Summary
Wisconsin is renowned for its rich heritage of cheese and beer production. It stands as the largest cheese producer in the United States, generating over two billion pounds of cheese annually. The beer sector provides employment to more than sixty thousand individuals.
Known as America’s Dairyland, Wisconsin is also celebrated for its significant contributions to football, being home to one of the nation’s most successful football teams.
In terms of natural landscapes, Wisconsin boasts stunning geography characterized by dense forests, undulating hills, and in excess of fifteen thousand lakes, which creates an idyllic setting for outdoor enthusiasts.
For those considering relocation, Wisconsin, ranked 23rd in population density among U.S. states, offers a multitude of living options: bustling urban centers like Milwaukee and Madison (the state capital) as well as quaint towns and villages that embody the classic, relaxed Midwest lifestyle.
Wisconsin is home to prestigious educational institutions such as the University of Wisconsin and Marquette University. The manufacturing sector surpasses even the dairy industry, yielding over twenty billion dollars annually and creating more than three hundred fifty thousand jobs in agriculture.
The state’s cost of living is reasonable, and data from Bloomberg indicates that Wisconsin ranks among the states with the highest volunteerism rates. This aligns with the state’s rich tradition of community engagement and an ongoing commitment to improving the quality of life for its residents.
Consequently, newcomers quickly find a sense of belonging in Wisconsin. Below is a curated list of the 15 best places to live in Wisconsin.
1. Whitefish Bay
Source: Tony Webster / Flickr
Whitefish Bay ranks among the top locations to reside in Wisconsin, due to its welcoming community, high standard of living, superior public educational institutions, varied housing options, convenient shopping districts, and a secure environment.
The area currently comprises single-family residential neighborhoods housing over fourteen thousand residents. The Village features over three hundred businesses along with public schools and is adjacent to Shorewood, Wisconsin.
With its close proximity to the Chicago area, Whitefish Bay garners visitors for events such as Fish Day. The city is home to numerous natural parks, including Klode Park and the Milwaukee River. The blend of a small-town ambiance with big-city attractions allows residents to enjoy the best of both worlds.
Entertainment & Activities
Here are some of the premier activities to enjoy in Whitefish Bay:
- Lakefront Brewery Beer Hall
- Klode Park
- Cahill Square Park
- Shopping on Silver Spring Drive
- North Point Lighthouse
- Bradford Beach
2. Waunakee
Source: benet2006 / Flickr
Located merely five miles north of Madison, Waunakee has emerged as one of Wisconsin’s most appealing towns, recognized for its rapid growth and high-performing school district.
Within Waunakee resides the community of Southbridge, an upscale neighborhood influenced by Southern charm. Southbridge boasts three parks, sports fields, a neighborhood swimming pool, and beyond!
Residents can partake in strolls through various nature parks, including the Bolz Conservancy, Ashlawn Settlers Park, and Lake Mendota. This community offers a wealth of amenities for families considering a move.
Entertainment & Activities
Here are some highlights in and around Waunakee:
- Tierney Park
- Centennial Park
- WaunaFest (Annual Event)
- Wauktoberfest (October)
- Rex’s Innkeeper
- Indian Lake Park
- Middleton Sport Bowl
- Chalet Ski and Patio
- Henry Vilas Zoo
3. Shorewood
Source: Aaron Volkening / Flickr
This urban village, known as Shorewood, is situated north of Milwaukee, bordered by Lake Michigan, the Milwaukee River, and Whitefish Bay. Shorewood ranks as the fourth-oldest suburban settlement in Milwaukee.
Residents appreciate the community’s urban feel, the convenience of nearby stores, and its outstanding public educational system. With its proximity to downtown, distinctive architecture, and vibrant community, Shorewood is highly desirable among families.
Economically, Shorewood has seen significant growth over the years, welcoming new businesses and developers.
Entertainment & Activities
Here are some of the top attractions in Shorewood:
- High Cliff State Park
- Jeanne’s Bar
- Wanick Choute Park
- Mulberry Lane Farm
- Bay Beach Amusement Park
- Bay Beach Wildlife Sanctuary
- Michigan’s Adventure
4. Elm Grove
Source: www.elmgrovewi.org
Located just ten miles west of Milwaukee, the serene suburb of Elm Grove is recognized as one of the premier places to reside in Wisconsin. This quaint town offers residents a wide array of activities, including shopping and recreational parks.
Elm Grove is noted for its variety of restaurants and local shops, enhancing its unique character. Residents appreciate the town’s friendly neighborhoods and superb educational systems, making it an ideal setting for family life.
Thanks to its proximity to Milwaukee, residents are only a short forty-mile drive from urban amenities.
