$441,047Average Value$227Average Price per Sq Ft51Homes For Sale
Balancing growth and tradition northeast of Madison
Sun Prairie is located northeast of Madison in south-central Wisconsin. One of the fastest-growing parts of Dane County, it is now home to nearly 36,000 residents, an about 29% increase in the past decade. “We don’t ask people, ‘Are you from here?’” says Taylor Brown, the Economic Development Director with the City of Sun Prairie. “We ask people, ‘When did you move here?’ It’s our welcoming culture. Almost everybody has been new at some time or another, so we all know how it feels.”
According to Brown, much of the growth stems from the convenient proximity to Madison and the appeal of the Sun Prairie Area School District. “I think the start of the growth was because of the schools,” Brown says. “And since people were coming here, commercial development followed. It compounded.” The city balances its rapid changes with preserving tradition and history. “We’re always trying to build on what came before,” Brown says.
Sun Prairie is a significant agricultural area for Wisconsin, providing both grain and dairy.
Sun Prairie East High School has a student-to-teacher ratio of 14 to 1.
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Varied housing styles across the decades
Older neighborhoods like Royal Oaks offer 1960s ranch-style homes and towering trees. Large houses in the Shonas Highlands and Westwynde neighborhoods were built in the 90s with contemporary designs like New Traditional and Colonial Revivals. At the city’s eastern edge, Meadow Crossing wrapped construction around 2015 and still has views of Wisconsin farmland to the south and east. The median price for a single-family home in Sun Prairie is $448,000, which is slightly higher than the national median of $420,000, but close to the Madison median of $440,000.
Ranch style homes in Sun Prairie start around $220k, and go upwards from there.
Sun Prairie is home to many new development styles, showcasing New Traditional houses in neighborhoods like Shonas Highlands.
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Sun Prairie Area School District is a primary draw and major employer
The Sun Prairie Area School District receives an A-minus grade from Niche and recently expanded to include a second high school. Sun Prairie West High School opened in 2022, and Sun Prairie East in 2010.
The school district is Sun Prairie's largest employer. The two largest employers in the overall Madison area are the University of Wisconsin and Epic Systems, a medical software company.
UW Health has a Sun Prairie clinic, and its East Madison Hospital is about 8 miles away. Downtown Madison is 15 miles southwest via U.S. Highway 151. Interstates 90 and 94 are 8 miles away for access to Milwaukee, Chicago or Minneapolis. The Dane County Regional Airport is 11 miles west.
Younger students may attend Northside Elementary School.
Sun Prairie West High School has approximately 1,400 enrolled students from the surrounding area.
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Racing legends take to the track at Angell Park Raceway
There are many parks in Sun Prairie. “Early in Sun Prairie’s planning, there was a push to ensure that there would be a park in every neighborhood,” Brown says. The Patrick Marsh Wildlife Area on Brazee Lake is a 340-acre nature preserve where locals can hike or cross-country ski. Another popular amenity is the Prairie Athletic Club. “They essentially have an outdoor water park,” Brown says. “They’re a big part of the community.”
Angell Park has a raceway and a community-built dream park within its complex. “The raceway is one of the only dirt tracks that still exists in the nation,” says Colleen Burke, Economic Development Specialist with the city. “Famous racers like Tony Stewart and Jeff Gordon have visited Sun Prairie to race here.”
Bird watchers can head to Patrick Marsh Wildlife Area in Sun Prairie to catch some rare species.
Angell Park has a small dirt track that hosts race frequently in the warmer months.
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Sweetcorn Festival among long-held local traditions
As exciting as the growth has been, the traditions give Sun Prairie its distinct culture. “What keeps Sun Prairie relevant are its traditions. Groundhog’s Day, the racetrack,” Burke says. “But people love that you can come here and make it your own.”
Sun Prairie’s traditional Groundhog’s Day event, nearly 80 years old, has grown into a multi-day extravaganza. “A few years ago, we developed it into Frozen Fest, which culminates on Groundhog’s Day,” Brown says.
The Sweet Corn Festival is one of Wisconsin’s largest food festivals. “You shuck your corn, then take it to the butter kids, who roll it in butter. Then you head to the salt trees, which are basically saltshakers hung from metal clotheslines,” Brown says. “It’s all part of the lore.”
