Thinking about starting a business in Eau Claire, Wisconsin? You’re not alone. Eau Claire is one of the fastest-growing areas in the state, and it’s building a reputation for its dynamic, welcoming business scene.
Before wading into the local economy yourself, it’s smart to get a sense of who lives here and what makes the community tick. Understanding Eau Claire’s population and overall vibe can help you shape your business plan, connect with the right customers, and maybe even uncover opportunities you hadn’t considered yet.
Here are some key points to know about the people who call Eau Claire home and how that might shape your business decisions.
Population & Age Demographics
Eau Claire has a pretty wide mix of residents, but one standout feature is its younger population, thanks in large part to the two universities in town. That’s great news if you’re thinking about a business that appeals to students or young professionals. There’s also a substantial number of families and retirees here too, so having a clear idea of who you’re serving can help you fine-tune your approach.
Students (18–24 Years Old)
Since UW-Eau Claire and Chippewa Valley Technical College have such a major presence, students make up a big and energetic part of the community. They’re often looking for affordable and convenient options—think budget-friendly dining, entertainment, or housing. Many prefer to shop online, so if you offer delivery or a streamlined website, you’re in a good spot. In short, this crowd values convenience, trends, and easy access.
Young Professionals (25–35 Years Old)
This group includes recent grads and early-career professionals who are starting to put down roots. They tend to prioritize work-life balance, wellness, and sustainability, so if your new business involves fitness, shared workspaces, or eco-friendly goods, you’re likely to resonate. They also love supporting local spots, which means a thoughtfully branded café, restaurant, or brewery could do well alongside the many already around town.
Families (35–50 Years Old)
With more young families settling in, there’s plenty of room for businesses that focus on children, education, home life, or family services. This group often looks for value, safety, and lasting benefits, such as parks, kid-friendly dining, educational activities, or anything that helps busy parents stay on top of things.
Retirees & Empty Nesters (50+ Years Old)
Eau Claire’s mix of affordability and scenic charm makes it appealing to folks heading into retirement or post-career life. This group often has more free time—and sometimes more disposable income—so they’re interested in leisure, wellness, travel, and hobbies. Whether it’s golf, art classes, or top-tier healthcare, there’s growing demand for services tailored to this stage of life.
Income Levels & Spending Power
Living in Eau Claire is generally more affordable than in bigger cities, but pricing still matters. It’s important to understand how much your potential customers earn and where they tend to spend so you can price your offerings accordingly. If you want some data to start with, our division’s annual Community Profile reports are packed with local insights on income levels and spending habits.
Income Distribution
The median household income here is about $60,000, which is roughly in line with the national average, but it’s not one-size-fits-all. Downtown Eau Claire, for instance, has seen a lot of growth and tends to attract professionals and tech workers with more disposable income. In contrast, suburban or family-focused neighborhoods might lean more toward essentials and value-driven purchases.
Spending Habits
Understanding where people put their money can help you spot potential gaps in the market. Eau Claire residents spend a bit more than average on healthcare, dining out, and home improvement. Plus, outdoor recreation is also huge here! Thanks to the Chippewa River and our meticulously maintained public parks and trails, activities like fishing, hiking, and camping are local favorites and are reflected in consumer spending.
Education & Workforce Trends
Eau Claire’s workforce is one of its strengths. A large share of residents have college degrees, which is a plus if your business depends on skilled or professional talent. Knowing the educational and employment landscape can help you tap into the right hiring pool.
University Presence
Thousands graduate from UW–Eau Claire and Chippewa Valley Technical College each year, so there’s a steady flow of educated, motivated individuals entering the workforce. Many stay in the area post-graduation because of the region’s quality of life too, making Eau Claire a smart location for businesses in fields including healthcare, tech, education, and creative industries.
Workforce Development
The local workforce is also shifting to meet modern demands, leading to a growing emphasis on remote work, digital fluency, and wellness. If your business needs tech-savvy or specialized employees, you’ll find a community investing in areas like IT, cybersecurity, and digital marketing. Local colleges are also open to partnerships—from internships to student-led projects that can benefit your business and the broader talent pipeline.
Talent Gaps (& Opportunities)
Like any city, Eau Claire has some areas where talent is in short supply. Skilled trades, healthcare professionals (especially nurses and technicians), and IT specialists are particularly in demand. This could be an opportunity if your business offers training, staffing solutions, or creative ways to support workforce development.
Local Retail & Commercial Development Changes
Retail in Eau Claire, Wisconsin is evolving, just as it is nationwide. While locals still love a good storefront and the city does still serve as a regional retail hub for surrounding towns, there’s a noticeable shift toward online shopping and hybrid models. Whether you’re thinking of opening a physical location, an e-commerce site, or something in between, it helps to understand where things are headed.
Downtown Is the Place to Be
Eau Claire’s downtown has seen a big revival. The city’s been busy restoring historic spaces, adding parks, and making the area more walkable and welcoming over the last 20-30 years. As a result, new shops, restaurants, and creative ventures are opening their doors, so if you’re looking for a high-visibility spot with lots of foot traffic, downtown is worth exploring.
Opportunities Beyond the City Core Are Growing
Don’t overlook Eau Claire’s new developments popping up, the suburbs, and even neighboring towns. Places like Altoona and Chippewa Falls are growing quickly, especially in terms of housing, schools, and healthcare. If your business focuses on everyday needs—like elder care, family services, or home maintenance—these areas could be a great match.
Eco-Friendly is In
Sustainability matters here. Whether it’s reducing waste, building energy-efficient homes, or buying local, many Eau Claire residents are leaning into eco-conscious living. Businesses that offer green products or sustainable practices, such as organic groceries, low-waste packaging, or solar-powered solutions, are tapping into a growing and loyal customer base.
Seasonal Shifts & Tourism Influences
Eau Claire’s natural surroundings don’t just make it a nice place to live. They also draw in tourists. That means your business might see seasonal highs and lows depending on the time of year and local events.
Tourism
Eau Claire has a lively event scene, from weekly farmers markets to big draws like the massive annual festivals hosted at the Eau Claire Event District, shows at the Pablo Center, and the Downtown Fall Festival. These events bring in visitors from all over, creating spikes in foot traffic and opportunities for sales. If your business offers local experiences, goods, or services, marketing to tourists, especially during peak times, can really pay off. There’s also demand for things like accommodations, transport, and event support too.
Outdoor Recreation
With the river, trails, and easy access to nature, Eau Claire is a hotspot for outdoor fun. Locals and tourists alike enjoy kayaking, hiking, biking, and even winter sports. If your business idea involves gear rentals, guided tours, or other outdoor experiences, you’re tapping into a steady and enthusiastic market.
If you want your business to thrive in Eau Claire, it helps to go beyond just age and income stats. The more you understand what drives local preferences—from spending habits to seasonal trends—the better prepared you’ll be to build something meaningful (and successful). No matter who you’re trying to reach, there’s real opportunity here for businesses that connect with Eau Claire, Wisconsin’s values, lifestyle, and community spirit.
About The Author
Kendall Williams
Marketing & Communications Specialist
Kendall implements the City of Eau Claire Economic Development Division’s marketing strategies, coordinates business assistance, and supports data-driven planning and analysis.
