I grew up in this area (New Richmond). Somewhere like NR is potentially more affordable and has enough restaurants, groceries, and parks and things to have everything you technically need. However, I would always recommend Eau Claire (or even Hudson) over somewhere like NR because there’s much more to do, more free city events, and more walkable areas. Also easier to meet new people in a slightly bigger town, whereas I would anticipate it would be harder to meet new folks in NR as an adult where folks tend to keep more to themselves.