movement. Abundant edge habitat and a well-laid-out trail system create easy access
0 Woodlot Road 80A Hewitt Marathon CountyA-1440Wisconsin Land For Sale | Located just 10 miles east of Wausau, this versatile 80 +/- acre property blends productive land, diverse habitat, and excellent recreational potential. The acreage features a mix of lowland and highland hardwoods interspersed with balsam and hemlock, creating ideal cover and year round wildlife habitat.
What a rare opportunity it would be, to own this Extraordinary Home on 1.06 acres on Wausau's Westside! Located in the desirable Stettin area, this unique 3+ Bedroom/ 2 1/2 + bath home has so many amazing features it has to be seen in person! Imagine walking in the home to see its flowing layout, from the Living Room with its stately fireplace to the beautiful hardwood flooring throughout, then
This charming 1885-built residence at 605 S 3rd Ave offers a unique blend of historic character and modern potential, featuring a functional 1,268-square-foot layout with three bedrooms and one full bathroom. Wrapped in durable vinyl siding and topped with a classic shingle roof, this two-story home sits on a generous 7,405-square-foot lot that provides ample space for outdoor activities and
Your new apartment home awaits–Just opened November 1st, 2025! Welcome to your future home in downtown Wausau, where convenience meets modern living! Foundry on 3rd places you right in the heart of the action, with easy access to local shops, restaurants, and everything else that downtown Wausau has to offer.Foundry on 3rd features a range of amenities designed for both relaxation
Clean and updated studio apartment conveniently located in downtown Wausau, this unit offers easy walkability to local shops, restaurants, and entertainment. Rent is $600 per month with a 12-month lease. Security deposit is $600. Comfortable, low-maintenance living in a prime location! No pets allowed. Water and garbage is included, tenant is responsible for electric.
Welcome to Mountain Lane Apartments—your gateway to exceptional living in Wausau, Wisconsin. Here, comfort meets conveniences, all in a serene setting, providing an ideal place to unwind and thrive. Each thoughtfully designed one- and two-bedroom apartment features modern finishes and spacious floor plan layouts. Each apartment features modern kitchens with stainless steel appliances and granite
The Apartments at Riverlife offer an unparalleled location with an inspiring blend of natural beauty and city convenience. Our residents enjoy stunning, picturesque views overlooking the Wisconsin River and the Wausau skyline, available from the comfort of their own balconies , our well appointed outside patio, or while wandering along the landscaped and well-lit riverfront walking/running/biking
Mountain View Apartments was created for those who know what they want out of life! Our elegant homes of distinction provide carefree living with personalized service. You'll be surrounded by natural beauty and vitality. Our property lines the Rib River for those who like adventure or just to relax and listen to nature. With our central location, you are just minutes from fine dining, shopping,
Luxury Apartments in Wausau – Flexible Lease Terms!Now leasing studio, 1, 2, and 3-bedroom apartments with flexible lease options (1–12 months) and furnished or unfurnished layouts available. Located in the heart of Wausau, these upscale residences offer sweeping views of Rib Mountain and a unique blend of comfort, style, and convenience.Apartment Features-Open floor plans with
Surround yourself with first-class amenities, freshly manicured greenery, and scenic hiking trails in the heart of Central Wisconsin. Discover The Reserve, a resort-style, master-planned community for residents looking to simplify their routine, without sacrificing their active lifestyle. Conveniently located in the Vistas at Greenwood Hills. It’s time to embrace your independence,
Nestled in a serene, wooded setting on Wausaus west side, Sherman Oaks Apartments offers beautifully crafted one- and two-bedroom homes with modern comforts designed for peaceful living. Spacious floor plans feature fully equipped kitchens, ceiling fans, balconies or patios, and king-size walk-in closets, all complemented by views of Rib Mountain and a scenic walking path that weaves through the
BRAND NEW PROPERTY!Discover modern boutique-style living at Evergreen Landing, where comfort, style, and everyday convenience come together. Thoughtfully designed homes, premium finishes, and on-site management create a truly elevated living experience.Every apartment is designed with high-quality finishes and everyday ease in mind, including:* Stainless steel
Located 2 miles from town, situated close to Highway 51 & 29, Towering Pines Luxury Apartments is a beautiful newer construction apartment complex. Just minutes from the conveniences of downtown Wausau and Greenwood Hills Country Club, you'll find a little escape in these apartment homes, in a quiet country setting. Each luxury apartment includes heat and comes with an attached garage, full size
A Great Location at a Great Price!Woodfield Circle Apartments offer this two-bedroom and one-bathroom apartment home which includes a large green space, private parking, and a sensible floor plan making Woodfield Circle a wonderful place to call home. PLUS YOUR WATER/SEWER ARE INCLUDED!*Prices, amenities, utility responsibility, specials, and unit availability are subject to
The apartment homes at Grand Avenue Luxury Apartment Homes feature an array of modern amenities and many extras for your convenience. Choose from a variety of living spaces designed to meet your every need. These spacious one, two, or three bedroom apartments, featuring Detached Garages with openers, full sized washer and dryer, private entries, covered balconies or porches and plenty of storage.
