$370,295Average Value$247Average Price per Sq Ft62Homes For Sale
Delavan transforms from the circus capital of the world to a boating and fishing spot
Between 1836 and 1848, Delavan, Wisconsin was home to 26 circus companies. Located 53 miles from Milwaukee and 58 miles from Madison, in 1847 the owners of the U.S. Olympic Circus chose Delavan as their winter homebase because of the city's location and its ability to house their horses and performance animals. Other circuses followed suit, and the P.T. Barnum Circus even founded its renowned “Greatest Show On Earth” in Delavan. Today, the only remaining link to this city's former trade is the life-sized statue of Romeo the Killer Elephant, at town center. A city of 8,500, nowadays it's Delavan Lake that's the main attraction, not the circus, and Delavan is known for its water-oriented lifestyle.
Visit Romeo the Killer Elephant representing Delavan's circus days in downtown Delavan.
Delavan Lake runs through the charming town of Delavan.
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New neighborhoods, established homes and million-dollar views
Because of summertime tourism in Delavan, there are many investment properties on the market here. However, Realtor Nicole Coleman-Vanwormer of Shore West Realty says there are also new neighborhoods full of permanent residents, too. Coleman-Vanwormer confirms the median home price in Delavan is around $330,000, which is lower than the national median. Styles here range from older, more established single-family homes that sell for between $250,000 and $300,000, to newly constructed Craftsman designs, typically priced between $450,000 and $550,000. There are also some multimillion-dollar lakefront properties in Delavan, with features like private docks.
A row of perfect tudor-style homes line the streets near downtown Delavan.
Delavan has large and lovely lake homes along Lake Delavan.
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Delavan celebrates its history every summer
Each August this city holds the Delavan Heritage Fest celebration. The festival acknowledges the city’s varied history over time, from its beginnings as the home of the Potawatomi, to its first European settlers, the influx of European and then Hispanic immigrants and, of course, its circus years. The festival typically has food trucks, craft markets and plenty of activities for kids.
Downtown Delavan is a quaint and quiet place to shop and dine.
P.T. Barnum Circus founded its renowned “Greatest Show On Earth” in Delavan.
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Delavan Lake loved by locals, tourists alike
The crown jewel of Delavan is Delavan Lake, a 1,900-acre lake with public boat landings, a public beach and a plentiful supply of fish, like panfish, musky, northern pike, walleye and bass. The lake is renowned in Wisconsin for both fishing and boating. In Springs Park, there are hiking trails alongside fresh-water springs, and Phoenix Park Bandshell has a covered performing area for live music. Congdon Garden is a peaceful park with a walking trail encircling a large pond. Numerous manicured gardens feature hundreds of different plants and flowers, including tulips, hydrangeas, peonies and daylilies.
Delavan Lake is a gem in the middle of Delavan, WI.
Hike alongside freshwater springs at Springs Park in Delavan.
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A cafe that does it all and good cheese curds in Delavan
Delavan has a brick-paved downtown with a small green space at its the center, and, according to Coleman-Vanwormer, a lot of charm. “It has a lot of older charm and a lot of newer charm,” she says. Boxed and Burlap is a popular café housed in an old barn house that has been transformed into a light, airy coffee shop. It also has a speakeasy bar downstairs, a library and an art studio. Coleman-Vanwormer particularly likes Ol’ Wisco, a local bar with a good atmosphere. “And I mean, obviously, the cheese curds are good,” she says. For groceries, there’s an Aldi and Walmart in a shopping center on E Geneva Street, a major thoroughfare.
Sip warm coffee by the cozy fire in the architecturally stunning Boxed and Burlap in Delavan.
Ol'Wisco in Delavan has mastered the art of the cheese curd.
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Major highways keep Delavan connected to Milwaukee, Madison
Drivers can take Interstate 43 straight to Milwaukee or to connect to Interstate 90, which leads to Madison. State Highway 11 is also nearby and connects to I-90 as well. The closest airport to Delavan is the General Mitchell International Airport in Milwaukee, about 50 miles away.
Solid public schools plus the Wisconsin School for the Deaf
Delavan is part of the Delavan-Darien School district, which earns a B-minus overall from Niche. The district includes two elementary schools, one middle school and one high school, and also earns an A-minus for diversity. Delavan-Darien has a 12:1 student-to-teacher ratio and is the only district in the county to offer a Spanish and English dual language education program. The Wisconsin School for the Deaf is also located in Delavan.
Delavan-Darien High School has a 12:1 student-to-teacher ratio.
Delavan has been home to the Wisconsin School for the Deaf since 1839.
