█ Getting to Know Evansville
What a fantastic location! Evansville, Wisconsin is smack
dab in the middle of southcentral Wisconsin in Rock County, close to Madison, Janesville and Beloit. It’s nearStoughton and Oregon, and often gets confused with that other nearby “E” city — Edgerton. But make no mistake, the two cities each have an identity of their own.
Originally known as ‘the Grove,” Evansville was founded in 1839, with its eventual name chosen in honor of Dr. J.M. Evans, the community's first doctor. Tobacco, wheat and dairy farming were important to this region in the town’s early days. But while the city has a strong history, residents are very proud of what it is today — with retail, arts and other businesses making their home in Evansville’s historic downtown.
You’ll find boutiques with everything from the trendy, to great vintage and antique treasure. Local restaurants offer a variety of food for every taste. Known for unique barn quilts, Evansville encourages crafting of all kinds. And crafters will delight in the Grove Retreat, a place where amateur artists can hone their crafts.
As a Discover Wisconsin Choice Destination, quality of life is good here. The Evansville Community School District (ECSD) is well-regarded. And the parks are abundant and beautiful.
In fact, Evansville boasts more than 66 acres of parkland
and recreation areas — with another 24 acres in the ECSD. One of the most popular is the Leonard Leota Park, which features all the recreational opportunities of Lake Leota , including basketball and tennis courts, softball and baseball diamonds, hiking and picnic areas, playground areas, a skate park, and the Veteran's Memorial Aquatic Center. And be sure to mark your calendars for the Annual 4th of July Celebration.
With just over 5,300 residents, Evansville’s population has increased by 32% since 2000. The median age is 33.6 and the median household income has increased from $44,229 in 2000 to $60,958 today. The median home value in Evansville is at $174,517, with rent running an average of $820. And even better? The cost of living here is less than the national average! Nearly 25% of residents over 25 have a Bachelor’s, Master’s, Professional, or Doctorate degree.
From bowling to berry picking, dining to dancing, and book-reading to barbeques, there’s a lot to do in Evansville. And there are many more things for residents and visitors to explore and do nearby. Opportunities to enjoy the local parks and lakes, the theater, sporting events, shopping, biking and much more are all just a stone’s throw away.