Entertainment & Activities
Here are some enjoyable activities to experience in Elm Grove:
- Sunset Playhouse
- Elm Grove Recreational Trail
- Elm Grove Village Park
- O’Donoghue’s Irish Pub
- Elm Grove Art
5. Brookfield
Source: chris favero / Flickr
Located a short drive from Chicago and conveniently accessed via I-94, Brookfield offers a wealth of amenities, including some of the finest shops, dining options, and entertainment venues.
Brookfield features charming boutiques and a variety of national retailers. From Brookfield Square to Calhoun Crossing, residents relish the range of options available in this town.
The city offers a wide range of dining choices, catering to various tastes, from casual spots to family-friendly establishments. Noteworthy restaurants within Brookfield include:
- Flemings
- Uncle Julio’s
- Outback
- Honeyberry
Entertainment & Activities
Living in Brookfield provides access to numerous engaging activities. Some highlights include:
- Milwaukee Brewers Game
- The Marcus Center
- Milwaukee County Zoo
- Milwaukee County Museum
- Movie Tavern
- X Golf Brookfield
6. Fox Point
Source: Freekee / Wikipedia
Fox Point is recognized as one of Wisconsin’s best places to live, featuring a suburban environment with over six thousand residents. While exploring the community, one discovers tranquil neighborhoods adorned with tree-lined streets, wooded areas, and scenic vistas of Lake Michigan.
Residents appreciate the community for its excellent education system, high quality of life, diverse housing opportunities, and local businesses. Living in Fox Point provides a suburban ambiance complemented by numerous dining options, coffee shops, and parks.
Entertainment & Activities
Here are some favored local activities in Fox Point:
- Doctors Park
- Pygmy Elephant
- Schlitz Audubon Nature Center
- Lynden Sculpture Garden
- Brown Deer Golf Course
- Oak Leaf Trail
- Schulz Aquatic Center
- Maxfields Pancake House
- Jose’s Blue Sombrero
7. Mequon
Source: Aaron Volkening / Flickr
Mequon, located in Ozaukee County, may not immediately come to mind as one of Wisconsin’s top living destinations, despite being home to notable residents like Eric Benet and Halle Berry.
Housing over twenty-five thousand citizens, Mequon is characterized by its stunning bluffs, resplendent homes, open spaces, and fertile farmland. Residents relish access to picturesque nature parks, golf courses, the Milwaukee River, and convenient connections to the interstate.
Mequon is also distinguished by its low crime rates and competitive tax rates, alongside having one of Wisconsin’s top school systems.
This community promotes outdoor activities and is the perfect location to balance urban living with natural beauty, as it encompasses numerous attractions like art galleries and dining spots.
Entertainment & Activities
Top activities in Mequon include:
- Kapco Park
- Virmond Park
- Barthel Fruit Farm
- Mequon Nature Preserve
- Thiensville Farmers Market
- Mequon Chancery
- Skippy’s Sports Pub
8. Verona
Source: Corey Coyle / Wikimedia
For those employed in Wisconsin’s capital or desiring the urban experience complemented by tranquil surroundings, Verona stands out as an ideal choice.
Commonly referred to as Hometown, USA, Verona is one of Wisconsin’s most desirable locales for families, with a population exceeding two thousand residents thanks to its natural beauty and accessibility to jobs and services.
This picturesque town features farms, forests, and rivers, with approximately seventy percent of its land utilized for farming. Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the nearby Military Ridge Bike and National Ice Age trails.
Residents express high satisfaction with the quality of life, appreciating the sanctuary from urban stress. Those seeking a small-community vibe will find Verona to be an exemplary choice.
Entertainment & Activities
Activities worth exploring in Verona include:
- AMC Fitchburg
- Appleberry Farm
- Candinas Chocolatier
- The Farley Center
- Verona Area Aquatics
- Verona Area Community Theater
9. Fitchburg
Source: gas_station_sushi / Flickr
Nestled between Madison and the vast farmlands of Wisconsin, Fitchburg is a town characterized by its six biking paths that connect downtown Fitchburg to Madison.
Wisconsin offers activities for every season, from enjoying summer sunshine to snowboarding during winter. Residents of Fitchburg frequently praise their local breweries and diverse culinary options.
With a population exceeding twenty-five thousand, Fitchburg provides ample open spaces and is surrounded by nature, thanks to Wisconsin State Park. Its attractive downtown area, alongside college-town amenities and architectural interest, makes Fitchburg appealing.
Entertainment & Activities
Some key activities in Fitchburg include:
- Rollstone Hill Rock Walk
- Fitchburg Art Museum
- Great Wolf Lodge
- River Styx Brewing
- Coggshall Park
- Boulder Art Gallery
- Fitchburg Public Library
10. Wauwatosa
Source: Teemu008 / Flickr
Situated merely fifteen minutes from downtown Milwaukee, Wauwatosa presents an urban atmosphere complemented by a quaint small-town ambiance. Known by locals as “Tosa,” this city features distinctive local shops and restaurants, many of which have opened additional locations in nearby cities.
