Wisconsin Shines with Two of America’s Best Small Cities, According to New Ranking

Not everyone dreams of skyscrapers and endless traffic. For many Midwesterners, especially those of us in Rockford and northern Illinois, the idea of a smaller, friendlier city sounds just about perfect. According to a new WalletHub study, Wisconsin has two cities that deliver exactly that kind of balance.

What Makes a “Best Small City”?

Researchers analyzed more than 1,300 U.S. cities with populations between 25,000 and 100,000, looking at 45 indicators of livability. Everything from housing costs and school quality to restaurant options and average commute times was factored in. The results are below. Brookfield and Appleton both landed in the top 1% of small cities in America—no small feat.

MORE: Wisconsin Supper Club Serves the Best Old Fashioned, Says Food Network

Wisconsin: Home to Two of the Best Small Cities in the U.S.

Get our free mobile app

Brookfield and Appleton both landed in the top 1% of small cities in America—no small feat.

Brookfield: Suburban Comfort Near Milwaukee

Brookfield offers that sweet spot of suburban living, plenty of green space, strong schools, and a quick drive to Milwaukee’s nightlife. It’s also known for family-friendly neighborhoods and a stable local economy, making it a standout for anyone wanting big-city access without big-city headaches.

READ MORE: Wisconsin Named Best in the Midwest for Community Colleges

Appleton: A Community with Character

Appleton blends affordability with charm. From its thriving downtown to top-rated schools and a strong job market, it consistently earns high marks for quality of life. It’s the kind of place that makes you wonder why more people aren’t packing up and heading north.

MORE: 4 Of Guy Fieri’s Favorite Wisconsin Joints On Triple D

A Win for Wisconsin

So while Rockford keeps holding its own in the region, Wisconsin can proudly claim two of the nation’s best small cities. Brookfield and Appleton prove that sometimes, smaller really is better.

MORE: Romantic Weekends Are Best Spent In This Wisconsin Town