Appleton, WI | World’s Best Cities

Appleton, WI

The city is one of 19 that make up the Fox Cities along the banks of the Fox River. Among its draws are Lawrence University and its Conservatory of Music; the Hearthstone Historic House Museum displays original Thomas Edison lights. With 11 nonstop destinations from Appleton International Airport, the city ranked #18 for Connectivity, contributing to its overall #37 rank for Product. Adding to its strong score in this category was Convention Center Size (#60). The Fox Cities Exhibition Center, which opened in 2018, has 30,000 square feet of exhibition halls, 17,000 square feet of outdoor space, and more. The city ranked #46 for Prosperity, with a #28 ranking for Household Income (median $56,459). Appleton’s financial well-being will get a significant boost when U.S. Venture (which distributes petroleum and renewable energy products, lubricants, tires, and parts for the automotive aftermarket) moves into downtown in 2022. The new headquarters will generate an estimated $770-million in economic activity annually.