Milwaukee's friendly, outdoorsy neighbor to the south
Though its name might suggest otherwise, South Milwaukee is more than just Milwaukee's southern neighbor. This compact city near Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport is home to one of the county's largest public parks and has nearly 3 miles of Lake Michigan shoreline. Civic pride is abundant in the city, and local government brings new events and businesses to its steadily growing downtown. The community maintains a neighborly spirit imprinted on Ericka Lang, the city's economic development manager. "I can't believe how friendly everyone is. I make new friends every time I go to Pick 'n Save in the checkout," she says. "It's a community you almost don't want to tell anybody about."
There are miles of beautiful beaches in South Milwaukee.
Enjoy the "haunts on nature" at 7 Bridges in South Milwaukee.
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Bird watching in Wisconsin's Bird City
Grant Park is South Milwaukee's primary recreational space, occupying almost 400 acres along Lake Michigan. In summer, its beach draws crowds for swimming, kayaking and playing sand volleyball. The park's year-round draw is the Seven Bridges trail. This nearly century-old ravine network has several bridges, cliff observatories and bird-watching spots. South Milwaukee was designated Bird City Wisconsin because of its nesting habitats, many of which are in Grant Park. "In the spring and the fall, we're on the direct route of many of the songbirds that flock south in the winter and north in the summer," says Richard Thinnes, president of the South Milwaukee Historical Society. South Milwaukee Yacht Club is a destination for boaters just south of Grant Park. Inland activities include trips along Oak Creek Parkway, a 4-mile trail following a winding waterway. Trees surrounding the trail prevent seasonal creek flooding from impacting homes.
Walk through 7 Bridges and find your self on the shores of Lake Michigan in South Milwaukee.
Walk, roll or swim to South Milwaukee.
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Nonprofits support downtown South Milwaukee's growth
Downtown South Milwaukee, known as The Avenue, is the city's primary commercial center, where murals decorate several buildings. The city S.M.ALL Business Program connects entrepreneurs with financial resources, generating growth in the downtown area. Local nonprofits, such as The Bucyrus Foundation, fund other incentive programs. The foundation's grants revitalize historic storefronts and build new community spaces, including Bucyrus Commons, where summertime concerts and the South Milwaukee Downtown Market occur. The market occurs every Thursday afternoon from May to October, along with seasonal popups in spring and winter.
Visit with Mr. Moran himself while your Guinness settles at Moran's in South Milwaukee.
Locals have fun in the sun at Grant Park Beach.
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New construction coming to downtown in Fall 2026
The city has many homes dating back to the late 1800s and early 1900s, including duplexes, ranch-style homes, Tudor cottages and brick Colonial Revivals. Condos and townhouses are also available. New multifamily apartments are expected to open in the heart of downtown by fall 2026. The city's median home price is around $272,000, less than the national median.
Affordable duplexes can be found a block from Lake Michigan in South Milwaukee.
Homes of all shapes and sizes can be found in South Milwaukee.
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One of Wisconsin's most diverse school districts
The South Milwaukee School District runs a half-dozen schools around the city, serving roughly 2,800 students. It earns a B-minus Niche grade and ranks among the top 20 most diverse school districts in Wisconsin. The city's private options include Zion Evangelical Lutheran School, Divine Mercy Catholic School and Guidance Academy, a kindergarten through 12th-grade school rooted in Islamic tradition. All three schools are ungraded by Niche.
Rawson Elementary School serves roughly one-quarter of South Milwaukee's K-5 students.
South Milwaukee High School connects to South Milwaukee Middle School.
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Taking Route 794 into Milwaukee
Many residents have quick commutes as major employers in and around the city include Caterpillar Global Mining, South Milwaukee School District and Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport. State Route 794 in Cudahy provides the quickest driving route to downtown Milwaukee, about 10 miles away. Several bus stops are along State Route 32, South Milwaukee's primary thoroughfare. Traffic and noise levels along this road rise around downtown, but the route offers access to the entire city. The closest hospital is Aurora Health Center, located downtown.
Caterpillar employs much of South Milwaukee.
Head north on 794 and be in downtown Milwaukee in 15 minutes.
