12 Best Places To Live In Wisconsin, USA - Updated 2024

best places to live in wisconsin
Kenrick
Kenrick 
Updated
| 5 min read

Wisconsin is a well-known state in America, located west of Lake Michigan and south of Lake Superior. The state is particularly famous for being America’s Dairyland. Dairy production remains one of the state’s biggest economic driver. As a matter of fact, the state is known for its eponymously named Wisconsin cheese. Most of the state is a mix of urban and rural areas, with its biggest city, Milwaukee, serving as its capital. Lakes, rolling hills, and rapid rivers dot the land, proving to be popular among outdoor enthusiasts. With its generally stable condition, some of the state’s cities and towns have received nominations for the best places to live in America. Read on for the best places to live in Wisconsin, USA.

We handpicked these listings carefully, considering (wherever possible) Superhost status, recent guest reviews, location, accommodation type, prices, availability of dates, decor, and amenities. The image galleries get refreshed with the latest updates regularly. They were last updated on March 03, 2024.

1. Stunning log cabin in the woods with high-speed WiFi in Door County (from USD 215)

At 1,600 square feet (148.64 square meters), this stunning log cabin in Door County features enough space for 8 people. There are two bedrooms, plus two extra beds, and the kitchen has all the appliances and utensils you’d need to prepare meals for a group. In the living room, you can find a 55-in 4K television with a sound bar, so your movie marathon nights will undoubtedly feel immersive and cinematic.

There are other entertainment options as well if you don’t like to watch movies or shows. There’s free WiFi for you to use, and in the basement, there’s a game room equipped with a foosball and a game table. A space for a washer and dryer is also provided, so you don’t need to worry about where to do your laundry during your stay here.

Stayed at this property?

271.7 km (168.9 mi) from Olbrich Botanical Gardens
400 reviews   Wifi Available
cabin 8 Guests 2 Bedrooms 2 Bathrooms

Accommodates: 8
Minimum Nights: 2
Refund Policy : 100% refund if you cancel at least 14 days before check-in.

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
you need more private rooms
Wonderfully appointed cabin that does not feel like a rental
but there was a full size fridge in the lower level that did
Everything was provided to make our stay relaxing and comfortable
The cabin had everything we could have needed
Cleanliness:
Check-in went smoothly and we were impressed with the spacious and clean interior
Exactly what I pictured and completely perfect
The interior is spotless and very nicely decorated in a cabin/woodsy decor
Host:
Well-stocked extremely clean great space
Hidden Bear cabin was a wonderful hideaway for reconnecting with friends and family
We enjoyed having a bonfire one night and appreciated the generous supply of firewood
Really close to the cabin and us by the nice fire pit Thanks for the generous supply of firewood
The check in and check out process was very easy and the owners were very responsive to our questions prior to our arrival
Location:
Beautiful cabin Enjoyed the whole setting
The steps to the loft are steep(beware of wearing socks)
Quiet beautiful place to relax Centrally located for all activities
We loved Hidden Bear Location feels very private but is very conveniently located just a short drive from Egg Harbor
two state parks and overall a good location
Read more reviews
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2. Spacious lakefront cabin perfect for large groups in Pierce County (from USD 350)

Located on 40 acres (16.19 hectares) of land in a majestic hardwood forest, this cabin is the ideal destination for a serene getaway. When you stay here, you’ll get stunning views of nature — aside from the copse of trees, this cabin overlooks the beautiful calm waters of Lake Pepin. Peace and serenity can also be found in this rental.

In addition to the views and tranquility, this cabin also features excellent amenities. There are 8 beds that can sleep up to 12 people, and the full-size kitchen comes with appliances and utensils you need to prepare delicious meals. You’ll also have many options for entertainment: you can watch movies on the television in the living room or go on a hiking trip outdoors.

After a long day, you should soak in the hot tub to soothe your tired muscles.

Stayed at this property?

292.18 km (181.6 mi) from Olbrich Botanical Gardens
287 reviews   Wifi Available
cottage 13 Guests 2 Bedrooms 3 Bathrooms

Accommodates: 13
Minimum Nights: 2
Refund Policy :

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
only con is only one bedroom is private
there is plenty of sleeping room and the beds are comfortable
the open kitchen/dining room is a wonderful space to cook meals and enjoy conversations together
well maintained, stocked with essentials (pots, pans, towels, a hot tub!)
the rear view of the lake was breathtaking
Cleanliness:
there were 10 of us and with 3 bathrooms it really worked out nicely
between the huge fireplace, hot tub, deck, and gourmet kitchen we felt right at home! what a place!! will return for sure in the summer!
Host:
everyone was very friendly and eagar to help us
he made himself available for any questions or needs
my encounter with the owner rob was always friendly and accomadating for all of us
wonderful bakeries, stores, winery/cidery, antiques, restaurants and more
a very nice personal touch
Location:
loved the 3 baths
the cabin is beautifulblog cabin
we experienced the eagles soaring over the house several times
there really isn't any type of "yard" to play yard games besides the parking area 2
the views from the deck are breathtaking and it is very relaxing to just sit with a cold drink and listen to nature
Read more reviews
Earn OneKeyCash for every dollar spent on eligible hotels, vacation rentals, flights, car rentals, and more when you book across our family of brands.

