Data last updated: October 01, 2026
Quick Stats
- Population: N/A
- Median household income: N/A
- Total school enrollment: N/A
Economy & Industries
The Economic Heart of Wisconsin’s Northwoods
Population
Median Household Income
Poverty Rate
Median Age
Unemployment (April)
$1,041 avg weekly wage
Sources: Census ACS 5-Year |
Bureau of Labor Statistics
Data updated: 2026-06-22 14:00:08
Price County’s economy blends traditional resource-based industries with modern diversification. We support local livelihoods while preserving the Northwoods character that makes this region unique.
Key Economic Sectors
Forest Products
From sustainable timber management to value-added manufacturing, wood remains our primary industrial engine.
Healthcare
Led by Aspirus Phillips, our healthcare sector is a major employer and critical service for the region.
Education & Gov
The County Seat and multiple school districts provide a stable foundation for public sector employment.
Tourism & Rec
Capitalizing on our parks and trails to drive seasonal and year-round hospitality revenue.
🏢 Major Employers by Community
Phillips (County Seat)
- Price County Gov Public
- Aspirus Phillips Healthcare
- Phillips School Dist. Education
- Phillips Medisize Manufacturing
Park Falls Area
- Chequamegon School Dist. Education
- Park Falls Pulp & Paper Closed 2021
- Marshfield Clinic Healthcare
Prentice Area
- Prentice School Dist. Education
- Multitek Inc. Manufacturing
- Village Administration Public
Economic Development & Future Growth
We are focused on sustainable growth — balancing industrial production with environmental stewardship. Key priorities include expanding Remote Work Infrastructure and supporting the Local Food Systems that fuel our communities.
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Price County Economy: By the Numbers
Price County’s economy runs on forestry, manufacturing, healthcare, and tourism. The county’s median household income trails the state average, but the cost of living is proportionally lower. Here’s what drives the local economy and what residents actually earn.
Employment by Sector
Manufacturing remains the largest private-sector employer, anchored by Phillips Medisize (a Molex company, formerly Phillips Plastics) in Phillips. Multitek Inc. in Prentice manufactures wood-processing equipment sold nationwide. The former Flambeau River Papers mill in Park Falls permanently closed in 2021 and was sold in parts; the site remains a topic of ongoing redevelopment discussion.
Healthcare is the second-largest sector, led by Aspirus Phillips Hospital and Marshfield Clinic in Park Falls. The county’s aging population keeps demand for healthcare services high, and the sector provides some of the most stable employment in the region.
Tourism and hospitality generates seasonal surges, particularly during summer (fishing, ATV trails, camping) and fall (hunting, leaf peeping). Short-term rentals and resorts along the Flambeau River system support dozens of small businesses that operate seasonally.
Key Employers
| Employer | Community | Sector |
|---|---|---|
| Phillips Medisize | Phillips | Manufacturing |
| Aspirus Phillips Hospital | Phillips | Healthcare |
| Price County Government | Phillips | Government |
| Chequamegon School District | Park Falls | Education |
| Prentice School District | Prentice | Education |
| Multitek Inc. | Prentice | Manufacturing |
| Marshfield Clinic | Park Falls | Healthcare |
📊 Federal Spending & Community Organizations
Per-Capita Federal Spending
Wisconsin Per-Capita Average
Total Federal Spending (FY2024)
Year-over-Year Change
| Fiscal Year | Total Spending | Per Capita |
|---|---|---|
| FY2026 | $46.6M | $3,315 |
| FY2025 | $138.7M | $9,871 |
| FY2024 | $135.9M | $9,669 |
Price County receives 50% less
federal funding per capita than the Wisconsin average.
Source: USAspending.gov (FIPS 55099)
Data updated: 2026-06-22 14:00:53
Key Community Organizations
Price County Economic Development
The county’s lead economic development organization, focused on business attraction, retention, and workforce development.
Phillips Chamber of Commerce
Supporting local businesses in the county seat with networking, events, and community advocacy.
Park Falls Chamber of Commerce
Promoting business and tourism in the Park Falls area, gateway to the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest.
Ogema Area Development Corp
Community development organization serving the Ogema area, including Timm’s Hill and ATV trail country.
