La Crosse,WI Neighborhood Guides
Neighborhoods in La Crosse, WI – Data, Lifestyle & Local Insights
Neighborhood Map
Exploring the Best Neighborhoods in La Crosse, WI
La Crosse, Wisconsin, is a charming city nestled along the Mississippi River, known for its scenic beauty and vibrant communities. When diving into La Crosse neighborhoods, you'll find a mix of historic charm and modern amenities that cater to a variety of lifestyles. From riverside views to bustling downtown streets, these neighborhoods each have their own distinct personality, making La Crosse a wonderful place to live and explore.
Demographic Insights & Community Composition
The best neighborhoods in La Crosse offer a diverse community makeup that caters to both families and young professionals. Areas like the historic Northside boast a strong sense of community with tree-lined streets and a mix of older homes and newer developments. On the other hand, neighborhoods such as the Southside have grown rapidly with newer housing options and attract many young families and retirees. The population here reflects a blend of students, professionals, and longtime residents, contributing to a welcoming atmosphere throughout the city.
Lifestyle Variety: What Different Areas Offer
Each La Crosse neighborhood offers unique lifestyle perks. The Riverside neighborhood, for example, is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts with access to the Mississippi River and Grandad Bluff Park, offering hiking trails and stunning views. Meanwhile, the downtown area buzzes with activity, featuring an array of restaurants like The Waterfront Restaurant & Tavern and quirky coffee shops, perfect for those who love urban living. Families often gravitate toward neighborhoods like the Southview or French Island, which provide excellent schools and quieter suburban settings.
Things to Do: What Are Some Popular Attractions and Activities
La Crosse neighborhoods are dotted with attractions that appeal to all interests. For history buffs, the Northside offers the La Crosse Queen paddleboat cruises and the Riverside International Friendship Gardens. The downtown area hosts the vibrant Pearl Street district, known for its festivals, live music, and locally owned boutiques. If you love outdoor activities, the Riverside Park and the hiking trails around Grandad Bluff are must-visits. The La Crosse neighborhoods map shows these hotspots are all within easy reach, making it simple to explore the city's cultural and natural highlights.
Colleges & Universities: Neighborhoods Where They Are Located
La Crosse is home to several colleges, primarily concentrated near the downtown and Northside neighborhoods. The University of Wisconsin-La Crosse is a major presence, with its campus nestled near the downtown area, contributing to the youthful energy and cultural events in the vicinity. Viterbo University is located in the heart of the city’s historic district, adding to the academic vibe and community engagement in nearby neighborhoods. These institutions influence local housing trends and community activities, making these neighborhoods especially lively during the school year.
Hidden Gems: Things People Might Not Know About These Neighborhoods
Many people might not realize that some La Crosse neighborhoods have hidden gems waiting to be discovered. For example, the Southside neighborhood is home to the historic Pump House Regional Arts Center, a vibrant cultural hub showcasing local art and performances. The North La Crosse area offers quiet, scenic spots like the Long Island Park, perfect for picnics and birdwatching. Additionally, several neighborhoods boast community gardens and farmer’s markets that highlight the city’s commitment to sustainability and local produce. Exploring the La Crosse neighborhoods map can uncover these lesser-known treasures that make living here so special.
La Crosse Demographics
Best Neighborhoods
| Hood | Med. Age | Have Kids | Home Price | Med. Income | Affordability |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Goosetown | 27 | 10.6% | $291,433 | $43,155 | 2.8 |
| Lower Northside | 33.9 | 15% | $118,133 | $43,946 | 2.8 |
| Powell-Hood-Hamilton | 32 | 14.4% | $245,100 | $42,408 | 6.8 |
| Washburn | 31.1 | 5.5% | $303,767 | $32,068 | 9.7 |
La Crosse neighborhoods bring their own blend of lifestyle, affordability, and long-term appeal, and the data in the table above helps highlight what makes each area stand out. By comparing home prices, median income, average age, families with kids, and housing affordability ratios, you can quickly uncover the best neighborhoods in La Crosse—those that balance cost, character, and overall livability. For budget-minded buyers, the table also makes it easy to identify the most affordable neighborhoods in La Crosse, where lower home prices combined with local income levels create meaningful value. Families can use the children-per-household data to pinpoint the best neighborhoods for families, revealing which areas offer strong community connections and a family-friendly atmosphere. Meanwhile, adults looking for quieter, age-friendly surroundings can turn to neighborhoods with higher median ages to find the best neighborhoods for retirees, where comfort, stability, and an easy pace of living tend to define the local experience. This data-driven overview offers a clear starting point for understanding how each neighborhood aligns with the lifestyle you want.
Crime in La Crosse
| Crime |
Reported |
La Crosse /100k |
WI /100k |
National /100k |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Murder | 1 | 2.0 | 4.2 | 5.0 |
| Rape | 40 | 78.6 | 34.8 | 37.5 |
| Robbery | 13 | 25.5 | 39.4 | 60.6 |
| Assault | 145 | 284.9 | 200.1 | 256.1 |
| Total Violent Crime | 199 | 391 | 279 | 359 |
| Burglary | 142 | 279.0 | 117.2 | 229.2 |
| Theft | 1,664 | 3,269.6 | 875.6 | 1,272.1 |
| Vehicle Theft | 83 | 163.1 | 161.3 | 258.8 |
| Total Property Crime | 1,889 | 3,712 | 1,154 | 1,760 |
| TOTAL CRIME | 2,088 | 4,103 | 1,433 | 2,119 |