3. Oregon (from USD 95)

South Main Street Historic District
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user James Steakley used under CC BY-SA 3.0

Oregon is a village in Dane County, Wisconsin. The most recent census of the village puts the population below 10,000. Its relatively small population, combined with its proximity to Madison, makes it one of the better places to settle in. As a matter of fact, it was even listed as one of the best small places to live in 2011. The village has an intriguing history, dating back to the 19th century. Its historic past can still be seen today. Red Brick School, located north of downtown, is a prime example of this. Today, the village has a thriving business district located downtown. For folks drawn to Buddhism, Oregon is also a place of significant interest. Deer Park Buddhist Center is the only full-scale monastic and teaching center in Midwest.

Stayed at this property?
Oregon, Wisconsin, United States
18.52 km (11.6 mi) from Olbrich Botanical Gardens
132 reviews   Superhost Wifi Available
Entire guest suite 1 Bed 3 Guests 1 Bedroom 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 3

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
the apartment has nice touches like a keurig machine and was immaculate
sue’s place is truly a private apartment the space has everything you’d need—including a large kitchen
sue's place was so cozy and comfortable but still had plenty of space perfect for a girls weekend
the rooms were spacious and we loved having a full kitchen
the room is perfect very well equipped
Cleanliness:
super clean and easy access
clean and comfortable place to stay
very clean roomy and comfortable apartment
it's clean and well-equipped
clean and spacious recently remodeled basement apartment
Host:
she is very responsive to questions
sue was a wonderful host
sue and leif were outstanding hosts
sue and leif were respectful and gracious hosts
the maps and local suggestions were really helpful for choosing how to spend our down time
Location:
walking distance to a cute downtown
great location not far from madison
good location for easy access to epic headquarters
excellent restaurants within walking distance
was a wonderful location for what we needed for the weekend
Read more reviews

4. Brookfield (from USD 139)

Dousman Inn, Brookfield
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Porterhse used under CC BY-SA 3.0

Waukesha County’s 3rd-largest city is Brookfield, with a population of almost 40,000 on the recent census. In terms of median income, most Brookfield residents live above the country’s average, totaling 70,000 USD and above. You can consider this city an affluent one as world-class hotels, shops, and restaurants are located within the city. Residents particularly like Brookfield Square, Calhoun Crossing, and The Corridor, although some also prefer hidden gems such as Ruby Isle and Fountain Square. As for dining options, residents can have plenty of options to choose from, thanks to restaurants offering American cuisine, vegan meals, and more.

Stayed at this property?

Embassy Suites by Hilton Milwaukee Brookfield

Wifi Available Wheelchair accessible

Address: 1200 South Moorland Road
100.14 km (62.3 mi) from Olbrich Botanical Gardens

Parking Restaurant Pets allowed Room service Meeting/banquet facilities Bar 24-HOUR FRONT DESK Fitness centre

5. Whitefish Bay (from USD 152)

Whitefish Bay Wisconsin Winter Shoreline Lake Michigan
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Tony Webster used under CC BY-SA 2.0

Nestled on the eastern end of Lake Superior is the suburb of Whitefish Bay. Whitefish Bay forms part of Milwaukee County. It also serves as a coastal front for Lake Michigan. As such, properties could become expensive here, with the suburb’s prime location. It is rated as one of the best places to live in Wisconsin with its exclusive and suburban atmosphere. Shops, restaurants, and parks cater to affluent and high-earning residents. Thanks to these spots, Whitefish Bay has also attracted tourists who are drawn to the peaceful allure of Lake Michigan.