The Housing Reality
Price County’s housing market is defined by its affordability and its split between permanent residents and seasonal cabin owners. The median home value sits well below the Wisconsin average, but a significant percentage of properties are seasonal or recreational. This creates a two-tier market: affordable year-round housing for locals, and increasingly expensive waterfront properties that sell to out-of-county buyers.
Rental housing is the county’s biggest housing challenge. Long-term rentals are scarce, and the seasonal tourism economy makes short-term rentals far more profitable for property owners than year-round leases. This tension between vacation housing and workforce housing affects every community in the county.
🎓 School Districts
🗳️ Recent Election Results
| Election | Contest | Candidate | Votes |
|---|---|---|---|
|
2026 Spring Election April 7, 2026 | JUSTICE OF THE SUPREME COURT | Chris Taylor | 1,760 |
| Maria S. Lazar | 1,960 | ||
| Total turnout | 3,720 | ||
|
2025 Spring Election April 1, 2025 | STATE SUPERINTENDENT OF PUBLIC INSTRUCTION | Brittany Kinser | 3,403 |
| Jill Underly | 2,261 | ||
| Total turnout | 5,664 | ||
| JUSTICE OF THE SUPREME COURT | Brad Schimel | 3,865 | |
| Susan Crawford | 2,459 | ||
| Total turnout | 6,324 | ||
| COURT OF APPEALS JUDGE DISTRICT 3 | Lisa K. Stark | 4,214 | |
| Total turnout | 4,214 | ||
| State of Wisconsin Referendum | YES | 4,568 | |
| NO | 1,554 | ||
| Total turnout | 6,122 | ||
|
2024 General Election November 5, 2024 | PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES | Kamala D. Harris Tim Walz (D) | 48 |
| Donald J. Trump JD Vance (R) | 128 | ||
| Randall Terry Stephen Broden (C) | 0 | ||
| Chase Russell Oliver Mike ter Maat (L) | 0 | ||
| Jill Stein Rudolph Ware (G) | 0 | ||
| Claudia De la Cruz Karina Garcia (PSL) | 0 | ||
| Cornel West Melina Abdullah (I) | 0 | ||
| Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. Nicole Shanahan (I) | 0 | ||
| Peter Sonski Lauren Onak (write-in) | 2 | ||
| Total turnout | 178 | ||
| UNITED STATES SENATOR | Tammy Baldwin (D) | 57 | |
| Eric Hovde (R) | 114 | ||
| Phil Anderson (I) | 3 | ||
| Thomas Leager (I) | 2 | ||
| Total turnout | 176 | ||
| REPRESENTATIVE IN CONGRESS DISTRICT 7 | Kyle Kilbourn (D) | 51 | |
| Tom Tiffany (R) | 118 | ||
| Total turnout | 169 | ||
| REPRESENTATIVE TO THE ASSEMBLY DISTRICT 68 | Richard Pulcher (D) | 47 | |
| Rob Summerfield (R) | 120 | ||
| Total turnout | 167 | ||
| PRICE COUNTY DISTRICT ATTORNEY | Matthew McElroy (I) | 100 | |
| Total turnout | 100 |
Source: Wisconsin Elections Commission
Data updated: 2026-07-09 16:20:17
Economic Development Challenges
Price County faces the same challenges as much of rural northern Wisconsin: an aging population, limited broadband infrastructure outside Phillips and Park Falls, and a workforce that commutes out of county for higher-paying jobs. The county has pursued broadband expansion projects and workforce housing initiatives, but progress has been incremental.
For current demographic and economic data, see our Price County Stats page, updated monthly from Census data.
Related: Getting Around Price County • Where to Stay • Phillips Community Profile • Park Falls Profile • PCUL & Lionite Mill Controversy
🎓 Workforce & Education Hub
Price County is committed to lifelong learning and professional growth. We partner with regional institutions to ensure our workforce remains competitive and skilled.
Northcentral Technical College
The Phillips Campus provides local access to associate degrees, technical diplomas, and customized training for area businesses.
Northwest WI Workforce
The NWWIB offers resources for both job seekers and employers, including talent development and regional labor market data.
Northwood Technical College
Serving the broader regional area with diverse technical programs and workforce training specialized for Northern Wisconsin.
Price County Economic Dashboard: Complete Data
This page auto-updates from federal and state sources. Most data reflects the most recent annual release from the Census Bureau, Bureau of Labor Statistics, USAspending.gov, WI DPI, and WI Elections Commission.
