Martin Drive is rooted in history, yet moving forward
Two American icons were born in Martin Drive — one a beverage company, and the other a company for fast-moving machines. The area that gave rise to Miller Brewing Company and Harley-Davidson remains historic and heavily industrial. Still, it's not just tied to the past. With new developments, high accessibility and an engaged community, the neighborhood is constantly improving and looking forward, with increasing home values to match.
Harley-Davidson is headquartered in Martin Drive.
Martin Drive is home to two industry giants and prominent employers.
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Home styles and increasing prices in Martin Drive
About 400 homes are in the neighborhood, taking up a small slice of its footprint. Still, the mostly one-way streets are packed with charm, with 1920s Craftsman-style homes behind tall trees and sidewalks. Tudor Revivals, bungalows, Cape Cods, American Foursquares and Victorian cottages are common styles, ranging from under $100,000 to the low $300,000s. Prices are lower than in nearby Milwaukee neighborhoods, such as Wick Field, Story Hill, Washington Heights and Concordia, and especially lower than in Wauwatosa. "It's an up-and-coming pocket that's great for homebuyers who can't find something in Wauwatosa within their price range," says Daniel Balderas, broker and owner of Modern MilwauKey Real Estate. He says that homes sell quickly and prices are going up. "If I were a buyer and came across a deal, I'd jump on it and hold onto it for a few years to build some equity." The area also has multifamily homes with two or three units, priced from the mid-$100,000s to the low $300,000s.
Tudor Revival and other early 1900s homes are standard.
A cozy Bungalow in the neighborhood.
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Home to Miller Brewing Company and Harley-Davidson
In 1855, German emigrant Frederick Miller purchased the existing Plank Road Brewery and founded Miller Brewing Company, which still operates in the neighborhood. Miller's beers grew in number and reputation to become the staples they're known as today. Visitors can tour the original location, which highlights the caves where kegs were kept cold before modern refrigeration, using ice blocks from Lake Michigan.
In 1906, William S. Harley and his childhood friends, Arthur and William Davidson, carried a toolbox and several crates of mechanical parts into a shed on what is today Juneau Avenue — and rode out on some of the first Harley-Davidson motorcycles. The brand gained fame over the past century. Although the motorcycle manufacturing plants are located elsewhere, the Juneau Avenue location remains the company's headquarters and a prominent feature of Martin Drive.
Catch the Brewers play at American Family Field near Martin Drive.
Martin Drive is home to two industry giants and prominent employers.
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Commuting and transportation options around Martin Drive
Despite the high importance and production of Martin Drive businesses, "There's not a lot of foot traffic or regular traffic. So, it's a surprisingly quiet area," Balderas says. He also describes Martin Drive as a central location, close to West Vliet Street, Washington Park, a Milwaukee police station and the eastern border of Wauwatosa. To get around, head south on Route 175 to reach Interstate 94, or take Wisconsin Avenue directly east to downtown Milwaukee, about 3 miles away. Buses stop on West State Street, Highland Boulevard, Vliet Street and North 35th Street, and bike lanes are along some main roads.
Miller Brewing Company is one of the largest employees in area.
Residents enjoy being close to Harley-Davidson.
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A neighborhood association organizes community events
Locals take advantage of the quiet area, maintaining their lawns, meeting with neighbors and enjoying the quiet roads. "You'll see kids riding bikes and families walking their dogs in the neighborhood," Balderas says. "There aren't a lot of stores, bars, gas stations and things of the sort. So, it's uncommon for people to drive through the area unless they live there." If you're looking for social connection, the Martin Drive Neighborhood Association hosts community events and projects throughout the year:
The Bloom and Groom Plant Sale offers residents flowering plants at low prices in an effort to connect neighbors and beautify the community.
An annual picnic, called the Summer Sizzle, invites you to mingle with elected officials, Milwaukee police and learn about city resources.
A neighborhood-wide summer rummage sale provides residents with an opportunity to refresh their homes and connect with one another.
