Appleton, WI vs Elk Grove, CA
Side-by-side comparison of housing, income, commute, safety, and quality of life.
Score Snapshot
No universal winner
Scores summarize the published model. Use the objective metric differences below and your own priorities to choose.
Appleton
77.6
#227 nationally
Elk Grove
66.7
#1508 nationally
Appleton leads in average commute (19.4 min vs 33.1 min). Appleton leads in cost of living index (94 vs 148). Elk Grove leads in median household income ($115,864 vs $75,469).
Metric-by-Metric Breakdown
| Metric | Appleton, WI | Elk Grove, CA |
|---|---|---|
| WhereAtHome Score | 77.6 (#227) | 66.7 (#1508) |
| Population | 74,719 | 178,444 |
| Typical Home Value (ZHVI) | $309,058 | $634,683 |
| Median Household Income | $75,469 | $115,864 |
| Average Commute | 19.4 min | 33.1 min |
| Walk Score | 44 | 32 |
| Crime Level | 5.5 | 5.2 |
| School Rating | N/A | N/A |
| Cost of Living Index | 94 | 148 |
| Political lean County 2024 presidential margin — context only, not scored | R+10.2 | D+19.7 |
C+
77.6 Score
Appleton, WI
Wisconsin community balancing growth and livability
Median Home
$309,058
Population
74,719
Crime
Moderate-Low
Walk Score
44
Midwest
View Appleton, WI →
D
66.7 Score
Elk Grove, CA
Mid-size California city with community character
Median Home
$634,683
Population
178,444
Crime
Moderate-Low
Walk Score
32
Pacific
View Elk Grove, CA →
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