MILWAUKEE COUNTY
County Offices
200 E Wells Street
Milwaukee
414-286-2489
https://city.milwaukee.gov/
Chamber of Commerce
756 N. Milwaukee Street
Milwaukee
414-287-4100
www.mmac.org
Services
Although Milwaukee is one of Wisconsin’s smallest counties, it is also the most densely populated. This highly urbanized area features the state capital city of Milwaukee as well as the suburban sprawl that radiates from it in all directions. State-of-the-art healthcare services and facilities are available throughout the county, anchored by the wide array of superb medical centers and hospitals in Milwaukee. However, the west suburb of Wauwatosa adds important resources to this comprehensive network including Milwaukee Regional Medical Center, the Wisconsin Heart Hospital, and the Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin. Affiliated with the Medical College of Wisconsin, the children’s hospital is the only institution in the state dedicated solely to the treatment and care of children. The hospital also offers the state’s only Level I pediatrics trauma center. Other specialties include a pediatric intensive care unit, hematology, oncology, transplant unit, and short-stay unit. Children’s enjoys a national reputation for its heart center and provides more than 60 specialty clinics. West Allis Memorial Hospital and Kindred Rehabilitation Hospital-Milwaukee in Greenfield also serve as important regional healthcare centers.
Education is seen as a life-long pursuit in Milwaukee County, where students of all ages enjoy easy access to college-degree programs, vocational and career training, and continuing education. The public school system is complemented by an impressive number of private schools — both parochial and independent — that expand the options for alternative learning environments. Public school districts provide technology-based experiences, a strong core curriculum, abundant extra-curricular activities, and special programs for the gifted and challenged. Colleges and universities close to home include the University of Wisconsin at Milwaukee, Alverno College, Cardinal Stritch University, Marquette University, the Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee Area Technical College, Milwaukee Institute of Art & Design, Milwaukee School of Engineering, Mount Mary College, and Wisconsin Lutheran College.
Lifestyle
From the sparkling waters of Lake Michigan to the rich cultural heritage of long-established neighborhoods, Milwaukee County is a compact yet surprisingly diverse region. The hub of the county is the capital city of Milwaukee, often praised as a “Genuine American City.” Old-world charm contrasts with high energy, vision, and a progressive attitude to create an environment that is eclectic, exciting, and exceptionally livable. Milwaukee County provides a high quality of life that includes quick and easy commutes, affordable and attractive housing, first-rate cultural and recreational amenities, and a kaleidoscope of neighborhoods and communities.
Aficionados of the arts can enjoy Broadway shows, opera, ballet, symphony, concerts, comedy shows, art films, and guest performances around the four seasons. Highlights include the Milwaukee Art Museum, recently named one of the “New American Beauties” by People magazine, and the nationally unique William F. Eisner Museum of Advertising & Design. Others prefer the gaming thrills and entertainment at Potawatomi Bingo Casino. Lush parks that are expertly maintained by city, county, and state agencies combine with private recreational centers to encourage virtually unlimited sports, fitness, and outdoor activities. Camping, backpacking, boating, water sports, swimming, tennis, golfing, horseback riding, hiking, biking, and winter sports are available close to home in Milwaukee County.
Encompassing everything from the bustle of Milwaukee’s downtown district to the rural tranquility of River Hills, Hales Corners, and Franklin, this region blends vibrant cites and charming villages like Greendale. Commuters can reach any part of the county within minutes, reducing travel time and allowing more leisure hours to enjoy with family and friends. The selection of housing ranges from an attractive and abundant collection of older homes and historic jewels to modern subdivisions, country manors, elegant estates, riverfront high-rises, handsome condominiums, beautiful lofts, and quiet neighborhoods lined with modest bungalows. Gracing every corner of the region with 15,000 acres of lush parkland, the county boasts one of the nation’s finest county park systems. Whatever your dreams, Milwaukee County offers the diversity and quality of life to bring them into reality.
Suburban Community Profiles
Bayside
Village Hall
414-351-8811
www.village.bayside.wi.us
Chamber of Commerce
414-287-4100
www.mmac.org
Home to approximately 5,000 residents, the attractive community of Bayside is one of the most desirable of those adjacent to Lake Michigan. The village is 10 miles from downtown Milwaukee and 25 minutes from the airport for a secluded yet convenient location. Home lots in the village range from one-third to one acre in size, with some properties sprawling over several acres. Strictly residential, the community has not encouraged an influx of industry or commerce. Neighborhoods in Bayside feature curving, winding lanes that showcase a wide variety of architectural styles from traditional to contemporary and split level. Natural beauty graces the village, where heavily wooded land laces the lakefront and meandering ravines add geographic diversity. The Bayside Recreational Park provides tennis, skating, and baseball facilities. Other highlights include the Schlitz Audubon Center and Lake Michigan recreation.