Wauwatosa is also the site of the Milwaukee Regional Medical Center, several colleges, and universities. Its shopping scene is marked by exclusive boutique offerings.
Wauwatosa ranks among the top municipalities for families, offering abundant opportunities for outdoor recreational activities suitable for both kids and parents.
Entertainment & Activities
Some of the best activities to experience in Wauwatosa include:
- Mayfair Mall
- Big Head Brewing Co
- Jacobus Park
- Hoyt Park
- Mo’s Irish Pub
11. Maple Bluff
Source: Eli White / Flickr
Maple Bluff is a quaint village in Madison, Wisconsin, often sought after by families desiring a picturesque environment. The village derives its name from a prominent bluff, surrounded by maple trees lining the neighborhood.
This community fosters a strong sense of connection, hosting various social events, from tournaments to leisurely kayaking outings. The town’s architectural charm is characterized by traditional-styled homes predominantly built between the 1920s and 1950s.
Notably, Maple Bluff houses the residence of Wisconsin’s Governor and has been home to illustrious figures, including Pulitzer Prize-winning author Thornton Wilder, actor Chris Farley, as well as Bradley Whitford and Olympic speed skater Connie Carpenter-Phinney.
Despite being a small village, Maple Bluff boasts numerous local amenities and maintains close proximity to downtown, the airport, and biking trails.
Entertainment & Activities
Here are some popular activities in Maple Bluff:
- Warner Park
- Beach Park
- Maple Bluff Country Club
- Tenney Park
- Blind Shot Social Club
- High Noon Saloon
12. Brewer’s Hill
Source: Freekee / Wikimedia
Brewer’s Hill is particularly appealing for retirees; it features historic homes that are generally affordable, minimal crime, and a serene environment conducive to a relaxed lifestyle.
However, the neighborhood is undergoing rapid growth, accommodating new developments.
The reasonably priced living situation also draws young professionals, and the vibrant nightlife in Brewer’s Hill outshines other areas.
Notably, it is home to Lakefront Brewery, a local favorite, and Beerline, an area of the River Walk that traverses this historic neighborhood.
Entertainment & Activities
Some of the activities to enjoy in Brewer’s Hill include:
- Lakefront Brewery
- Milwaukee Art Museum
- Milwaukee Public Museum
- American Family Field
- Mitchell Park Domes
- Lakeshore State Park
13. Stevens Point
Source: recubejim / Flickr
Stevens Point presents an inviting community for individuals seeking an affordable yet charming place to live in Wisconsin, with a population exceeding twenty-seven thousand.
The town’s low cost of living is a primary attraction, illustrating its density; however, this should not suggest that it is a neglected area.
On the contrary, Stevens Point has received recognition from various publications, being named a Top 10 Dream Town and noted among the best places to live and retire in Wisconsin.
The town is known for its historical districts that are conducive to walking tours and a chance to experience its plentiful breweries. With biking paths, vibrant festivals, and shopping opportunities, Stevens Point remains an excellent locale to call home.
Entertainment & Activities
Activities to consider in Stevens Point are:
- Green Circle Trail
- Stevens Point Brewery
- Stevens Point Sculpture Park
- Schmeeckle Reserve
- Sunset Point Winery
- Mead Park
- Riverfront Arts Center
- Stevens Point Farmers Market
14. Sturgeon Bay
Source: Gerald A. DeBoer / shutterstock
The nature-oriented town of Sturgeon Bay is nestled between Green Bay and Lake Michigan. This concealed gem features historical lighthouses, five state parks, and over thirty islands.
With water surrounding three sides, Sturgeon Bay is ideal for various aquatic pursuits, and many residents enjoy kayaking to explore the coastlines of Cave Point County Park and its beautiful caves along the shore.
Entertainment & Activities
Local attractions worth exploring in Sturgeon Bay include:
- Cave Point County Park
- Door County Maritime Museum
- The Farm
- Door Peninsula Winery
- Whitefish Dunes State Park
- Simon Creek Vineyard and Winery
15. Franklin
Source: Pdw3franklin / Wikimedia
Last but not least, Franklin is a suburb that appeals to many city dwellers. With a population exceeding thirty-six thousand, it presents a welcoming community.
This suburb earns its place among the 15 best places to live in Wisconsin largely due to its affordability.
Franklin’s public school district ranks among the top in the state, and its residents enjoy relatively high incomes.
Significant employers in the area primarily focus on manufacturing, education, healthcare, and retail. It might also be interesting to note that the town is named after Benjamin Franklin.
Entertainment & Activities
Activities you might find engaging in Franklin include:
- Wehr Nature Center
- Kayla’s Playground
- Crystal Ridge
- Hideaway Pub and Eatery
