Merrill, WI Homes for Rent

Merrill, a former logging town on the banks of the Wisconsin River, maintains its small-town charm with a population under 10,000 and a historic Main Street lined with local businesses. The Wisconsin River offers year-round recreation with walking trails, boat ramps, and parks like Riverside Park and Prairie Trails Park, where residents can enjoy fishing, kayaking, and golfing. The Riverbend Trail features historical markers and plans for expansion to Wausau, located 20 miles south. Merrill hosts annual events such as the Lincoln County Fair, Wisconsin River Pro Rodeo, and summer concerts at Normal Park. The central business district north of the river includes retail options along Main Street, 1st Street, and Central Avenue, with eateries like Chip's Hamburgers and Hugo's Pizza. Housing styles range from late 19th-century Victorian homes to midcentury and late 1990s single-family houses, with some undeveloped lots south of the river. Merrill Area Public Schools are highly rated, and the district offers community education classes in various subjects. Despite a slight increase in non-violent crime since 2020, the area remains safer than the national average. Employment is primarily in manufacturing and product wholesale, with additional opportunities in nearby Wausau. Public transportation is limited, but commercial flights are available from Central Wisconsin Airport in Mosinee. Medical care is accessible at Aspirus Merrill Hospital, a major local employer.