Winona State University and St. Mary's University are located in Winona, Minnesota, located 30 minutes from La Crosse. Minnesota and Wisconsin have a tuition reciprocity agreement that allows Wisconsin residents to pay resident tuition rates at Minnesota schools, and vice versa. Housing prices have been rising steadily in the La Crosse area during the past few years. Both old and newer homes are available. The availability of homes on the market tends to fluctuate, so some new residents find it necessary to consider the option of building a new home.
Many contractors are available in the area, and new construction seems to be fairly constant.
It is also possible to live in a more rural location and have a short commute to the office. City and county roads tend to be well-maintained during the winter, though the bluff road from the city to the office can get difficult at times during heavy snowfalls. Those who may require temporary quarters when moving to La Crosse will want to make reservations as soon as possible. Due to tourism and area festivals, motels are often booked to capacity on weekends, especially during the summer and fall. Public transportation is limited to city bus routes in La Crosse.