$303,768Average Value$191Average Price per Sq Ft19Homes 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
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Royce Roberts,
an experienced agent in this area.
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On average, homes in Hayward, WI sell after 81 days on the market compared to the national average of 53 days. The median sale price for homes in Hayward, WI over the last 12 months is $285,000, up 13% 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
To help visualize this home’s floor plan and to highlight its potential, virtual furnishings may have been added to photos found in this listing. This property offers strong investment potential with its practical design and versatile features. The detached garage includes workshop space, providing secure vehicle storage plus valuable area for hobbies, projects, or additional storage needs,
This 10.43-acre wooded vacant lot offers a unique opportunity to create your own sanctuary amidst nature. Surrounded by lush forests and situated near numerous pristine lakes, this property is a dream come true for outdoor enthusiasts. Enjoy access to a network of ATV and snowmobile trails, as well as scenic bike trails that wind through the picturesque landscape. When you're ready for some
Walk Score® measures the walkability of any address. Transit Score® measures access to public transit. Bike Score® measures the bikeability of any address. CAP Index provides objective, accurate, and consistent data to help measure, compare, and mitigate crime risks.
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