$325,188Average Value$207Average Price per Sq Ft77Homes For Sale
Halfway between Milwaukee & Madison
When 19th-century settlers arrived on the banks of the Rock River, it made sense to name the new village after their hometown of Watertown, New York. Many sought to utilize the river’s waterpower for the burgeoning Wisconsin sawmill industry. Thus, the name stuck. Located halfway between Milwaukee and Madison, Watertown today is home to over 22,000 residents. With a developing downtown area, ample opportunities for waterfront recreation and a private university, the city has grown more attractive with time. “Downtown is one of our most desirable areas,” says Belle Luhman, a local broker with Century 21 Endeavor. “The district goes from Washington Street to 7th Street. It’s the longest historic district in the county.”
The Rock River flows through Watertown, WI.
Watertown is a charming city in between Milwaukee and Madison, WI.
1/2
Queen Annes & Dutch Colonials dating back over a century
The median home price in Watertown sits around $300,000, below the national average and that of nearby Oconomowoc, a similarly sized city on the way to Milwaukee. "We're like a small town, so our houses are probably more reasonable than other areas that are maybe more 'white collar,'" Luhman says. "We're more historic, too. We have a lot of homes from the 1800s." Those surrounding Main Street and the downtown area typically date back over a century, flaunting Queen Anne and Dutch Colonial styles. Many have since converted to multifamily units. West of the river, architecture grows increasingly more modern, with brand-new builds flanking the city's outskirts.
A modern, Queen Ann style home shines in Watertown.
New builds are popping up all over Watertown.
1/2
Downtown Watertown is a hub for small businesses
Beyond its historic homes, downtown Watertown is known for its boutiques, gift shops, pubs and cafés occupying old-fashioned storefronts. “I live on the 400 block of Main, so I can easily walk to our local bookstore, Literatus,” Luhman says. “There’s coffee, sandwiches and Chandler House Bakery. We also have a couple of vinyl record stores that sell guitars.” The downtown area has long been a hub for community gatherings, from movies at the historic Towne Cinema to a Fourth of July Parade with colorful floats and antique cars. Farther east and west of downtown, Main Street offers regional grocers like Blain’s Farm & Fleet and Glenn’s Market. Others rest along the outskirts, including the Watertown Piggly Wiggly on Route 16 and Walmart Supercenter on Route 26.
The Paramount Record Shop is a favorite among Watertown locals.
Literatus and Co. is a beloved book store in Watertown, WI.
1/2
Home of the first kindergarten in the U.S.
Primary students attend the Watertown Unified School District, which earns a B on Niche. The city's history is rooted in elementary education, considering Watertown was home to the first kindergarten in the United States. The original 19th-century school building is now a museum showcasing local history. Maranatha Baptist University also sits along Main Street, just west of the downtown strip. The private college enrolls less than 1,000 students yearly and is widely known for its seminary.
The first kindergarten in the country still stands in Watertown, WI.
Maranatha Baptist University is a private college in Watertown that is known for it's seminary.
1/2
New recreational spaces were community-funded
In the summer, residents flock to the banks of the Rock River for recreation and outdoor events. Riverside Park is one popular hub, home to the Watertown Aquatic Center and the Watertown Farmer's Market. Once a horse and cattle fair in the mid-1800s, the market is considered one of the oldest in Wisconsin. At summer's end, guests flood the park for Riverfest. This annual four-day festival features carnival rides, live music and fireworks. Recent developments include the Bentzin Family Town Square and the Oconomowoc Interurban Trail, both resulting from generous community donations and grants.
Riverside Park is a vast green space in Watertown that hosts local events in the summer.
The Watertown Aquatic Center is a popular spot in the summer.
1/2
Interstate 94 connects Wisconsin’s largest cities
Watertown’s largest employers include the local school district and Watertown Regional Medical Center. It’s also the headquarters for several manufacturing companies, including Pepsi and John Deere affiliates. Rock River Laboratory, Inc., a leader in regional agriculture, is headquartered just south of the city on Commerce Drive.
Commuters are primarily car-dependent since most residents work within 10 miles of downtown. For regional travel, Route 16 stretches east toward Ixonia, while Route 26 leads south to Johnson Creek for the nearest exit to Interstate 94. From there, residents can head 40 miles west to Madison or 50 miles east to Milwaukee. Watertown Municipal Airport is mainly used for general aviation, so most head to Dane County Regional Airport in Madison for commercial flights.
Pepsi employs a majority of Watertown residents.
Get out of town at Madison Airport, in the Carpenter-Ridgeway neighborhood.
1/2
Below-average crime statistics in Watertown
According to FBI data, violent crime in Watertown is lower than it was at its 10-year high in 2015 but remains higher than the period's lowest point in 2019. Property crimes reached a 5-year high in 2022, but fell 22% the following year.
Written By
Dana Chesser
Photography Contributed By
Hayley McCormick
Video By
Derek Fowler
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Scott Olejniczak,
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.
