Data & Demographics
Chippewa County Profile
Chippewa County provides a vibrant, pro-business environment that fosters growth for both new and established businesses across its key communities: Bloomer, Boyd, Cadott, Chippewa Falls, Cornell, Lake Hallie, New Auburn, and Stanley.
The county is home to top private-sector employers, including Associated Milk Producers Inc., Berry Global, TTM Technologies Inc., Alliance Plastics Corp., and Spectrum Industries, which was honored as the 2014 Wisconsin Manufacturer of the Year by Wisconsin Manufacturers and Commerce.
In addition to its thriving business landscape, Chippewa County boasts exceptional educational institutions like Chippewa Valley Technical College, which offers tailored training programs to meet the workforce demands of local businesses. Higher education opportunities are also readily available through nearby institutions such as Globe University, Lakeland College, UW-Eau Claire, and UW-Stout.
Chippewa County enjoys excellent connectivity with access to key state and U.S. highways, including U.S. Highway 53 and State Highways 27, 29, 40, 64, 124, and 178. For air travel, the Chippewa Valley Regional Airport provides convenient service, and the county is also served by three major railroads: Union Pacific, Progressive Rail, and Canadian National, ensuring seamless transportation and logistics options for businesses.
Population
Chippewa County, with a population of 65,828, ranks as the 24th most populated county in Wisconsin out of 72 counties. The county is experiencing steady population growth, with a growth rate of 0.52%. By 2025, the population is projected to reach 67,583. The median age of residents in Chippewa County is 41 years, reflecting a balanced mix of young professionals, families, and an established workforce.
Housing & Income
Chippewa County is home to 28,989 housing units, with 26,093 currently occupied by homeowners or renters. The average home value in the county is approximately $214,764, reflecting the region’s solid housing market. The per capita income growth rate in Chippewa County is around 2%, indicating a steady increase in earning potential for residents. The following projections offer insight into anticipated income growth and trends over the next 5 years, highlighting the area’s ongoing economic stability and opportunity for both residents and businesses.
Workforce
Chippewa County boasts 28,989 housing units, with 26,093 currently occupied by homeowners or renters. The average home value in the county is around $214,764, showcasing the area’s stable and thriving housing market. With a 2% growth rate in per capita income, Chippewa County is poised for continued economic prosperity, offering residents a steady increase in earning potential. This upward trend is expected to persist, as projected income growth over the next five years signals a dynamic and growing economy. Whether you’re looking to invest in property, grow your business, or settle in a welcoming community, Chippewa County provides a strong foundation and exceptional opportunities for both individuals and companies alike.
Education
Chippewa County offers a powerful combination of strong Midwest work ethic and top-tier education, making it an ideal place for businesses to thrive. Our nationally recognized school districts and post-secondary institutions serve as the foundation for a highly skilled, reliable, and talented workforce. This educational ecosystem ensures a steady supply of qualified graduates, a key asset for businesses seeking growth and expansion.
A unique advantage of Chippewa County is our ability to retain and attract talent, as it’s often easier to keep local residents or bring back those who have roots here than to draw people from outside the area. Additionally, Chippewa County excels at attracting young people for both educational opportunities and work, providing businesses with a fresh and dynamic talent pool that is eager to contribute to the community’s ongoing success. This combination of education, talent, and work ethic fuels our diversified business growth and fosters a strong, resilient community.
Transportation Convenience
Chippewa County offers the advantage of close-knit communities, resulting in an average commute time of just 21.3 minutes—well below the national average of 25.3 minutes. Whether you’re headed from the city to the countryside or vice versa, you’ll enjoy quick and easy travel. Plus, the further you go from the city, the more affordable housing options become, making it a great place to live and work without the long commute or high costs.
