The Best School Districts Within a 20-Minute Commute of Downtown Wausau
Relocating for a career at Aspirus, Marshfield Clinic, or one of Wausau’s thriving downtown businesses often comes with a classic dilemma: Do you live where you work, or do you live where your kids go to school?
In Central Wisconsin, you don't have to choose. Because of our unique geography, several of the top-ranked school districts in the state are located within a 15- to 20-minute drive of the 400 Block. Whether you’re looking for a wooded lot in Rib Mountain or a modern subdivision in Kronenwetter, here are the best school districts within a stone's throw of Downtown Wausau.
1. D.C. Everest Area School District
Average Commute: 10–15 Minutes
Key Communities: Weston, Rothschild, Schofield, Kronenwetter.
Why Parents Love It: Known for its "big school opportunities with a small-town feel," D.C. Everest is a powerhouse in both academics and athletics. They recently invested in a $30 million sports complex and are highly regarded for their STEM programs.
The Custom Home Angle: Areas like Kronenwetter offer expansive, flat lots perfect for custom ranch-style homes with walk-out basements.
2. Wausau School District (West Side vs. East Side)
Average Commute: 5–10 Minutes
Key Communities: Rib Mountain, Stettin, Texas.
Why Parents Love It: The district offers incredible variety, including the Wausau Area Montessori Charter School. Rib Mountain Elementary and Stettin Elementary consistently rank as top-tier public schools in the state.
The Custom Home Angle: If you want a home with a view, building in Rib Mountain (Wausau West district) allows for stunning timber-frame designs that overlook the mountain—all while being 8 minutes from your office.
3. Mosinee School District
Average Commute: 15–20 Minutes
Key Communities: Mosinee, Moon, Halder.
Why Parents Love It: Mosinee is often called a "destination district." It leads the county in dual-credit courses (college credits earned in high school) and offers a unique flight school program through the nearby Central Wisconsin Airport.
The Custom Home Angle: Land in Mosinee is often more affordable than in Wausau proper, allowing you to put more of your budget into high-end finishes and custom cabinetry.
4. Marathon City School District
Average Commute: 18–22 Minutes
Key Communities: Marathon City, Cassel.
Why Parents Love It: If you’re looking for a tight-knit, high-achieving community, Marathon City is it. With a 100% graduation rate and an "Exceeds Expectations" rating from the state, it’s a hidden gem for families.
The Custom Home Angle: This area is perfect for those looking to build "modern farmhouses" on multi-acre parcels.
Making the Move: How to Choose Your Building Site
Choosing a school district is the first step, but finding the right lot within that district is where the real work begins. Factors like soil quality for septic systems, municipal water access in Weston, or steep grades in Rib Mountain can significantly impact your building budget.
Jones & Jones Tip: Before you sign a land contract based on a school district boundary, have a builder walk the lot with you. We help our clients navigate the hidden costs of local land prep in Marathon and Lincoln counties so there are no surprises after the closing.
Building Your Family’s Future in Central Wisconsin
At Jones & Jones, we don't just build houses; we build the backdrops for your family’s biggest milestones—from the first day of kindergarten to high school graduation. As local builders who live and work in these very districts, we know the nuances of every neighborhood from Wausau to Tomahawk.
Ready to start your journey? Explore our Custom Home Gallery or Contact Austin and the Team today to discuss which Central Wisconsin school district is the right fit for your new home.
