The 6 Best Milwaukee Neighborhoods To Call Home In 2025

Milwaukee, Wisconsin, is a city of contrasts — historic yet forward-looking, diverse yet tightly knit, and increasingly popular among homebuyers and renters in 2025. While the city has experienced a notable increase in median home prices in recent years, it still offers several neighborhoods that balance affordability, safety, and amenities like accessible public transportation and good schools. This article highlights six Milwaukee neighborhoods that stand out for their livability, giving potential transplants to “Cream City” a range of options to consider when looking for a new place to call home. Let's explore the six best Milwaukee neighborhoods to call home in 2025.

Bay View

Bay View is a vibrant neighborhood known for its eclectic atmosphere and strong community spirit. The area boasts a variety of local attractions, including Humboldt Park, which hosts the popular "Chill on the Hill" summer music series. The median home sale price in Bay View is $325,000, with an average monthly two-bedroom apartment rent of $2,500. Bay View’s crime rate is well below the city average, while its public schools, headlined by Bay View High School, rate above the city average. The neighborhood's walkability is a significant draw, with many amenities accessible on foot, and it is well-served by public transportation, providing easy access to downtown Milwaukee.

Juneau Town

Juneau Town, often referred to as East Town, sits at the heart of downtown Milwaukee and offers a dynamic urban lifestyle surrounded by culture, history, and entertainment. Residents enjoy easy access to major landmarks such as the Milwaukee Art Museum, Milwaukee City Hall, Pabst Theater, Rotary Amphitheater, and Marcus Performing Arts Center. The neighborhood’s proximity to Milwaukee’s business district, Lake Michigan waterfront, and thriving dining and nightlife scene balance out its slightly above average crime rate and average schools. The median sale price for homes in Juneau Town is approximately $370,000, reflecting its desirable downtown setting, and two-bedroom rentals average about $2,200 monthly.

Riverwest

Riverwest is a culturally rich neighborhood that appeals to artists, students, and families alike. The area is home to the annual Locust Street Festival and Center Street Daze Festival, celebrating local music, art, and community. The neighborhood is home to several public and private schools. The median home price in Riverwest is $275,000, and the average two-bedroom monthly rent is $2,250. Riverwest's walkability and bike-friendliness enhance its appeal, and public transportation options connect residents to the broader Milwaukee area.

Historic Third Ward

The compact Historic Third Ward is Milwaukee's cultural and artistic hub, offering a blend of historic charm and modern amenities. The collection of historic homes leads to a higher average sale price, $495,000, but the monthly two-bedroom apartment rent is in line with other neighborhoods at $2,400. Attractions include the Milwaukee Public Market and the Riverwalk, providing residents with shopping, dining, and scenic views. The neighborhood's walkability is exceptional, with most amenities accessible on foot, and public transportation options are readily available. Crime rates are average for Milwaukee, and the public schools in the near vicinity—this small neighborhood does not have any—are above average in quality.

Garden Homes

Garden Homes is a historic neighborhood experiencing a significant revitalization. It is not yet a neighborhood for everyone, with crime rates somewhat above the city average and below-average school ratings. That said, the average home value, while it has increased 12% in the past year, is still only $120,000, making Garden Homes extremely affordable. Residents have access to green spaces and community gardens, fostering a strong sense of belonging. Public transportation options are also available, connecting Garden Homes to other parts of the city. The neighborhood's affordability and ongoing development make it an attractive option for homebuyers looking to take part in the community revitalization process.

Walker’s Point

Walker’s Point is a dynamic neighborhood known for its diverse culture and culinary scene. Like Garden Homes, it is more of an up-and-coming neighborhood that may not be for all potential buyers and renters, with higher-than-average crime rates and city-average schools. Yet Walker’s Point scores very high in affordability, with a median sale price of $165,000 and a two-bedroom rent of $1,900. The area also features a variety of attractions, including the Milwaukee Brewing Company and the Harley-Davidson Museum. Residents enjoy a range of dining options, from traditional Mexican eateries to innovative farm-to-table restaurants. The neighborhood's walkability is excellent, and public transportation options are abundant, facilitating easy commutes.

Milwaukee's neighborhoods each offer unique combinations of safety, affordability, and amenities, catering to a diverse range of preferences and lifestyles. From the vibrant streets of Bay View to the historic charm of the Historic Third Ward, prospective residents can find communities that align with their priorities. By considering factors such as crime rates, housing costs, walkability, school quality, and public transportation, potential transplants can make informed decisions about where to establish their homes in Cream City.

In addition to practical considerations like safety and affordability, Milwaukee’s neighborhoods are enriched by a wide array of cultural, social, and recreational offerings that contribute to their unique identities. Riverwest, for instance, is known for its eclectic arts scene and tight-knit community, making it ideal for creatives and young professionals seeking a vibrant, grassroots atmosphere. Meanwhile, areas like Wauwatosa appeal to families and those craving a quieter suburban feel without straying too far from downtown. Access to parks, bike trails, farmers markets, and locally owned shops enhances daily life across the city, while dining scenes range from classic Midwestern comfort food to diverse international cuisine. Many neighborhoods also host seasonal festivals and neighborhood events that foster a strong sense of belonging. Whether someone is drawn to nightlife and entertainment or prefers peaceful, residential streets, Milwaukee provides a dynamic mix of environments, ensuring that almost anyone can find a place to call home.