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2019 Best Suburbs to Live in the Milwaukee AreaAbout this List

Explore the best suburbs to live in the U.S. based on crime, public schools, cost of living, job opportunities, and local amenities. Ranking based on data from the U.S. Census, FBI, BLS, CDC, and other sources. Read more on how this ranking was calculated.

1 – 25 of 79
Best Places to Live
79 results

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  1. Elm Grove

    • Suburb of Milwaukee, WI
    • 20
    #1 Best Suburbs to Live in Milwaukee Area

    Current Resident: Elm Grove is a unique place. It has everything you would expect and more. The community is kind, generous, and caring. The neighborhoods are safe and welcoming. The school systems are diverse as well as the members of the community. It is a very safe and kid-friendly town. Also, it is a relaxing place with a park and fun cafes around every corner. Although many people view it as a wealthier community, which is true many people are wealthy in Elm Grove, it also has layers. Like the rings inside of a tree, Elm Grove has many different people in it. I think I enjoy living here not just because of the pace itself, but because of the people.
    Read 20 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • A+
      Public Schools
    • 6,127 Population
    View Nearby Homes

  2. Whitefish Bay

    • Suburb of Milwaukee, WI
    • 24
    #2 Best Suburbs to Live in Milwaukee Area

    Current Resident: The best public and private schools in the state attract families committed to a family-centric lifestyle. Children safely walk to school on tree lined streets. Houses include mansions and modest ranches, all lovingly landscaped. You find 2 parks on Lake Michigan, easy access to bike paths, tennis courts, a new baseball park, unique stores and cafes, and much more. All of these amenities result in high property taxes which everyone proudly complains about!
    Read 24 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • A+
      Public Schools
    • 14,099 Population
    View Nearby Homes

  3. Bayside

    • Suburb of Milwaukee, WI
    • 16
    #3 Best Suburbs to Live in Milwaukee Area

    Niche User: The police are always around. They're always patrolling, always hanging out on corners, always making sure the neighborhood is safe. So few crimes happen here it's almost comical looking at the crimes that are reported in the area newspaper where there are counts of stolen chicken or of someone driving a little too fast.
    Read 16 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • A+
      Public Schools
    • 4,450 Population
    View Nearby Homes

  4. Brookfield

    • Suburb of Milwaukee, WI
    • 81
    #4 Best Suburbs to Live in Milwaukee Area

    Current Resident: Brookfield has been my home for almost 19 years now. There are numerous reasons on why I have loved living here my whole life. First, everything is close by, such as grocery stores, malls, different gas stations, movie theaters, restaurants, parks, gyms, schools, anything you name and Brookfield has it. Second, I've had the best time growing up and going to the different schools that this city has to offer. Also, the people in Brookfield are never shy to support their local high school team in football or basketball; therefore, they come to support the name of their city too. Lastly, due to the fact that I'm going to a college only 20 minutes away from my house, I must like Brookfield a lot since I'm staying close to home. Once a Brookfieldian, always a Brookfieldian!
    Read 81 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • A+
      Public Schools
    • 37,943 Population
    View Nearby Homes

  5. Shorewood

    • Suburb of Milwaukee, WI
    • 38
    #5 Best Suburbs to Live in Milwaukee Area

    Current Resident: Shorewood is a safe, clean neighborhood. I enjoyed walking around and going to the local grocery store. The coffee shops in the area are nice, as well. It is far enough from downtown that we don't have to worry about being too busy but close enough that we can get to work. There are plenty of schools in the area that are nice for the kids. Family friendly parks and stores.
    Read 38 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • A+
      Public Schools
    • 13,367 Population
    View Nearby Homes

  6. Mequon

    • Suburb of Milwaukee, WI
    • 29
    #6 Best Suburbs to Live in Milwaukee Area

    Current Resident: I moved to Mequon about 4 years ago from a small town in Indiana. After moving here, I quickly realized that Mequon was a small, supportive community that help each other out. I know all of my neighbors fairly well and are all extremely nice and helpful. Going to any small business or restaurant in Mequon is a must as you won't find any place quite like it in a bigger suburb.
    Read 29 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • A+
      Public Schools
    • 23,787 Population
    View Nearby Homes

  9. Cedarburg

    • Suburb of Milwaukee, WI
    • 18
    #7 Best Suburbs to Live in Milwaukee Area

    Current Resident: This city is wonderful! The downtown is amazing with cute little shops, wonderful festivals, and nice people. There is always something to do, places to go, people to see. Parks are clean and nice. The river runs through the town which makes it a beautiful place to visit, take pictures, gather.
    Read 18 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • A+
      Public Schools
    • 11,499 Population
    View Nearby Homes

  10. Fox Point

    • Suburb of Milwaukee, WI
    • 8
    #8 Best Suburbs to Live in Milwaukee Area

    Current Resident: I love how family friendly Fox Point is! So many kids on every block and endless amount of neighborhood friends.
    Read 8 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • A+
      Public Schools
    • 6,706 Population
    View Nearby Homes

