Rhinelander, WI

Rhinelander sits right in the heart of Wisconsin's Northwoods where the Wisconsin and Pelican rivers meet. With around 8,000 residents, it serves as the main commercial and healthcare center for the surrounding lake country. Moving here puts you close to quiet forests, snowmobile trails, and hundreds of freshwater lakes, while still keeping grocery stores, local dining, and medical facilities within a quick drive.

ATTRGourami Watcher / CC BY-SA 3.0

Daily life has a distinct, easygoing Northwoods character, usually under the watchful eye of the Hodag, the city's legendary green mascot found on signs and statues all over town. Pioneer Park is a popular local hangout for weekend farmers markets and community gatherings along the river. Between the compact downtown shops along Brown Street and the steady stream of outdoor recreation year-round, Rhinelander offers a practical, comfortable landing spot for anyone looking to put down roots up north.