Madison, WIBest Places to Live in the US in 2022

Advanced manufacturing, agriculture, food and beverage, health care, information communications technology, and bioscience dominate the diverse industry here in Madison. 

University of Wisconsin – Madison

Warm summers and cold, snowy winters. Regardless, Madison residents have a love for ice cream that lasts all year long.

Paddle the placid waters of Lake Mendota in the summer and snowshoe on the icy lake for surreal views in the winter.

If you’re looking to start or grow your business, the University of Wisconsin – Madison’s Small Business Development Center is an excellent place to start. In addition, Madison offers plenty of coworking spaces, like 100state or Serendipity Labs (which comes with complimentary fitness center access for members) and public libraries for remote workers to choose from. Plus, Madison is one of the top two cities in the state with the highest median annual income — over $50,000 on average.

A Room of One’s Own is a queer- and trans-owned bookstore that’s been a Madison staple since 1975.

We know where you’ll be on Saturday morning: Snacking your way Pac-Man-style around the stalls at the Dane County Farmers Market, which is the largest producer-only market in the country. Afterward, cheer on the Badgers at the iconic Camp Randall Stadium or stroll through the rose garden at Olbrich Botanical Garden.

A spirit of volunteerism keeps many Madison amenities free and open to the public. For example, spend time perusing the Chazen Museum of Art, a free museum on the UW campus that houses 23,000 works of art from ancient Greece to 18th-century Japan and modern Africa. 

Cento Ristorante serves classic Italian cocktails for $5 a pop. 

Madison has more bikes than cars and is the unofficial bike capital of the Midwest.

A strong economy, welcoming residents, tons of free cultural attractions and plenty of destinations for outdoor adventure make Madison a best place to live in Wisconsin.

Flanked by two beautiful lakes, Madison, WI real estate is one of the top value markets in Wisconsin and has been dynamically appreciating for five years straight. Homes for sale in Madison list for higher than the state average, and are never more than a ten minute drive away from farmers markets, gourmet German food, and gorgeous lakeshores. For young professionals looking to put some space between them and the college scene, check out the Wexford neighborhood. With plenty of waterfront homes throughout the area, Local real estate agents will be happy to help you find your place in Madison, the most livable city in the U.S.