Brown Deer
Village Hall
414-371-3000
/www.browndeerwi.org/
Chamber of Commerce
414-357-5493
The rapidly growing community of Brown Deer enjoys an ideal location just 15 miles from downtown Milwaukee and 30 minutes from the airport. Village home lots have a 75-foot minimum with many offering a frontage of more than 100 feet. Ranch-style homes dominate the serene neighborhoods to create a family-friendly atmosphere. Thriving local companies are clustered around the industrial parks, which feature attractive curving streets that are separated from the industrial sector. Local business and industry reduces the tax burden on property owners, adding to the attraction of this small-town setting. Highlights include the historic treasures of the Original Brown Deer village as well as Deer Park, one of county’s most beautiful recreational sites. Year-round activity is encouraged by the skating pond, a toboggan chute, snowmobile trails, and one of the finest 18-hole golf courses in the area. Mass transit bus and freeway flyer routes are available through Milwaukee County Transit System for commuting ease.
Cudahy
City Hall
414-769-2200
www.cudahy-wi.gov/
Chamber of Commerce
414-483-8615
https://ssccwi.com/
Cudahy actually began as the settlement of Buckhorn in the 1870s but was greatly influenced by Patrick Cudahy’s decision to move his meat-packing plant to the area in 1892. By 1906 the area was incorporated under the name of Cudahy. True to its industrial roots, the city is home to at least a dozen thriving industries including the largest drop forge company in the world. Recreational amenities are outstanding in this city, where Sheridan and Warnimont parks cover the entire eastern edge and nestle against the shoreline of Lake Michigan. Residents also enjoy a public golf course. To the west of the city lies General Mitchell International airport, the commercial air travel hub for the Milwaukee area. Cudahy is reinventing and revitalizing its downtown district to include cityscape beautification, a new library, a winter-garden condominium development, attractive retails shops, and convenient services.
Fox Point
Village Hall
414-351-8900
https://www.villageoffoxpoint.com/
Chamber of Commerce
414-287-4100
www.mmac.org
Proud of its designation as “Tree City USA,” lovely Fox Point Village is characterized as a desirable, upscale suburban residential community just eight miles from downtown Milwaukee. Complete in just 2.5 square miles, the village is situated on Milwaukee County’s North Shore. Borders include Lake Michigan to the east, Interstate 43 to the west, the village of Bayside on the north, and the village of Whitefish Bay to the south. Quiet, tree-shaded streets lined with beautiful homes on half-acre or acre lots are graced by a semi-rural atmosphere of wooded areas, dramatic ravines, and stunning lake vistas. Home styles range from old-world architecture to contemporary designs. First-rate schools, quality services, convenient shops, and a prime location add to the attraction of this sought-after address. Recreational highlights include miles of lakeshore, Doctor’s Park, and Fox Point Recreation Center.
Franklin
City Hall
414-425-7500
www.franklinwi.gov
Chamber of Commerce
414-768-5845
Supporting a population of approximately 25,000, the growing city of Franklin covers a full 34 square miles just 10 miles from downtown Milwaukee. Interstate 94 is available just east of the city for commuting ease, and the northern part of the city is served by a freeway flyer bus route. Natural beauty abounds in the Franklin area, where gently rolling hills, heavily wooded acreage, and the Root River create a breathtaking landscape. The abundance of open space has encouraged both residential and economic growth. The decades of the 1970s and ’80s were especially notable for the proliferation of attractive subdivisions they brought. Recreational highlights include the Experimental Aircraft Museum, golfing, skiing, and the facilities of Whitnall Park.
Glendale
City Hall
414-228-1700
www.glendale-wi.org
Chamber of Commerce
414-228-1716
www.glendale-chamber.com
The well-established and growing suburb of Glendale is continuing the growth pattern set for the past three decades. The majority of the city is devoted to tranquil residential neighborhoods along tree-lined streets. Architectural styles, home sizes, and price ranges vary to attract a pleasing cross-section of residents. The city manages to integrate an impressive number of businesses and local industry for a highly balanced and self-contained community that excels in strength and diversity. Since 1950, Glendale has matured and expanded to rank among the largest of the Milwaukee County suburban communities. Recreational highlights include golfing and the Milwaukee River Parkway. Interstate 43 traverses the city for commuting ease, although local bus transit and services provided by Milwaukee County Transit System ensure transportation alternatives.
