Forest County Public RecordsWisconsin

Forest County, WI, reports relatively low crime rates compared to national averages. According to recent FBI data, the violent crime rate in 2022 was approximately 2.1 incidents per 1,000 residents, while the property crime rate stood at 6.8 per 1,000 residents. Law enforcement agencies actively report and investigate incidents, contributing to community safety. Forest County’s overall crime rate remains below Wisconsin’s state average, making it one of the safer rural counties. Residents are encouraged to participate in neighborhood watch programs to maintain and improve safety.

Forest County, WI has 8 public schools serving approximately 1,150 K-12 students, with a high school graduation rate of about 89%. Only 11.5% of adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher, below the state average. Schools in the county generally score around 3–4 out of 10 on GreatSchools ratings. Safety measures and alternative educational programs, such as vocational training, are present, but adult education opportunities are limited. The county’s educational attainment and performance lag state and national benchmarks, highlighting an area for growth in advanced educational programs and resources.

Forest County, WI, has an employment rate of approximately 56%, with major industries including health care and social assistance (17%), manufacturing (14%), and retail trade (12%). Most employed residents work in office/administrative support (11%), management (9%), and sales roles (8%). About 80% of workers commute by car, with an average commute time of 23 minutes. The majority (over 80%) are employed within Forest County, while others commute to neighboring counties like Oneida and Langlade for work. (Sources: U.S. Census Bureau ACS 2022, Wisconsin Dept. of Workforce Development)

Forest County, WI, has a homeownership rate of approximately 79%, with median home values around $138,000 in 2023. The median monthly rent is about $760. Single-family homes dominate, with some seasonal cabins reflecting the county’s rural, forested character. Popular neighborhoods include Crandon and Laona. The county has seen moderate property value increases of around 6% annually over the past few years. Property tax rates average 1.32%, below the state average. Rental options are limited, with most residents owning their homes.

As of the 2020 Census, Forest County, WI had a population of 9,179. The median age was 48.6 years, with 21.3% under 18 and 24.7% age 65 or older. Females made up 50.2% of the population. Racially, 74% were White, 22% Native American, 0.4% Black or African American, 0.2% Asian, and 2.6% two or more races. Hispanic or Latino individuals comprised 1.4% of the total population.

Forest County, WI, with approximately 6,000 registered voters as of 2024, conducts elections for federal, state, and local offices, including referenda. In the 2020 Presidential Election, about 62% voted for the Republican candidate and 36% for the Democrat. Polling locations include the Crandon Community Center and local town halls. Key issues are tribal relations, land use, and economic development. The County Clerk’s Office manages election administration. Party presence is primarily Republican and Democratic, with some independent voters. Voter turnout typically ranges from 65% to 70% in major elections.