Population
1,000 - 5,000
~3,296 residents
Median Income
$59,732
Household median
Home Value
$164,800
Median price
Area Type
Rural
115.7 sq mi
Location
Detailed Information
Demographics
- Population Range:
- 1,000 - 5,000
- Median Income:
- $59,732
- Classification:
- Rural
Housing Market
- Median Value:
- $164,800
- Price Range:
- $125,000 - $200,000
- Land Area:
- 115.7 sq mi
Data Quality: 100%
ExcellentData from US Census Bureau 2023 • US Census Bureau
Zillow Home Value Index
Real-time market data powered by Zillow • Updated October 2025
Typical Home Value in 54871
Price Appreciation
Historical Price Trend
Historical home values show market trends over time. Values are smoothed and seasonally adjusted.
Investment Insight
💡 Note: Past performance doesn't guarantee future results. Consider local market factors, job growth, and development plans when evaluating real estate investments.
Zillow Home Value Index (ZHVI) data provided by Zillow Group. ZHVI represents the typical home value for homes in the 35th to 65th percentile range. Data is updated monthly and reflects market trends as of October 31, 2025.
Median Income
$59,732
vs state avg
Median Home Value
$164,800
vs state avg
Population
3,296
Rural
Quality of Life
72/100
Good
What's It Like to Live in Shell Lake?
Key insights about ZIP 54871 at a glance
Population
3,296
Rural community
Median Income
$60k
Household earnings
Median Home Value
$165k
Housing market
Affordability
2.8
Price-to-income ratio
Your Day in Shell Lake
Start your day with quality education options in Shell Lake
Explore local shops and restaurants in Shell Lake
Unwind in green spaces and community areas in Shell Lake
Quick Compare
See how this stacks up
Explore Shell Lake, WI
Visual guide to life in this area
Economy & Employment
Job market and economic indicators
Median Household Income
$59,732
Median Home Value
$164,800
Home-to-Income Ratio
2.8x
Education & Schools
Educational opportunities and demographics in 54871
Local Schools
Shell Lake offers diverse educational opportunities for all ages
85%
Estimated graduates
725
School-age residents
School Quality
Above Average
Based on area demographics
Healthcare & Wellness
Medical facilities and health resources in your area
Quality Healthcare Access
Shell Lake area has multiple medical facilities serving the community
5-10
Healthcare facilities nearby
< 5mi
Average distance to hospital
Parks & Recreation
Outdoor spaces and recreational activities
Community Parks
Multiple green spaces and recreational facilities for families
Parks
3-5 nearby
Sports
Fields & courts
Trails
Walking paths
Events
Community gatherings
Shopping & Dining
Retail, restaurants, and local businesses
Local Shopping
Shell Lake offers diverse shopping and dining experiences
Restaurants
20+ dining options
Retail Stores
Major & local shops
Cafes & More
Local favorites
Pros & Cons of Living in ZIP 54871
Advantages
- Affordable housing with median home value at $164,800
- Low population density offers peace and quiet
- Rural character with natural surroundings
- Strong affordability with home prices around 2.8x median income
- Small, tight-knit community atmosphere
Considerations
- Limited access to urban amenities and services
Living in Shell Lake, WI 54871
Shell Lake offers a unique lifestyle in the heart of WI. This rural community provides residents with a close-knit community feel.
Spacious Living
Large lots, privacy, and connection to nature.
Car-Dependent
Personal vehicle necessary for most daily activities.
Who Lives Here
Working class families, young professionals, and service industry workers.
Lifestyle & Activities
Rural residents who appreciate open spaces, privacy, and connection to nature.
Household Composition
Family households with multi-generational homes and long-term residents.
What's Life Like Here? (AI Insights)
Data & Demographics
Demographic Distribution
Age Distribution
Education Levels
ZIP 54871 by the Numbers
Interactive data visualizations for Rural living
Total Population
0
Median Income
$0
Home Value
$0
Quality Score
0/100
Comparative Metrics
3.3% of max (100,000)
39.8% of max (150,000)
20.6% of max (800,000)
44.82
out of 100
Affordability
6.59
out of 100
Community Size
39.82
out of 100
Economic Strength
Transportation & Commute
Average commute time is approximately 35 minutes, typical for rural areas.
Distance to Major Cities
Regional Hub
15-40 miles
25-60 min
drive time
Note: Commute times are estimates and may vary based on traffic conditions, time of day, and specific locations.
Weather & Climate
Climate Type
Varied regional climate
Seasonal Pattern
Four distinct seasons with typical North American weather patterns
Weather Highlights
- Seasonal variety
- Regional weather characteristics
- Diverse outdoor activities
Discover Shell Lake Amenities
Everything you need, right in your neighborhood
Schools
12+ locations
Healthcare
8+ locations
Shopping
50+ locations
Parks
15+ locations
How Does Shell Lake Stack Up?
See how ZIP 54871 compares to state and national averages
Income Comparison
Home Value Comparison
Ready to Explore More?
Compare Shell Lake with other areas or find your perfect ZIP code match
Living Here: Pros & Cons (AI Analysis)
Who Lives Here?
Community Profile
ZIP code 54871 in Shell Lake, WI (Washburn) is a small community with approximately 3,296 residents. The area is classified as rural, offering a peaceful, rural environment.
Income Demographics
The median household income is $59,732, which is around national average. This suggests a community with diverse economic backgrounds and accessible cost of living.
Fun Fact: Rural communities often appeal to those seeking space, nature, and a slower pace of life.
Housing & Rent
Median Home Value
$164,800
Moderate Market
Est. Monthly Rent
$659
Typical 2-3BR
Market Overview
The housing market in ZIP 54871 is balanced pricing for various buyers. With a median home value of $164,800, this area offers attractive opportunities for buyers at various price points.
Rent vs Buy
Renting in this ZIP code typically costs around $659/month for a 2-3 bedroom home. The moderate rental prices make this area accessible for both renters and buyers.
Jobs & Income
Median Household Income
$59,732
Per Year
Job Market
Shell Lake offers a growing job market with opportunities primarily in agriculture, manufacturing, and local services. The local economy supports a mix of traditional and emerging industries.
Commute & Transportation
Average commute times in this area are approximately 15-25 minutes. Personal vehicles are essential, though traffic is generally light.
Schools Overview
School Quality
ZIP code 54871 in Shell Lake, WI generally features a mix of school quality and programs. The area's varied school ratings make it suitable for families seeking quality education options.
Education Options
Families in this ZIP code typically have access to public schools, private institutions, and charter options. Rural schools typically offer smaller class sizes and tight-knit communities.
Is ZIP 54871 a Good Place to Live?
Whether ZIP code 54871 in Shell Lake, WI is right for you depends on your priorities. Here's a balanced look:
Pros
- ✓Peaceful environment with outdoor space
- ✓Affordable housing options
Cons
- ⚠Limited access to urban amenities
The Bottom Line
ZIP code 54871 is well-suited for individuals and families who value tranquility, nature, and a tight-knit community. Consider visiting the area and exploring nearby neighborhoods to get a true feel for the lifestyle.
Frequently Asked Questions
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