Northwest Wisconsin

Located on the Mississippi River and 90 minutes from Minneapolis, Northwest Wisconsin is known for spectacular natural beauty and vibrant culture. It’s home to three large cities and three campuses of the Universities of Wisconsin (in Eau Claire, Menominee, and River Falls)—the last of which is under an hour from Minneapolis. Within this region, you’ll find a commercial airport in addition to rail, state highway, and interstate systems.

Northwest Region

Key Industries:

Education and Hospitals

Medical and Surgical

Local Government

Restaurants

Dairy product manufacturing

Source: Thrillist, 2023

Source: Smart Asset, 2021

Source: Forbes, 2019

Region’s Largest Employers

bellin health logo theda care logo georgia pacific logo affinity health group logo kohler logo mercury logo oshkosh logo

There is a sense of belonging that I feel in Eau Claire that I don’t think I would feel if I was living in a different city.

aaron brice, cofounder

Ambient Inks | Eau Claire, WI

Quality of Life

Located along the Mississippi River, Northwest Wisconsin has it all—the incredible scenic hikes, the retail and cultural amenities of bustling college towns, the charm of smaller communities, and a cost of living that’s almost 10% less than the national average. From farm-to-table restaurants to one of the country’s largest bluegrass festivals, and from its craft beer scene to its nationally recognized Leinenkugel Brewing Company, you’ll quickly learn there’s a reason why this region is home to one of America’s Coolest Small Cities.

Northwest Region collage

Wisconsin is the best state for us. With the balance of network support, the economics, and the opportunity for social and cultural engagement, Wisconsin is ideal for anyone’s success

Wesley escondo, former ceo

Big Brothers Big Sisters of America | Eau Claire, WI