Eau Claire, WI, has become one of the more livable mid-sized cities in the Upper Midwest, with established neighborhoods, growing suburbs, strong school options, and outdoor recreation for families. If you are moving to the Chippewa Valley with kids, choosing the right area matters just as much as planning the move itself. Trusted moving professionals can help make the relocation easier once you know which neighborhood feels like the right fit.
This guide covers the communities families in and around Eau Claire often consider, along with what each area offers.
Downtown Eau Claire and the Phoenix Park Area
Downtown Eau Claire has changed a lot over the past decade. The area around Phoenix Park and the Eau Claire River, stretching toward the Water Street District, has become a center for community events, outdoor activities, local restaurants, and arts.
Families who like walkability often enjoy this part of the city. Farmers’ markets, trails, parks, and local events are close by, which gives the area an active community feel.
Schools in the city of Eau Claire fall within the Eau Claire Area School District. For families who want to live near the city’s activity rather than in a quiet suburb, downtown offers several housing options, including:
- Historic homes
- Condos
- Rental units
- Newer residential buildings
The UW-Eau Claire Area and North Side Neighborhoods
The neighborhoods around UW-Eau Claire and the north side of the city offer established homes, access to campus amenities, and nearby parks along the Chippewa River. Families with ties to the university may find this area especially convenient.
Generally, the north side has a more residential feel compared to downtown. The area is tree-lined, with trail access and neighborhood parks making it a good choice for those who would like some green spaces but don’t wish to leave the city.
Some features of this area include:
- Characterful old houses
- Drive times are shorter than to downtown
- Access to parks and trails
- Residential vibe
- Close to UW-Eau Claire
Altoona: The Growing Suburb to the East of Eau Claire
This is a growing suburb situated to the east of Eau Claire and comprises housing developments and a commercial corridor. It has its own school district and, thus, is an ideal place for families.
The River Prairie development provides dining, retail, and other amenities, which have made the area a good suburban location in proximity to Eau Claire.
Altoona is a common choice for families who want:
- More space
- Newer construction
- Easy access to Eau Claire
- Local parks and trails
- A growing suburban setting
The drive into Eau Claire is short, which makes Altoona a good fit for families who work or attend school in the city but want a little more room at home.
Lake Hallie: Outdoor Access Between Two Cities
Lake Hallie is an unincorporated community in Chippewa County, located between Eau Claire and Chippewa Falls. It has grown as families look for more space, natural surroundings, and access to the broader Chippewa Valley.
The area offers lakefront properties, quieter residential pockets, and outdoor recreation nearby. Families who value space and a less crowded setting may find Lake Hallie appealing.
Lake Hallie is within the Chippewa Falls School District. For families comparing school options across the Valley, that can be part of the decision.
This area is worth considering if you want:
- A quieter setting
- More land
- Lake or outdoor access
- A location between Eau Claire and Chippewa Falls
- A residential feel outside the city
Chippewa Falls: Small City Character, 10 Miles Out
Chippewa Falls is about 10 miles northeast of Eau Claire and has its own strong identity. Its historic downtown, access to Lake Wissota, and community feel make it appealing to families who want a slower pace while staying close to Eau Claire.
For many families, Chippewa Falls is an option since commuting from there is feasible, and housing is cheaper than it is in Eau Claire itself. In addition to that, families with energetic kids find recreational opportunities around Lake Wissota very appealing.
Families seeking:
- Smaller city environment
- Historic downtown
- Recreational activities nearby
- Short commute to Eau Claire
- Community-oriented lifestyle
Menomonie: College-town feeling by I-94
The city of Menomonie is about 30 miles west of Eau Claire, along I-94, and is home to UW-Stout. This city suits families with remote workers or those who commute well, since they offer a college town with a more laid-back attitude.
There is a lakefront downtown next to Lake Menomin, local stores, parks, and hiking trails. The cost of living in Menomonie tends to be lower than in Eau Claire.
The Menomonie School District is well-regarded, and the city has continued to invest in parks, trails, and community spaces. Families looking for a smaller community with college-town energy may want to keep Menomonie on their list.
What to Know About Moving to Any of These Communities
Moving within the Chippewa Valley takes planning, whether you are heading to Altoona, Lake Hallie, Chippewa Falls, Fall Creek, Eleva, Menomonie, or another nearby community. Local moves within 100 miles of Eau Claire are handled by our own crew using our own trucks.
At Daymakers, we provide a flat-rate estimate after a real walkthrough. That means your move is priced based on the actual home, items, access, and timeline, not a quick guess.
Our crews serve communities throughout the Chippewa Valley and understand the neighborhoods, street layouts, and parking situations across the region. Once you choose the right place for your family, the next step is making the move there as smoothly as possible.
Related Topics:
