green bay wi elevation

3 min read 07-03-2025

Meta Description: Discover the elevation of Green Bay, Wisconsin! This comprehensive guide explores the city's varied topography, average elevation, highest points, and impact of elevation on the local environment and lifestyle. Learn about nearby areas and compare elevations for a complete picture.

Understanding Green Bay's Elevation

Green Bay, Wisconsin, sits nestled along the western shore of Green Bay, an expansive body of water connected to Lake Michigan. Its elevation isn't uniform; the city's topography is varied, ranging from the low-lying areas along the bay to slightly higher ground further inland. Understanding this variation is key to appreciating the city's unique character.

Average Elevation of Green Bay

The average elevation of Green Bay, WI, is approximately 600 feet (183 meters) above sea level. This is a general figure, and the actual elevation can fluctuate depending on the specific location within the city limits. Many areas are considerably lower, especially those closer to the bay.

Highest Points in Green Bay

While Green Bay doesn't boast towering mountains, some areas reach higher elevations than others. Pinpointing the absolute highest point requires detailed topographical surveys, but several higher neighborhoods exist within the city limits. These often provide slightly elevated views of the city and bay.

Impact of Elevation on Green Bay

The relatively low elevation of Green Bay influences several aspects of life in the city:

Proximity to Water: The low-lying nature of much of the city contributes to its proximity to the bay and its inherent susceptibility to flooding during periods of high water levels. This necessitates careful urban planning and flood mitigation strategies.
Climate: The Great Lakes' influence, combined with the relatively low elevation, moderates the climate compared to areas further inland. This leads to milder winters and warmer summers than locations at higher elevations in Wisconsin.
Drainage: Lower elevations dictate drainage patterns, influencing stormwater management and the design of the city's infrastructure.

Exploring Elevations in Nearby Areas

Understanding Green Bay's elevation also requires considering the surrounding areas. Elevations change gradually as one moves away from the city center.

Green Bay Metropolitan Area: The elevation varies across the broader Green Bay metropolitan area, with some suburban areas experiencing slightly higher elevations than the downtown core.
Brown County: Brown County, where Green Bay is located, exhibits a generally low-lying topography consistent with the Great Lakes region.
Neighboring Counties: As one moves further from Green Bay into neighboring counties, elevations tend to increase, often more dramatically than the incremental changes within the city itself.

How Elevation Impacts Local Lifestyle

Green Bay's relatively low elevation is a crucial aspect of the city's character:

Recreation: The proximity to the water, facilitated by the low elevation, makes water sports and recreation prominent. The bay offers opportunities for boating, fishing, and various water-related activities.
Tourism: Green Bay's location and accessible waterfront contribute significantly to the city's tourism industry. Many visitors come to enjoy the waterfront and the natural beauty of the area, made possible in part by its elevation.
Development: The topography influences urban development, leading to a unique blend of waterfront properties and inland neighborhoods. The low-lying areas often have a more dense concentration of buildings, while the higher areas tend to be more residential.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Green Bay Elevation

What is the elevation of Lambeau Field?

Lambeau Field, home of the Green Bay Packers, is situated at a slightly higher elevation than the average for Green Bay, though the exact figure isn't widely publicized. It's still within the general range of elevations found within the city.

How does the elevation of Green Bay compare to other Wisconsin cities?

Compared to other cities in Wisconsin, Green Bay is relatively low-lying. Many cities in more hilly or mountainous regions will have significantly higher average elevations.

Are there any significant elevation changes within Green Bay itself?

While not dramatically mountainous, Green Bay does experience subtle variations in elevation throughout the city. The areas closest to the bay are the lowest, and elevations tend to increase as one moves further inland.

Conclusion

Green Bay's elevation, while seemingly modest, is an integral factor in shaping its environment, climate, and lifestyle. Understanding the city's varied topography helps to appreciate its unique character and the opportunities it presents for residents and visitors alike. Whether enjoying the waterfront or exploring the higher residential areas, the city's elevation plays a quiet but significant role in daily life.