Like the river, Portage County flows with enthusiasm and passion.
Wisconsin River, Stevens Point
“One of the things that I love about Portage County is that is has always had a diverse community and a diverse industry base. I’ve never had a desire to live and work anywhere else.”
John Hartman
Owner, Contemporary Photography
Many of the professional photos on this website appear courtesy of John Hartman.
Location and Transportation
Portage County is located in the center of it all. Whether it’s traveling to a nearby urban center for business or pleasure, or commuting to work, it’s easy to get around or head out of town. And the same holds true for the goods you manufacture and distribute. Our centralized location is ideal for shipping nationally and internationally.
“We have seen our company grow from its initial store here in Stevens Point to thirteen locations across the state. From Stevens Point, I can get to Milwaukee (2.5 hours), Green Bay (1.5 hours), Wausau (.5) hours, La Crosse (2 hours), Eau Claire (2 hours); conduct a day’s business, and return for dinner with my family.”
Craig Shuler
President and Founder, DigiCopy
Business and Industry
The only way to describe Portage County’s mix of business is to call it diverse. And with economic diversity comes economic stability. We’re known throughout the country for our focus on agriculture, food processing, insurance, manufacturing, forest products and the dairy industry, but many other industries thrive here like health care, education and biotechnology.
“In our business, we’re in regular contact with thousands of other businesses throughout the country. Our conversations with them really give us an appreciation for the incredible work ethic we have here in Central Wisconsin. We’re very fortunate to be here.”
Dave Worth
President/CEO, The Worth Company
Housing
When it comes to housing, value and affordability comes to mind. Throughout Portage County, homes, condominiums and rental properties are priced well below the national average, but there’s nothing average about living here. With our scenic surroundings and diverse neighborhoods, housing options abound for seasoned workers, retirees, young professionals and students.
“I love the Portage County area. I moved here to attend the University of Wisconsin- Stevens Point and never left. It’s a great place to raise a family and offers a lot of community resources. People come here from out of the area and they are just thrilled by the lifestyle we enjoy and the quality homes available at very affordable prices.”
Pam Skaleski
Prism Real Estate, Stevens Point
Education
One of the reasons our economy is so strong is because our commitment to education is so strong. Our award-winning schools, at every level, produce top graduates for the Portage County workforce, and our teachers excel both in the classroom and in various enterprises through their contributions to research, the arts and many business activities.
“The Stevens Point Area Public School District is one that has a long-held tradition of preparing students for both college and careers. Our goal is to continually improve our local schools so that they uphold this fine tradition of excellence.”
Dr. Attila J. Weninger, Ph.D.
Superintendent
Health and Wellness
Portage County is a healthy county with plenty of opportunities to get fit and stay fit. With miles of hiking and biking trails and lakes to recreate on, many of our residents take advantage of our trails and lakes year around. And because we’re home to top flight medical professionals and facilities, you’ll find that Portage County embraces a deep culture of wellness.
“Founded in Portage County, the National Wellness Institute is the oldest nonprofit with wellness as its mission. The University of Wisconsin Stevens Point launched the first degree program in health and wellness management (now there are nearly 300 such programs). This area is truly the birthplace of the wellness movement and we see that play out in our strong community every day.”
Brandan Hardie, MBA
Executive Director, National Wellness Institute
Stay and Play
We’re in the news, over and over again. And that’s good because Portage County and Stevens Point are continually being recognized as great places to live, wonderful places to retire, and an exceptional place to receive an education. We enjoy a high quality of life because we place a high emphasis on recreation, the arts, family participation and a healthy life style.