Every May since the 1950s, residents of Stoughton, Wisconsin, have celebrated Syttende Mai — aka Norweigan Constitution Day — with Viking games, canoe races along the Yahara River and fiddle performances. The city, which is now home to approximately 14,000 people, experienced an influx of Norwegian immigrants throughout the latter half of the 19th- and early 20th century. Many of the Victorian cottages that once housed factory workers still stand today alongside Highway 51 and downtown menus advertise Scandinavian ale pies and kringle. "At one time, 75% of the people here spoke Norwegian," says Clove Rewey, event coordinator for the Stoughton Chamber of Commerce, adding that, although the language is no longer heard at cafe counters and markets, "It's still a big cultural influence." Along with its unique cultural character, Stoughton is also coveted for its central location. The city is just 20 miles from Madison and about 80 from Milwaukee, making it a convenient midway point for commuters.
Syttende Mai Festival in Stoughton celebrates the city's strong Norwegian roots with a parade.
As of the 2020 census, the population of Stoughton was 13,173.
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Century-old housing and brand-new subdivisions
Stoughton's oldest homes, many of which were built at the end of the 1800s, feature decorative Victorian trim. They branch off of Highway 51 on sloped residential streets, and newer properties — built in the late 1990s and early 2000s — can be found in outlying neighborhoods. There are also new construction options in subdivisions like The Meadows at Kettle Park West. The median price for a single-family home in Stoughton is around $380,000, which is less than the national median. Stoughton streets are quiet with little thru traffic, and the city has seen a decrease in overall crime since 2017, according to FBI data.
Many of Stoughton's houses were built in the 19th century, with the average home costing around $380,000.
Someo of Stoughton's newer housing developments like the Meadows at Kettle Park West contain large builds with a suburban feel.
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Long-standing cultural traditions and local heritage centers
In the early 1900s, when immigrants came to Stoughton to work at factories like T.G Mandt's Wagon Works, the vast majority of families spoke Norwegian at home. Many of today's residents are still of Norwegian descent. Livsreise, the Norwegian Heritage Center on Main Street, shares immigrant stories through interactive exhibits. Public art installations downtown also celebrate the city's Scandinavian roots, and the Stoughton High School Norwegian Dancers — clad in traditional Bunad — are scheduled for regular performances at local elementary schools, community centers and more. The city is perhaps best known for Syttende Mai in May, says Rewey. Over the festival weekend, which the Stoughton Chamber of Commerce has been responsible for planning since 1953, residents can attend performances by the Stoughton Village Players, shop for hand-made goods at the Arts & Crafts Fair and watch the parade down Main Street. Rewey also highlights the city's "second biggest" event, the Coffee Break Festival in August. "In the 1800s, 100% of the citizens that lived on Coffee Street were Norwegian, and the women that worked at the tobacco warehouse in town would take what was called a coffee break," she explains. Today, the origin of the popular phrase is celebrated with coffee tastings and a car show.
Visit Livsreise, one of Stoughton's several cultural heritage centers, to learn about the city's history.
The Syttende Mai parade in Stoughton celebrates Norway's May 17th Constitution Day.
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20 public parks, gazebo concerts and trail systems
There are 20 public parks and recreation centers throughout Stoughton, many of which feature playgrounds, picnic tables and wooded walking trails. There's a disc golf course adjacent to Amundson Park, and families set up folding chairs in front of the Rotary Park gazebo for free live music performances throughout the summer, when temperatures rarely exceed 80 degrees and drop down into the 60s at night. Nordic Ridge Park — which also has a popular splash pad — hosts movie nights and the Taste of Stoughton event in June, which includes family games, food stands and live music. Joggers and cyclists make use of the Yahara River and the Virgin Lake Trails, and kayakers navigate the nearby waterways. Snowmobiling is a popular wintertime activity; and the city receives several inches of snow at a time throughout the winter. Hockey teams practice at the Mandt Community Center rink, and nearby Mandt Park serves as the grounds for the Stoughton Fair in July.
On warm days, Stoughton locals can be found enjoying the disc golf course at Amundson Park.
The Yahara River trail in Stoughton provides idyllic nature sanctuary and outdoor exercise.
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A midway point between larger cities
According to Melani Phillips of Luchsinger Realty, "What appeals to people [about Stougton] is that it's a close commute to bigger cities." Madison, a major manufacturing hub home to companies like John Deere and Trek Bicycles, is about 20 miles — or less than 30 minutes — away via County Highway. Milwaukee is 80 miles east along Interstate 94, a drive that typically takes less than an hour and a half. Public transit is limited, and most commuters rely on their own cars. The nearest airport is Dane County Regional in Madison and medical care is accessible at Stoughton Hospital, found within city limits on Ridge Street.
