Living in Dane County, Wisconsin

A complete guide of the county from schools to diversity

Should You Move to Dane County?

Dane County is home to 561,504 Wisconsin residents. Over the past ten years, the county has seen an increase in growth of 13.08%, ranking it #1,338 in the US and #1 in Wisconsin for population growth.

Based on the counties residents and economy, Dane County, WI is Not great for retirees and great for families.

When considering schools and educational attainment, 96.1% of residents over 25 years of age graduated high school and 53% completed their bachelor’s degree or higher. The majority of students in Dane County attend public school.

If diversity is essential, Dane County received a D grade in diversity.

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Who Lives in Dane County?

Discover more about the people who make up the county

Total Population

561,504

10-Year Change

13.08%

Households are Families

72.1%

Per Households

70

D
Diversity Grade
White alone
77.6%
Black or African American alone
5.4%
American Indian and Alaska Native alone
0.4%
Asian alone
6.4%
Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander alone
0%
Hispanic or Latino
7.5%
D
Retirement
B
Raising a Family
Under 5 years
5.4%
Under 18 years
19%
Over 65 years
18%

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Housing in Dane County

Buying or renting? Here’s more about real estate in the county.

Total Households

Own vs. Rent

Own 58.2%
Rent 41.8%

Connect with a local Dane County REALTOR®

Buying or selling? We’ll help you connect with the right real estate agents in Dane County or anywhere you need help.

Typical Age of Homes

1980 to 1999

Common Residence Type

single-family homes

Moving advice

Increase your odds of a quick sale, earning more money, or saving your rental deposit by . A study by HomeLight found home sellers who invest in cleaners earned $3,700 more.

Dane County Schools

Explore the school district and schools

A+

A+

A+

A+

A+

A+

A+

A+

B

B

B-

B-

B

B

B-

A

C

A

C

C+

C+

C+

B-

B+

A
Student-Teacher Ratio

The Madison Metropolitan School District in Dane County, WI, is home to 25,497 students across 54 schools. Based on enrollment numbers, Madison Metropolitan School District ranks #2 in Wisconsin. Grades from Pre-K to 12 are offered in the district.

Madison Metropolitan School District received a student-teacher ratio grade of A, averaging 12.06 students per teacher.

Learn more about the Madison Metropolitan School District and explore its schools.

District Schools

54

Student Enrollments

25,497

Student-Teacher Ratio

12.06:1

How does Madison Metropolitan School District compare?

Cost of Living in Wisconsin

How Does Wisconsin Compare?

23
in Cost of Living
31
in Minimum Wage
22
in Living Wage

Wisconsin State Taxes

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Should you move to Wisconsin?

Wisconsin, the Badger State, is a place of friendly people, diverse landscapes, and a deep love for cheese and beer. Known for its dairy industry, rich cultural heritage, and vibrant sporting scene, Wisconsin offers a welcoming and community-oriented lifestyle.

Wisconsin’s economy is driven by manufacturing, healthcare, and agriculture, with a special emphasis on dairy farming. Its major cities, such as Milwaukee and Madison, offer an attractive mix of urban development and cultural attractions, from the Harley-Davidson Museum to the annual Summerfest music festival.

Living in Wisconsin offers a variety of experiences. From sailing on Lake Michigan, hiking in the scenic Kettle Moraine State Forest, exploring the bustling farmers markets, or cheering on the Packers in Green Bay, Wisconsin’s appeal lies in its balance of outdoor adventure and cultural enrichment. Education is highly prioritized, with strong public schools and renowned universities like the University of Wisconsin-Madison.

If you’re seeking a state that values community, nature, and a hard-working, yet fun-loving spirit, Wisconsin could be your perfect destination. Just be prepared for cold winters and the state’s fondness for cheese and bratwurst!

Need some help with your move?

Moving labor can be hired by the hour, helping you budget for the heavy stuff or your entire move.

Dane County Economy

The industries, jobs, and economics of the zip code

Median Household Income

$78,452

US Average $74,580

How does Dane County compare?

Unemployment rate

2.4%

Poverty rate

10.8%

Primary Occupations

Computer, engineering, and science occupations

Secondary Occupations

Office and administrative support occupations

Crime in Dane County

Learn more about the school district for this zip code.

Crime Rating: Low Crime

Total Crimes (2022)

22,794

Crime Rate

Per 100,000 residents

Violent crimes: 440.8

Murder: 2.5

Violent crimes: 440.8

Explore More Places

Check out more of Dane County, or explore the surrounding area
Wisconsin

Madison

Wisconsin

Sun Prairie

Wisconsin

Fitchburg

Wisconsin

Middleton

Wisconsin

Waunakee village

Wisconsin

Verona

Wisconsin

Stoughton

Wisconsin

Oregon village

Wisconsin

DeForest village

53508 Belleville, WI

53515 Black Earth, WI

53517 Blue Mounds, WI

53523 Cambridge, WI

53527 Cottage Grove, WI

53528 Cross Plains, WI

53529 Dane, WI

53531 Deerfield, WI

53532 Deforest, WI

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