Stayed at this property?
Whitefish Bay, Wisconsin, United States
117.23 km (72.9 mi) from Olbrich Botanical Gardens
97 reviews   Superhost Wifi Available
ENTIRE HOME 6 Beds 6 Guests 3 Bedrooms 1 Bathrooms

Accommodates: 6

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
every room has its own independent air conditioning and all have large comfortable beds
the home is light-filled sparkling clean beautifully decorated and beyond comfortable
we loved the decor of the space - updated comfortable and respectful of the character of the home
Cleanliness:
very clean and comfortable
super clean and stylish home great location
this place is gorgeous very clean
bill was a great host and the place was beautiful and so clean and a friendly environment
the 3br were more than enough and the kitchen is modern and clean
Host:
bill and his staff are friendly and accomodating
bill is a very gracious host
bill is a great host and offered great suggestions for restaurants bars and golf courses
bill is also very responsive and communicated with us clearly
bill was a very friendly and informative host
Location:
walk to so many cool places
fantastic stay in a perfect milwaukee location
the location was also really beautiful extremely close to the lake and convenient to get anywhere in milwaukee
nice neighborhood to go for a walk or easily drive to milwaukee or cedarburg
we absolutely loved whitefish bay and the location
Read more reviews

6. Waukesha (from USD 199)

Waukesha, WI
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user pasa47 used under CC BY 2.0

Waukesha is one of the up-and-coming cities in Wisconsin. In recent years, it has received numerous awards and recognitions for being the best place to live in the whole state. The recent census puts the population above 72,000, making for a bustling city and a thriving economy. Today, the city is home to opulent shops and sumptuous drinks. Pieper Porch Winery & Vineyard is a popular attraction. Residents are well-provided for, thanks to a plethora of natural parks around the city. It’s worth mentioning that the city was formerly known as “Spring City” due to its clean and refreshing mineral water that can be found on natural springs.

Stayed at this property?

Milwaukee Marriott West

Wifi Available Wheelchair accessible

Address: W231 N1600 Corporate Court
91.63 km (57.0 mi) from Olbrich Botanical Gardens

Parking Restaurant Pets allowed Room service Meeting/banquet facilities Bar 24-HOUR FRONT DESK Fitness centre

7. Wisconsin Dells (from USD 67)

Wisconsin Dells, WI, USA
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user bogdanstepniak used under CC BY 3.0

Wisconsin Dells is a charming city that can hit the right spot for a perfect place to settle in. As of the 2018 census, it only has a population of fewer than 3,000 people, so it’s not exactly that crowded. However, that relatively low population is offset by the number of tourists visiting the city. After all, Wisconsin Dells is frequented for its tourist spots. The most popular among these is Dells of the Wisconsin River, a 5-mile (8-kilometer) gorge that holds unsurpassable, scenic sandstone formations. Downtown Wisconsin Dells, on the other hand, is a thriving spot for dining options, shops, and bars.

Stayed at this property?

Tamarack Wisconsin Dells, a Ramada by Wyndham

Wifi Available

Address: 874 Xanadu Road
67.16 km (41.8 mi) from Olbrich Botanical Gardens

Parking Meeting/banquet facilities Tennis court Fitness centre Garden Non-smoking rooms Fishing Business centre

8. West Salem (from USD 99)

West Salem Wisconsin Downtown
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Royalbroil used under CC BY-SA 3.0

West Salem is a quiet, laid-back, and peaceful village located along the La Crosse River. The median income of most families remain well below the US average, but that doesn’t tell the whole picture. Public services are well-kept here, with the village having five schools and three recreational sites to keep residents busy. One of the more popular attractions here is La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway, an oval race track hosting NASCAR events from mid-May through mid-August. Apart from that, the village also abounds in outdoor recreational activities.

Stayed at this property?
West Salem, Wisconsin, United States
168.79 km (104.9 mi) from Olbrich Botanical Gardens
63 reviews   Superhost Wifi Available
PRIVATE ROOM IN HOME 1 Bed 2 Guests 1 Bedroom 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 2

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
lovely space new super clean very comfortable lots of amenities
the space was beautiful very comfortable and immaculate
the photos are accurate of what to expect of a clean comfortable place i would go back
Cleanliness:
it was so relaxing clean and very stylish
very clean and newly remodeled space nestled along the lacrosse river well manicured landscape and several personal touches
it was clean well designed and organized
the place was very clean new and conveniently located
beautiful spacious clean as a whistle i would not hesitate to stay here again
Host:
they were great hosts and a nice family
the hosts created a relaxing and memorable experience
wonderful home and hosts all was exactly as described in the listing
jen and lance are great hosts and are eager to help out and very receptive to suggestions
Location:
close to the activities of lacrosse and far enough away to enjoy the quiet
perfect and quiet location
wonderful location and great host
great place to relax after a long drive
Read more reviews

9. Menomonee Falls (from USD 177)

Best Places To Live In Wisconsin, USA
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Shadowe used under CC BY-SA 3.0

Menomonee Falls is a village located in Waukesha County. It is the fourth-largest community in the whole county. The large population can be attributed to the village’s stable economy. Economically, it is doing very well, with most households earning above the US national average. Residents can have easy access to public services in this village, including a good mix of public and private schools. There is a lot of attractions and accommodations that can be found here. For motorbike enthusiasts, Harley-Davidson offers a tour of the factory located here.