Main Street shopping and dining
Stoughton's historic Main Street, which extends over the Yahara River, is home to most of the city's shopping, dining and entertainment venues. "I would say one of the longest-running businesses would be the Koffee Cup diner. It's a classic Stoughton staple," says Rewey. Downtown, there's an eclectic mix of cheese shops, florists and galleries, and Rewey also points to the Stoughton Opera House, a performance venue known for its distinctive clock tower.
Koffee Cup diner in Stoughton is a staple where locals congregate for breakfast and lunch.
Stoughton's historic Operate House hosts a variety of events, from bluegrass to theatrical performances.
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Traveling Norwegian Dancers at Stoughton High School
Families can enroll their children in the Stoughton Area School District, which has an overall B grade from Niche. The district has three elementary options, one middle school and one high school. Stoughton High School's Norweigian Dancers travel around the state, country and county — and even to Norway — to perform. The Stoughton Public Library offers more educational opportunities, such as book clubs, author lecture series and yoga classes.
Stoughton High School received a B rating from Niche.com.
The Stoughton Public Library has several interesting artifacts and displays pertaining to the town's culture.
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Written By
Sara Caskey
Photography Contributed By
Scott Mason Bittinger
Video By
Aiyshanti Green
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
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On average, homes in Stoughton, WI sell after 51 days on the market compared to the national average of 50 days. The median sale price for homes in Stoughton, WI over the last 12 months is $418,090, up 3% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Eligible buyers may qualify for a 2/1 buy-down (10%+ down): Year 1 at 3.5%, Year 2 at 4.5%, Years 3–30 at 5.5% + $5,000 closing cost credit if closed by August 29th with Lennar Mortgage. The Wren B Floor Plan by Lennar Homes on homesite #71 in The Meadows at Kettle Park West is available for move in Aug/Sept '25! This 2 story home features 4 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, an overall spacious layout, and
Brand New Construction Home ready for a summer move-in, at America's Builder, Kettle Park West Community. The 2 story Pine Plan features an open concept main level with 9' ceilings, luxury vinyl plank flooring throughout, powder room, and separate laundry and mud rooms. Spacious kitchen boasts a large island, pantry, stainless steel appliances, quartz countertops, 42" cabinets with crown molding
Brand New Construction Home ready for a summer move-in at Kettle Park West Community. The 2 story Spruce Plan features 3 bdrms, 2.5 baths, 9 ft ceilings on main level, partial basement & attached 2 car garage. Open concept layout great for entertaining. Kitchen has a large island, 42" white cabinets with crown molding & soft close doors/drawers, quartz countertops, stainless steel appliances, &
A location that just cannot be beat as it is situated directly across from a rarely utilized, quiet city park. This terrific home has been cared for by the same family for over 65 years now it is ready for new owners to hopefully enjoy it for just as long. You will notice from the exterior that this home is no ordinary cookie cutter home as it offers loads of charm and character. Seller has made
Tom Matson
Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Matson Real Estate
Welcome to 51 West, one of Stoughton's newest neighborhoods. Nestled near a beautiful park, for relaxation or play. Enjoy swift access to Highway 51, placing you a mere 15 minutes from the beltline for easy commuting. Just 5 minutes from downtown Stoughton, experience local charm, shops, and eateries at your convenience. As part of this fresh development, you have the freedom to bring your own
Tom Matson
Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Matson Real Estate
Welcome to 51 West, one of Stoughton's newest neighborhoods. Nestled near a beautiful park, for relaxation or play. Enjoy swift access to Highway 51, placing you a mere 15 minutes from the beltline for easy commuting. Just 5 minutes from downtown Stoughton, experience local charm, shops, and eateries at your convenience. As part of this fresh development, you have the freedom to bring your own
Tom Matson
Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Matson Real Estate
Brand new luxury apartment building built in 2023 located in Stoughton. This beautiful pet-friendly property features stylish interior and exterior finishes with spacious unique floor plans. Most units come with underground parking, in-unit washer & dryer, and a private balcony or patio. Each unit is equipped with stainless steel appliances and granite countertops. The community facilities
Nestled in the heart of Stoughton, Wisconsin, Riverstone offers stylish and spacious townhomes that cater to your modern lifestyle. Enjoy the peace of mind that comes with a well maintained community featuring upgrades throughout. Features include: stylish interiors with modern kitchen, cozy living spaces and serene bedrooms. Each townhomes features an outdoor balcony, attached garage and in home
Imagine a life where convenience meets comfort. At Rosewood Apartments in Stoughton, WI, that's exactly what you'll find. Our prime location near Hwy 51 and Interstate 90 makes commuting a breeze, while keeping you close to everyday essentials like groceries, restaurants, schools, and parks. The charm of downtown Stoughton is just minutes away, and vibrant Downtown Madison is a quick 25-minute
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