Just 25 miles south of downtown Milwaukee, Racine is a small Wisconsin city sitting on the shores of Lake Michigan and the Root River. Once it was incorporated in 1841, the city became a central port and manufacturing center and eventually was the home of big-name products like Windex and Pledge. Today, the area’s largest employers include SC Johnson and the tractor manufacturer New Holland.
The city has a population of 77,000 spread across 15 square miles. It is located on the east end of Racine County, which also encompasses the smaller towns of Burlington, Waterford and Mount Pleasant. Racine is the fifth-largest city in Wisconsin, with some of the lowest housing costs in the state. “There is also a lot of green space,” says Kimberly Mann, Realtor with Real Realtors. “It’s also right on Lake Michigan and has the Root River running through it. There are many homes with views of the water.”
In Racine there are many homes right on the water.
Frank Lloyd Wright designed an office for SC Johnson where many Racine residents work.
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Low price tags and newly renovated homes
Most of Racine’s homes date back to the early and mid-20th century, with many new-to-the-market homes featuring recent renovations and modern upgrades. The median home price is $197,250, up 8% from the previous year, making the city somewhat more affordable than surrounding communities like Kenosha and Milwaukee. Fixer-uppers needing major renovations can hit the market for $80,000, and empty, quarter-acre lots for $30,000. The standard 1,500 square foot Cape Cod goes for $180,000, while the high end of the market features elaborate American foursquares with 4,000 square feet or more and prices that can reach $900,000. “The people who choose Racine may not want a large yard,” Mann says. “In the city of Racine, you find lots that get as small as .08 acres.” Numerous downtown development projects are currently in the works, including a 200-unit apartment building to be completed in 2024 and two 80-unit buildings across town at Belle City Square.
A gorgeous row of homes in the 12th Ward look out over Lake Michigan.
New developments are popping up all over Racine including this 200 unit beauty on the lake.
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Racine Unified School District
Local families are served by the Racine Unified School District, which earns a C-plus overall grade from Niche, with B-minus ratings for its teachers and college preparatory initiatives. The district serves over 16,000 students with an average teacher-to-student ratio of 13-1. There are 11 elementary schools, four kindergarten through eighth-grade schools, four middle schools and six high schools across the area. Impressive B and B-plus grades are associated with The R.E.A.L. School and Walden III Middle and High School.
The Racine Engineering Arts and Leadership School, known by locals as The R.E.A.L. School, is a choice school serving students in grades six through 12 with an Impressive A-minus rating on its teachers. Walden III Middle and High School gets the highest ratings in the city, with the High School being the third best public high school in Racine County.
Walden III Middle & High School serves about 715 students in Racine,WI.
Walden III Middle & High School serves about 715 students in Racine,WI.
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Shopping Sixth Street and Regency Mall, Dining Downtown
Residents of Racine can peruse the storefronts on Sixth Street for boutique shopping or date nights at local eateries, with Lake Michigan serving as a backdrop. Casual Restaurants with American pub fare are common here, including popular waterfront spots like Reefpoint Brew House, Corner House on the Lake and Chartroom.
The city’s art scene can also be seen along the streets of downtown. Folks can catch local productions at the 6th Street Theater or the Racine Theatre Guild. The Racine Art Museum features local artwork, with around seven rotating exhibitions. The museum also hosts dozens of events throughout the year, including art classes, craft workshops and speaker presentations.
Target, Festival Foods, Piggly Wiggly and Walmart are the community’s popular stops for groceries and household essentials, and Regency Mall is home to over 30 shops and restaurants.
Downtown Racine holds local shops like Vintage and Modern Books.
The Racine Theatre Guild has been entertaining Racine since 1938.
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Outdoor recreation and community gatherings
Waterfront recreation is a staple of life here, whether on the sandy shores of Lake Michigan or the banks of the Root River. North Beach and Zoo Beach are both just north of downtown, and in the summer months, locals can be found lounging on the sand and swimming in the lake’s cool water. Running parallel to the beaches is the Lake Michigan Pathway, a paved, 10-mile trail with picturesque views of the water ideal for walking, running and biking. “We have over 80 parks in our city,” Mann says. “And that doesn’t include the parks run by the county.”
