Before French Canadian fur traders colonized it, the land on which the City of Oconomowoc sits was inhabited by the Potawatomi people. The population grew after a rail station was constructed in 1896, bringing in vacationers who built lodge-style estates along the community’s three lakes: Lac La Belle, Lake Fowler and Oconomowoc Lake. A downtown area and several neighborhoods soon formed around the latter two lakes. The city’s name is derived from Coo-no-mo-wauk, the tribe’s word for waterfall. True to that name, a waterfall cascades over the Fowler Lake Dam into Lac La Belle.
Over time, Oconomowoc evolved into a place where most people stayed year-round. “Once you spend time here, you want to live here,” says Realtor Bonnie Lewis-Tschannen, who has been a resident for 20 years and sells homes with Stapleton Realty. “The first thing we noticed was the quaint downtown and that people were friendly right away. It felt like we had always lived here.”
The number of seasonal residents has increased in recent years, similar to how things were a century ago. “Short-term rentals have gained a lot in popularity over the past five years,” Lewis-Tschannen says. “Since more people work remotely now, if they want to spend the month of August here with family, they can do that.”
Today, the city has roughly 9,000 full-time residents, with the population expanding by almost 20% since 1990. “There has been a substantial amount of sprawl outside of the downtown as Oconomowoc has grown,” says Realtor Liz Tobolt, who sells homes with First Weber Real Estate. “It still has a nice hometown feel.”
There has been a substantial amount of sprawl outside of downtown as Oconomowoc has grown.
Downtown Oconomowoc is quaint and lively during any season.
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Suburban contemporaries and lodges on the lake
The median single-family home price is $540,000, more than double Milwaukee’s median price and more than the national median around $400,000. Since 2020, home prices increased by more than 30%, consistent with national trends. Most of the city’s suburban blocks are made up of early 2000s split-levels, ranch-style and contemporary-style homes priced from $240,000 to $600,000. On the southeast corner of town, newly built contemporaries are priced from $520,000 to $780,000. Along the lakes, most of the houses were built as vacation homes between the 1910s and ‘40s. These lodge-style homes are priced from $800,000 to $2.6 million. The city’s condos and townhouses are priced from $220,000 to $360,000.
Since Oconomowoc was built in Wisconsin’s Lake Country lowlands, some residential parts of the city are highly prone to flooding.
Split level homes are popular in Oconomowoc.
Lodge-style, lake homes were built in the 1940's and add to Oconomowoc's charm.
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Spending time on the water
The area’s key recreational feature is its lake access. Overlooking Fowler Lake, Fowler Lake Park has grills, a basketball court, tennis courts and a fishing pier. Some residents join the Oconomowoc Yacht Club, which has a kitchen, a ballroom and motorboat docks overlooking Oconomowoc Lake. In the summer, the city holds free Friday night concerts at the Rhodee Memorial Bandshell, which overlooks the beach. During Memorial Day and the Fourth of July, residents watch fireworks shows from the beaches or their boats.
The city experiences harsh winters and nighttime temperatures often sink below zero degrees Fahrenheit. “Since the lakes freeze over in the winter, people can skate and ice fish,” Tobolt says.
There are several public greenspaces within walking distance of residents. The city is home to Oconomowoc Golf Club, a private club that has been open since 1916. Other golf clubs and parks are connected by Lake County Trail, a 15-mile-long paved bike path. Its trailhead is located at Roosevelt Park, which has an ADA-compliant playground and a skate park. Oconomowoc Historical Museum is next to the park and tells the city’s story using model train sets and miniature landscapes.
Winter does not stop the residents of Oconomowoc from enjoying their lakes.
Oconomowoc Golf Club is a private club that has been open since 1916.
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The downtown where The Wizard of Oz premiered
Oconomowoc has a flourishing downtown area called East Wisconsin Avenue, where boutique shops, cafés, wine bars and international dining options are based out of connected brick buildings from the late 19th century. There are also multiple lakeside restaurants within a 2-mile drive of the city. Twisted Fire serves craft beer and prime steak in a rustic environment. Weissgerber's Golden Mast Inn serves fine surf and turf dishes in an atmosphere modeled after the dining quarters of an old sailing ship. Various produce markets and grocery stores are within a mile of most residents.
The classic film "The Wizard of Oz" premiered at Oconomowoc’s Strand Theatre in 1939, and the city celebrates the anniversary every year. “People gather downtown for "The Wizard of Oz" festival, which always features an outdoor showing of the movie,” Tobolt says. The downtown also has a swirling yellow brick design and life-sized sculptures of the film’s characters.
The Wizard of Oz premiered at Oconomowoc's Strand Theater in 1939.
The food and the hospitality at Twisted Fire in Oconomowoc will keep you coming back again and again.
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Highly rated public schools
The Oconomowoc Area School District has an A-minus Niche rating and a 97% graduation rate. The district’s reading and math proficiencies are well above the state and national averages.
