UPDATE: Check out our new 2023 Best Cities to Live in the U.S. list.
Waukesha, WI is the #12 Best City to Live in the USA
| Waukesha, WI Quality of Life Liv Score 653 How We Calculate Our Data |
|---|
| Civics | 62 |
| Demographics | 43 |
| Economy | 84 |
| Education | 57 |
| Health | 64 |
| Housing | 67 |
| Infrastructure | 46 |
| Amenities | 56 |
Why Waukesha is one of the best cities to live in
Situated along the Fox River just west of Milwaukee, Waukesha, WI, is a city that exudes arts and culture. Colorful murals and large guitar sculptures throughout the downtown area paint a picture of the city’s history and showcase the many talents of the community. Even more? The Waukesha Civic Center keeps a full calendar of shows and performances, and there are numerous opportunities to take cooking and other creative classes around town. In addition, the city’s local shops, entertainment scene (think a retro/modern arcade with laser tag), and thriving nightlife rev its appeal.
When it comes to business, Waukesha is brimming with great jobs, making it one of the best places to live in the U.S. While a manufacturing hub, opportunities also lie within other sectors, like health care and retail, and many individuals have chosen to open their own business here. And it gets better – the city boasts an average home value of just under $225,000, and thanks to the diverse selection, everyone can find their perfect house.
The city is a major manufacturing hub, and because it is located so closely to Milwaukee, economic ventures abound.
Carroll University
Four seasons can be experienced here – January’s average high: 28, April: 56, July: 82, and October: 60.
Enjoy a picnic at the gorgeous Frame Park (make sure to snap a few pics in the gardens), then stroll along Fox River Trail.
Waukesha, WI is Remote-Ready
Part of the Milwaukee metropolitan area, Waukesha is situated in an ideal spot for remote workers. This city is perfect for employees seeking a work-life balance, thanks to all of the entertainment and outdoor amenities available to residents. Throw in plenty of parks for quality R&R, excellent schools and a well-established business community; it’s a grow-your-roots-down sort of place.
What Locals Love in Waukesha, WI
Martha Merrell’s Books & Toys is a beloved spot in Waukesha. Owned by two former educators, the store hosts various events, including a monthly book club, and even keeps a full stock of fun books, toys and games for children, so the entire family can enjoy an afternoon getting lost in the stacks.
Grab a few friends and play nine holes at Moor Downs Golf Course.
Head over to Waukesha Farmers Market and explore products from more than 70 vendors. Or, if music is more your thing, jam to live tunes at Friday Night Live, held downtown every week during the summer.
Sip a glass with friends at Spring City Wine House, where you can choose from approximately 50 wines.
Donut Squad is the place to grab a doughnut on Friday, Saturday or Sunday. These delicious doughnuts are known for their signature toppings, including KitKat bars, s’mores and Fruity Pebbles.
A strong job market, an affordable cost of living, and a vibrant arts and culture scene make Waukesha a best place to live in Wisconsin.
Thinking of Moving to Waukesha?
Not far from Milwaukee, Waukesha, WI real estate offers its residents the best both in suburban living and urban entertainment. Waukesha is home to a plethora of single family homes in more modern style suburbs to the west and denser old-school neighborhoods in the east. If you’re a young professional looking to move to Waukesha, local real estate agents will point you to downtown where you’ll find single family homes for sale in Waukesha as close as three blocks away from Waukesha’s main street.
Quick Facts About Waukesha, WI
- Average Commute
- 18.53
- Median Home Value
- $288,818
- Med. Household Income
- $72,265
- Total Population
- 71,222
- Walk Score
- 35
- Median Property Tax
- $3,881
