About the City of Stoughton
The City of Stoughton is situated in southeastern Dane County, Wisconsin, at the intersection of U.S. Highway 51, State Trunk Highway 138, and County Highways B and N. Located approximately 18 miles southeast of Madison, Stoughton is also 80 miles west of Milwaukee, 130 miles northwest of Chicago, 100 miles northeast of Dubuque, and 280 miles southeast of Minneapolis. The city is bordered by the Towns of Dunkirk, Pleasant Springs, and Rutland, with the Town of Dunn located to the northwest.
Dane County communities are experiencing significant population growth, driven by their location in the Madison Metropolitan Area, which is widely regarded as one of the nation’s most desirable regions. For outlying cities and villages, balancing suburban growth with preserving their unique character and identity poses a significant challenge. This is especially true for Stoughton, a city with one of the most distinct and well-defined community identities in the region.
The People
In Stoughton, the average household is about 2.25 people. The median household income is $78,517 annually. About 94.6% of the population 25 and over has high school diploma or higher education and 40.4% with a bachelor’s degree or higher. The major employment sectors consist of educational services and health care and social assistance, followed by retail and trade. Stoughton Trailers and Stoughton Health also contribute to the local economy and workforce development.
Stoughton is home to 13,173 residents, each contributing to the city’s rich culture, history, and community spirit. With 21.3% of the population over the age of 65, Stoughton embraces a diverse mix of generations, from lifelong residents to newcomers drawn by its welcoming atmosphere.
Plan Stoughton will identify suitable locations for future businesses and outline strategies to prepare the next generation for the jobs of tomorrow.
The Economy
Stoughton residents cherish the city’s historic charm, vibrant downtown arts scene, green spaces, and close-knit, caring community. While challenges like an aging population and affordable housing persist, there are opportunities abound in downtown growth, small business development, riverfront revitalization, and attracting tech and manufacturing jobs. With assets such as the Stoughton Opera House, historic homes, and community events, Stoughton continues to balance its small-town identity with forward-looking growth.
Recreation
Plan Stoughton will integrate insights from the Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan and the recently adopted Sustainability Plan, with a strong emphasis on conserving and preserving the city’s natural spaces. This approach aims to enhance recreational opportunities, protect Stoughton’s environmental resources, and promote sustainable development that aligns with the community’s vision for the future.
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