  11. Nashotah

    • Suburb of Milwaukee, WI
    • 3
    #9 Best Suburbs to Live in Milwaukee Area

    Current Resident: Nashotah is near I94 making it an easy commute to Milwaukee and Madison. Located in Waukesha County Lake Country outdoor recreation options are abundant and nearby, with several lakes in the area and a large County park with hiking, X-country skiing, picnic areas and two dog parks. The public school system is outstanding. Home values are fairly high, with a few upscale subdivisions. There is not a lot of affordable housing. The is no public transportation. The area is generally politically conservative. The oldest restaurant in the state is located here, The Red Circle Inn, established as the midway point between Milwaukee and Madison in the days of travel by horse and buggy. Crime is not a problem. It is a quiet area, with many shopping and dining options nearby.
    Read 3 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • A+
      Public Schools
    • 1,305 Population
    View Nearby Homes

  12. River Hills

    • Suburb of Milwaukee, WI
    • 1
    #10 Best Suburbs to Live in Milwaukee Area

    Current Resident: Medium sized community of upperclass families. Few families with children , mostly older retired couples.
    Read 1 Review

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • A+
      Public Schools
    • 1,558 Population
    View Nearby Homes

  13. Thiensville

    • Suburb of Milwaukee, WI
    • 14
    #11 Best Suburbs to Live in Milwaukee Area

    Current Resident: Thiensville is an adorable community right outside of Milwaukee. It may only be one square mile, but it is full of history and completed by a friendly and safe community. Although it is family friendly, there is not that much to do besides go to the park and walk to the local coffee shop.
    Read 14 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • A+
      Public Schools
    • 3,182 Population
    View Nearby Homes

  14. Wauwatosa

    • Suburb of Milwaukee, WI
    • 105
    #12 Best Suburbs to Live in Milwaukee Area

    Current Resident: I have lived in Wauwatosa for 3.5 weeks now. The neighbors in my small area are very friendly. I love how this part of Milwaukee has kept up their curb appeal. The old houses are beautiful and make for a beautiful walk of 'sightseeing' around the town. For runners, dog walker and all alike, I simply would like to see sidewalks on the roads that do not have them. Wauwatosa seems to be a very safe, family friendly place. It is clean and has plenty of recreational areas to enjoy. I love the parks, kids playing, dog friendly streets with grass and trees. The area is beautiful, and I can only imagine the beauty that comes this fall!
    Read 105 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • A
      Public Schools
    • 47,687 Population
    View Nearby Homes
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  17. Merton

    • Suburb of Milwaukee, WI
    • 3
    #13 Best Suburbs to Live in Milwaukee Area

    Current Resident: Great place to grow up. I was blessed to be from such an area full of hard working people and a focus on community. Not only is Merton safe but the school district is one of the best. Highly recommended.
    Read 3 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • A+
      Public Schools
    • 3,574 Population
    View Nearby Homes

  18. Glendale

    • Suburb of Milwaukee, WI
    • 20
    #14 Best Suburbs to Live in Milwaukee Area

    Current Resident: Glendale was overall, a wonderful city to grow up in. There's plenty to do without travelling too far, but not so big that it's overwhelming. There are parks within a short walk and an extensive bike path many people use to exercise. The schools also have very good educational programs. Bayshore mall is a great place to meet up with friends, get a bite to eat, and do some shopping. There are a couple libraries which I would use frequently to study at, since I could find any reference book I needed. Public transport is not the easiest to arrange in some areas, however. Winters in Glendale are very cold, and summers are pretty hot.
    Read 20 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • A+
      Public Schools
    • 12,868 Population
    View Nearby Homes

  19. Pewaukee City

    • Suburb of Milwaukee, WI
    • 31
    #15 Best Suburbs to Live in Milwaukee Area

    Current Resident: Pewaukee is a wonderful city to live in especially if you love rural areas and lake living. It has a wonderful beach located in the village with lots of shops and restaurants. Pewaukee also offers lots of wonderful community events and activities. It has a great school system and wonderful teachers. It is the hometown to many graduates from the school system that have become famous, successful individuals that are passionate about their careers and communities.
    Read 31 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • A
      Public Schools
    • 14,112 Population
    View Nearby Homes

  20. Delafield

    • Suburb of Milwaukee, WI
    • 33
    #16 Best Suburbs to Live in Milwaukee Area

    Current Resident: Delafield is a fantastic area filled with incredible people. During the summertime, there are local beaches with tons of fun activities to keep the whole family entertained. Downtown there are several small shops that are great to stop in to buy something and support the local economy. During the holidays, there are always community events to help everyone celebrate together. No matter what time of year, Delafield is a wonderful place to explore!
    Read 33 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • A+
      Public Schools
    • 7,298 Population
    View Nearby Homes

  21. Wales

    • Suburb of Milwaukee, WI
    • 10
    #17 Best Suburbs to Live in Milwaukee Area