From June to December, on the first Friday of each month, locals flock to downtown Racine for First Fridays, where they shop among local vendors, listen to live music and enjoy the company of neighbors.
The 12th Ward is situated on stunning Lake Michigan.
Head to downtown Racine from Manree Park for First Fridays.
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Crime, Environmental Risks and Weather
Crime data from the FBI indicates the violent crime rate in Racine was 67 per 100,000 in December of 2023, lower than the national rate of 120 and a rate of 68 across the state of Wisconsin. Property crime rates in Racine were 75 per 100,000, compared to a national rate of 180 and a statewide rate of 101.
Environmental risks are limited, with only 17% of Racine properties facing a risk of flood impact over the next 30 years. Fire and wind risks are also minimal, though data indicates the air quality in Racine is worse than 98% of cities in Wisconsin.
The warmest months in Racine are June to September. During that time, temperatures average above 71 degrees during the day and roughly 60 degrees at night. The coldest months are December to March, and temperatures average below 40 degrees during the day. The coldest month tends to be January, which normally brings an average of 4.2 inches of snow each year.
RYDE Racine Buses and Interstate Travel to Major Airports
Local commuters take either state Route 32 along the lake to Milwaukee or a short drive west to hop on Interstate 94 North. Both routes take around 40 minutes. RYDE Racine is the community’s public transit system and has bus stops throughout the city, with nine different routes. The bus takes locals as far north as the Greentree Shopping Center on Douglas Avenue, west to Grandview and south to Chicory Road. For long-distance travel, residents can head 35 minutes north to the Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport or 70 minutes south to Chicago’s O’Hare International Airport.
A 10-year Plan Focused on Growth
Racine’s 10-year plan shows the city’s leaders are focused on growing the job market, improving access to affordable housing and reducing crime. To accomplish this, the city looks to build out the business districts of Downtown Racine, Uptown, West Racine and Douglas. Investments will concentrate on developing commercial and residential projects, parks, lakefront, and riverfront.
New innovations are developing in Racine every day.
Racine is a beautiful, Wisconsin town on the shores of Lake Michigan.
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Written By
Konrad Solberg
Photography Contributed By
Hayley McCormick
Video By
Andrew Perrius
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Anthony Wooden,
an experienced agent in this area.
On average, homes in Racine, WI sell after 20 days on the market compared to the national average of 53 days. The median sale price for homes in Racine, WI over the last 12 months is $240,000, up 14% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
This charming single family brick ranch is bursting with potential and ready for your own personal touch. Featuring 3 cozy bedrooms and 2 full bathrooms, this home offers plenty of space for family, guests or a home office. The nearly finished basement, which includes a family room with a natural fireplace makes for all kinds of potential fun. Step outside into a fenced back yard with some nice
Beautifully maintained home on nearly 1/2 acre in the city of Racine. Offering a rare blend of county feel and city convenience! Pride of homeownership shines throughout with updates completed over the years including New Siding (Garage), New Gutters, flooring in dining room all within the last 5 years. Everdry waterproofing done to basement years ago with a lifetime transferrable warranty! And
Nestled in Caledonia's serene northside haven, this enchanting retreat evokes quiet joys and hearty gatherings. A lush, fully fenced yard with mature trees and composite deck invites lazy afternoons, playful space and starlit evenings;. Sunlight spills into open living spaces. The kitchen glows with warmthsleek gray shaker cabinets, stainless appliances all nurture easy mornings, spilling into a
Beautifully maintained two-family home showcasing stunning original woodwork and timeless character throughout. Each unit offers generous living spaces filled with warmth and charm, complemented by high ceilings and natural wood trim. Recent updates include modernized electrical systems, providing peace of mind for owners and investors alike. Whether you're seeking a spacious owner-occupied
