$392,848Average Value$240Average Price per Sq Ft49Homes For Sale
Crystal-clear lakes bring buyers to Hayward
The small city of Hayward, home to the Freshwater Fishing Hall of Fame, has in recent years grown beyond its reputation as a recreational destination into a welcoming community for a small, but growing number of full-time residents, thanks in part to changes to the economy – including remote work – in the wake of COVID. Aside from a small downtown, this community of about 2,500 is filled with mostly cabins in the woods, many of which are along crystal-clear lakes. “It’s a huge secondary home market, so cabins, retirement, that type of buyer is drawn here, as well as outdoor enthusiasts, people that like to ski and bike and boat and four-wheel and that sort of thing,” says local Realtor Ty Wiley with Wiley Area North Realty. “During the summer, everything’s up and roaring, and in the winter, it’s like a ghost town because everyone goes to Florida.”
Waterside homes in Hayward offer serene views and a relaxing lifestyle by the lake.
Downtown Hayward features diverse shops and eateries for visitors and locals alike.
Scheer’s Lumberjack Show in Hayward offers thrilling entertainment for all ages.
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Cabins on freshwater lakes
Water access is important here. Hayward has several freshwater ponds and lakes known for their clear water and ample fishing opportunities. “The quality of water is quite a bit nicer than the average across the country,” Wiley says. “Because of that, it makes the cabin properties highly sought after.”
While cabins are the most common option here, prices can vary due to size and location. Most list for between $300,000 and $700,000. Those under $300,000 are typically older and smaller. Those above $700,000 are often large, waterfront new builds.
Wiley warns buyers that home repairs take much longer than they would in the city. “It’s a much slower pace of life,” he says. “This is a retirement area. The majority of people here don’t work, but they need services, and we don’t have enough….”
Ranch-style homes are common in Hayward, offering spacious layouts and classic designs.
Cabin-style homes in Hayward attract new buyers with rustic charm and cozy interiors.
Hayward's streets feature a variety of colorful cabin-style homes with cozy appeal.
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Learning in Hayward Community School District
Hayward Community School District gets an overall B grade from Niche, as do Hayward Elementary, Hayward Middle and Hayward High. Hayward High offers youth apprenticeship opportunities in areas such as education, finance and manufacturing. Students can apply to attend Northern Waters Environmental School for sixth through 12th grade or Hayward Center for Individualized Learning (HACIL), a virtual pre-K-through-12 charter school. HACIL gets a B-minus from Niche. Northern Waters Environmental has not been rated.
Hayward Primary School earns a solid B rating on Niche for academics and community.
Hayward Middle School serves local students in the heart of Hayward, Wisconsin.
Hayward High School earns a B rating on Niche, reflecting solid academics and programs.
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Freshwater fishing and city parks
Sawyer County has over 50,000 acres of glacial lakes and rivers, attracting visitors from all over. Hayward Lake, the largest fishing spot in town, also has a beach for visitors to enjoy. Smaller lakes, rivers and ponds throughout the community give most residents close access to freshwater fishing.
Shue’s Pond is a scenic park in the center of town with a playground, picnic tables and a gazebo. Smith Creek Dog Park is popular for dog owners and their pets, and the city’s skatepark welcomes rollerbladers, BMX bikers and skateboarders.
Hayward Golf Course is a public 18-hole course. The city has 4-mile trail for cyclists and pedestrians and Smith Creek Trail, which wraps around Smith Lake Holding Pond. Wilderness Walk Zoo allows visitors to meet animals such as bobcats, black bears and cougars. Fiddlers Creek Golf Range has a driving range, disc golf course and pickleball.
Hayward City Beach offers scenic views of Hayward Lake with calm waters and lush trees.
Shues Pond Park near downtown Hayward offers a quiet escape with water views and trees.
Hayward Golf Course offers scenic fairways and a relaxing experience for local golfers.
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Historic Main Street, fast food and groceries
Anglers Bar & Grill is a popular spot for Hayward residents, serving American fare in a cozy tavern on historic Main Street. Coop’s Pizza is a family-friendly restaurant serving homemade pizza in a cabin-style dining room. Hayward Family Restaurant is a classic diner serving breakfast and lunch. Fast-food options in town include McDonald’s, Dairy Queen and Subway, and groceries are available at Walmart, Marketplace Foods and Miller’s Market.
Anglers Bar and Grill in Hayward offers a cozy setting for drinks and casual conversation.
Coop’s Pizza in Hayward is a local favorite known for hearty pies and casual dining.
Hayward’s Walmart provides a wide range of products for everyday needs and essentials.
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A hospital in town and flying out of Duluth International Airport
Hayward is located in northwest Wisconsin, about 70 miles south of Superior and 107 miles north of Eau Claire. Tamarack Health Hayward Medical Center provides access to medical care in town, and the nearest airport is Duluth International Airport, 81 miles away.
Minnesota's updated Duluth International Airport is about 70 miles from Hayward.
Hayward travelers use Duluth International Airport, a public-use hub for flights and cargo.
