Best Cities for Small Business in Wisconsin

Wisconsin ranks #14 out of 50 for small business owners and entrepreneurs, offering a favorable climate for new ventures. The state's fiscal health score of 64/100 is adequate, though fiscal conditions aren't a standout advantage.

Tax policy directly impacts the bottom line. Wisconsin's overall tax burden is 8.31% of income, with a 7.65% income tax rate that applies to both personal and pass-through business income. The 5.72% combined sales tax rate is moderate and worth factoring into pricing strategy. The economic environment (score: 56/100) with 3% unemployment indicates tight labor markets — good for consumer spending but potentially challenging for hiring.

Population is roughly stable, meaning market growth will depend on capturing share rather than riding demographic expansion. The education system (score: 65/100) produces a reasonably well-prepared workforce. Housing at $311,000 median is manageable for employees at typical small-business salary levels.