Demographics & Population
| Metric | Price County | Wisconsin | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population | 14,077 | 5,910,955 | Census ACS 5-Year |
| Median household income | $58,720 | $72,458 | Census ACS 5-Year |
| Median home value | $146,000 | $217,500 | Census ACS 5-Year |
| Median gross rent | $801 | $1,071 | Census ACS 5-Year |
| Median age | 52 | 40.1 | Census ACS 5-Year |
| Poverty rate | 12.8% | 10.7% | Census ACS 5-Year |
| Land area | 1,254 sq mi | 65,496 sq mi | Census Bureau |
| Population density | 11.2/sq mi | 90.2/sq mi | Calculated from Census |
Sources: U.S. Census Bureau American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates (2020-2024); Wisconsin Department of Administration.
Employment & Labor Force
| Metric | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Unemployment rate (April 2026) | 4.8% | BLS LAUS |
| Labor force | 6,043 | BLS LAUS |
| Employed | 5,752 | BLS LAUS |
| Unemployed | 291 | BLS LAUS |
| Total establishments | 444 | BLS QCEW Q4 2025 |
| Avg monthly employment | 4,741 | BLS QCEW Q4 2025 |
| Avg weekly wage | $1,041 | BLS QCEW Q4 2025 |
| Total quarterly wages | $64,218,379 | BLS QCEW Q4 2025 |
Sources: Bureau of Labor Statistics Local Area Unemployment Statistics (LAUS); Bureau of Labor Statistics Quarterly Census of Employment and Wages (QCEW), Q4 2025.
Federal Spending Trends
| Fiscal Year | Total Spending | Per Capita | vs WI Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| FY2024 | $135.9M | $9,669 | 50.2% below |
| FY2025 | $138.7M | $9,871 | 48.7% below |
| FY2026 (partial) | $46.5M | $3,309 | 82.8% below |
Price County receives roughly half the federal funding per capita compared to the Wisconsin state average ($9,669 vs $19,248 in FY2024). The FY2026 figure is partial (year in progress). Source: USAspending.gov, spending_by_geography endpoint for FIPS 55099.
Key Industry Sectors: Employment Breakdown
| Sector | Role in Economy | Major Employers |
|---|---|---|
| Forest Products | Primary industrial engine. Sustainable timber management, pulpwood, sawmills, and value-added wood manufacturing. | Multitek Inc. (Prentice), Price County Forestry Dept., local sawmills |
| Healthcare | Major employer and critical service for a rural, aging population. Price County’s median age of 52 is 12 years above the state average. | Aspirus Phillips Clinic, Marshfield Clinic (Park Falls), North Lakes Community Clinic |
| Education & Government | Stable public sector employment base. County government, 4 school districts, and state forestry operations. | Price County Government, Phillips School District, Chequamegon School District, Prentice School District |
| Tourism & Recreation | Seasonal and year-round hospitality. ATV trails, fishing, camping, snowmobiling drive visitor spending. | Ripsaw Saloon (Prentice), local lodges, guide services, ATV rental outfitters |
| Manufacturing | Value-added manufacturing including paper production, wood products, and metal fabrication. | Multitek Inc., Phillips Medisize |
| Agriculture | Dairy, beef cattle, and forage production. Smaller scale than southern Wisconsin but important for land use. | United Pride Dairy (Prentice area), family farms throughout county |
Sources: BLS QCEW, Price County Economic Development Corporation, company directories.
Real Estate & Housing Market
Price County’s housing market is notably more affordable than the Wisconsin average. The median home value of $146,000 is 33% below the state median ($217,500), making the area attractive for remote workers and retirees seeking affordable Northwoods living. Median gross rent is $801, compared to $1,071 statewide.
The county faces a housing shortage, particularly for workforce housing. A proposed 40-unit housing development in Park Falls has been the subject of ongoing community debate, highlighting the tension between growth and small-town character. Source: Census ACS 5-Year Estimates; Price County Board meeting records.
Tax Climate
| Tax Type | Rate | Comparison |
|---|---|---|
| Property tax (median) | ~1.5% of home value | Slightly below WI average of 1.68% |
| State income tax | 3.5% – 7.65% (bracketed) | WI state standard |
| Sales tax (Price County) | 5.5% | 5% state + 0.5% county |
| Beer tax | $2.00/barrel ($0.065/gal) | One of lowest in US, unchanged since 1969 |
Sources: Wisconsin Department of Revenue; Tax Foundation; Wisconsin Taxpayers Alliance.
