Onalaska City Demographics

Onalaska, located in La Crosse County, WI, has an estimated 2023 population of about 18,800. The median age is roughly 40 years. Gender distribution is nearly equal, with about 51% female and 49% male. Racially, Onalaska is predominantly White (over 90%), with smaller populations of Asian (about 3%), Black or African American (about 1%), Hispanic or Latino (around 2%), and other groups comprising the remainder. The city is mostly a family-oriented, suburban community within the La Crosse metropolitan area.

Transportation in Onalaska City

Onalaska, adjacent to La Crosse, WI, has a high vehicle ownership rate—over 94% of households own a car. About 85% of residents commute by car, with less than 1% using public transit, as per Census data. The average commute time is approximately 18 minutes. The city is served by major highways like US-53 and I-90, and limited public transit via La Crosse MTU. Major employment hubs include the Onalaska retail corridor, Gundersen Health System, and near La Crosse’s downtown. Cycling and walking infrastructure are present but comprise a minor share of commuting patterns.

Onalaska City Housing

Onalaska, adjacent to La Crosse, WI, boasts a homeownership rate of about 69%. Median home values are around $300,000 (2024), with property values appreciating steadily by 5-7% annually. Typical housing includes single-family homes and townhouses, with popular neighborhoods such as Sand Lake and Great River Landing. Median gross rent is approximately $1,100/month. Property tax rates average 1.8% of assessed value. The city offers a mix of newer developments and established areas, attracting both families and professionals.

Education in Onalaska City

Onalaska, near La Crosse, WI, features five public schools under the Onalaska School District, including Onalaska High School, rated 8/10 by GreatSchools. The area boasts a 94% high school graduation rate and 36% of adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. The district is known for strong safety practices and offers diverse programs such as Advanced Placement (AP) courses and career technical education. Adult education is supported locally through Western Technical College. The schools maintain a low student-teacher ratio of 15:1, fostering a safe and engaging learning environment.

Onalaska City Healthcare

Onalaska, part of the La Crosse metropolitan area in Wisconsin, is served by major providers like Gundersen Health System and Mayo Clinic Health System, which offer hospitals and multiple clinics nearby. Healthcare access is high, with over 90% of residents insured (2021 ACS); Medicare and employer-based plans dominate coverage. The area’s population is 94% White, median age 38. Common health issues include heart disease, diabetes, and obesity—La Crosse County's adult obesity rate is 31%. Numerous primary care and specialist providers ensure good patient-to-provider ratios, supporting the city's high-quality healthcare reputation.

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