Kids and adults gather to see Jimmy the groundhog on Groundhog Day during the prognostication.
Frozen Fest is a variety of events in Sun Prairie neighborhoods during Groundhog's Day.
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Growth brings big chains while local spots honor tradition
Options for shopping and dining have grown in recent decades. “Growing up 20 or 30 years ago, there wasn’t a lot out here — you’d have to drive to the west side of Madison to get to the big stores or chains,” said Matt Deadman, a Realtor and Broker Associate with Real Broker LLC. “But now everything has come to Sun Prairie.” Costco, Target and Woodman’s are now available along Grand Avenue. Local spots hold their own among the chains. “Twisted Grit Yoga and Gloria’s Mexican are local businesses thriving amidst the big-box stores,” Brown says.
Downtown businesses honor their history. “Buck N Honeys has old family photos of the original farm on that location,” Burke says. “They pay tribute to the original pieces of Sun Prairie.”
Along with Costco and Woodman's, Target is one of the many big box stores in Sun Prairie.
Buck & Honey's in Sun Prairie is known as one of Sun Prairie's best dining options.
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Important to know
Sun Prairie residents should expect cold winters with regular snow and warm and humid summers. Flooding is an occasional issue due to nearby wetlands and the area’s considerable snowmelt, with the midwestern floods in spring and summer of 2008 being a prominent example.
According to the FBI's Crime Data Explorer, Sun Prairie’s violent crime rates are lower than the national average, though they swing up and down throughout the year. Property crime rates are closer to the national average than violent crime rates, though typically still lower than the national average. These fluctuated from a high in summer 2021 to a low in summer 2023.
Growth continues in Sun Prairie’s future
Sun Prairie’s development continues. “Downtown blocks are getting reconstruction attention next year,” Burke says. “There are plans for a mural festival. We’re looking to talk backward to our history while moving forward with an improved downtown."
Growth brings a mix of effects. “I think people are excited about the extra shops, more choices, lower prices,” Deadman says. “They’re less excited about increasing traffic and taxes.”
Regardless, new neighbors can count on a warm welcome. “You come as you are,” Brown says. “We accept you as you are. And you make Sun Prairie your own.”
Sun City Cyclery in Sun Prairie offers repairs, fitting, and bike sales for new and used cycles.
Main Street in Sun Prairie has always been its core thoroughfare, offering both shopping and dining.
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Written By
Ty Phelps
Photography Contributed By
Kyle Arn
Video By
Andrew Perrius
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Ellen Werdan,
an experienced agent in this area.
GreatSchools:
The GreatSchools Rating helps parents compare schools within a state based on a variety of school quality indicators and provides a helpful picture of how effectively each school serves all of its students. Ratings are on a scale of 1 (below average) to 10 (above average) and can include test scores, college readiness, academic progress, advanced courses, equity, discipline and attendance data. We also advise parents to visit schools, consider other information on school performance and programs, and consider family needs as part of the school selection process.
