Why Live in Hawthorne
Hawthorne, a neighborhood in eastern Madison, is known for its convenient location and affordability. Situated at the junction of Route 51 and Route 30, it offers easy access to Downtown Madison (15 minutes west) and Milwaukee (just over an hour east). The neighborhood features a mix of residential streets and local businesses, with homes that include mid-20th century ranch-style houses, split-levels, Colonials, Cape Cods, and a few 1920s bungalows. Duplexes are also available, with some being two-story side-by-side units and others single-story ranch styles. Hawthorne Elementary School is centrally located, while Georgia O'Keeffe Middle School and Madison East High, both highly rated, are within a short drive.
Brigham Park is the main outdoor attraction, offering a basketball court, playground, and open playfield. The neighborhood also boasts Boulders Climbing Gym, a climate-controlled facility with over 8,000 square feet for indoor climbing. For dining, Brothers Three Bar & Grill is a popular spot, especially for its Friday fish fries and hamburgers. The Boneyard, a nearby dog-friendly bar, provides a unique social scene with fire pits and live events. Major retailers like Walmart, Hy-vee, Pick n Save, and Aldi are within a few minutes' drive, adding to the neighborhood's convenience.
Hawthorne's proximity to Dane County Regional Airport does result in some noise pollution, but the area is safer than the national average. Public transportation via Madison’s Metro bus routes connects residents to neighboring areas, though commuting to Downtown Madison by bus can take about an hour during rush hour.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Hawthorne a good place to live?
Hawthorne is a good place to live. Hawthorne is considered somewhat walkable and bikeable with some transit options. Hawthorne is a suburban neighborhood. Hawthorne has 6 parks for recreational activities. It is fairly sparse in population with 3.8 people per acre and a median age of 41. The average household income is $66,255 which is below the national average. College graduates make up 29.6% of residents. A majority of residents in Hawthorne are renters, with 50.7% of residents renting and 49.3% of residents owning their home. A
local real estate agent serving Hawthorne can help you decide if this neighborhood is the right one for you. Learn more on our
Hawthorne neighborhood guide.
What are the best public schools in Hawthorne?
The best public schools that serve Hawthorne are:
What are the best private schools in Hawthorne?
The best private schools that serve Hawthorne are:
What are the most popular zip codes in Hawthorne, Madison, WI?
What are the most popular neighborhoods near Hawthorne, Madison, WI?