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.
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
you need more private roomsWonderfully appointed cabin that does not feel like a rentalbut there was a full size fridge in the lower level that didEverything was provided to make our stay relaxing and comfortableThe cabin had everything we could have neededCleanliness:
Check-in went smoothly and we were impressed with the spacious and clean interiorExactly what I pictured and completely perfectThe interior is spotless and very nicely decorated in a cabin/woodsy decorHost:
Well-stocked extremely clean great spaceHidden Bear cabin was a wonderful hideaway for reconnecting with friends and familyWe enjoyed having a bonfire one night and appreciated the generous supply of firewoodReally close to the cabin and us by the nice fire pit Thanks for the generous supply of firewoodThe check in and check out process was very easy and the owners were very responsive to our questions prior to our arrivalRead more reviewsLocation:
Beautiful cabin Enjoyed the whole settingThe steps to the loft are steep(beware of wearing socks)Quiet beautiful place to relax Centrally located for all activitiesWe loved Hidden Bear Location feels very private but is very conveniently located just a short drive from Egg Harbortwo state parks and overall a good location
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.
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
only con is only one bedroom is privatethere is plenty of sleeping room and the beds are comfortablethe open kitchen/dining room is a wonderful space to cook meals and enjoy conversations togetherwell maintained, stocked with essentials (pots, pans, towels, a hot tub!)the rear view of the lake was breathtakingCleanliness:
there were 10 of us and with 3 bathrooms it really worked out nicelybetween 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 ushe made himself available for any questions or needsmy encounter with the owner rob was always friendly and accomadating for all of uswonderful bakeries, stores, winery/cidery, antiques, restaurants and morea very nice personal touchRead more reviewsLocation:
loved the 3 bathsthe cabin is beautifulblog cabinwe experienced the eagles soaring over the house several timesthere really isn't any type of "yard" to play yard games besides the parking area 2the views from the deck are breathtaking and it is very relaxing to just sit with a cold drink and listen to nature
3. Oregon (from USD 95)
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.
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
the apartment has nice touches like a keurig machine and was immaculatesue’s place is truly a private apartment the space has everything you’d need—including a large kitchensue's place was so cozy and comfortable but still had plenty of space perfect for a girls weekendthe rooms were spacious and we loved having a full kitchenthe room is perfect very well equippedCleanliness:
super clean and easy accessclean and comfortable place to stayvery clean roomy and comfortable apartmentit's clean and well-equippedclean and spacious recently remodeled basement apartmentHost:
she is very responsive to questionssue was a wonderful hostsue and leif were outstanding hostssue and leif were respectful and gracious hoststhe maps and local suggestions were really helpful for choosing how to spend our down timeRead more reviewsLocation:
walking distance to a cute downtowngreat location not far from madisongood location for easy access to epic headquartersexcellent restaurants within walking distancewas a wonderful location for what we needed for the weekend
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4. Brookfield (from USD 139)
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.
Embassy Suites by Hilton Milwaukee Brookfield
Address: 1200 South Moorland Road
100.14 km (62.3 mi) from Olbrich Botanical Gardens
5. Whitefish Bay (from USD 152)
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.
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
every room has its own independent air conditioning and all have large comfortable bedsthe home is light-filled sparkling clean beautifully decorated and beyond comfortablewe loved the decor of the space - updated comfortable and respectful of the character of the homeCleanliness:
very clean and comfortablesuper clean and stylish home great locationthis place is gorgeous very cleanbill was a great host and the place was beautiful and so clean and a friendly environmentthe 3br were more than enough and the kitchen is modern and cleanHost:
bill and his staff are friendly and accomodatingbill is a very gracious hostbill is a great host and offered great suggestions for restaurants bars and golf coursesbill is also very responsive and communicated with us clearlybill was a very friendly and informative hostRead more reviewsLocation:
walk to so many cool placesfantastic stay in a perfect milwaukee locationthe location was also really beautiful extremely close to the lake and convenient to get anywhere in milwaukeenice neighborhood to go for a walk or easily drive to milwaukee or cedarburgwe absolutely loved whitefish bay and the location
6. Waukesha (from USD 199)
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.
Milwaukee Marriott West
Address: W231 N1600 Corporate Court
91.63 km (57.0 mi) from Olbrich Botanical Gardens
7. Wisconsin Dells (from USD 67)
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.
Tamarack Wisconsin Dells, a Ramada by Wyndham
Address: 874 Xanadu Road
67.16 km (41.8 mi) from Olbrich Botanical Gardens
8. West Salem (from USD 99)
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.
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
lovely space new super clean very comfortable lots of amenitiesthe space was beautiful very comfortable and immaculatethe photos are accurate of what to expect of a clean comfortable place i would go backCleanliness:
it was so relaxing clean and very stylishvery clean and newly remodeled space nestled along the lacrosse river well manicured landscape and several personal touchesit was clean well designed and organizedthe place was very clean new and conveniently locatedbeautiful spacious clean as a whistle i would not hesitate to stay here againHost:
they were great hosts and a nice familythe hosts created a relaxing and memorable experiencewonderful home and hosts all was exactly as described in the listingjen and lance are great hosts and are eager to help out and very receptive to suggestionsRead more reviewsLocation:
close to the activities of lacrosse and far enough away to enjoy the quietperfect and quiet locationwonderful location and great hostgreat place to relax after a long drive
9. Menomonee Falls (from USD 177)
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.
Home2 Suites By Hilton Menomonee Falls Milwaukee
Address: N91 W15851 Falls Parkway
100.09 km (62.2 mi) from Olbrich Botanical Gardens
10. Mequon (from USD 68)
Reasonable rates for spacious rooms with friendly staff.
Indoor and outdoor pool, daily housekeeping, and pet-friendly policy.
Conveniently situated near college and hospital, with easy access to restaurants.
Adequate breakfast with fruit juice and coffee, though breakfast options could be improved.
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.
Baymont by Wyndham Mequon Milwaukee Area
Address: 10330 North Port Washington Road
115.18 km (71.6 mi) from Olbrich Botanical Gardens
11. Waunakee
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.
Waunakee, Wisconsin, United States
13.63 km (8.5 mi) from Olbrich Botanical GardensTop guest reviews
Host:
staff was polite and friendly and room was fairly cleanRead more reviewsLocation:
i highly recommend this place minutes from the center for music education
12. Shorewood
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.
Shorewood, Wisconsin, United States
117.7 km (73.2 mi) from Olbrich Botanical GardensTop guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
i love to cook and have never stayed at an airbnb with such a well-stocked kitchenCleanliness:
clean well appointedit was very cleanit was immaculately clean convenient and comfortablevery nice and clean homehome was very clean and comfortableHost:
helmut was a perfect hosthelmut was a great hosthelmut is a fantastic hosthe was a great and welcoming hosthelmut was a very welcoming host and even offered a little history on the homeRead more reviewsLocation:
located on a quiet street and close to nice restaurants and shopsperfect location - walking distance to restaurants & the lakeexcellent neighbourhood close to lake fronta lovely historically interesting home in a nice locationif you’re looking for location you already have it peaceful safe and short walking distance from the beach
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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