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Written By
Ellen Daly
Photography Contributed By
Kellan Beaver
Video By
Anne Sheridan
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Mary Love,
an experienced agent in this area.
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On average, homes in Hayward, WI sell after 89 days on the market compared to the national average of 55 days. The median sale price for homes in Hayward, WI over the last 12 months is $295,000, down 5% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Enjoy the peace and solitude of your very own private oasis while you create generations of memories at this log home estate situated on approximately 40 acres with approximately 1100 feet of lakeshore. Just a short drive from downtown Hayward this custom built log home exemplifies world class craftsmanship, attention to detail, and innovation taken to new heights. The log home boasts over 4000
(222/KW) Here is an opportunity to own a home on Moose Lake. This property sits on 2 lots and is +/- 1.19 acres. There is +/- 207 feet of sandy/rocky boatable shoreline. The home is large and has much differed maintenance and needs complete renovation. With plenty of vision and finishing, you can make this a spectacular home. Both the main level and lower-level offer are +/- 1930 square foot each
Nestled on 10 enchanting acres, this Idyllic Log Cabin Retreat offers an escape that feels plucked from the pages of a storybook, just a quick 10-minute drive from Hayward. Embrace the rustic elegance of handcrafted log construction, marrying timeless charm with modern flair. Step inside to be greeted by grand high ceilings and exposed beams, with sunlight dancing through huge windows. Feel the
Extremely rare +/- 646-acre property on 105-acre Star Lake in the heart of the National Forest. The only private land on the lake, with no improved public access Star Lake has not been disrupted by man in a century and is a true wild place that offers unmatched seclusion and pristine views. A rustic cabin sits atop a hill overlooking the water with panoramic views of the Wilson Lake State Natural
Matt SchultzUNITED COUNTRY REAL ESTATE / NORTHERN WI LIFESTYLE PROPERTIES
This lakefront cabin on Nelson Lake near Hayward WI, is ready for your next adventure! Whether you enjoy fishing, hitting the trails, swinging a few golf clubs or just sitting on the deck with your lakefront view, this property has something for everyone. With 2 bedrooms, multiple living room spaces and a large deck overlooking the lake, there's plenty of room for you and your friends. Large 2
Gerald GeishartNorth Central Real Estate Brokerage, LLC
Seize the opportunity to own a beautiful, versatile tract of land in one of Northwest Wisconsins most sought-after recreational destinations. This recently logged property is enrolled in the Managed Forest Law Program, providing significant tax benefits and ensuring professional stewardship that enhances both the propertys value and its ecological health over time.The parcel boasts an extensive,
Tucked away on a private road in Sawyer County, this 3.38-acre heavily wooded parcel offers the perfect Northwoods escape. Located near Spring Lake and just a short drive to Hayward, you'll find yourself in the heart of vacation country with endless opportunities for outdoor fun: lakes, trails, fishing, hunting, shopping, and more are all close by. Lot 7 has easement and shared driveway access to
Golf course lot on the beautiful Spider Lake Golf Course located close to the Spider Lake boat ramp and 3 miles from the OO Birkie Trailhead and CAMBA mountain bike trail system. Downtown Hayward is just a 15 minute drive. This lot is located just a short cart ride from the pro shop, bar & restaurant. Nicely wooded lot with mature pines and fairly level for ease in development. Power and
Brand new mono-pitch style cabin TO BE BUILT in The Preserve in 2026. THE PRESERVE is a new outdoor recreation & trail side community, just 7 miles from Hayward, offering 5+ acre wooded lots. Each lot offers access to a ski/bike trail system that joins the Birkie & CAMBA trails. The Preserve trail system boasts an incredible flat ski/hike/bike trail around most of the old Mosquito Brook Flowage.
Discover the perfect blend of privacy and potential with this beautiful 1.62-acre wooded lot near the shores of Round Lake in Hayward, WI. Surrounded by towering trees, this property is a nature lover?s sanctuary, just minutes from the lake?s sparkling waters and endless recreational opportunities. Whether you envision building your dream single-family home or crafting the ultimate pole shed for
Step back in time with this turn of the century farmhouse situated on approximately 68 acres, just 5 miles south of Hayward. Built in the early 1900s by the namesake of Shue’s Pond, featuring original maple floors, solid wood doors, and wide trim throughout. Main level includes kitchen with mix of original and newer cabinetry, a mudroom off the rear entry, one bedroom, half bath, and laundry in
Discover the perfect blend of privacy and potential with this beautiful 1.62-acre wooded lot near the shores of Round Lake in Hayward, WI. Surrounded by towering trees, this property is a nature lover’s sanctuary, just minutes from the lake’s sparkling waters and endless recreational opportunities. Whether you envision building your dream single-family home or crafting the ultimate pole shed for
Property Id: 2398072Uncover your perfect rental in the City of Hayward! This brand new 3-bedroom, 2-bath home combines a modern layout with practical conveniences. Located perfectly to take advantage of everything Hayward has to offer, this is an opportunity you won't want to overlook! * Generously Sized 3 Bedrooms & 2 Full Baths * Stainless Steel Kitchen Appliances * In-Unit
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