Your turnkey HQ with additional incomeaon a budget Put your shingle on Lathrop Ave and let this property work two jobs for you. The front is a clean, highly visible street-level officeaperfect for a boutique practice, studio, salon, or professional services. In back/above is a separate 2-bedroom apartment for steady rental income or live-work convenience. At this price point, it's hard to beat a
The site currently includes a Flex Gym, boasting new HVAC systems and updated lighting, ensuring a comfortable and efficient workout environment. Additional tenants include a well-established nail salon, Yellow Ginger restaurant, and a WIC office, catering to a variety of community needs. Family Furniture and Family Dollar further enhance the convenience of this location. Ample parking is
Breakwater 233 is a brand-new residential community in downtown Racine, Wisconsin, situated on Lake Michigans lakefront. It offers a lifestyle that blends tranquility with urban convenience and sophistication.The community is within walking distance of downtown Racine's shops, restaurants, arts, and entertainment. Residents can also easily access a world-class beach, making it ideal for
Beautifully furnished 1-bedroom, 1.5-bath condo at the At Water Condominiums, where the Root River meets Lake Michigan. This luxury unit features custom finishes, an open-concept layout with stunning water views, a designer kitchen with high-end appliances, and a private balcony to enjoy the lake breeze. The spacious primary suite offers an elegant en-suite bath. Amenities include in-unit
Welcome to The Maples - Racine's premiere apartment community! Now accepting applications for new renovated floor plans! Come and visit our newly remodeled studio, one- and two-bedroom apartment homes. These unique apartments are completely remodeled and included new appliances, cabinets, countertops & flooring. Keep an eye open for our upcoming pet park, grilling areas and fitness center! Our
An expanding major employer and nearby parks and shopping are some of the best parts of living in Buhler Heights. “Microsoft is starting to build a big data center nearby,” Modesti says. “So there are going to be a lot of jobs available.” Microsoft indicates the new plant will add 460 jobs to their Foxconn Campus, roughly 7 miles southwest of Buhler Heights. Amenities closer to Buhler Heights include Lockwood Park, located just across Ohio Street, and a collection of stores and restaurants around the intersection of Washington Avenue and South Green Bay Road.
Ohio Street is lined with sidewalks, but the inner roads of Buhler Heights do not provide walking space. Racine Transit route 86 bus stops line Ohio Street, connecting residents to Racine’s public transit system. Interstate 94 is 7 miles west of the neighborhood and puts downtown Milwaukee about 30 miles away. To head into Downtown Racine, drivers can take Washington Avenue, south of the neighborhood, or Spring Street to the north.
Modesti says there are a handful of popular grocery stores surrounding the neighborhood. Just north of Buhler Heights, residents can pick up groceries at Pick ‘N Save on North Green Bay Road. To the south, there’s a Walmart Neighborhood Market and a Festival Foods on Washington Avenue. Across from Walmart, local burger joint Georgie Porgie’s serves custard, shakes and sundaes with a full menu of signature burgers and sides. East of Georgie Porgie’s on Washington Avenue, The Sanctum Tabletop Gaming Emporium offers a large selection of card and tabletop games and holds regular events for players.
Modesti says Lockwood Park is a popular spot for all sorts of sports. “People go there to play football and soccer,” he says. They’ll fly kites or drones. There’s a big hill there, and in the winter, it’s really fun for sledding.” Northeast of Buhler Heights, Quarry Lake Park holds a brilliantly blue lake that was once a limestone quarry. In the warmer months, the lake attracts kayakers, fishing enthusiasts and swimmers.
With the availability of townhomes and the smaller sizes of the neighborhood’s single-family homes, renting is common in Buhler Heights. But Modesti says most homes, whether rented or owned, are well-maintained. Ranch-style homes dominate the scenery, but colonial-style homes and townhomes add variety to the architectural landscape. Townhomes typically sell from $250,000 to $285,000, while single-family homes sell between $200,000 and $300,000. The median home price is $287,450, up 25% from the previous year.
