The University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire is highlighting the appeal of its campus by noting that Eau Claire has been ranked as the top city to live in Wisconsin by U.S. News & World Report. The ranking considered factors such as population, median age, household income, commute times, unemployment rates and home values. Eau Claire was also placed at No. 49 on the national list of best cities to live in, with only nine other Midwest cities appearing in the top 50.
Billy Felz, vice chancellor for enrollment management at UW-Eau Claire, commented on the recognition: “We were not at all surprised to see U.S. News rank Eau Claire as the No. 1 city in Wisconsin and in the top 50 in the U.S. We continually tell the story of what an amazing university our new students have chosen, and what a great city they will find themselves in.”
Felz also noted that more students are choosing to stay in the Chippewa Valley after graduation: “The truth is that Eau Claire is a great place for young alumni to thrive as new professionals.”
Hope Turvaville, director of workforce at the Eau Claire Area Chamber of Commerce and a UW-Eau Claire graduate, said: “Eau Claire has the unique quality of feeling like a small town and a busy city at the same time — it’s not too big, it’s not too small. The central location and proximity to major cities makes it an ideal place to be in our state.” She added: “There are fun events happening year-round, new foods to try, local businesses to support and countless ways to get involved and feel connected to those around you.” Turvaville continued: “The community is filled with strong partnerships, and if you tap into them, it’s easy to feel at home here. I’m so happy with my decision to stay here after graduation. At this point, it would take a whole lot to convince me to leave Eau Claire.”
Jeremy Gragert, another alumnus who has served various local organizations and is currently running for City Council president, reflected on his experience: “Eau Claire is truly a special place where a person can arrive as a college student, become engaged in shaping the community’s future and build a career that reflects their values over time.” He added: “Like all communities, we have our challenges as well, but that is why having a university that is committed to student-faculty collaborative research, innovation and engagement is so impactful for the quality of life in Eau Claire.” Gragert said further: “Eau Claire is a place where people can make a difference, where people can realize the changes they want to see. They become invested because they see results repeatedly in so many ways. I am eager for the chance to serve the city once again, for all those reasons.”
Jane Seymour Kunick has worked as a real estate agent in Eau Claire for three decades. She stated: “As a realtor in my hometown, one of my greatest joys is showing off Eau Claire to clients new to the area.” Kunick explained: “UW-Eau Claire is always a major highlight on my tours, and not just for the sheer beauty of the campus. As I describe the incredible scene in Eau Claire for live music, theater, festivals, food and more, it becomes clear to clients that the university is key in so many of those factors,” mentioning places like Haas Fine Arts Center and Pablo Center at the Confluence.
Kunick added: “Our agency is blessed to help many new residents find their homes here, along with established residents finding new homes here because they say they’d never leave Eau Claire. What a great job we have — sometimes this place truly sells itself!”
UW-Eau Claire plays an active role within Wisconsin’s culture and economy through partnerships such as those with Mayo Clinic Health System and Marshfield Clinic (https://www.uwec.edu/). The university also emphasizes critical-thinking skills development and career-focused opportunities while preparing students for roles within their communities (https://www.uwec.edu/). Its campus features include facilities shared with health partners like Mayo Clinic Health System (https://www.uwec.edu/), contributing both academically and economically.
Additionally, UW-Eau Claire supports cultural activities such as its Blugold Marching Band—recognized among the most active bands regionally—and offers numerous ways for students’ engagement beyond academics (https://www.uwec.edu/). National recognition has been given for its quality education practices alongside affordability and sustainability efforts (https://www.uwec.edu/).
Many students who attend UW-Eau Claire remain active contributors within this growing community after graduation.
