Wisconsin completely surprised me during my three-week road trip across the state. Between kayaking on Lake Geneva and grabbing coffee at local spots in Madison’s bustling Capitol Square, I discovered a place that offers way more than just cheese (though let’s be real, the cheese is incredible). I especially fell for Eau Claire, where the music scene and creative energy reminded me of Austin before it got too crowded.
If you’re looking for the best places in Wisconsin to base yourself as a remote worker or expat, I’ve got you covered. From lakeside communities where you can actually afford waterfront living to vibrant university towns with fantastic food scenes, these 12 spots offer that perfect blend of Midwest charm and modern amenities. And yes, the internet is super fast here!
Best Places to Live in Wisconsin for Expats & Digital Nomads
Looking for the best places to live in Wisconsin for expats & digital nomads? Explore Brookfield, a suburb with excellent amenities and a strong community. Consider Cedarburg, known for its historic charm and arts scene. Experience Elm Grove, offering a peaceful, small-town atmosphere with easy access to Milwaukee. For a scenic and upscale option, Fox Point provides a great mix of nature and city conveniences. Whether you’re after a quiet retreat or a vibrant neighborhood, these are top choices in Wisconsin.
- Best for family living: Brookfield
- Best for historic charm: Cedarburg
- Best for upscale tranquility: Elm Grove
- Best for lakeside living: Fox Point
- Best for vibrant city life: Madison
- Best for exclusive community: Maple Bluff
- Best for suburban sprawl: Mequon
- Best for community engagement: Middleton
- Best for academic atmosphere: Shorewood
- Best for small-town feel: Waunakee
- Best for a balanced lifestyle: Wauwatosa
- Best for scenic beauty: Whitefish Bay
1. Brookfield
Just west of Milwaukee, Brookfield is where suburban comfort meets city convenience. With top-rated schools, sprawling parks, and a family-friendly vibe, it’s no surprise this is one of Wisconsin’s most desirable places to live.
Fox River Park and Mitchell Park offer miles of trails, picnic areas, and outdoor activities, making it easy to stay active year-round. The Corners of Brookfield, a vibrant shopping and dining hub, adds an urban touch with trendy boutiques and must-try restaurants like BelAir Cantina.
What really makes Brookfield stand out is its strong sense of community. From farmers’ markets to local festivals, there’s always something bringing neighbors together. Housing here ranges from classic mid-century homes to newer developments, with prices starting around $400K. It’s the kind of place where weekends mean neighborhood barbecues, and families put down roots for generations.
2. Cedarburg
If you love historic charm with a lively arts scene, Cedarburg is the place to be. Just 20 miles north of Milwaukee, this town is famous for its 19th-century stone buildings, boutique shops, and cozy cafés that give it a storybook-like atmosphere.
Stroll down Washington Avenue, where you’ll find art galleries, antique stores, and family-run bakeries like Cedarburg Bakery. The town is home to year-round festivals, from the Strawberry Festival in summer to the Festive Friday Eves in winter, making it a hub for community spirit.
Cedarburg also delivers on quality of life. The schools are highly rated, and outdoor lovers will appreciate the nearby Ozaukee Interurban Trail for biking and hiking. Housing options range from historic homes to modern developments, with prices starting around $375K. Living here means waking up in a place that feels like it belongs on a postcard—but with all the modern comforts you need.
3. Elm Grove
Tucked just outside Milwaukee, Elm Grove is a peaceful, tree-lined village that’s perfect for those craving suburban tranquility with big-city access. Often ranked among Wisconsin’s safest places, this community has a tight-knit, welcoming atmosphere that makes it feel like home from day one.
The downtown village area is small but charming, featuring local cafés, boutique shops, and community gathering spots. Families especially love Elm Grove Park, which offers sports fields, walking trails, and even an outdoor pool. The schools here are top-rated, making it a favorite for families looking for academic excellence.
Despite its serene vibe, Milwaukee is just 15 minutes away, giving residents the best of both worlds. Homes here range from classic ranch-style houses to larger estates, with prices typically starting at $450K. For those looking to slow down without feeling disconnected, Elm Grove strikes the perfect balance.
4. Fox Point
Nestled along Lake Michigan, Fox Point is a picturesque lakeside village that blends natural beauty with a relaxed, upscale vibe. Located just 10 miles north of Milwaukee, this community is known for its scenic parks, excellent schools, and peaceful atmosphere.
One of the biggest highlights? Doctors Park, a stunning shoreline retreat with sandy beaches, wooded trails, and picnic areas—perfect for anyone who loves outdoors or just being near the water. Fox Point also has a strong community focus, with events like the Fox Point Farmers’ Market bringing locals together.
The schools are top-rated, making it a popular choice for families, while its proximity to Milwaukee offers easy access to the city’s dining, shopping, and entertainment scene. Housing here includes charming mid-century homes and elegant lakefront properties, with prices starting around $500K.
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5. Madison
Wisconsin’s capital city is where college-town energy meets urban culture, making it one of the most exciting places to live in the state. With its lakeside setting, bike-friendly streets, and thriving food scene, Madison is perfect for anyone who loves an active and vibrant lifestyle.
The city is home to the University of Wisconsin-Madison, which keeps things lively with Big Ten sports, concerts, and a constant stream of events. Outdoor lovers will appreciate the hundreds of miles of biking trails, kayak-friendly lakes, and beautiful parks like the Olbrich Botanical Gardens. And if you’re a foodie? Madison delivers with legendary spots like The Old Fashioned for Wisconsin-style comfort food and the Dane County Farmers’ Market, one of the best in the country.
Housing ranges from downtown apartments to quiet suburban neighborhoods, with prices starting around $375K. Whether you’re a student, young professional, or retiree, Madison has a little something for everyone.