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Honoring the man who made Milwaukee
Although each of the city's annual events is unique, many hold a common thread: an appearance by Sam the Sasquatch, the city's mascot. People find him in the parade during Heritage Days and spreading holiday cheer during Christmas at the Commons. CrusherFest is one of the city's largest events, celebrating the life and legacy of Reggie "Da Crusher" Lisowski, a professional wrestler and lifelong South Milwaukee resident. People honor "The Man That Made Milwaukee Famous" by coming together to enjoy local bands, fresh barbeque and live wrestling matches. The South Milwaukee Performing Arts Center holds shows year-round, from school-affiliated performances to an annual concert series. The Downtown Mural Initiative raises money for more public art through the Annual Mural Painting Party, a collaboration between local businesses and artists.
There are 3 farmer's markets in or near South Milwaukee, on different days in the summer.
South Milwaukee Little League has been celebrating opening day for 70 years.
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Crime rates stay steady
The South Milwaukee Police Department reports that the city's violent and property crime rates have remained relatively unchanged between 2021 and 2023.
Written By
Isabel Butler
Photography Contributed By
Hayley McCormick
Video By
Andrew Perrius
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GreatSchools:
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On average, homes in South Milwaukee, WI sell after 4 days on the market compared to the national average of 70 days. The median sale price for homes in South Milwaukee, WI over the last 12 months is $525,000, up 69% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Spacious 4 bedroom, 2 bathroom home in South Milwaukee with tons of potential! Featuring 2 bedrooms and a full bath on each level, this layout offers flexibility for families or guests. The home has great bonesperfect for anyone ready to add their personal touch and updates. A 2-car garage offers added value with a little TLC. Located near parks and green spaces, this is a fantastic opportunity
Great opportunity for an investment property in South Milwaukee. This 3/2 duplex is close to public transportation, restaurants, and easy access to the freeway. Updates include Roofing and Siding done in 2020, Newer Water heaters(2019), newer furnaces(2019), newer Vinyl Windows. Act fast, this one will not last at this price!
Ryan YurkColdwell Banker HomeSale Realty - Wauwatosa
Step into a spacious living room that flows seamlessly into the dining area, perfect for gatherings and everyday living. The beautifully remodeled kitchen, conveniently located off the dining room, features modern updates that are sure to impress. Enjoy the expansive family room, offering direct access to a spectacular back deckideal for outdoor entertaining or relaxing in the sun. The main level
Spacious 4 bedroom, 2 bathroom home in South Milwaukee with tons of potential! Featuring 2 bedrooms and a full bath on each level, this layout offers flexibility for families or guests. The home has great bonesperfect for anyone ready to add their personal touch and updates. A 2-car garage offers added value with a little TLC. Located near parks and green spaces, this is a fantastic opportunity
Great opportunity for an investment property in South Milwaukee. This 3/2 duplex is close to public transportation, restaurants, and easy access to the freeway. Updates include Roofing and Siding done in 2020, Newer Water heaters(2019), newer furnaces(2019), newer Vinyl Windows. Act fast, this one will not last at this price!
Ryan YurkColdwell Banker HomeSale Realty - Wauwatosa
Step into a spacious living room that flows seamlessly into the dining area, perfect for gatherings and everyday living. The beautifully remodeled kitchen, conveniently located off the dining room, features modern updates that are sure to impress. Enjoy the expansive family room, offering direct access to a spectacular back deckideal for outdoor entertaining or relaxing in the sun. The main level
The Reserve on South Towne welcomes you! This tranquil community, surrounded by trees, parks, and walking trails gives you a quiet residential feel while being 15 minutes away from the city! Located conveniently in South Milwaukee, this community is close to the Oak Creek Parkway, Playgrounds, Grant Park, College Ave, and the airport! This community features pools, and plenty of green space for
Newbury Place Apartments offers one and two bedroom single level homes, nestled in a quiet Oak Creek community.Key Features:- Private Apartment Entrances- Individual Private Entry Porch offered- No Shared Common Hallways or Entrances- Forced Central Air - Individual Apartment Heating Furnaces- All Appliances Included (Fridge, Electric Stove w/ Exhaust Hood,
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.
