Welcome to Milwaukee, the dynamic heart of Wisconsin! Milwaukee is teeming with opportunity, culture, and a rich history that’s sure to captivate those considering a move to this remarkable metropolis. As the largest city in Wisconsin, Milwaukee offers a unique blend of urban excitement and small-town charm that caters to a wide range of tastes and lifestyles.
Fondly known as the “Cream City” due to its distinct cream-colored brick architecture, Milwaukee boasts a thriving arts scene, world-class breweries, and a burgeoning job market – all nestled along the beautiful shores of Lake Michigan.
Rental Trends
While rental markets in the United States continued to be competitive and fast-moving during the first half of 2023, the market is stabilizing and even slowing as we move into the Fall and Winter seasons. Milwaukee’s average rent was flat in the month of September and up only 1.7% in the past year. A stark difference from the double-digit increases seen throughout the US in 2022. Milwaukee is one of the most reasonably priced markets among the 100 largest cities in the US.
Milwaukee has a diverse rental market with a mix of housing options, including apartments, single-family homes, condos, and duplexes. Inventory for multi-family buildings is increasing as new apartment rental communities are coming online. Rental prices can vary significantly depending on the neighborhood, size, and type of property. Single-family housing inventory is limited and prospective renters looking for a SFH need to stay vigilant and act swiftly to secure their desired accommodations as well as rely on their Destination Services Consultants for support. Whether you’re looking to rent an apartment or home, being prepared will give assignees the best opportunity to find their ideal housing in Milwaukee.
Where to Live
Downtown Milwaukee is a collection of wonderful neighborhoods containing vibrant community clusters, each with its own unique identity. Whether it’s to work, play, live, or visit, something is certain to delight you in each of these corridors. It boasts an array of housing options, from modern apartments to historic lofts, catering to different tastes and preferences. Living in the Historic Third Ward is a great option; it is the top neighborhood for arts, dining, shopping, recreation, and more. Steps from Lake Michigan and home to the city’s top festivals, it is where historic meets modern and grit meets glam, making it the perfect choice for single professionals. Between the Milwaukee River and the shores of Lake Michigan, you’ll find East Town. The artsy East Town neighborhood is a cultural hub with upscale global eateries and chic bars that make for a buzzing nightlife! The Westown neighborhood is home to some of the city’s most popular attractions! The city’s vibrant entertainment district is located west of the Milwaukee River. Home to sports arenas, as well as popular venues like the Miller High Life Theatre, Riverside Theater, Turner Hall Ballroom, and Grand Warner Theatre, Westown caters to both day and nighttime visitors. The city’s efforts to revitalize downtown spaces have led to improved walkability, beautiful riverfronts, and no shortage of things to do! 1-bedrooms start at $1,850/mo. and 2-bedrooms start at 2,500/mo.
Families tend to choose neighborhoods and suburbs that offer a combination of good schools, safety, family-friendly amenities, and a sense of community. Families moving to Milwaukee can find that in neighborhoods like Brookfield, Whitefish Bay, Wauwatosa, and Shorewood just to name a few! These neighborhoods offer a mix of housing options from historic homes to new builds. 3-Bedrooms start at $3,000+/mo.
Insider Tips
Milwaukee offers a wealth of options for lakeside recreation. You can leisurely stroll along the Milwaukee Lakefront, opt for a bike rental, or embark on a boat tour to immerse yourself in the picturesque vistas of the lake. Nature enthusiasts can revel in the great outdoors at idyllic green spaces like Riverside Park, Veterans Park, and Lakeshore State Park. These stunning locations boast scenic landscapes, meandering pathways for walking and biking, and a plethora of opportunities for various outdoor activities. Is golf your thing? Wisconsin is home to several world-class public golf courses including Whistling Straights (host of the 2020 Ryder Cup and three recent PGA Championships), Erin Hills (2017 U.S. Open), and Sand Valley, to name just a few.
Local Insights
Milwaukee boasts a rich variety of activities, ensuring an engaging experience for all! Immerse yourself in the world of knowledge and wonder at the Milwaukee Public Museum, where interactive exhibits, a captivating butterfly garden, and a fascinating planetarium await your exploration. For art enthusiasts, the Milwaukee Art Museum houses an impressive array of artistic treasures, spanning paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts. Venture into the enchanting realm of the Historic Third Ward, where you can enjoy charming boutiques, captivating art galleries, and delectable local cuisine. A culinary journey isn’t complete without a visit to the Milwaukee Public Market, where you can savor both local and international flavors.
Sports aficionados will find their passion well-catered in Milwaukee. The Milwaukee Bucks, an NBA powerhouse, call Fiserv Forum in downtown Milwaukee their home, boasting a fervent fan base and recent championship triumphs in 2021. Meanwhile, the Milwaukee Brewers, a Major League Baseball team, thrill audiences at American Family Field (formerly known as Miller Park). And less than 2 hours away is historic Lambeau Field, home to the Green Bay Packers…you won’t find more passionate fans than these!
The captivating blend of cultural richness, scenic beauty along Lake Michigan, and a warm sense of community stands as a testament to why Milwaukee is the heart of Wisconsin! From its world-class museums and arts scene to its thriving neighborhoods and welcoming residents, whether you’re savoring the flavors of local cuisine at the Public Market, cheering on sports teams, or exploring the historic charm, Milwaukee never ceases to amaze.