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Crime
The crime rate in Delavan is slightly lower than the national rate, and property crime has been steadily decreasing since 2015.
Written By
Tanner Harding
Photography Contributed By
Hayley McCormick
Video By
Francisco de la Vera
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Alissa Traughber,
an experienced agent in this area.
GreatSchools:
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On average, homes in Delavan, WI sell after 60 days on the market compared to the national average of 57 days. The median sale price for homes in Delavan, WI over the last 12 months is $340,000, up 7% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Adorable two-bedroom cottage in the coveted Jackson Park Subdivision on Delavan Lake. This recently updated retreat features a large front deck, enclosed front porch and spacious living area with wood floors and Lake Life charm. There is a large side yard with fire pit and space for lawn games and two large storage shed to house the boat toys. It is a short walk to the association park that
Charming South Shore Manor Home with Delavan Lake Access and Rights. Second home, Airbnb, or full time home. Walk into a home that shows what a renovation is done when wanting to preserve the old charm and historical design. This bungalow is fully restored and updated. NEW Eco Star roof with 50 yr warranty, Furnace and A/C, Cement Stucco Application, Electrical, Plumbing.. you think it. It was
Beautiful 5-bedroom Colonial in the sought-after Williams Bay School District, located in Geneva West. This spacious home features a private in-law suite with its own entrance, kitchen, bedroom, and bath--ideal for guests or multi-generational living. Offering 3 full baths plus a powder room, it's designed for comfort and entertaining. The updated kitchen opens to a separate dining room, perfect
Adorable two-bedroom cottage in the coveted Jackson Park Subdivision on Delavan Lake. This recently updated retreat features a large front deck, enclosed front porch and spacious living area with wood floors and Lake Life charm. There is a large side yard with fire pit and space for lawn games and two large storage shed to house the boat toys. It is a short walk to the association park that
Second floor king bed condominium/hotel room in the popular Lake Lawn Resort. Situated in the Timber Lodge, this unit has a separate private balcony where you can take in the views of the lake activity. The room is completely furnished and includes a microwave and refrigerator. Spacious bathroom with tile floors and granite counters. Remodeled in 2024, these units are fresh and nicely updated.
First floor king bed condominium/hotel room in the popular Lake Lawn Resort. Situated in the Boulder Lodge, this unit has a separate private patio where you can take in the views of the lake activity. The room is completely furnished and includes a microwave and refrigerator. Spacious bathroom with tile floors and granite counters. Remodeled in 2024, these units are fresh and nicely updated.
Beautiful 1.57 acre South Shore building site with 42 feet of prime Delavan Lake frontage and 155 feet along South Shore. The site currently has a four bedroom home that is being removed at the cost of the seller. There is also a newer four car garage on the property that will remain. Seller will provide building plans and permits to allow a new owner to get a quick start on the building process.
Your new home awaits! From the moment you step inside this beautiful, newly renovated, Craftsman-style home, you're greeted by abundant natural light and elegant crown molding that flows throughout. A welcoming foyer and sitting room lead into a bright living space accented by classic architectural charm. The main level offers a versatile layout, featuring a spacious kitchen with room for a
Beautifully updated 2-bedroom, 2-bath home in Delavan. The brand-new kitchen is a standout feature, showcasing sleek quartz countertops, a center island perfect for everyday living and entertaining. A second full bathroom, added in 2025. Full basement and expansive attic provide plenty of storage space. Prime downtown Delavan location close to local shops, restaurants and community attractions. A
READY FOR SUMMER! Move in now and have a Boat Slip for Summer. Experience the best of the Delavan Lake lifestyle in the prestigious Harbor Club at Lake Lawn. This Move in ready, The Charleston: 2,900SqFt, first floor EnSuite, all builder upgrades, additional loft upstairs, gourmet kitchen, deluxe master bath, Luxury LVP floors, oak staircases, a cozy fireplace, enjoy a screened rear porch and
Delavan, Wisconsin development opportunity adjacent to recently constructed Fleet Farm and a proposed Meijer Store. The site has tremendous access to access to I-43. This approximate 70 acres is located within visual site of Delavan Lake and a very short drive to the Highway 50 retail corridor. Currently zoned RM-8 in the City of Delavan, this zoning will accommodate single family and
Looking for lake life living... N2409 is nestled down the private road from America Marina on Delavan Lake with boat slips and in/out services available for purchase. This 4 bedroom, 3 full bath house is a showcase . Featuring custom trim work and textured walls through out the home, 2 show stopper staircases, stonework in the basement, details are definitely not missed. There are granite counter
