Eau Claire, WI Homes For Rent

Homes for Rent in Eau Claire, WI: What You Need to Know

Eau Claire is located at the confluence of the Eau Claire and Chippewa Rivers in west-central Wisconsin. Its natural beauty has impressed people since the 18th century when French trappers gave it a memorable name meaning “clear water.” 

Things to Do in Eau Claire

Beaver Creek Reserve, with 400 acres of diverse habitats, is a popular destination for nature lovers. It includes nine miles of hiking trails, upland woods, river bottom forests, wetlands, and savannah areas. Bordered by the Eau Claire River, trout streams run through the reserve. It also features a nature center, youth camp, the Citizen Science Center, and Hobbs Observatory. Visiting Eau Claire’s interactive museums offers a great way to learn about the city and region. These museums focus on history and culture: the Chippewa Valley Museum, Dells Mill Museum, and Paul Bunyan Logging Camp.

Schools and Education

The University of Wisconsin Eau Claire (11,604 students) offers more than 160 undergraduate and graduate programs. It’s one of the University of Wisconsin System’s 13 universities across 26 campuses. There are 68 other colleges and universities within 100 miles of the city. Eau Claire’s 23 public schools (11,367 students) boast of an average math proficiency score of 48% versus the Wisconsin public school average of 43% and a reading proficiency score of 45% compared with the 42% statewide average.

Local History

Eau Claire was laid out in 1855 and incorporated in 1872. The local economy during the early years depended on lumber. After the Civil War, the lumber industry in Eau Claire and throughout Wisconsin grew quickly. By 1890, the city had more than 75 sawmills and factories. 

Cost of Living

Although Eau Claire’s cost of living rate is 1.6% higher than the national average, residents get to save on food and housing costs, which are 18.7% and 29.6% lower than the national average respectively. Eau Claire’s median gross rent is $835. The Badger State’s progressive income tax rate ranges from 3.86% to 7.65%. The state collects 5% to 5.6% in sales tax.

Know Your Neighborhoods

Eau Claire (population: 68,802) is located in Chippewa and Eau Claire Counties. Residents rave about their picturesque hometown, especially the river banks and parks, excellent amenities, and safe environment. Also, it’s a college town with a lively nightlife. Eau Claire has some of the highest-ranked public schools in the region, but those who prefer more rustic areas will find equally great schools in the towns of Washington and Pleasant Valley.