Exploring the Driftless Region: A Guide to La Crosse, La Crescent, Holmen, Onalaska, and West Salem

The Driftless Region of Wisconsin and Minnesota offers a unique blend of natural beauty, small-town charm, and vibrant city life. Nestled among rolling bluffs and along the Mississippi River, this area is home to diverse communities, each with its own personality and real estate opportunities.

Whether you’re looking for a lively urban atmosphere, a family-friendly suburb, or a peaceful small-town retreat, the right fit might be closer than you think. Let’s explore five standout towns and cities in our local market: La Crosse, La Crescent, Holmen, Onalaska, and West Salem.

1. La Crosse, WI – Urban Energy with Historic Charm

La Crosse is the heart of the Driftless Region, offering a vibrant mix of city living and natural beauty.  Click here to learn more about the City of La Crosse!

• Culture & Lifestyle:

  • Known for its bustling downtown, craft breweries, and live music scene.

  • Outdoor lovers flock to Riverside Park, Grandad Bluff, and the Mississippi River for hiking, biking, and boating.

  • The city has a strong arts community and hosts events like Oktoberfest, drawing visitors from across the Midwest.

• Real Estate Market:

  • La Crosse features a mix of historic homes, charming older neighborhoods, and modern condos along the riverfront.

  • The market here is competitive, especially for homes close to schools and downtown amenities.

  • Median Home Price: Around $260,000–$280,000 depending on neighborhood and size.

• Who It’s Best For:

  • Young professionals, families, and anyone who loves a mix of culture and outdoor adventure.

2. La Crescent, MN – Small-Town Living with a Big Heart

Just across the Mississippi River, La Crescent offers a quieter, small-town feel while staying close to La Crosse’s amenities.  Click here to learn more about La Crescent, MN!

• Culture & Lifestyle:

  • Nicknamed the “Apple Capital of Minnesota”, La Crescent is known for its scenic apple orchards and annual Applefest.

  • It provides a tight-knit community vibe, ideal for those seeking a slower pace.

  • Easy access to Wisconsin and Minnesota makes it a perfect spot for commuters.

• Real Estate Market:

  • The housing stock includes modest starter homes, spacious family houses, and rural properties with acreage.

  • Buyers often seek La Crescent for its lower property taxes and small-town charm.

  • Median Home Price: Typically ranges from $240,000–$260,000.

• Who It’s Best For:

  • Families looking for a peaceful setting, retirees, or anyone who wants a quiet neighborhood close to the city.

3. Holmen, WI – Rapidly Growing and Family-Friendly

Holmen has seen tremendous growth in recent years, making it one of the most sought-after suburbs in the area.  Click here to learn more about Holmen, WI!

• Culture & Lifestyle:

  • Offers newer schools, parks, and recreational programs, ideal for families.

  • Community events like the Holmen Kornfest highlight its strong sense of local pride.

  • Convenient access to Highway 53 makes commuting to La Crosse or Onalaska easy.

• Real Estate Market:

  • Holmen’s growth has led to an abundance of new construction homes and well-planned neighborhoods.

  • The market is competitive, with demand often outpacing supply for move-in-ready homes.

  • Median Home Price: Around $300,000–$325,000.

• Who It’s Best For:

  • Families looking for modern housing and excellent schools in a suburban setting.

4. Onalaska, WI – Shopping, Schools, and the Lake

Onalaska is a bustling community known for its mix of suburban conveniences and natural beauty.  Click here to learn more about Onalaska, WI!

• Culture & Lifestyle:

  • Features extensive shopping options, including big-box stores and local boutiques.

  • Black River and Lake Onalaska provide boating, fishing, and scenic trails.

  • Strong school system and active youth sports programs make it a favorite among families.

• Real Estate Market:

  • Offers a variety of housing, from mid-century ranch homes to modern subdivisions and waterfront properties.

  • The proximity to La Crosse makes it a top choice for commuters.

  • Median Home Price: Around $310,000–$330,000.

• Who It’s Best For:

  • Families, professionals, and anyone who values convenience and outdoor recreation.

5. West Salem, WI – Small-Town Charm with Big Opportunities

West Salem combines historic charm with modern amenities, making it a standout in the region.  For more information about West Salem, WI, click here!

• Culture & Lifestyle:

  • Known for its friendly, walkable downtown, great schools, and strong community pride.

  • Outdoor attractions include Lake Neshonoc for fishing and kayaking, as well as hiking and snowmobiling trails.

  • Local events like the county fair and high school sports foster a deep sense of community.

• Real Estate Market:

  • A mix of historic homes, newer builds, and rural properties.

  • Homes here tend to sell quickly, especially those near schools and recreational areas.

  • Median Home Price: Around $275,000–$295,000.

• Who It’s Best For:

  • Buyers seeking small-town living with easy access to La Crosse and surrounding areas.

Why the Driftless Region is a Great Place to Call Home

No matter which community you choose, the Driftless Region offers:

• Natural beauty, from river views to rolling bluffs.

• Strong schools and community programs for families.

• A balance of urban conveniences and rural tranquility.

• For more information about all of the neighborhoods in our area, from Juneau County to Winona County, Check out the Neighborhoods section of our website!

Julie Delap specializes in helping buyers and sellers navigate these diverse markets. Whether you’re relocating, upgrading, or downsizing, Julie’s local expertise ensures you find the perfect fit for your lifestyle.