Wausau Apartments and Rentals

Wausau is located along the Wisconsin River in the heart of central Wisconsin. Surrounded by forests and wildlife, Wausau is an attractive destination for small-city lovers and nature fanatics alike. With a population of more than 39,000, Wausau's small-town charm is coupled with a sizable population, giving it the advantages of urban amenities as well as a laid-back attitude.

The Wausau area attracted fur traders and lumbermen as early as the 1830s. Originally known as "Big Bull Falls," the area was famous for its plethora of high-quality timber. Wausau was officially incorporated as a village in April 1861 and as a city in 1872. By 1874, the railroad came to Wausau, allowing the city to enjoy industrial and commercial benefits. As Wisconsin milling came to a halt in the 20th century, Wausau remained lively because of its railroad and river access. Throughout the 20th and early 21st centuries, Wausau's population continued to grow. Even now, Wausau is a growing and diversifying community, but Wausau residents remain free from vast urban expansion.

Those searching for Wausau apartments for rent will be happy to discover this perfect urban and rural balance.

Wausau residents are proud of their town, and many have lived in the area all their lives. As a result people from all walks of life residing in the community. The median age in Wausau is 36.8 years, according to data from the U.S. Census bureau. About 57 percent of households are occupied by families, and about 35 percent are occupied by singles. Wausau's community vibe lends itself to being both family-friendly and fun at the same time.

Residents enjoy numerous urban amenities, too. Historic downtown Wausau has enjoyed dynamic reconstruction throughout the past few years. The city's River District is home to numerous local restaurants, shops and events, and offers ample urban park space for city dwellers. Residents also enjoy concerts and community events in the traditional downtown green space. Those who prefer mall shopping can head over to Wausau Center mall, which houses more than 50 national retailers.

When they aren't taking advantage of restaurants, shops, urban parks and other city amenities, residents have easy access to country activities like biking, hunting, camping, fishing, canoeing and more. The area provides ample space for nature lovers to stretch their legs, as well as four breathtaking Wisconsin seasons.

According to the city's 2011 Comprehensive Annual Financial Report, the top employers in the area are Aspirus/Wausau Hospital, Kolbe & Kolbe, Employers Insurance, the Wausau Unified School District, Eastbay and North Central Healthcare. Wausau sees a workday population increase of about 35 percent, and about 69 percent of all residents live and work in Wausau.

Northcentral Technical College is located in Wausau, and enrolls about 1,800 students each year. Additionally, University of Wisconsin - Stevens Point is located about 30 miles south of Wausau.

Those searching for Wausau apartments will be happy to note that the city's cost of living index is 92.4, which is 7.6 percent less than the U.S. average. The median gross rent in Wausau was just $602 per month in 2010, according to U.S. Census data. Additionally, Wausau enjoys a healthy rental market: In 2010, about 42 percent of all households in the city were renter-occupied.

Wausau's Grand Theater opened in 1927 and functioned as an opera house for many years. The building was restored in 1987 and is now in use once again. The theater hosts national touring acts, local concerts and events, and musical dramas. Wausau's arts scene also manifests itself through the Wausau Conservatory of Music and the Wausau Symphony and Band, which is the oldest symphony in Wisconsin.

If you are looking for an apartment for rent or a house rental in Wausau, Wis., search for rental properties at Rent.com®.