Moving to Madison w/ kids (home, established neighborhood, school districts)

[vwinterland]

We are relocating to Madison from the burbs (Chicago). We have 3 kids (5, 7, 8) We are an active family that loves parks, hikes, fishing, swimming, bike paths, etc. I know nothing about the area. What is a good side of town, neighborhood, area, etc. to live in with kids. I would like a bit of a yard ( about half an acre if possible) but would like to be in a neighborhood with other kids. Good schools. We like established neighborhoods. Any tips/help is greatly appreciated. Thank you in advance!

[ranger17]

OP, you'll find Madison is nothing like Chicago; it is a small city that can be traveled around and thru easier, the "good neighborhoods" can be found on any side, and there are several lakes and the river system flowing in and around the city as well.

I'd say we'd need more info to be able to give any suggestions. Where is work to be located? What is your home budget? I can add that quite possibly you'll be looking at a more rural community/neighborhood if you wish to have a 1/2 acre lot, those will be tougher to find in the metro area and it may come at a premium.
There are good school districts in the city and in the 'burbs; but as with your other wants and needs determining the work location and going from there would be the first suggestion.

my .02 of course.

[Ragnar]

Check out the Hill Farms neighborhood near Hilldale (around Midvale / Whitney Way / Regent Street). It's an established neighborhood with good schools, the lots tend to be bigger (probably not quire half an acre though), and it's central to a lot of what Madison has to offer. Most home prices in this area will be $300k+.