Greendale
Village Hall
414-423-2100
www.greendale.org
Chamber of Commerce
414-423-3900
www.greendalechamber.com
The picturesque suburb of Greendale is proud of its distinctive status as one of the three “greenbelt communities” built during the Great Depression era. These preplanned communities were intended to create employment and provide families with quality housing at a reasonable cost. The result is a comfortable, attractive family atmosphere that preserves the unhurried pace and close-knit spirit of a small town. Home to approximately 16,000 residents, Greendale is nine miles from downtown Milwaukee. Recreational highlights include the Root River Parkway, Whitnall Nature Center, lush parks, and 18-hole golf course, Boerner Botanical Gardens, and Trimborn Farm. Shopping is available in the quaint Shops of the Village Center or Southridge Mall. The village plan has separated sectors for business and industry to encourage a diversified tax base that preserves the serenity of residential neighborhoods.
Greenfield
City Hall
414-543-5500
www.ci.greenfield.wi.us
Chamber of Commerce
414-533-2137
https://greatergreenfield.org/
Home to approximately 35,000 residents, the city of Greenfield offers well-planned residential neighborhoods just seven miles from downtown Milwaukee. This suburban community has experienced considerable population growth since its incorporation in 1839 but a corresponding reduction in land size. In fact, the square miles decreased by two-thirds while the population soared by 800 percent. Modern Greenfield stretches over 12 square miles with such irregular boundaries that its limits can be difficult to determine. Highlights include three quality school districts, attractive and varied housing, five county parks, Root River Parkway, the Wildcat Creek Nature Corridor, and lush city parks. Close proximity to Lake Michigan recreation and the world-class amenities of Milwaukee enhance the quality of life in this family-oriented community.
Hales Corners
Village Hall
414-529-6161
www.halescorners.org
Chamber of Commerce
414-287-4100
www.mmac.org
Well-established as a desirable residential community, the village of Hales Corner is 12 miles from downtown Milwaukee. Approximately 8,000 residents enjoy a tranquil suburban atmosphere and the commuting convenience of Interstates 453 and 894 as well as local bus and Milwaukee County Transit System freeway flyer service. Whitnall School District provides a quality public education to area youth, and the community has developed a sector of businesses and local industry. Recreational attractions close to home include Whitnall Park, an 18-hole golf course, hiking and equestrian trails, toboggan slides, ski and sledding hills, picnic areas, an archery range, Boerner Botanical Gardens, and the Wehr Nature Center. Newcomers will find appealing subdivisions and attractive home sites in the close-knit village.
Oak Creek
City Hall
414-768-6500
www.oakcreekwi.org
Chamber of Commerce
414-768-5845
Sharing a chamber of commerce with Franklin, the city of Oak Creek stretches over 29 square miles to offer a pleasing suburban home to nearly 24,000 residents. Situated on the western shore of Lake Michigan in the southwestern corner of the county, the community neighbors the city of Milwaukee. From its agricultural roots, this area has emerged as a balanced community that blends residential neighborhoods with thriving businesses and industry. Many newcomers to the city have been drawn to the attractive and diverse selection of housing, lakefront recreation, the city’s efficient services, and close proximity to world-class urban amenities in Milwaukee. Recreational highlights include 15 lush parks filled with sports facilities and a golf course.
River Hills
Village Hall
414-352-8213
www.riverhillswi.com/
Chamber of Commerce
414-287-4100
www.mmac.org
The prestigious small village of River Hills is home to approximately 2,000 residents who enjoy generous parcels of land and a high-end selection of executive homes and elegant mansions. The village is located just eight miles from downtown Milwaukee and 20 miles from the international airport. The upscale atmosphere and serenity of the community have attractive many executives employed by some of Milwaukee’s largest and most successful corporations. Luxurious, meticulously maintained estates are common, graced by natural wooded beauty. Planners and residents are determined to preserve the gracious “northwoods” characteristic of the area through careful zoning that protects richly forested areas along the river. This natural barrier also muffles the bustle and noise of the nearby metropolitan area. Recreational highlights include the Milwaukee River and a private country club.
St. Francis
City Hall
414-481-2300
https://wi-stfrancis.civicplus.com
Chamber of Commerce
414-287-4100
www.mmac.org
Home to approximately 10,000 residents, the city of St. Francis will be welcoming more visitors with the opening of the Lake Parkway and the direct line from the Hoan Bridge south to Howard and Layton avenues. Much of the city overlooks the scenic lakefront graced by open space of parks and trails. The best of small-town closeness and metropolitan amenities make St. Francis an ideal family community. The Hoan Bridge and Interstate 794 ensure a quick trip to downtown Milwaukee shops, restaurants, clubs, and cultural attractions. The landmark of St. Francis Seminary, a 150-year-old institution that gives the city its name, soars from behind a border of trees to command breathtaking views. Colorful local celebrations, sports facilities, Lake Michigan, Nathaniel Green Park, and Bay View Park represent a few of the area highlights.
