$390,049Average Value$246Average Price per Sq Ft50Homes 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 92 days on the market compared to the national average of 57 days. The median sale price for homes in Hayward, WI over the last 12 months is $310,000, up 3% 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
Enjoy stunning sunset views and pristine waters from this beautifully remodeled Northwoods log cabin on premier Grindstone Lake minutes from Hayward.This charming recently remodeled 2-bedroom, 1-bath log cabin features a warm and inviting open-concept design highlighted by stunning chalet-style knotty pine ceilings, creating that classic Up North atmosphere. Step out onto the lakeside decks
Whether you’re hoping to find a quiet northwoods retreat, full time residence, seasonal retirement home or a short term rental investment property, this year round cabin home in Hayward fits the bill. The 3 bedroom, 1 bath home is situated on a picturesque 7 acre lot and offers a Hayward location close to endless high quality year-round outdoor adventures- fishing, snowmobiling, ATV trails,
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
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,
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
Lot 39 -THE PRESERVE is a new outdoor recreation & trail side community, just 7 miles from Hayward. Lot 39 has a driveway installed, house site cleared with commanding views over the wetland. The Preserve offers 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
Brand new mono-pitch style cabin TO BE BUILT on Lot 15 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
Waterfront Vacant Land with 2 gorgeous Northwoods building sites. Don't miss the virtual tour for this listing on the Spider Chain of Lakes! Over 400 feet of lake frontage on Big Spider Lake in Hayward, WI. Panfish and muskellunge "muskie" are abundant. There is ample space to build a single-family home and a garage for your "toys". Or a family compound with 2 homes! Potential to build an income
Buildable .48 Acres in beautiful Northwoods Beach! Approximately 1 mile from Grindston and LCO boat landings for all of your recreational lake fun! 13 miles from Downtown Hayward. Snowmobile, ATV/UTV trails nearby. There are no tax amounts recorded as this property is owned by The Town of Bass Lake. Taxes will be determined at closing.
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
Welcome to 15252 W County Road B, Hayward, WI 54843! This cozy single-family home offers 2 bedrooms and 1 bathroom, set in a peaceful rural location. Please note: bedrooms are non-conforming, offering flexible space for sleeping, office use, or additional living areas.Enjoy the quiet surroundings and privacy that come with country living, while still being within a short drive to
For Rent Spacious Home on the Edge of Hayward, WI!Looking for extra space and beautiful views?We have a great rental opportunity available just outside Hayward!This home features:*2 main-level bedrooms + 2 non-conforming bedrooms downstairs*Large family room on the main level AND a bonus family room on the lower level*1 full bathroom with tub upstairs, 1 full bathroom
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