QUALITY OF LIFE
The 2020 top 100 places to live in America survey ranks La Crosse at #77.
La Crosse Rankings
Best Places for Young Professionals in WI
Places with the Best Public Schools in WI
61
102
Best Places to Live in WI
Best Places to Raise a Family in WI
128
180
VISIT USA Parks named La Crosse's Oktoberfest the 3rd best Oktoberfest celebration in the country
"Oktoberfest USA provides more than $26 million dollars in economic impact to the community, but that isn't just for local businesses. It's scholarships for area students, funds that support youth sports, young people and beyond."
-2023 Oktoberfest USA President, Patti Berra
Top Industries
& Employers
Healthcare, manufacturing and government are three of the big industries here. Trane, Ashley Furniture, Gundersen Health and Mayo Clinic are some of the biggest employers in the area.
Must-Have
Meal
A burger at Howie’s on La Crosse, a local staple for more than 75 years.
Best Coffee
Shop
Jules Coffee House is LaCrosse’s original coffee shop. As an added bonus, they’re right next to the amazing Pearl Street Books.
Best Local
Beer/Brewery
Turtle Stack Brewery makes some of the most interesting beers in the state while focusing on local, sustainable ingredients.
Best Meetup
Spot
The rooftop terrace at The Charmant Hotel.
Best Creative
Pub
The Pump House Regional Arts Center, a membership-supported organization that promotes a wide range of visual, literary and performing arts.
Thrive in La Crosse explains La Crosse as a vibrant hub for thriving business, innovative healthcare, and exploration. From young professionals to growing families, locals are discovering personal prosperity in one of the Upper Midwest’s fastest-growing regions that ranks among the best in the nation. With easy access to multiple major metro areas, the communities of the Driftless Region blend small-town character and big-city benefits. Check out their website for more information on the quality of life in the La Crosse area!
