Explore the Data

Understanding Forest County through local data

Data can help us understand the changes happening in Forest County, identify patterns and provide context for community conversations. The Local Connection brings together local and regional data to help residents better understand the issues shaping Forest County’s future.

Housing in Forest County

Housing is the first community priority being explored through The Local Connection. These indicators provide a snapshot of Forest County’s housing landscape and help inform the Community Assembly on Housing and the community planning process that follows.

Housing at a Glance

49.4% Seasonal or recreational housing

Nearly half of Forest County housing units are seasonal, recreational or occasional use.

$810/week or $42,120*/year

Average private-sector wage for Forest County for Q4 2025.
*Annualized equivalent assumes the average weekly wage continues for 52 weeks.

47+ Years (Median housing age)

Forest County’s median housing age was more than 47 years in 2020.

Source(s): Forest County All Hazards Mitigation Plan, 2026
Wisconsin DWD, Quarterly Census of Employment and Wages (QCEW), Q4 2025
U.S. Census Bureau, ACS 2019–2023
Forest County Comprehensive Plan 2024–2044

No single statistic tells the whole story. Together, these indicators point to important questions about the availability, affordability and type of housing needed to support Forest County residents and communities.