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
Lena Oberwetter,
an experienced agent in this area.
GreatSchools:
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On average, homes in Oconomowoc, WI sell after 40 days on the market compared to the national average of 58 days. The median sale price for homes in Oconomowoc, WI over the last 12 months is $559,900, up 1% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Welcome to easy living in this charming 3 bedroom traditional townhouse style condo, nestled in one of Oconomowoc's most unique communities. Featuring resort style amenities including a swimming pool and tennis courts, this complex offers a lifestyle few can match. Inside, a clean and functional layout including; kitchen, dining room and living room; await your personal touch, a true blank canvas
Fully renovated in 2022, this luxurious 4BR, 4.5BA lakefront residence offers over 3,400 sq ft of beautiful living space on coveted Upper Nashotah Lake. Set on a private .84-acre lot with 250' of pristine frontage, the home showcases elevated design, a bright open floor plan, and sweeping lake views throughout. The chef's kitchen features Fisher & Paykel appliances, quartz counters, and a
This is available just in time for the July 4th celebration on Okauchee! Refined lakefront living with 140 ft. of flat frontage on Upper Oconomowoc Lake and full boat access to Okauchee Lake's vibrant dining and entertainment scene. This custom contemporary ranch w/ a full walkout showcases walls of floor-to-ceiling windows, soaring ceilings, fabulous finishes, and breathtaking panoramic lake
Welcome to easy living in this charming 3 bedroom traditional townhouse style condo, nestled in one of Oconomowoc's most unique communities. Featuring resort style amenities including a swimming pool and tennis courts, this complex offers a lifestyle few can match. Inside, a clean and functional layout including; kitchen, dining room and living room; await your personal touch, a true blank canvas
Fully renovated in 2022, this luxurious 4BR, 4.5BA lakefront residence offers over 3,400 sq ft of beautiful living space on coveted Upper Nashotah Lake. Set on a private .84-acre lot with 250' of pristine frontage, the home showcases elevated design, a bright open floor plan, and sweeping lake views throughout. The chef's kitchen features Fisher & Paykel appliances, quartz counters, and a
This is available just in time for the July 4th celebration on Okauchee! Refined lakefront living with 140 ft. of flat frontage on Upper Oconomowoc Lake and full boat access to Okauchee Lake's vibrant dining and entertainment scene. This custom contemporary ranch w/ a full walkout showcases walls of floor-to-ceiling windows, soaring ceilings, fabulous finishes, and breathtaking panoramic lake
Exceptional craftsmanship & modern design in this stunning new construction home by Elegant Builders LLC, Every detail reflects artistry, precision & timeless quality. Desirable Meadowlands subdivision in NW corner of Okauchee Lake. Impressive open-concept ranch on 1 acre lot backs to a conservancy. 4 BRs & 2.5 BAs, including a split floor plan, full primary suite, & 2 more BRs w/shared full BA
Sharing a fantastic new listing for a 2 bedroom, 2 full, 2 half bath condo that truly has it all. This property features a full walkout basement, a two-car garage, and professional landscaping with a private entry and a beautiful wooded backyard. Inside, the home offers a spacious living room centered around a gas fireplace with plenty of natural lighting. The kitchen is well-appointed with a
Image is representative of home; colors may vary. All prices, promotions and specifications are subject to change at any time without notice based on the discretion of Veridian Homes.
Move-in-ready, the Lauren 1805 places the generously sized primary bedroom & shared living spaces - including the gathering room w/ GFP, kitchen, & dining area - at the back of the home for privacy. A large island that doubles as a snack bar, spacious walk-in-pantry, quartz counters & ample storage cabinets in the kitchen provide the perfect space for meal prep. The primary bedroom offers a large
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
Renderings are for illustrative purposes only. Final colors, finishes, and landscaping will differ. All prices, promotions and specifications are subject to change at any time without notice based on the discretion of Veridian Homes.
Move-in Ready 83 ARW Wyatt Cottage Unit A, TWIN HOME! Welcome to Haven, a community of Twin Homes offering low-maintenance living in custom homes with private yards. Monthly association fee of $245 covers lawn mowing, fertilization, and snow removal; plus a la carte seasonal services are available for a separate rate. All are Quality360 certified, meaning they exceed energy-efficiency industry
Renderings are for illustrative purposes only. Final colors, finishes, and landscaping will differ. All prices, promotions and specifications are subject to change at any time without notice based on the discretion of Veridian Homes.
Luxury living on Lower Nemahbin awaits, with over an acre of land and over 3,000 sq ft of beautifully updated space. Enjoy stunning lake views from the master suite, open concept living space, or fully exposed lower level. With access to Upper Nemahbin and Lower Nashotah by water, this home offers both relaxation and recreation. The possibilities are endless with two separate living spaces, 4
Now pre-leasing for first move ins at the end of June 2026!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
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
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
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.
Mandel Group is pleased to offer a tastefully designed apartment community, Hackney House, developed on the iconic Pabst Farms and strategically located just minutes from I-94, offering easy access to Milwaukee and Madison. Hackney House offers a suburban setting with instant access to community amenities, we are just steps from the YMCA, restaurants, coffee shops, grocery stores, and more. With
Nestled in the scenic landscape of Oconomowoc, Wisconsin, Lake Country Village Apartments offers a peaceful retreat with modern comforts and convenient access to shopping, dining, and major highways. Choose from spacious one, two, and three-bedroom floor plans featuring gourmet kitchens, granite countertops, and bright living areas with large windows and private balconies or patios. Enjoy
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
AVAILABLE OCTOBER 15TH. This spacious home located on Upper Nemahbin Lake is perfect for enjoy lake views; lake sports and an all-around Lake Country lifestyle. Walking distance to restaurants and shopping in downtown Delafield. EVERYTHING IS INCLUDED! Fully furnished. Free utilities & Wi-Fi. Has 4 bedrooms and 3 FULL bathrooms. A 2.5 car garage. Also a great rental if you're in-between homes.
Special deal on all remaining units! Receive one month free rent on all unit styles when you start a 12+ month lease by March 31st, 2026. *Restrictions apply, contact our team for details! 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.
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
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.
Oconomowoc School Apartments is a beautifully renovated school house located in downtown Oconomowoc. The building offers that old school charm with over 55 unique floor plans ranging from one bedroom to three bedroom apartments. Each floor plan offers something special from chalkboards to original wood cabinets used during the school days and offers many amenities for your convenience. We invite
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