Pre-kindergarten through fifth-grade students can attend Goodland Montessori School, which earns a B-minus on Niche. Starbuck Middle School earns a C-minus serving students in grades six through eight. As one of Wisconsin’s first public schools, Park High School first opened as Racine High School in 1852, then reopened as Park High School in 1928. Park earns a B-minus.
Within Franksville Park, 5 miles northwest of Buhler Heights, the Franksville Beer Garden combines a local brewery with an event venue. The award-winning space holds weekly events in the summer, including live music, fish fries and food trucks. Downtown Racine is another nearby hotbed of events, less than 4 miles east of Buhler Heights. After Thanksgiving, the Bourbon and Beer on Black Friday event covers four blocks of Racine and features 10 bourbons and 10 bourbon-infused beers.
Country Club Acres is a suburban neighborhood tucked between two of Racine’s largest green spaces. Quarry Lake Park is a major landmark of the Racine area, says Lance Penniston, Realtor with First Weber Realtors in Racine. The other attraction around the neighborhood is Meadowbrook Country Club, which Penniston says draws people to the area with its beautiful greens. “It’s a sought-after place to go in that area.”
Homebuyers looking to move to Country Club Acres have their choice of condos or single-family homes. Condos range in price from roughly $100,000 to $280,000. Split-level and ranch-style homes are popular single-family styles in the neighborhood. They sell between $200,000 and $350,000. The median home price in Country Club Acres is $272,450, up 7% from the previous year.
Fratt Elementary School offers pre-kindergarten through fifth grade and earns a C-minus on Niche. For grades six through twelve, students attend Walden III Middle and High School, which requires all seniors to complete a career portfolio to demonstrate their personal skills and interests. Walden III earns a B-plus.
Roughly half of the neighborhood streets are lined with sidewalks, so the neighborhood receives a walk score of 20/100 from walkscore.com. The neighborhood’s largest thoroughfare, Spring Street, is lined with RYDE Racine route 86 bus stops. Drivers of Country Club Acres can head 7.5 miles west to reach Interstate 94, putting downtown Milwaukee roughly 30 miles away.
Quarry Lake Park spans 40 acres and features a dog park, picnic tables and grills and a blue-hued spring-fed lake that was once a limestone quarry. “There’s a lot of swimming and diving there,” Penniston says. “A lot of kayaking.” Meadowbrook golf course offers Meadowbrook Country Club members 18 holes that spread out over 6,417 yards of serene, wooded greenery. The course was designed by Todd Sloan and opened in 1927, with the back nine opening in the 30s. The course was redesigned by David Gill in 1962. For residents who love the water, Country Club Acres is just 3 miles west of Lake Michigan’s shores and North Beach.
Pico’s Tacos Premier serves locally loved tacos from its restaurant on Spring Street and a food truck that travels the area and frequents popular live events. Also on Spring Street, Blueberry Hilltop Café serves a full menu of breakfast and lunch options. West of the neighborhood, on North Green Bay Road, residents can find all of their grocery needs at Pick ‘N Save. To the southwest, at the intersection of South Green Bay and Washington Avenue, Village Center mall holds national stores like Kohl’s and Five Below.
Winner and nominee of dozens of “Best of Racine” and “Best of Milwaukee” awards, Franksville Beer Garden combines locally brewed beer and live events in Franksville Memorial Park. In the summer, the beer garden hosts weekly events like live music and fish fries, and frequently features local food trucks like Pico’s Taco Truck. On Black Friday, residents can head to Downtown Racine for the Bourbon and Beer on Black Friday annual event, featuring samples from 10 bourbon distillers and 10 bourbon-infused beers.
Walk Score® measures the walkability of any address. Transit Score® measures access to public transit. Bike Score® measures the bikeability of any address. CAP Index provides objective, accurate, and consistent data to help measure, compare, and mitigate crime risks.
Disclaimer: Certain information contained herein is derived from information provided by parties other than Homes.com. Our sources include: Accuweather, Public Records and Neustar. All information provided is deemed reliable, but is not guaranteed to be accurate and should be independently verified.