Martin Drive is close to both new and historic parks
Davidson Park on the Harley-Davidson campus is known as The Hub. It's a sunken multiuse amphitheater with a view of the old factory and features over 120 native plant species, walking trails and playgrounds. Washington Park, located north of the neighborhood, is one of Milwaukee's oldest green spaces, designed by the park architect who also designed Central Park in New York City. Amenities include trails, a bandstand that hosts summer concerts, a public pool and splash pad, sports courts and a fishing pond.
A community garden is maintained by the Martin Drive Neighborhood Association.
Known as The Hub, Davidson Park is a sunken multiuse amphitheater that includes over 120 native plant species.
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Restaurants and grocery stores in the area
Fred's Frozen Custard & Grill has been a Milwaukee staple since 1967, serving cheeseburgers, fries and soft-serve ice cream. More frozen treats are available closer to home at Pete's Pops, which makes popsicles in unique flavors like avocado, horchata, salted watermelon and pineapple jalapeno. Fast Stop Food Market is a local convenience store, and Metcalfe's and Metro Market are a few miles in Wauwatosa.
Pete’s Pops serves unique flavor combinations.
Head over to Fred's Frozen Custard for a delicious burger.
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Schooling options near Martin Drive
Milwaukee Public Schools offers school choice, and parents can send their children to any public, charter or magnet school in the district with open space. Nearby options include Story School, James E. Groppi High School and Hawley Environmental School.
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Good neighborhood, it´s pretty good for kids not too far into Milwaukee but not too close to Wauwatosa, somewhere in the middle. Park right across the street great for dogs and community garden. I wish they would fix up the community garden some more but its pretty good now.
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Martin Drive Demographics and Home Trends
On average, homes in Martin Drive, Milwaukee sell after 17 days on the market compared to the national average of 55 days. The median sale price for homes in Martin Drive, Milwaukee over the last 12 months is $222,500, down 12% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
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Formerly a popular and highly profitable daycare during the COVID era, this property offers excellent potential to become a thriving childcare facility once again. Separate tax parcel from 3529 W. Vliet Street; purchase individually or potentially with the adjacent property Easy to show. Please note: there are currently no working lights or plumbing. Buyer to verify zoning, licensing, condition,
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Formerly operated as a daycare during the COVID era, this flexible commercial property offers an established layout ready for a buyer's vision. The upper level features a studio-style space. Potential uses may include childcare, education, nonprofit, community, office, or service-based businesses, subject to approval. Located on W. Vliet Street with good visibility and neighborhood access. Vacant
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Property Id: 2110264 Welcome to your new home at 4266 W Highland in Milwaukee, WI! This charming 3 bedroom, 1 bathroom unit is perfect for you and your furry friends. Enjoy laminate flooring, on-site laundry, off-street parking, and a lovely lawn. Located near parks, this property is a must-see. Don't miss out on this amazing opportunity! Rent for only $1395.00 starting September 1, 2025.
Conveniently located with easy access to everything. Minutes from shops and restaurants. Drive downtown less than 20 mins, along with minutes from main highway.AmenitiesWater, Sewer, Trash Included1 Parking SpotAppliances – Range and RefrigeratorLease Terms | 1 Month leases offered with continuous renewal options. Deposit equal to first month’s rent, but must make at
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Spacious 3-bedroom, 1-bath apartment in Milwaukee featuring a full kitchen with oven—ideal for home cooking and meal preparation. The unit offers off-street parking for convenient vehicle access and is situated near local schools, parks, and dining options, providing easy access to everyday needs and recreational spaces. Practical layout and location make this apartment a comfortable choice for
Don’t miss this beautifully updated 3 bedroom, 1 bathroom lower unit—perfectly situated in a great neighborhood with easy access to shopping, dining, and major routes.This home comes fully equipped with a working fireplace and all appliances included: refrigerator, oven/stove, dishwasher, washer, and dryer—making move-in a breeze! You’ll also enjoy the convenience of off-street
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