Town of Big Bend

Rural Character. Natural Beauty. Community.

Located in Rusk County, the Town of Big Bend offers the open spaces, natural surroundings, and peaceful rural character that define northern Wisconsin. Surrounded by forests, waterways, and rural landscapes, Big Bend provides a quiet setting for residents while remaining connected to the communities and resources of the broader Rusk County region.

Why Big Bend?

Located in southern Rusk County along the Chippewa River, the Town of Big Bend offers abundant water resources, recreational land, and a close-knit rural community within the Blue Diamond recreation area.

The Chippewa River

Named for the sweeping bend in the Chippewa River, the township's landscape is shaped by the river and provides a defining natural feature for the community.

Lakes & Waterways

With nine lakes, numerous streams, and 2.7 square miles of water, Big Bend offers exceptional access to fishing, boating, and other water-based recreation.

Blue Diamond Recreation Area

As part of the Blue Diamond recreation area, Big Bend connects residents and visitors to a broader network of outdoor recreational opportunities in the region.

Island Lake Community

The unincorporated community of Island Lake lies within the township, adding a distinct local identity and gathering point within the town.

Rural Land & Open Space

With 32.6 square miles of land across the township, Big Bend offers open space and a rural setting for residents seeking a quiet, natural environment.

Connected to Rusk County

Situated in southern Rusk County, Big Bend is connected to the county's broader network of communities, services, and regional transportation routes.

Community Profile

The following demographic information provides a snapshot of the Town of Big Bend using the 2024 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-Year Estimates. These statistics provide insight into the township's population, households, housing, income, and educational characteristics.

Population

478

Total Population

Estimated resident population.

54.3

Median Age

Median age of township residents.

14.7

People per Sq. Mile

Population density across the township's 32.6 square miles.

2.3

Persons per Household

Average number of people per household.

Income & Economy

$67,813

Median Household Income

Median annual household income.

$40,698

Per Capita Income

Income per resident.

12.9%

Poverty Rate

Residents living below the federal poverty line.

48.7 min

Mean Travel Time to Work

Average travel time to work for employed residents.

Housing & Education

493

Housing Units

Total residential housing units.

$254,500

Median Home Value

Median value of owner-occupied housing units.

94.6%

High School Graduate+

Residents age 25 and older with a high school diploma or higher.

23.9%

Bachelor's Degree+

Residents age 25 and older with a bachelor's degree or higher.

Data Source & Disclaimer

Community profile statistics are based on the 2024 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-Year Estimates provided by the U.S. Census Bureau and accessed through href="https://censusreporter.org/profiles/06000US5510707175-big-bend-town-rusk-county-wi/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" > Census Reporter . Census estimates are subject to sampling variability and may differ from other population or demographic data sources. Information presented on this page is provided for general informational and economic development purposes and should not be considered an official statement of township statistics.

class="rc-source-link" href="https://censusreporter.org/profiles/06000US5510707175-big-bend-town-rusk-county-wi/"
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