    Former Resident: I enjoyed growing up in wales because it was a nice safe community, but it is in dire need of more diversity.
    Read 10 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • A+
      Public Schools
    • 2,558 Population
    View Nearby Homes

  24. Grafton

    • Suburb of Milwaukee, WI
    • 19
    #18 Best Suburbs to Live in Milwaukee Area

    Current Resident: There is a strong resemblance between Grafton 2017 and Mequon 2000. Grafton still has that rural charm while supplying all the amenities with a mix of big box stores and boutiques. There is so much growth and expansion happening, it's amazing to watch it develop. With a hospital in the middle of the community it's hard not to see the appeal of living there. Best of all, the city just approved a nearly 40 million dollar referendum for the school district. Historically, when cities starts investing money into schools you know that will drive property values up. Young people who are buying now will see a nice return on investment. Investing in Grafton is smart choice right now because if it's anything like Mequon circa 2000 (and it's the spitting image) property values will continue to climb as the city invest more into building a strong, well developed community. While Grafton is up-and-coming, it'll win you over with the high standard of living, great schools, and tasteful curb appeal!
    Read 19 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • A
      Public Schools
    • 11,576 Population
    View Nearby Homes

  25. Menomonee Falls

    • Suburb of Milwaukee, WI
    • 35
    #19 Best Suburbs to Live in Milwaukee Area

    Works Here: Menomonee Falls is a great area! There are plenty of stores and restaurants. There are parks near water to walk along. The city are is often quite busy but nothing a person can't handle. It might slow you down a few minutes. There is enough private land on the outskirts that a person could choose to live on. Menomonee Falls is a convenient area to live as well. It is a short distance from the scenic Kettle Moraine area. It is near Germantown, Mequon and Milwaukee.
    Read 35 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • A
      Public Schools
    • 36,411 Population
    View Nearby Homes

  26. Greendale

    • Suburb of Milwaukee, WI
    • 39
    #20 Best Suburbs to Live in Milwaukee Area

    Current Resident: This place is a very safe and cute community. It is located close to everything you could ever want and need. Within in a short trip you are connected to every freeway system to take you whereever. You have one of the largest malls in the state right within walking distance of your homes. This village is historic and very safe. The crime rate is practically zero when you don't include the mall.
    Read 39 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • A+
      Public Schools
    • 14,293 Population
    View Nearby Homes

  27. Pewaukee Village

    • Suburb of Milwaukee, WI
    • 14
    #21 Best Suburbs to Live in Milwaukee Area

    Current Resident: Pewaukee is a good suburb to live in when just starting out. It is affordable with many things to do in the summer. There are many programs to get involved in and many local parks that are dog friendly!
    Read 14 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • A+
      Public Schools
    • 8,214 Population
    View Nearby Homes

  28. Sussex

    • Suburb of Milwaukee, WI
    • 16
    #22 Best Suburbs to Live in Milwaukee Area

    Former Resident: A growing suburban community featuring beautiful scenery and a caring, close knit demographic. The Village is currently expanding and modernizing it's features to support the influx of citizens. Recently, they built a new Civic Center and town hall, and are also adding in more housing and strip malls right off of main street. In my personal experience working on main street, I've meet many wonderful people who care about the well-being of the community and it's members. There isn't much in the town in regards to night life; however, if you are looking to raise your family in a safe and supportive town, Sussex is right for you.
    Read 16 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • A+
      Public Schools
    • 10,763 Population
    View Nearby Homes

  29. Hartland

    • Suburb of Milwaukee, WI
    • 20
    #23 Best Suburbs to Live in Milwaukee Area

    Current Resident: The school districts in the area are phenomenal, which is one of my biggest concerns as a single mother of 2. Being in the "lake country" area where the majority of residents are in the middle to high income class can be intimidating at times, but overall we enjoy living here. The one thing I would love to see a change in is the snooty attitude of residents in Hartland!
    Read 20 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • A+
      Public Schools
    • 9,218 Population
    View Nearby Homes

  30. Summit

    • Suburb of Milwaukee, WI
    • 4
    #24 Best Suburbs to Live in Milwaukee Area

    Niche User: I love Lake Country and in particular the Oconomowoc Area. It is beautiful country, friendly, welcoming, and full of local businesses.
    Read 4 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • A
      Public Schools
    • 4,818 Population
    View Nearby Homes

  31. Franklin

    • Suburb of Milwaukee, WI
    • 95
    #25 Best Suburbs to Live in Milwaukee Area

    Current Resident: As a small suburb of Milwaukee, we have many opportunities and experiences that other cities don't experience. Drive 15 minutes north, your downtown, move 15 minutes east you're in the middle of nowhere. We are able to experience our Annual State Fair, Lake Michigan, Summerfest, Brewer games, and Buck games right in our backyard.
    Read 95 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • A
      Public Schools
    • 36,295 Population
    View Nearby Homes
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