For after-school study time or socialization, Oconomowoc Public Library holds writing workshops, fiber arts circles and book clubs.
The Oconomowoc Library is a popular place at all times of day.
Oconomowoc has highly-rated public schools.
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Getting around Wisconsin
Wisconsin Highway 16 and Interstate 94 take commuters 34 miles east to Milwaukee, while Interstate 94 takes them 50 miles west to Madison. Top employers in Milwaukee include Northwestern Mutual, Harley-Davidson and several not-for-profit healthcare companies. Madison’s top employers include General Electric, Cummins and Promega. Wisconsin Highway 67 runs through the city. The nearest major airport is Milwaukee Mitchell International.
Residents have access to ProHealth Oconomowoc Memorial Hospital.
The closest airport to Oconomowoc is Milwaukee's Mitchell Airport about an hour away.
Residents have access to ProHealth Oconomowoc Memorial Hospital.
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Crime
According to FBI data, the city’s violent and nonviolent crime rates are below the state and national averages.
Written By
William Palicia
Photography Contributed By
Hayley McCormick
Video By
David Fritzson
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
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GreatSchools:
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On average, homes in Oconomowoc, WI sell after 40 days on the market compared to the national average of 55 days. The median sale price for homes in Oconomowoc, WI over the last 12 months is $565,573, consistent with the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
A rare offering on Lower Nashotah Lake, where modern luxury meets the serenity of the Northwoods. Privately set on over an acre and approached by a tree-lined drive, this custom new-construction residence offers 100 feet of pristine lake frontage and a forever pier. Three beautifully designed levels showcase soaring 10-foot ceilings, 8-foot doors, wide-plank wood floors and dramatic
Discover the charm of lake living in this inviting 2-bedroom, 2-bath home on beautiful Okauchee Lake! Nestled on a quiet no-wake bay with 50 feet of frontage, this property offers the perfect balance of relaxation and recreation. Enjoy morning coffee or sunset gatherings on the spacious lakeside deck, entertain on the expansive patio, and take advantage of two private docks for all your boating
Welcome to easy, elevated living in Hickory Creek. This custom home on a quiet cul-de-sac, pairs thoughtful design in a convenient Oconomowoc setting. The beautifully remodeled kitchen and new wood floors flow into a welcoming family room, where the fireplace sets the scene for cozy nights at home. A versatile first-floor flex space is ready for a home office, formal dining room or whatever fits
A rare offering on Lower Nashotah Lake, where modern luxury meets the serenity of the Northwoods. Privately set on over an acre and approached by a tree-lined drive, this custom new-construction residence offers 100 feet of pristine lake frontage and a forever pier. Three beautifully designed levels showcase soaring 10-foot ceilings, 8-foot doors, wide-plank wood floors and dramatic
Opportunity awaits on beautiful Silver Lake! With 58 feet of pristine lake frontage and a spacious yard backing directly to the Lake Country Bike Trail, this property offers an incredible setting with endless potential. The existing 3-bedroom, 1.5-bath home is in need of significant renovation and is being offered as a true fixer-upper. Features include an eat-in kitchen, living room, den, large
Deeded pier and boat slip on Lac La Belle - Located just steps from the heart of downtown Oconomowoc, this spacious 4-bed, 3-bath home offers the perfect blend of comfort, convenience, and lake-area living. Enjoy lake-access rights to beautiful Lac La Belle, along with a mix of shopping, creative local restaurants, and inclusive community parks within walking distance. The home boasts updated
Discover the charm of lake living in this inviting 2-bedroom, 2-bath home on beautiful Okauchee Lake! Nestled on a quiet no-wake bay with 50 feet of frontage, this property offers the perfect balance of relaxation and recreation. Enjoy morning coffee or sunset gatherings on the spacious lakeside deck, entertain on the expansive patio, and take advantage of two private docks for all your boating
Live the Lac La Belle lifestyle in one of Oconomowoc's most sought-after communities. Residents enjoy access to the neighborhood pier on Lac La Belle, plus community amenities including a pool & tennis courts. Walk around the lake, golf at nearby The Club at Lac La Belle, and enjoy the beauty of Lake Country right outside your door. Set on a private .72-acre lot, this newer construction,
Welcome to easy, elevated living in Hickory Creek. This custom home on a quiet cul-de-sac, pairs thoughtful design in a convenient Oconomowoc setting. The beautifully remodeled kitchen and new wood floors flow into a welcoming family room, where the fireplace sets the scene for cozy nights at home. A versatile first-floor flex space is ready for a home office, formal dining room or whatever fits
Modern living at its finest in these 3bed, 3bath townhome-style ranch condos. COMPLETION est for 4/27. Two Condos still available. Open & thoughtful floorplans flow seamlessly, meeting the needs of every day living while maintaining that WOW factor you can feel proud to share w/guests. Beautiful kitchen designed for functionality includes full appliance package, island w/quartz tops, & walk in
