Buffalo County Public RecordsWisconsin

Buffalo County, WI, counted 7,931 registered voters for the November 2022 election. Elections include federal, state, and local races, with results showing a Republican majority—Donald Trump received 61% of votes in 2020. The county maintains 17 polling locations, typically town halls and municipal buildings. Key issues are rural infrastructure and agriculture policy. Elections are administered by the County Clerk's office in Alma, ensuring compliance and security. Two main parties—Republican and Democratic—dominate, with minor third-party influence. Voter turnout often exceeds 70% in presidential years, reflecting strong civic engagement.

Buffalo County, WI, maintains relatively low crime rates compared to state and national averages. In 2022, the county reported approximately 85 total crimes, including 8 violent offenses and 77 property crimes. The property crime rate stands at about 650 per 100,000 residents, while violent crime is notably lower at 65 per 100,000. Local law enforcement emphasizes community policing and encourages prompt crime reporting, resulting in consistently high crime clearance rates—exceeding 60%. Residents generally consider Buffalo County a safe place to live, with the sheriff’s office providing regular safety updates and crime prevention programs.

As of 2022, Buffalo County, WI has a population of approximately 13,300. The median age is 46 years, reflecting an older population. About 50.3% are male and 49.7% are female. Racially, the county is predominantly White (95.5%), with smaller percentages of Hispanic or Latino (2.1%), Native American (0.9%), Asian (0.4%), and Black or African American (0.2%). Ethnic diversity remains limited, with the majority identifying as non-Hispanic White.

Buffalo County, WI, has 7 public schools serving ~1,200 students, with 3 high schools, including Alma and Mondovi High. About 91% of adults have a high school diploma, and 17% hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. Average school test scores are 45% in math and 42% in reading, slightly below Wisconsin averages. School safety ratings are generally positive, with minimal reported incidents. Educational programs include Advanced Placement, technical education, and adult continuing education, supported by nearby universities such as UW-Eau Claire.

As of 2022, Buffalo County, WI had an employment rate of approximately 62%. The largest industries are Manufacturing (18%), Health Care and Social Assistance (16%), and Agriculture, Forestry, Fishing & Hunting (12%). Major occupation types include Production (17%) and Office & Administrative Support (13%). Most workers commute by car, with an average commute time of 22 minutes; over 54% work outside Buffalo County, mainly traveling to Eau Claire, Winona, and La Crosse. The county’s unemployment rate hovers around 3.3%, remaining below the national average.

Buffalo County, WI, has a homeownership rate of about 78%, with a median home value near $175,000 as of 2023. Median gross rent is roughly $835 per month. Single-family homes dominate, with some multi-family units in towns like Alma. The market has seen modest value growth—about 6% annually from 2021–2023. Notable neighborhoods include Fountain City and Mondovi. Property tax rates average 1.45%, translating to an average annual tax bill of around $2,538. Rental availability is limited, and the area’s housing market remains competitive, attracting both retirees and families seeking affordability.