So what is a second home? 

Some call their second home a cottage while others use the term cabin. Regardless of the terminology, the formal definition of a second home is a non-rental property that is not classified as the taxpayer’s principal residence.

Are they popular in Wisconsin? 

15% of America’s counties with the most vacation homes are located in northern Wisconsin.

In four counties in northern Wisconsin, 50% of residents are second homeowners, according to the National Association of Homebuilders. 

Second home heat map 

This map indicates the density of housing in areas with the United States. Below, on the bottom right, is a key that depicts the percentage of homes that are considered second homes. The image depicts the northern region of Wisconsin in a dark red which indicates that 50 percent of homes in those areas are second homes.)

Why are second homes popular in Wisconsin? Affordability? 

Owning a second home in Wisconsin is expensive.

Wisconsin has the 5th highest property tax at 1.96%.

And the median price of a home in Wisconsin is $195,000.

Bonding? 

75% of second homeowners use their second home in the summer and another 36% use their second homes for recreational use.

76% of second homeowners prefer to be near water (ocean, river, or lake.)

Future Retirement 

Survey respondents who plan to become full-time residents after retirement: 

The Future of Second Homes 

Between 2013 to 2018, the average vacation home price increased at a slightly higher pace of 36% compared to an increase for all existing and new homes sold at 31%.

Housing Density Forecast in 2030 

Amenity-rich areas such as Door, Oneida, Vilas and other northern Wisconsin counties, show higher density housing.

By: Kia Pourmodheji 

Fast facts references: National Association of Homebuilders, U.S. Census Bureau, Wisconsin Realtors Association, American Housing Survey, National Association of Realtors, Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, UW-Extension, USA Today