Tired of competing for homes that still aren't quite right? Stop competing and start building instead! This beautiful .48-acre flat, level lot offers a rare chance to create exactly what you want in the heart of Lake Country. Bring your own builder, enjoy no HOA and no timeline to build, plus mature trees and an established setting without the feel of a typical new subdivision. Minutes from
MOVE IN READY! 4-bedroom, 2 full bath, 2 half bath home in sought-after Pine Ridge Estates! Situated on a beautiful corner lot, you'll enjoy walking distance to parks, shopping, dining, and everyday conveniences, all within a highly rated school district. This well-maintained home offers 2,700 sq ft , a versatile main-floor flex room, convenient upstairs laundry, and a finished basement for
Tucked within the Village Crossings Condos at Pabst Farms, this beautifully maintained condo feels like a new build. A calming, neutral palette complements a variety of design styles, while the open-concept main level is designed for both everyday living and entertaining. The spacious kitchen features a large island perfect for gathering around. The finished lower level adds additional living and
You will find this home tucked away on a dead-end street, bordering historic Merchants Plat. With three levels of lakeside enjoyment on Lac La Belle, this home has its own sandy beach, 61.5 feet of frontage, and a boathouse renovated in 2011. The setting feels both peaceful and connected, with spaces designed for everyday living, quiet nights in, and easy gatherings. Cozy mornings and evenings
The Frederick brings a refined living experience to the heart of Oconomowoc, surrounded by the beauty and recreation of Wisconsin’s renowned Lake Country. This thoughtfully designed community blends modern comfort with neo-farmhouse inspiration, creating a warm and elevated place to call home. Enjoy garden-style buildings featuring spacious one-, two-, and three-bedroom floor plans with
Welcome to The Worthington, perfectly positioned along beautiful Lac LaBelle, The Worthington offers stunning lake views and unbeatable walkability, just steps from the library, post office, banks, the beach, local restaurants, and more.Choose from thoughtfully designed one- and two-bedroom apartment homes featuring granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, soaring nine- and
There's no better place to experience the best of Lake Country living. At The Locklyn Apartments in Ocnomowoc, Wisconsin, you get easy access to all the places you love, plus the serenity of a community that makes you feel completely at home.
Now under new ownership and management. Joseph Property Development is excited to be managing Whitman Park Apartments! Welcome to Whitman Park Apartments in charming Oconomowoc, WI! These spacious two-bedroom apartment homes offer an inviting atmosphere, spacious living areas and ample storage. Enjoy beautifully landscaped grounds, convenient parking, and easy access to local shops, dining, and
Enjoy Beautiful Silver Lake with Clear, Sandy bottoms for swimming and great fishing ! This home features lake/beach access, potentially a boat slip, and a beautiful lake view ! Plenty of room in this 2200 square feet, four bedroom, three bathroom, two story home on beautiful clear Silver Lake. Attached three and a half car garage for all your toys ! Extensive multi level deck/patio area with
The Gateway Apartments offer the energy and convenience of downtown, coupled with the serenity and beauty of Lake Country. We are blocks to Lake Fowler and the beach. The Gateway is also only steps away from restaurants, shops, and entertainment. Enjoy the many concerts and festivals near Lac La Belle, and watch the parades, holiday lights, and Holiday Train from your balcony! Outside, The
Morningside Orchard Apartments offers both one and two bedroom units. We also have fully furnished executive apartments with flexible lease options. There is a beautiful heated pool area, and we are close to the downtown area for restaurants, city parks and beaches.
Norden Range is a beautiful, no-compromise community designed to provide the highest quality of apartment living. Each residence is thoughtfully designed and detailed to support a homelike experience. Over-sized windows fill every room with abundant natural light while offering vistas of the spacious grounds. Large walk-in closets and generous storage spaces support an active lifestyle. Our
Parkside offers 2 Bedroom Uppers and Lower Apartments. Storage Locker with Each Apartment. **Stove, Refrigerator, AC Unit**Coin Operated Washer/Dryer in Basement** Detached Garage -Selected Apartments Parking Lot No Pets or Visiting PetsGreat Community, Great Location. Nearby Downtown, Beach, and Roosevelt Park/Bike Trail 24 Hour After Hour Maintenance Emergency Office
Find your home at River Park Apartments in Oconomowoc, WI. You can walk just a few blocks to the beautiful nearby lake - Lac La Belle! Chaffee Road Park is also just one block away! Our community is perfectly located for those looking to live outside of the hustle and bustle of the city while maintaining an easy commute to and from work or school. River Park Apartments are perfect for those
Experience all the luxuries you desire at The Preserve at Prairie Creek Apartments in Oconomowoc. This pristine community in exclusive Lake Country is your place to call home. Our ideal location allows you to walk to grocery, specialty stores and restaurants for a truly carefree living experience.The Preserve at Prairie Creek offers spacious one, two and three-bedroom innovative floor plans which
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