Stayed at this property?

Home2 Suites By Hilton Menomonee Falls Milwaukee

Wifi Available Wheelchair accessible Visual Aid: Braille

Address: N91 W15851 Falls Parkway
100.09 km (62.2 mi) from Olbrich Botanical Gardens

Parking Pets allowed Meeting/banquet facilities 24-HOUR FRONT DESK Fitness centre Golf course (within 3 km) Non-smoking rooms Business centre

10. Mequon (from USD 68)

Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing

Mequon is the third-largest city in the whole of Wisconsin by land area. To its west is Lake Michigan, making it a prime spot for people looking to settle in. Settling within the city can get relatively expensive though, edging out other expensive areas in America. A huge part of the city has relatively undeveloped but virgin lands with most given to agriculture. Thus, some of the best attractions one can find here include Barthel Fruit Farm and Virmond Park. Boutique shops and restaurants also abound within the city. Residents particularly like the public schools of the city and its suburban feel.

Stayed at this property?

Baymont by Wyndham Mequon Milwaukee Area

Wifi Available Wheelchair accessible

Address: 10330 North Port Washington Road
115.18 km (71.6 mi) from Olbrich Botanical Gardens

Parking 24-HOUR FRONT DESK Fitness centre Non-smoking rooms Laundry Facilities for disabled guests Family rooms Free parking

11. Waunakee

Waunakee
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user User:Royalbroil used under CC BY-SA 2.5

There’s only one Waunakee in the world, and it can be found here in the little corner of Dane County, Wisconsin. The village terms itself as “The Only Waunakee in the World.” However, that term has its own merit since it was included on CNN Money’s best places to live way back in 2009. Like most of the villages near Madison, Waunakee has a thriving economy, with Waunakee Business Park hosting small and large businesses. For wine aficionados, Drumlin Ridge Winery operates in the village’s countryside and offers much more than great wines and cheeses. Beer lovers, on the other hand, can be glad to know that the village has its own Wauktoberfest held every fall.

Stayed at this property?
Waunakee, Wisconsin, United States
13.63 km (8.5 mi) from Olbrich Botanical Gardens
3 reviews  
Room in hotel 1 Bed 1 Bedroom 1 Bathroom
Top guest reviews
Host:
staff was polite and friendly and room was fairly clean
Location:
i highly recommend this place minutes from the center for music education
Read more reviews

12. Shorewood

Shorewood Crosswalks
Source: Photo by Flickr user Aaron Volkening used under CC BY 2.0

Unlike others in Milwaukee County, Shorewood is densely populated with a population of more than 13,000 on the 2018 census. However, it remains one of the best places to live in the whole state, thanks to its safe neighborhood and proximity to urban areas. As a bonus point, maple-studded streets add color and transforms the suburb into a picturesque spot every fall. Do take note that properties have high value here, so it is not exactly the cheapest to live in. As a consolation though, residents are friendly and liberal. Shops, services, and entertainment options are also plentiful, thanks to the presence of young professionals living in the suburb.

Stayed at this property?
Shorewood, Wisconsin, United States
117.7 km (73.2 mi) from Olbrich Botanical Gardens
94 reviews  
Entire house 2 Beds 2 Bedrooms 1 Bathroom
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
i love to cook and have never stayed at an airbnb with such a well-stocked kitchen
Cleanliness:
clean well appointed
it was very clean
it was immaculately clean convenient and comfortable
very nice and clean home
home was very clean and comfortable
Host:
helmut was a perfect host
helmut was a great host
helmut is a fantastic host
he was a great and welcoming host
helmut was a very welcoming host and even offered a little history on the home
Location:
located on a quiet street and close to nice restaurants and shops
perfect location - walking distance to restaurants & the lake
excellent neighbourhood close to lake front
a lovely historically interesting home in a nice location
if you’re looking for location you already have it peaceful safe and short walking distance from the beach
Read more reviews

Find a place to settle in Wisconsin

There is no shortage of great places to look for in Wisconsin when finally settling in. The state enjoys a relatively stable economy, coupled with an interesting geography that makes it attractive for people of all backgrounds. Explore the best places to live in Wisconsin, USA, and start experiencing what the state has to offer.

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Any must-sees we missed? Tell us about them in the comments section or write a post here to help out fellow travelers!
Disclosure: Trip101 selects the listings in our articles independently. Some of the listings in this article contain affiliate links.

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Kenrick Buduan loves writing. He writes about various stuff, focusing mostly on analysis of society and technology. He contributes to various news platforms too. As a writer, he yearns to travel...Read more

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