Hudson sits right on the St. Croix River, bridging Wisconsin and Minnesota with scenic views and a thriving downtown. If you're among the 15,004 people who call this St. Croix County seat home, you already know what makes Hudson special: easy access to the Twin Cities, that beautiful riverfront, and a tight-knit community feel despite steady growth. But here's what you might not know: your location creates some unique insurance considerations that could save you money or protect you from financial disaster.
Whether you're commuting to Minneapolis for work, enjoying retirement along the river, or running a business in the downtown district, your insurance needs matter. Hudson has four local insurance agencies who understand this area inside and out. Let's break down what you actually need to know about protecting yourself, your home, and your vehicles in Hudson.
Auto Insurance: What Hudson Drivers Need to Know
Let's start with the basics. Wisconsin law requires you to carry 25/50/10 liability coverage. That means $25,000 per person for bodily injury, $50,000 per accident total, and $10,000 for property damage. You also need uninsured motorist coverage at 25/50 limits. These requirements didn't change in 2025 or 2026, so if you're already insured, you're probably covered.
Here's the thing, though: those minimums might not be enough. If you're crossing the St. Croix River Bridge daily to work in the Twin Cities metro, you're racking up serious mileage. More driving means more exposure to accidents. And with Hudson's median household income at $97,036, you likely have assets worth protecting beyond what minimum coverage offers. If you cause a serious accident, you could be personally liable for damages exceeding your policy limits.
Consider bumping your liability limits to 100/300/100 or higher. It typically costs less than you'd think—maybe an extra $10-20 per month—and provides real peace of mind. Comprehensive and collision coverage are also smart if your vehicle is worth more than a few thousand dollars. Winter driving in Wisconsin means you're dealing with ice, snow, and salt that can lead to claims.
Homeowners Insurance: Protecting Your Investment
Good news for Hudson homeowners: Wisconsin has some of the most affordable homeowners insurance in the country. The average annual premium runs between $1,172 and $1,648, depending on your coverage amount and home value. That's 28-34% less than the national average. If you have excellent credit, you could pay as little as $928 annually. Poor credit? Expect closer to $2,777—a massive $1,605 difference.
Your standard homeowners policy covers your dwelling, personal property, liability, and additional living expenses if you need to temporarily relocate. Make sure your dwelling coverage matches your home's replacement cost, not its market value. In Hudson's growing real estate market, replacement costs can surprise you. Construction materials and labor aren't cheap, especially in a smaller city where contractors may be in high demand.
Liability coverage is equally important. If someone gets injured on your property—say, they slip on ice on your front steps in January—you're potentially facing medical bills and legal fees. Most policies start at $100,000 liability, but consider $300,000 or $500,000, especially given property values in Hudson. For even more protection, an umbrella policy adds another $1-2 million in coverage for around $200-400 annually.
The St. Croix River Factor: Flood Insurance
Here's what every Hudson resident needs to understand: standard homeowners insurance does not cover flood damage. Not a drop. And the St. Croix River has a history of flooding that should get your attention. The river crested at 94.10 feet in 1965, nearly matched that in 2001 at 92.30 feet, and hit 88.48 feet in 2019—higher than any flood in the previous 25 years. In 2020, St. Croix County experienced devastating flash floods that took a life, displaced families, and cost millions in damages.
Even if you're not in a designated flood zone, you're not safe. About 25% of flood insurance claims come from properties outside high-risk flood areas. Heavy spring snowmelt, intense rainfall, or blocked drainage systems can cause flooding anywhere in town. Flood insurance through the National Flood Insurance Program typically costs $400-700 annually for moderate-risk properties, with a 30-day waiting period before coverage begins. Don't wait until the river starts rising.
If flooding occurs, document everything immediately. Take photos, save receipts, and contact your insurance agent right away. St. Croix County maintains flooding resources and alerts through their emergency management office, so sign up for notifications if you haven't already.
Working with Local Hudson Insurance Agents
Hudson has four local insurance agencies serving the community. There's real value in working with local agents who know St. Croix County. They understand flood risks along the river, they know how winter weather affects claims, and they can explain coverage options specific to your situation. A local agent can review your policies annually to make sure you're not underinsured as home values rise or overinsured on vehicles that depreciate.
When you're shopping for insurance, get quotes from multiple agents. Rates vary significantly between insurers, sometimes by hundreds of dollars for identical coverage. West Bend Insurance Company consistently ranks as Wisconsin's best homeowners insurer, but what works for your neighbor might not be the best fit for you. Ask about bundling discounts—combining auto and home insurance with one carrier typically saves 15-25%. Also inquire about discounts for security systems, claims-free history, new roofs, or updated electrical and plumbing systems.
Other Insurance Considerations for Hudson Residents
If you're renting in Hudson, don't skip renters insurance. For $15-30 monthly, you get coverage for your belongings and liability protection. That liability piece is crucial—if you accidentally cause a fire or water damage that affects other units, you're personally responsible without coverage.
Life insurance becomes increasingly important as you build assets and family responsibilities. Hudson's demographics show a median age of 37 with 58.3% of households being families. Term life insurance is affordable—healthy 35-year-olds can get $500,000 in coverage for around $25-40 monthly. That protection ensures your family can cover the mortgage, education costs, and living expenses if something happens to you.
For Medicare-eligible residents, St. Croix County offers five Medicare Advantage plan options for 2026, with three costing nothing beyond the Part B premium. Medicare itself doesn't cover everything, so understanding your supplemental insurance options is important as you approach retirement age.
Getting Started with Insurance in Hudson
Start by reviewing your current coverage. Pull out your auto and home insurance declarations pages—those summary documents showing your coverage limits. Are your limits adequate given your current assets and risks? When did you last shop around for better rates? If it's been more than two years, you're likely overpaying.
Schedule consultations with at least two or three local Hudson agents. Come prepared with information about your home, vehicles, and any unique circumstances—like a swimming pool, home business, or teenage drivers. Ask specifically about flood insurance given Hudson's location. Get written quotes you can compare side-by-side. Don't just look at the premium—check coverage limits, deductibles, and what's excluded.
Living in Hudson means enjoying river views, small-town community, and big-city access. Make sure your insurance coverage matches the life you've built here. The right policies protect not just your property, but your financial future and peace of mind. With affordable rates, experienced local agents, and clear understanding of your actual risks, getting properly insured in Hudson is straightforward. Take the time to do it right—your future self will thank you.