View GreatSchools Rating Methodology
On average, homes in Watertown, WI sell after 23 days on the market compared to the national average of 58 days. The median sale price for homes in Watertown, WI over the last 12 months is $319,950, up 10% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
PRICE ADJUSTMENT! Immaculately maintained ranch-style condo offering over 2,000 sq. ft. of finished living space! Pride of ownership shines throughout this move-in-ready home featuring beautiful hardwood floors, vaulted ceilings & quartz countertops. The inviting great room boasts a cozy gas fireplace and opens to a spacious deck perfect for relaxing or entertaining. If covered front porch
Enjoy easy living in this beautiful condo featuring an open-concept layout designed for both comfort & entertaining. The inviting living room is highlighted by a cozy gas fireplace and flows seamlessly into the spacious kitchen, complete with SS appliances, a center island, & ample cabinet space. The ML offers 2 bdrms, including a generous primary suite with a walk-in closet & private bath. The
This 3 bedroom, 1-1/2 bathroom, 2-story farmhouse w/ 1-car detached garage is awaiting it's next owner! Upon approaching, the large front porch expands across the front of the home. Open the door & enjoy the Italian tiled front entryway leading into the spacious living room w/ freshly laid laminate flooring that expands into the den, grand formal dining, stunning kitchen & updated 1/2 bath.
Looking for a solid investment or a smart way to live mortgage-free? Welcome to 600 N. Fourth St. in the heart of Watertown! This meticulously maintained multi-family property is currently owner-occupied, reflecting a level of care and "pride of ownership" that is hard to find. Major capital improvements have already been completed, giving you peace of mind and protecting your bottom line. The
Discover the rare opportunity to build your dream home on the banks of the Rock River. This 0.39-acre vacant lot offers a unique combination of natural beauty and urban convenience in the heart of Watertown. Whether you're an investor or looking to build a forever home, 505 Dewey Ave is a rare blank canvas on the water. Bring your builder and your vision!
First time ever offered for sale! This beautifully maintained, one-owner ranch condo in desirable Lauren Lane Condominiums offers comfort, convenience, and future potential. Featuring 3 bedrooms, 2 full bathrooms, and an open-concept layout with 9-foot ceilings, the home feels bright and spacious. The vaulted-ceiling living room flows into the kitchen and dining area, ideal for entertaining. The
et on 2.1 acres in the heart of Lake Country, just 10 minutes from downtown Oconomowoc, this turnkey restaurant/bar property is ready for its next chapter. With approx. 108 dining seats, 18 bar seats, full liquor license, video gaming license, and a 2-bedroom apartment, the foundation is already in place. The true value is in the land, flexibility, and opportunity--think sand volleyball,
Attention developers and investors!! Take advantage of this prime piece of commercial property next to Kwik Trip to develop into income producing opportunities.
PRICE ADJUSTMENT! Immaculately maintained ranch-style condo offering over 2,000 sq. ft. of finished living space! Pride of ownership shines throughout this move-in-ready home featuring beautiful hardwood floors, vaulted ceilings & quartz countertops. The inviting great room boasts a cozy gas fireplace and opens to a spacious deck perfect for relaxing or entertaining. If covered front porch
Beautiful land on the shores of Hahns Lake that connects to the Rock River has amazing views. Currently there is an old cottage on the property and a trailer. Both of which would most likely be razed. It would provide a blank slate with septic and well to build a new cabin or home. Conveniently close to Watertown and Hwy. 26.
Brand New Zero Lot Line Construction coming in 2026! Gorgeous views in an established sought after Watertown subdivision. This ranch layout features soaring cathedral ceilings with a spacious open concept feel. You will want to entertain in a home like this, with a custom kitchen featuring a large island overlooking your formal dining and great room. Primary suite includes a large walk in closet,
Fresh flooring, fresh paint, and plenty of potential! This 3-bedroom home offers a spacious kitchen with island, abundant cabinetry, and generous counter space, along with a dedicated dining area and flexible main-floor living spaces. The practical layout features a main-floor primary bedroom with a private full bath, plus a second full bath on the main level, while two additional bedrooms are
Move-in-ready, new construction. Located 12 minutes off I-94, this comfortable open-concept side-by-side, ranch, split 2-bedroom condominium home features a universal design for ease of living. The kitchen has quartz counters, s.s. appliances, WIP, island w/ seating & dining area. The gathering room has a GFP w/ stone to mantel height, coffered ceiling & patio door leading out to a private patio.
Move-in-ready, new construction. Located 12 minutes off I-94, this comfortable open-concept side-by-side, ranch, split 2-bedroom condominium home features a universal design for ease of living. The kitchen has quartz counters, s.s. appliances, WIP, island w/ seating & dining area. The gathering room has a GFP w/ stone to mantel height, coffered ceiling & patio door leading out to a private patio.
Move-in-ready new construction. The Harper, Plan 1573 makes every foot of the floor plan feel spacious. The first floor features an open-concept kitchen, dining, & gathering room area. The kitchen features quartz counters, an island w/ additional seating & stainless steel appliances. Alongside the main living areas is a convenient powder room. Venture upstairs, & you'll find the 3 private
LUMIN TERRACE IS OPEN! CALL TO SCHEDULE A TOUR TODAY! Lumin Terrace offers beautiful one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments in the newly developed Rock Ridge Neighborhood in Watertown, Wisconsin. Each spacious apartment features in-unit laundry and modern finishes, including stainless steel appliances, LVP flooring in common areas, carpeted bedrooms, and abundant windows. Select units have
Low income family apartment community. Two bedroom and Three bedroom and Four Bedroom Townhouse units with basements.Rent based on 30% of tenants income.. HUD provides a utility allowance to cover the average monthly utility bill.Playgrounds for the children.
Beautiful Remodeled 3 Bedroom / 1 Bathroom Lower Duplex Unit – Available August 1st!Spacious and beautifully remodeled 1,400 sq. ft. lower-level duplex unit featuring 3 bedrooms and 1 bathroom in a quiet and convenient location next to St. Mark’s Church with no direct neighboring homes. Property Features:* Remodeled kitchen and unit* Stainless steel dishwasher*
Local Logic measures the walkability, access to public transit and 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.
