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Oak Creek

city

Oak Creek, Wisconsin, is a vibrant city located in Milwaukee County, on the southwestern shore of Lake Michigan, immediately south of Milwaukee. As of 2026, the estimated population is approximately 39,222. Oak Creek offers a blend of suburban living with access to urban amenities, making it an attractive place for families and young professionals. The city has experienced significant growth in recent years, driven by economic development and a high quality of life. Oak Creek's economy is diverse, with major employment sectors including manufacturing, healthcare, retail, and transportation. Several large companies, such as Amazon, IKEA, and Astronautics Corporation of America, have established a presence in the city, contributing to its economic vitality. The city's strategic location, with access to major highways and proximity to Milwaukee and Chicago, further enhances its appeal for businesses and residents. Oak Creek distinguishes itself with a combination of historical roots and modern development. Founded as a township in 1840 and incorporated as a city in 1955, Oak Creek has evolved from a rural farming community to a thriving suburban center. The city's commitment to preserving its heritage is evident in the Oak Creek Historical Society Museum, which showcases the city's past. Drexel Town Square, a mixed-use development in the heart of the city, serves as a central gathering place and symbolizes Oak Creek's blend of tradition and progress.

Oak Creek, Wisconsin

Overview
Classification
City
FIPS Code
55-58800
Country
United States
County
Milwaukee
Geography
Region
Milwaukee metropolitan area
Elevation
702 ft
Total Area
28.45 sq mi
Land Area
28.45 sq mi
Water Area
0.008 sq mi
Latitude
42.88444
Longitude
-87.89917
Climate
Oak Creek experiences a humid continental climate, with warm summers and cold, snowy winters.
Notable Features
Lake Michigan · Root River · Oak Creek watershed
Neighboring Areas
Milwaukee · Greenfield · South Milwaukee · Caledonia · Franklin · Greendale
Demographics
Population (2020)
36,497
Est. Population (2026)
39,222
Median Age
39.4
Median Income
$96,555
Poverty Rate
4.92%
Family Households
58.8%
Owner-Occupied
57.45%
Racial & Ethnic Composition
The racial makeup of Oak Creek is approximately 75.69% White, 6.05% Asian, 4.57% Black or African American, and 10.06% Two or more races. Hispanic or Latino residents comprise 12.17% of the population.
Governance
Government Type
Mayor-Council
Governing Body
City Council
Body Size
0 members
School District
Oak Creek-Franklin Joint School District
Municipal Services
Police · Fire · Public Works · Parks & Recreation · Library
Economy
Unemployment Rate
2.3%
Economic Profile
Residential/suburban · Commercial growth
Employment Sectors
Manufacturing · Health Care & Social Assistance · Retail Trade · Transportation and Warehousing · Administrative and Support Services
Major Employers
Amazon · IKEA · Astronautics Corporation of America · Aurora Health Care · Ziegler CAT
Education
Schools
11
Students
6,527
Teachers
421
Student-Teacher Ratio
16:1
School Districts
Oak Creek-Franklin Joint School District
Infrastructure
Transportation
Interstate access · Milwaukee County Transit System · General Mitchell International Airport (nearby) · Freight Rail
Utilities
Municipal water · Municipal power · Fiber/broadband
Major Facilities
Emission Test Facility · Ascension Medical Group Primary Care Clinic · Children's Wisconsin Pediatric Clinic
Recreation
Outdoor Access
Yes
Major Recreation Areas
Bender Park · Drexel Town Square · Parks throughout the city
Parks & Trails
City parks with playgrounds, sports fields, and open play areas · Walking trails · Bike trails · Skate Park · Splash Pad
History
Founded
1840
Incorporated
1955
Named After
Oak Creek
Historical Significance
Oak Creek's incorporation was a pivotal moment, leading to the creation of the 'Oak Creek Law' and shaping the municipal landscape of the Milwaukee area. The city's growth reflects its ability to adapt from a rural community to a modern suburban center while preserving its heritage.
Key Events
Established as a township in 1840 · Railroads arrived in 1855 · Incorporated as a city in 1955 to avoid annexation by Milwaukee · Delco Electronics plant built in 1957, spurring population growth · Drexel Town Square development in recent years