6. Maple Bluff
If you’re looking for lakeside luxury with a small-town feel, Maple Bluff is hard to top. This exclusive village along Lake Mendota, just outside Madison, is known for its elegant homes, tree-lined streets, and scenic lake views.
Residents here enjoy boating, paddleboarding, and lakeside picnics right in their backyard. The Maple Bluff Country Club is a social hub, offering golf, tennis, and a place to connect with neighbors. And while the village feels tucked away, downtown Madison is just minutes away, giving you access to the city’s restaurants, culture, and entertainment.
The homes here are spacious and stunning, many with direct lake access, and prices typically start around $900K. If you want the best of lake life with an upscale twist, Maple Bluff offers a front-row seat to Wisconsin’s most beautiful waterfront living.
7. Mequon
Set along the shores of Lake Michigan, Mequon offers a perfect mix of natural beauty and suburban ease. Known for its spacious homes, excellent schools, and outdoor lifestyle, it’s a go-to for families and professionals looking for peace and space without being too far from Milwaukee.
Nature lovers will appreciate the Mequon Nature Preserve, a sprawling 444-acre sanctuary with hiking trails, wetlands, and wildlife. Golfers can hit the greens at North Shore Country Club, while foodies can enjoy farm-to-table dining at local favorites like Café 1505.
Properties in Mequon range from classic lakefront estates to newer developments with large yards, with prices starting around $500K. It’s the kind of place where you can wake up to quiet mornings, enjoy nature, and still grab dinner in downtown Milwaukee in under 30 minutes.
8. Middleton
Nicknamed “The Good Neighbor City,” Middleton is consistently ranked as one of the best places to live in Wisconsin—and for good reason. This charming suburb of Madison blends tight-knit community vibes with modern amenities, making it a fantastic place to settle down.
Outdoor enthusiasts will love Pheasant Branch Conservancy, a beautiful nature reserve with hiking trails, birdwatching, and scenic overlooks. For water activities, Lake Mendota is just minutes away, perfect for kayaking, fishing, and paddleboarding. Downtown Middleton offers boutique shops, craft breweries like Capital Brewery, and a fantastic dining scene, from casual cafés to upscale restaurants.
The city also hosts festivals, farmers’ markets, and seasonal events, giving it a warm, small-town atmosphere. Housing options range from historic homes to new developments, with prices starting around $450K. With top-rated schools, a thriving local economy, and quick access to Madison, Middleton offers the best of suburban living with a touch of charm.
9. Shorewood
Perched along Lake Michigan, Shorewood is a charming, walkable village just north of Milwaukee. With its tree-lined streets, historic homes, and strong sense of community, it’s one of Wisconsin’s most sought-after places to live.
Shorewood offers the best of both worlds: a quiet, residential feel with easy access to city life. Residents love spending time at Atwater Park, which boasts stunning lake views, a scenic beach, and a bluff-top playground. The Oak Leaf Trail, a beloved multi-use path, runs through the village, making it easy to bike or jog along the lake. Shorewood’s local shops, farmers’ markets, and year-round events add to its friendly, small-town charm.
Homes here range from beautiful 1920s bungalows to modern condos, with prices starting around $450K. With its unbeatable lakeside location, strong schools, and active community, Shorewood offers an exceptional quality of life.
10. Waunakee
Just outside Madison, Waunakee is a fast-growing yet tight-knit community known for its top-rated schools, thriving local economy, and small-town warmth. Despite its growth, it has held onto its welcoming, neighborly feel, making it one of Wisconsin’s most desirable places to live.
Downtown Waunakee is full of locally owned shops, cozy cafés, and family-run businesses, giving it a distinct charm. The town’s parks and green spaces, including Ripp Park and Castle Creek Conservancy, offer walking trails, sports fields, and picnic areas. Community spirit shines through events like Waunafest, the holiday parade, and summer concerts in the park, which bring residents together year after year.
Housing options range from historic homes in tree-lined neighborhoods to spacious new developments, with prices starting around $425K. For those seeking a vibrant, family-friendly town with a strong community spirit, Waunakee is hard to beat.
11. Wauwatosa
Affectionately known as “Tosa”, Wauwatosa blends historic charm with modern urban energy. Located just west of Milwaukee, this city is a favorite for young professionals, families, and retirees alike, offering a balance of city convenience and suburban comfort.
Wauwatosa’s walkable village center is packed with independent boutiques, cozy cafés, and local markets, making it a lively spot day or night. The Menomonee River Parkway and Hansen Park provide miles of scenic trails, open fields, and riverfront paths, perfect for biking, jogging, or simply unwinding outdoors. The city also hosts community events, art fairs, and farmers’ markets, adding to its welcoming vibe.
Housing ranges from quaint 1920s bungalows to sleek new apartments, with prices starting around $400K. Whether you’re after a thriving social scene, family-friendly neighborhoods, or access to Milwaukee’s job market, Wauwatosa has something for everyone.
12. Whitefish Bay
Whitefish Bay is a picturesque village just north of Milwaukee that offers stunning waterfront views, walkable streets, and a strong sense of community. Its top-ranked schools and well-kept neighborhoods make it one of Wisconsin’s most desirable places to live.
Life here moves at a relaxed but engaging pace. Mornings might start with a stroll along Klode Park’s scenic trails, followed by shopping or brunch on Silver Spring Drive, where boutique stores and local cafés keep the village buzzing. Summers bring beach days at Big Bay Park, while the colder months are filled with festivals, ice skating, and cozy gatherings that bring neighbors together and strengthen the community.
With its welcoming community, scenic beauty, and unbeatable location, it’s easy to see why so many people are proud to call Whitefish Bay home.
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