Monroe County Public RecordsWisconsin

Monroe County, WI, maintains relatively low crime rates compared to state and national averages. In 2022, the county reported about 275 total crimes, including 32 violent crimes and 243 property crimes, according to Wisconsin Department of Justice data. The violent crime rate stands at approximately 1.2 incidents per 1,000 residents, while property crime rates are around 9.3 per 1,000. Local law enforcement promotes community engagement and timely reporting, resulting in high clearance rates for major offenses. Monroe County’s collaborative policing strategies help ensure a safer environment for its roughly 47,000 residents.

Monroe County, WI, had 29,835 registered voters in the 2020 general election, with turnout reaching 75%. The county administers elections for federal, state, and local offices, including referendums. Polling locations are spread across 27 municipalities. In the 2020 presidential race, Monroe County voted 58% Republican and 40% Democrat. Election administration is overseen by the County Clerk’s Office. Voters can register online or in-person. Party affiliation is not required for registration. Recent local issues include broadband expansion and school funding referendums.

As of the 2020 Census, Monroe County, WI had a population of 46,274. The median age is 39.6 years, with 23% under 18 and 17% aged 65 or older. Gender distribution is roughly equal, with 50.2% male and 49.8% female. Racially, the county is 89.1% White, 2.7% Black or African American, 2.2% Native American, 1.3% Asian, and 6.6% Hispanic or Latino (of any race).

Monroe County, WI, has 23 public schools, including 4 high schools. About 89% of adults have a high school diploma, while 18% hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. Average public school test scores are 47% in math and 49% in reading. The county offers adult education programs through Western Technical College. School safety initiatives include resource officers and mental health services. Educational programs feature STEM, special education, and vocational training, supporting diverse student needs.

Monroe County, WI, recorded an unemployment rate of approximately 3.1% in 2023. Major employment sectors include health care and social assistance (20%), manufacturing (17%), and retail trade (12%). Popular occupations are production (14%), office and administrative support (13%), and sales (10%). Around 78% of residents commute by car, with an average travel time of 21 minutes. Most work within the county, while about 17% commute to nearby counties such as La Crosse and Jackson.

Monroe County, WI, has a homeownership rate of approximately 73%, with median home values around $185,000 and median rents near $840 per month. The local housing market has seen steady appreciation, with prices rising about 5% year-over-year. Single-family homes dominate, but duplexes and small apartment buildings are also common. Key neighborhoods include Sparta, Tomah, and Norwalk, each offering a range of housing options. Property tax rates average about 1.8% of assessed value, making taxes on a median-priced home roughly $3,330 annually. The area’s affordability attracts both families and retirees.