The Athletic Park baseball stadium is home to the Wausau Woodchucks, but its namesake community houses walkable schools, restaurants and markets. Historical homes line residential streets, complete with sidewalks and intermittent bus stops for easily navigating the surrounding city. “Many of us call Wausau a mini Madison,” says Jacob Mizgalski, a local broker with The Mizgalski Property Group at eXp Realty. “And that’s the goal, really. Between businesses popping up and younger people moving in, there’s a real focus on development.” Residents of Athletic Park are a mere mile from popular haunts and renovated attractions, like The Grand Theater, Riverlife Park and the 400 Block. Below-average home prices near the up-and-coming downtown scene are likely to rise. For potential homebuyers, investing in Athletic Park means investing in the greater city of Wausau.<br><br>No two homes are quite identical in Athletic Park, considering many date back to the early 20th century. These historical properties flaunt traditional facades with odes to Georgian, Colonial, American Foursquare and Craftsman architecture. The sidewalks out front branch into front entrance walkways, shaded by a mix of new and old-growth trees denoting the neighborhood’s history and continued growth. Paved driveways lead to detached garages out back, while wrap-around porches and spacious verandas contribute to the community’s welcoming atmosphere. “It’s densely populated because it’s closer to downtown,” Mizgalski says. “It’s not that it’s more expensive, it’s just older. Being close to the river and the downtown area means homes are super close to restaurants and shops.” Prices typically vary between $100,000 and $430,000, below average compared to the greater Wausau area. <br><br>Located 1 mile north of Downtown Wausau, Athletic Park's residents can walk to some of the city's most frequented shops and eateries. On 6th Street, Bob & Randy's Bar is a go-to for cold beer and sizzling burgers during Packers season. But a few blocks south, 6th Street Filling Station is known for its loaded American brunch plates and vintage pit-stop ambiance. Sweet Lola's, a well-loved, family-owned staple, prepares delectable treats from cupcakes to mousse bombs. International markets, including Wausau Oriental Foods and Tres Hermanos Grocery, are also planted along the thoroughfare beside Zillman's Meat Market, a butcher shop open since 1961. Residents browse the essentials at nearby big-box options like Pick 'n Save and Lamb's Fresh Market. However, many opt for Downtown Grocery instead, an "everyday farmer's market" on 3rd Street selling organic produce sourced from Midwestern vendors.<br><br>Downtown Wausau boasts events and festivities that unite the community throughout the year. Athletic Park residents are a short bus ride from catching a performance at the century-old Grand Theater. The opulent stage hosts off-Broadway tours, international performers and community productions with local cast members. Concerts on the Square is a free summer series attracting over 2,000 guests. Held at Wausau’s renovated city square—affectionally known as 400 Block—the series features live musicians and food vendors every Wednesday night from June through August. “You have to show up early with a picnic chair or blanket to get a spot,” Mizgalski says. “But the 400 Block is a hub for the arts, too. Wausau’s ARTrageous Weekend has local and out-of-town artists set up along the street.” Scattered across four locations, the event features art exhibits and live performances amid the late summer heat.<br><br>Families are zoned for the Wausau School District, beginning at Hawthorn Hills 4K, a kindergarten and early childhood school with a B-minus on Niche. With the same grade, Franklin Elementary School is walkable from many homes and boasts a student-to-teacher ratio of 10:1. Horace Mann Middle earns a B on Niche. As one of just two middle schools in the district, Horace Mann comprises all elementary students east of the Wisconsin River. With a B-plus, Wausau East High School has been a rival of Wausau West for more than 50 years. Beginning in 2024, Wausau East will join the Great Northern athletic conference, ending a decades-long school feud. Newman Catholic School is a private, spiritual option within the neighborhood, enrolling grades 6-12 with an A-minus on Niche.<br><br>Athletic Park stadium is home to the Wausau Woodchucks, a local baseball team in the Northwoods collegiate summer league. With a capacity of over 1,000 seats, the venue flaunts a sea of white, blue and green throughout the summer—the Woodchucks' team colors. End-of-game fireworks can be seen and heard from many backyards, along with the sightly view of tuckered-out residents making the half-mile trek home. Kaiser Pool is just as walkable, a public facility with waterslides and play equipment open throughout the warmer months. Next door, Thom Field is owned by Wausau Public Schools, hosting home games for both Wausau East and West High School. Recreation on the Wisconsin River occurs at Riverlife Park, where a fishing pier and waterfront fire pit neighbor a massive climbing playground, splash pad and seasonal ice cream parlor for little ones. <br><br>Though designated bike lanes are not provided in Athletic Park, many locals take advantage of the River Edge Parkway. This paved cycling trail heads a mile south into Downtown Wausau. Views of the Wisconsin River and surrounding parks make for a scenic ride to Oak Park and the Isle of Ferns Park. “The city overall is very biking-friendly,” Mizgalski says. “The area has come a long way in ensuring bikeable and connected routes.” Metro Ride bus stops are provided throughout the area, mainly accessible along 6th, 7th and 10th Streets. Since 6th Street tends to congest traffic, walkable bus stops are essential in Athletic Park. The nearest emergency room is Aspirus Wausau Hospital, 2 miles west across the river. Commuters rely on State Route 29 for the 99-mile drive to Green Bay and the 103-mile drive to Appleton. Those heading out of state typically fly out of Central Wisconsin Airport, 15 miles south on Interstate 39.
Local Logic measures the walkability, access to public transit and bikeability of any address. CAP Index provides objective, accurate, and consistent data to help measure, compare, and mitigate crime risks.
Disclaimer: Certain information contained herein is derived from information provided by parties other than Homes.com. Our sources include: Accuweather, Public Records and Neustar. All information provided is deemed reliable, but is not guaranteed to be accurate and should be independently verified.