Motivated sellers! This extraordinary historic estate--known as the Dr. Frederick L. Von Suessmilch House is showcasing stunning Italianate architecture, the home features 26 rooms, including 8 spacious bedrooms, 3 full baths, and 2 half baths, a remodeled kitchen and 3 fireplaces. A distinctive imported mirror from Germany adds to the historical the significance in history as a hospital, school
The Hazel is one of Shodeen Homes newest floorplan at Edgewood Vistas. The Hazel is a 3 bedroom, 2.5 bath, 2-car garage home with a flex room on the first floor that is perfect for a home office, kids playroom or formal dining room. This 2-Story open floorplan comes with a full unfinished basement perfect for extra storage or future build out. All Shodeen Homes come with stainless steel
Nestled on 2.63 partially wooded acres, this spacious 4-bedroom, 3.5 bath home offers privacy, comfort, and room to spread out. A wraparound driveway welcomes you to the property leading up to the 2 car attached garage. Step inside to a bright living room featuring a fireplace and large front window that fills the space with natural light. The kitchen includes all appliances and offers a sliding
Enjoy the lake life with this Delavan Lake South Shore rental that features 50 feet of gorgeous level lake frontage and a quaint four bedroom home. You will be able to spread out and enjoy the water front with the expansive front yard, fire pit, private pier and spacious deck to enjoy the sunset. The property is available for monthly rentals throughout the summer for a rate of $20,000 per month.
Four bedroom, two bath rental in the town of Delavan on large parcel of land. Close to City of Delavan and Delavan Lake. Master bedroom is on the main floor with walk in closet and private bath. Large living room and family room area. Appliances included. Second bath on upper level with three additional bedrooms. No smoking and no pets.
Furnished three bedroom home with lake rights on Delavan Lake. Property includes a large fenced in back yard, updated kitchen, breakfast bar, stainless steel appliances and spacious back deck. Home is located in the Highlands Subdivision which has the best beach on Delavan Lake. Rental must be for 12 months or longer. No short term rentals allowed. One month security deposit required and
Spacious three bedroom, three bath home located off the scenic South Shore Drive of Delavan Lake. This rental consists of a large first floor bedroom, utility room and great room on the main floor. The upper level has two additional bedrooms, two full bathrooms, the kitchen and family room area. Open concept design with views of Delavan Lake. There is an attached three car garage. This property
Now offered for private lease, the iconic Clock Tower lakefront home on Delavan Lake. This fully furnished three-bedroom retreat spans three levels and rests along one of the lake's most pristine stretches, featuring 75 feet of frontage. A gated entrance welcomes you onto the private grounds, where a spacious private pier sets the stage for morning coffee or sunset cocktails, while the primary
Experience elevated apartment living at Autumn Ridge Apartments in Delavan, Wisconsin, where peaceful surroundings meet everyday convenience. Located in a quiet residential neighborhood on the border of country and city living, Autumn Ridge offers easy access to shopping, dining, socializing, and outdoor recreation, all just minutes from Delavan Lake, Lake Geneva, and I-43. Each thoughtfully
This is a great PET FRIENDLY 2 bedroom 2.5 bath rental with an attached 1 car garage! Sunny south facing unit! One level living with minimal steps into the unit with a walkout basement level. Bedrooms are on separate floors - great for privacy. Outdoor space on each level. RENT INCLUDES INTERNET and BASIC CABLE. Located with easy access to Hwy 50, Hwy 43 and shopping, dining and entertainment.
The Starboard Group*Berkshire Hathaway Starck Real Estate
Parkside Village is a charming housing community that is specifically designed for adults age 55 and better and is conveniently located two blocks south of historic downtown Delavan, WI in a lovely park and residential location. We offer forty-six one or two bedroom apartment homes with a private balcony or patio in a variety of floor plans at an affordable price (1-bedroom plans begin at
Owner is offering 1/2 off of the first month's rent! Lovely First floor Unit in a 2 Family Home. This 2BR, 1BA unit has been updated beautifully and offers a bright and sunny living space, laminate and tile flooring throughout, off street parking and a storage unit. Don't miss the opportunity to make this your new home! 1 year lease. Pet friendly with pet registration and a $35/month/pet fee.
Ideally located in a quiet area near the heart of Delavan, Wisconsin. Located just off of Interstate 43, nearby are parks, schools, shopping/food. The properties location features a 20 minute drive to Lake Geneva, and an hour commute to both Milwaukee and Madison.These apartments offer your choice of one or two bedroom apartments. A professional caring staff ensures that this is a perfect
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