Elections

Marathon County, WI, has approximately 88,000 registered voters as of 2024. Voters participate in local, state, and federal elections, including primaries and general elections. In the 2020 presidential race, 57% voted Republican and 41% Democrat. The county operates over 70 polling locations, administered by the county clerk’s office. Key issues include property taxes and rural broadband. Major parties are Republican and Democrat, with independents present. Election results and polling info are available on the county website for transparency.

Demographics

As of 2022, Marathon County, WI has a population of approximately 135,868. The median age is about 41 years. Gender distribution is fairly balanced, with 50.1% male and 49.9% female. Racial and ethnic composition is predominantly White (85.9%), followed by Asian (7.2%), Hispanic or Latino (3%), Black or African American (1.2%), and Native American (0.5%). The county’s diverse population reflects the broader demographic trends of central Wisconsin.

County Crime & Safety

Marathon County, WI, reported a crime rate of 1,715 incidents per 100,000 residents in 2023, lower than the national average. Property crimes accounted for 1,250 cases, while violent crimes, including 4 homicides and 98 assaults, totaled 155 incidents. The county has implemented community policing and neighborhood watch programs, contributing to a 5% decrease in overall crime rates from 2022. Crime statistics are regularly updated by the Marathon County Sheriff’s Office, ensuring timely public reporting and increasing transparency for residents.

Education, Employment and Housing

Marathon County, WI, features 16 public high schools, with a graduation rate of approximately 91%. About 28% of adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. The average school safety score, per state data, is 8/10, and schools offer diverse educational programs, including 15 Advanced Placement and technical education options. The county also supports adult education through Northcentral Technical College, serving over 3,500 learners annually. School districts prioritize safe learning environments, with security systems in 100% of schools and regular safety drills conducted in compliance with state mandates.

As of 2023, Marathon County, WI, had an employment rate of approximately 63.5%. The largest industries include manufacturing (22%), health care and social assistance (18%), and retail trade (12%). Major occupation types are production (16%), office and administrative support (14%), and sales (12%). Most residents (over 80%) commute by car, with an average commute time of 19 minutes. Wausau is the primary employment center, employing about 42% of county workers. Nearby counties such as Wood, Portage, and Lincoln also serve as significant employment locations.

Marathon County, WI, has a homeownership rate of about 72%, higher than the national average. The median home value is approximately $200,000, reflecting steady growth over recent years. Median rent is around $900 per month. Most housing consists of single-family homes, with some multi-family units in urban areas like Wausau. Popular neighborhoods include Rib Mountain and Weston. The county’s property tax rate averages 1.7%, meaning annual taxes of about $3,400 on a $200,000 home. Recent years have seen moderate housing price increases, driven by strong demand and limited inventory.