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On average, homes in Sun Prairie, WI sell after 40 days on the market compared to the national average of 57 days. The median sale price for homes in Sun Prairie, WI over the last 12 months is $449,900, up 8% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Priced below appraised value! Thoughtfully designed 3-bedroom, 2-bath home with a den and over 2,100 square feet on the main level, expanded beyond the original builder plan to create an oversized, spacious layout. The added footprint allows for a bright sunroom and a fully exposed sun-filled walkout lower level with excellent potential for future finishing. The kitchen features quartzite
Showings begin 5/8 after 1pm. Better than new & impeccably maintained, this stunning home is tucked at the end of a quiet court in the Town of Bristol & sits on nearly 2 acres (1.77 acres) w/ endless potential for a future outbuilding, pool, or outdoor retreat. The thoughtfully designed main level is filled w/ natural light & features a show-stopping kitchen w/ oversized island, large walk-in
This 3 bedroom, 3 bath ranch home sits on a generous-sized lot with a fully fenced backyard. Inside you will find comfortable living areas throughout. The kitchen presents a new refrigerator, newer flooring and backsplash, also note the kitchen window overlooks the back yard. The primary bedroom features a full bath & double closets. There is another full bath on the main floor. The finished LL
This well-maintained 5-bedroom, 3-bath ranch offers peaceful living just outside of Sun Prairie in the Town of Bristol. Situated on a spacious .81-acre lot, the property provides a great balance of room to spread out while still being close to local amenities. The main level features an inviting layout with convenient main-floor laundry, generous living space, and a functional kitchen ideal for
Welcome to 3122 Saddle Brook, a warm and welcoming home designed for making memories. With 5 bedrooms plus a 6th bedroom/office/flex space and 3 full bathrooms, there’s room for everyone—and the flexibility to fit how you live today. The heart of the home is made for gathering, and the fun continues downstairs with a spacious rec room and a built-in bar—perfect for game nights, movie marathons,
Welcome to this stunning new custom-built home offering modern design and exceptional craftsmanship throughout. The open-concept main level features spacious living and dining areas, perfect for everyday living and entertaining. A beautiful covered porch extends your living space outdoors, ideal for relaxing or hosting guests. The light-filled, fully finished basement provides additional
Luxury living without the wait! Move right into this brand-new custom ranch in the Windsor subdivision. Enjoy morning coffee on the private screened porch off the primary suite, the front porch, or the spacious deck overlooking newly added trees, upgraded landscaping, and a cement patio with a built-in fireplace. Inside features include an open floor plan with gas fireplace, gourmet kitchen with
Show 5/2. Welcome to this beautifully maintained two-story, offering the perfect balance of space, flow, & comfort. Tucked into a quiet, established neighborhood with mature trees & nearby parks, it feels like a retreat—yet super close to everyday amenities. The main level is designed for easy living, w/ great flow between spaces. A generous living room with fireplace opens seamlessly to the
EXCEPTIONAL VALUE in this beautiful and well cared for ranch style home in Smith's Crossing with rare BACKYARD OASIS! You'll love the 9' ceilings, open layout, spacious rooms, stainless appliances, laundry / mudroom off the garage, and double vanity / soaking tub in the primary bath. Look out the abundant windows to find a generous deck, newly added stamped patio and picket fence, all backing up
Priced below appraised value! Thoughtfully designed 3-bedroom, 2-bath home with a den and over 2,100 square feet on the main level, expanded beyond the original builder plan to create an oversized, spacious layout. The added footprint allows for a bright sunroom and a fully exposed sun-filled walkout lower level with excellent potential for future finishing. The kitchen features quartzite
Move-in ready with no detail overlooked! Completed in 2023 as a custom Parade of Homes residence, this Windsor Gardens home delivers refined living without the wait of new construction. Set on a large corner lot, the main level is anchored by a dramatic great room and chef's kitchen with soaring ceilings and ample natural light. A private primary suite offers a luxurious spa-inspired bath.
Showings begin 5/8 after 1pm. Better than new & impeccably maintained, this stunning home is tucked at the end of a quiet court in the Town of Bristol & sits on nearly 2 acres (1.77 acres) w/ endless potential for a future outbuilding, pool, or outdoor retreat. The thoughtfully designed main level is filled w/ natural light & features a show-stopping kitchen w/ oversized island, large walk-in
Custom former Parade Home in desirable Bristol Gardens! High quality construction & meticulously maintained 6-bedroom, 5400 sq ft ranch offers low Bristol taxes & countless high-end updates. Features include new rich hardwood and tile flooring, updated fixtures, custom cabinetry, granite countertops, and premium appliances. Enjoy the new insulated sunroom with custom folding patio door,
Chris ThomasBadgerland Real Estate & Associates, LLC