Shorewood
Village Hall
414-847-2600
www.villageofshorewood.org
Chamber of Commerce
414-287-4100
www.mmac.org
Many impressive homes are nestled in Shorewood, a community that began as one of the first links in the ring of suburbs around Milwaukee. Rigid codes and exceptional services like sidewalk plowing during the winter months have given Shorewood a preferred status. The village specialty grocer combines with a revitalized central business district to offer popular retailers and specialty stores. With Lake Michigan on the east, the Milwaukee River on the west, and Whitefish Bay on the north, the village offers an ideal location for commuters as well as premier water-sport and outdoor recreational opportunities. Most homes are traditional two and three-story residences of brick or stone on relatively small lots. In the heart of the village are luxury apartments and a handsome Georgian Colonial library and mall. Sidewalks and huge oak shade trees make this a delightful suburb with comfortable, cool summers caressed by lake breezes.
South Milwaukee
City Hall
414-762-2222
http://smwi.org
Chamber of Commerce
414-762-2222
Boasting Lake Michigan waterfront and the largest of Milwaukee County’s parks, the city of South Milwaukee blends residential neighborhoods with bustling commercial centers and local industry. Supporting a population nearing 24,000, the city is located eight miles from the Milwaukee downtown district. A wide variety of housing, an 18-hole golf course, the South Shore Yacht Club, Grant Park, and Oak Creek Parkway are all attractive features in this comfortable suburb. The city is less than three miles from Interstate 94, and commuters can rely on freeway flyer service from Milwaukee County Transit. Shopping plazas, convenient services, and local medical centers add to the quality of life. World-class cultural attractions, professional sports, and entertainment centers are nearby in Milwaukee.
Wauwatosa
City Hall
414-479-8917
www.wauwatosa.net
Chamber of Commerce
414-453-2330
http://tosachamber.org/
Yankee settlers were first attracted to Wauwatosa in the late 1800s, creating a community that flourished as a rural trading center in the style of New England. Today, this thriving suburb offers a growing, balanced, and diverse community with a family friendly atmosphere. Convenient shops and services are clustered along the North Avenue corridor and also on Blue Mound Road. Wauwatosa has integrated a strong industrial presence and major healthcare facilities for a thriving local economy. Attractions are diverse and include some of the finest in the metropolitan region, including the Milwaukee County Zoo, Miller Park, and Mayfair Mall. Interstates 43 and 94 are both easily accessible for commuting ease.
West Allis
City Hall
4124-302-8200
www.ci.west-allis.wi.us/
Chamber of Commerce
414-774-2676
https://www.westallisdowntown.com/
Incorporated as a city in the early 1900s, West Allis is home to some of the metropolitan region’s leading industries. In fact, it was the demand for open land and the willingness to accommodate industrial expansion that drove the area’s growth and development. Today, West Allis is home to nearly 70,000 residents and is ranked among Wisconsin’s 10 largest cities. Neighborhoods of single-family homes prevail, and the city claims a rate of home ownership as high as 90 percent. Newer subdivisions in the southwest sector attract newcomers to prestigious locations that are minutes from every community convenience. Downtown Milwaukee is just five miles from home. Recreational highlights include lush parks, swimming pools, an 18-hole golf course, State Fair Park, and the Pettit National Ice Center — the official training site for the U.S. Olympic Speed Skating Team.
West Milwaukee
Village Hall
414-645-1530
www.westmilwaukee.org
Chamber of Commerce
414-774-2676
https://www.westallisdowntown.com/
The “working village” of West Milwaukee devotes approximately 80 percent of its land to industrial and commercial use, drawing in thousands of employees during the daytime working hours. This small community nestles between West Allis and Milwaukee, with the most visible landmarks being the Milwaukee County Stadium and the Zablocki Veteran’s Administration Medical Center. However, the village is close to wonderful regional attractions like the Miller Park Baseball Complex, the Bradley Center, the SummerFest Grounds, State Fair Park, the Pettit National Ice Center, and the Milwaukee County Zoo. The family-friendly West Milwaukee Park is located in the heart of the community, complementing tree-lined residential neighborhoods.
Whitefish Bay
Village Hall
414-962-6690
www.wfbvillage.org/
Chamber of Commerce
414-287-4100
www.mmac.org
The attractive community of Whitefish Bay is probably most famous for the magnificent homes and estates that line Lake Shore Drive, considered by many to be one of the Midwest’s most exclusive addresses. The primary north-south corridor of Silver Spring River features many fine retails shops and professional offices. Whitefish Bay has remained strictly residential with no industrial development, so the housing selection is exceptionally abundant and attractive. Many of the residents commute to management or executive positions or professional offices from their tranquil Whitefish Bay home. The majority of residences feature traditional styling in a two-story design on relatively small but extremely well-manicured lots. Complete in less than three square miles, the village is six miles from downtown Milwaukee. Recreational highlights include lush parks and Lake Michigan water sports.
