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Why Live in Cross Plains

Cross Plains, Wisconsin, is a village of approximately 4,000 residents located in the scenic Driftless area, more than 10 miles west of Madison. This rural community offers a peaceful setting with access to outdoor activities such as fishing in Black Earth Creek, hiking on the Ice Age National Scenic Trail, and enjoying the various parks like Bear Park and Festge County Park. The Middleton-Cross Plains Area School District serves the village, featuring highly rated schools including Park Elementary School, Glacier Creek Middle School, and Middleton High School. Housing options in Cross Plains range from Victorian-era homes to mid-20th-century ranch-style, Colonial Revival, Cape Cod, and New Traditional styles, with new apartments and a planned golf course community also available. Local dining options along U.S. Highway 14 include Crossroads Coffeehouse, Remington’s Tavern, and Vintage Brewing Company, with The Hilltop Supper Club nearby for supper club dining. The village hosts annual events such as Cross Plain Trout Days, celebrating the start of trout fishing season with activities and live music. Cross Plains is about 15 miles from downtown Madison, providing a manageable commute to the city’s amenities, including UW Health’s University Hospital and Dane County Regional Airport. Residents should be prepared for significant snowfall, as the area typically receives nearly 50 inches of snow annually.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to rent a home in Cross Plains, WI?
The median rent for a home in Cross Plains, WI is $1,495 per month, though prices vary by neighborhood, size, and property type. As of July 2026, condos tend to be the most affordable option while single-family homes are currently more expensive.
How much do you need to make to afford rent in Cross Plains, WI?
To comfortably afford the median rent in Cross Plains, WI, a household needs to earn roughly $59,800 per year. This is based on the common guideline that households should spend no more than 30% of gross income on housing. Most landlords require monthly household income of at least 3x the monthly rent, and with a median rent of $1,495 per month in Cross Plains, WI, renters typically need to show $4,485 per month in gross income to qualify. Actual affordability will vary depending on household debts, other living expenses, and overall budget.
Is it more affordable to rent or buy in Cross Plains, WI?
In Cross Plains, WI, the price-to-rent ratio is 29.5, which generally favors renting. This ratio divides the median home price by the annual median rent: below 15 typically favors buying, 15 to 20 is balanced, and above 20 typically favors renting. Your finances, how long you plan to stay, and costs like mortgage rates, taxes, and maintenance all factor into the decision.
What neighborhoods in Cross Plains, WI are best for renting a home?
The best neighborhood for renting in Cross Plains, WI depends on your priorities: commute, walkability, budget, and lifestyle all play a role. Popular areas for renting a home include Junction Ridge, Sak's Woods, Westside and University Hill Farms, each with its own character and price range.

Rental Home Trends

Median Rent
$1,495
Median Single Family Home Rent
$2,173
Median Condo Rent
$1,450
How to Rent a Home