Set on nearly an acre in a peaceful rural subdivision, this beautifully updated 5-bedroom home offers space, style, and versatility inside & out. Sun filled rooms with an abundance of natural light highlight the open remodeled kitchen featuring quartz counters, white cabinetry, pantry and updated finishes throughout. Relax in the stunning primary bath with soaking tub and walk-in shower. LVP
Welcome to this charming, move-in ready ranch tucked away on a quiet cul-de-sac, offering comfort and space both inside and out. Hardwood floors welcome you into a home that blends thoughtful updates with classic character. The sunken living room features a cozy gas-burning fireplace while updated kitchen offers plenty of room to cook, gather, and entertain. 3 bdrms on main provides ideal layout
NEW CONSTRUCTION: Brand new apartment homes available now!The Preserve is located in the booming Prairie Lakes area in Sun Prairie. Conveniently located near everything you need from grocery shopping to a movie at Marcus Palace Cinema, Cabela's and more. You may find yourself not wanting to go far with the resort style amenities including granite countertops, private patios and balconies, a
Cannery Square Apartments – Modern Living in the Heart of Sun PrairieWelcome to Cannery Square Apartments, a well-located community in Sun Prairie offering modern living with exceptional convenience. Situated just steps from Cannery Square and within walking distance to local shops, dining, and everyday essentials, residents enjoy one of the most accessible and connected locations in the
Heating and Cooling are included in your lease for guaranteed comfort throughout the year! Nestled next to the tranquil 21-acre Carriage Hills Estates Park, our premier Sun Prairie apartment complex offers 56 beautifully crafted units. Just a short walk from Pick 'n Save and the lively downtown area, your new home comes with exceptional on-site amenities, billiards table, game room, and an
Flexible and short-term lease terms from 1-12 months. Choose from furnished or unfurnished apartments with water, trash, sewer and Wi-Fi included in rent. Pet-friendly.Brand-new, modern and spacious apartments —Firefly, Sunrise, and Angellwing—located in the heart of downtown Sun Prairie.Walkable to local restaurants, shopping and community events, these spacious apartments feature
Jenny Wren Place is a residential community featuring market rate apartments in Sun Prairie, Wisconsin. These one- and two-bedroom apartments are thoughtfully designed with beautiful amenities, such as stainless-steel appliances, front-loading full-size washer and dryers, large closet space, quartz countertops, an EV charging station, relaxing courtyard with grills, and detached garages. Jenny
Change has come to downtown Sun Prairie, symbolizing a new era in urban living. Vintage in vibe and modern in design, Catalyst on Main is where apartment living has been re-envisioned.Located at the intersection of historic Sun Prairie and right now! Experience the urban revival, where you can step out and enjoy an emerging cosmopolitan area where eclectic meets historic. Downtown Sun
Experience elegant, pet-friendly apartments at Van Buren Place Apartment Homes in Sun Prairie, WI. Choose from studio, 1, and 2-bedroom apartments featuring open floor plans, hardwood-style flooring, and gourmet kitchens with granite countertops and stainless-steel appliances. Select homes offer private patios or balconies, fireplaces, and private entrances. You can also access desirable
Van Buren West offers luxury, brand new studio, one, and two bedroom apartments in south Sun Prairie, WI. Youll enjoy living in a modern, pet-friendly apartment with a full suite of stainless-steel appliances, wood-plank flooring, quartz countertops, and high-end finishes. Each home has a full-size washer, dryer, A/C, and walk-in closets.Van Buren West offers several amenities to elevate your
Beautiful development located in beautiful Sun Prairie. With just a short drive to downtown Madison, Iron Gate is a hot spot for city goers and suburbanites alike. In this prime location, you will find everything you need within a short walk or quick ride. At Iron Gate, you will find that the luxurious amenities are endless. Spend your free-time getting away by our sparkling pool, working out in
Welcome to Crosstown of Sun Prairie, where we offer premium apartment living in Madison’s east suburbs. Our quiet community consists of comfortable homes and friendly staff. Our spacious two-bedroom apartment homes feature thoughtful amenities that make Crosstown at Sun Prairie feel like home. Whether you’re enjoying the beautifully landscaped grounds, taking advantage of our laundry facilities,
Hickory Pointe is a wonderful location set on the outskirts of Sun Prairie. Conveniently located a short distance from everything you need, including grocery stores, restaurants and the booming Prairie Lakes shopping and entertainment area. This is a great location in relation to both Sun Prairie and Madison. Hickory Pointe is a short 2 miles from downtown Sun Prairie and just 4 minutes from
Hunter’s Trail is a one-of-a-kind property that features 2- and 3-bedroom Townhouse and Condo-Style apartments. We offer spacious units with fireplaces, in-unit laundry, 2 car garages as well as units with finished basements. You’ll be in a perfect location, just minutes from downtown Sun Prairie and Madison’s East Side. These apartments aren’t available for long so join our waitlist or contact
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