Elkhorn, WI, United States

Capital City

With a population of just over 10,000, Elkhorn may seem quaint, but the reality is a persistent bureaucratic headache for newcomers. The county seat of Walworth County has seen steady growth since its founding in the 1800s, with the population rising from 7,305 in 2000 to 10,247 in the 2020 census. Elkhorn takes pride in its "Christmas Card Town" status, complete with an annual oil painting tradition, but the city's remote location 40 miles southwest of Milwaukee can make accessing services a challenge. Those willing to navigate the bureaucratic red tape may find Elkhorn's affordable housing and small-town charms appealing, but the city is best suited for retirees or remote workers seeking a slower pace of life.