Jackson has modern living on the edge of Milwaukee’s orbit
About 25 miles north of Milwaukee, the rural town of Jackson has seen massive growth in the past two decades. “It's a quickly developing community with a lot of new construction,” says Sean Lentz, broker and owner at Forward Realty Partners. Although locals have to hop in the car to reach substantial shopping and dining, the area parks and elementary school make the bedroom community popular with families, while the surrounding farmland ensures a quiet pace of life. “It’s an affordable spot for buyers who want an easy commute into the city, because it's right on Interstate 41,” says Lentz, who has nearly 20 years of experience in southwest Wisconsin.
Modern subdivision have relatively affordable prices
Although Main Street is lined with historic homes, much of the village is a collection of subdivisions built after 1990. Manufactured homes, condominiums and upscale construction are still being added, and there’s a wide range of price points. The median single family home price is $400,000, with smaller condos starting at $200,000 and brand-new construction getting up to $700,000. “The homes tend to be newer but also less expensive than places like Cedarburg, West Bend or Mequon,” Lentz says. “That’s the main reason that Jackson is sought after.”
The larger town of Jackson surrounds the small village of Jackson. “In the town, there are slightly lower taxes, and you get a more rural setting,” Lentz says. “You can still find homes with 5 acres of land.” Though there are lower priced options out here, anything with more than 1 acre is typically between $600,000 to $800,000.
In 2012, a pipeline gas spill affected the area. Today, the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources confirms that groundwater contamination has been limited to two properties around 1800 Western Avenue. New construction in the specific area should take extra precautions when adding wells, but officials say the majority of Jackson is unaffected. There is also a flood risk for properties around Cedar Creek.
West Bend is planning to rebuild Jackson Elementary School
Jackson Elementary, located within the village, serves kindergarten through fourth grade. The West Bend School District plans to completely rebuild the school by 2028. Students then move on to Silverbrook Intermediate for fifth and sixth grade, followed by Badger Middle School and either West High or East High. Both high schools are located in the same building, with enrollment split evenly between the student body. “Your school is based on the oldest sibling's birthday: If it’s an even day, you go to East, and if it’s an odd day, you go to West,” Lentz says. “The split certainly adds a sense of rivalry for all the sports games.” All five schools receive a B-plus grade from Niche.
Homes south of Sherman Road are zoned for the Germantown School District, which gets an overall A grade from Niche. Nearby private options include Kettle Moraine Lutheran High School, rated B-minus, and Living Word Lutheran High School, rated A-plus.
Outdoor recreation and live concerts at renovated parks
Little League games and afternoon playdates are popular at Jackson Park, located just across the street from the elementary school. In 2023, the park got four pickleball courts, plus an updated tennis and basketball area. The town’s other main park, Hickory Lane, has a popular summertime splash pad and a tropical-themed playground. Right next door, Jackson Community Center has fitness areas and art classes. “It’s been really cool to see the parks get revamped,” Lentz says. “They are used a lot for events.” Jackson Park comes to life in warmer weather with outdoor movies, live concerts and beer gardens. The annual Action in Jackson festival has carnival rides, a car show and fireworks.
Coffeeville Company and other local spots along Main Street
In addition to Walgreens and Piggly Wiggly, Main Street has a few local businesses. Coffeeville Company is located inside a restored 1800s log cabin and serves blends from around the world. Jimmy’s, a local favorite, has Greek-inspired bar food and a popular Friday night fish fry. A bit further south, Bieri’s Jackson Cheese & Deli has fresh-made sandwiches and a selection of gourmet Wisconsin cheeses. “It’s kind of a sleepy community, so there’s not much of a downtown,” Lentz says, “but you're not too far from West Bend, which has more shopping, dining and a farmers market.” West Bend is less than 10 miles north, a 15-minute drive.
Hayrides and fairgrounds in rural Washington County
Nearby rural attractions include horse stables, produce stands, and Jackson Marsh State Natural Area hunting grounds. In the fall, Cedarburg Creek Farm has a pumpkin patch and hayrides. Hidden Glen at Bentdale Farms has membership-only golfing and social events. Located just 3 miles north of the village, the annual Washington County Fair draws large crowds for animal shows, carnival rides and tractor pulls.
A 40-minute commute to Milwaukee and Waukesha
Jackson is only a few miles from Interstate 41, which connects south to Milwaukee, about 25 miles away. The drive is typically around 40 minutes, but it can get longer with traffic. The large city has an international airport. Waukesha is about the same distance away. Jackson is home to an industrial hub with several manufacturing companies, and is less than 5 miles away from Froedtert West Bend Hospital.
Written By
Catherine Lashley