Infrastructure & Connectivity
Price County’s infrastructure challenges are typical of rural northern Wisconsin:
- Broadband: The Bug Tussel Wireless deal aimed to bring high-speed internet to underserved areas via 6 towers and 87 miles of fiber. As of June 2026, 2 towers are constructed (Georgetown, Catawba), 1 is underway (Fifield), and the fiber line status is uncertain. Read our investigation.
- Highways: US Highway 8 runs east-west through the county. State Highway 13 runs north-south. County roads are maintained by the Price County Highway Department.
- Healthcare access: Aspirus Phillips Clinic and North Lakes Community Clinic (Park Falls) are the primary healthcare facilities. Ambulance response times in rural areas average 15-25 minutes, compared to 8 minutes in urban areas. Read our rural healthcare analysis.
- Emergency communications: A $4 million radio communication gap has been identified in the county’s emergency services infrastructure, affecting sheriff and fire department coordination.
Economic Development Challenges
Price County faces several structural economic challenges common to rural Wisconsin:
- Population decline: The county lost 297 residents between 2020 (14,374) and 2024 (14,077), reflecting rural outmigration. The median age of 52 is 12 years above the state average, indicating an aging population with fewer young families.
- Income gap: Median household income ($58,720) is 19% below the Wisconsin average ($72,458). The average weekly wage ($1,041) is 30% below the state average ($1,490).
- Federal funding shortfall: Price County receives 50% less federal funding per capita than the Wisconsin average, limiting resources for infrastructure and community programs.
- Workforce housing: The 40-unit Park Falls housing development debate illustrates the challenge of attracting development to a rural area with limited construction infrastructure.
- Broadband gap: Despite the Bug Tussel deal, significant portions of the county still lack reliable high-speed internet, hampering remote work and business development.
- School funding: Open enrollment and declining enrollment threaten the viability of smaller school districts, particularly Catawba (~80 students).
Sources: Census Bureau, BLS, USAspending.gov, Price County Board meeting records, WI DPI school report cards.
Frequently Asked Questions About Price County’s Economy
What is the median household income in Price County, WI?
The median household income in Price County is $58,720, which is 19% below the Wisconsin state median of $72,458. The poverty rate is 12.8%. Source: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates (2020-2024).
What are the main industries in Price County, Wisconsin?
The primary industries are forest products (timber, paper, wood manufacturing), healthcare (Aspirus Phillips, Marshfield Clinic), education and government (4 school districts, county government), tourism and recreation (ATV trails, fishing, camping), and manufacturing (Multitek, Phillips Medisize). Source: BLS Quarterly Census of Employment and Wages.
How much federal funding does Price County receive?
Price County received $135.9 million in federal spending in FY2024, equal to $9,669 per capita. This is roughly 50% below the Wisconsin state average of $19,248 per capita. Source: USAspending.gov, spending_by_geography for FIPS code 55099.
What is the unemployment rate in Price County?
The unemployment rate was 4.8% as of April 2026, with a labor force of 6,043 and 5,752 employed residents. This is slightly above the Wisconsin state average of 3.2%. Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, Local Area Unemployment Statistics (LAUS).
Is Price County a good place to start a business?
Price County offers low housing costs (median home value $146,000), low population density (11.2 per square mile), and growing tourism demand. However, challenges include a shrinking population, below-average wages, limited broadband in some areas, and a smaller local customer base. The county has 444 active business establishments. Source: Census Bureau, BLS QCEW.
How does Price County’s cost of living compare to the rest of Wisconsin?
Price County’s cost of living is significantly lower than the state average. Median home values ($146,000) are 33% below the Wisconsin median ($217,500), and median rent ($801) is 25% below the state median ($1,071). However, incomes are also lower, with median household income 19% below the state average. Source: Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates.
What is the largest employer in Price County?
The largest employers include Aspirus Phillips Clinic (healthcare), Phillips Medisize (manufacturing), the Price County government, and the local school districts (Phillips, Chequamegon, Prentice). Source: BLS QCEW, Price County Economic Development Corporation.