Best and Worst places to live in WI (Milwaukee, Madison: house, theater)

[BadgerNut]

I think this will be an interesting topic. List a city in which you think is the worst and/or best place to live in Wisconsin and don't forget to say why you feel that way.

I've lived in FDL all of my life and find it so-so. I wouldn't tell someone not to move here but it can be a little standoff-ish, but people are pretty nice for the most part. I've never had anyone not help me. Not a whole lot to do for a city the size of 40,000. Yeah, yeah I know - Walleye Weekend - don't like it, don't go (personal opinion). Can't stand Portage, people are very unpleasant. Absolutely love Eagle River area - great fishing and very nice people.

[radraja]

I think WI can seem standoff-ish because the state isn't extremely transient. Most people's families have lived in the state for several generations, so reacting to newcomers can be tough. The lack of transiency can be a good thing for current residents though. It preserves their local culture.

My favorite area I've lived in is Milwaukee. It's a blue-collar town and it can be very gritty, there's no avoiding that, but the city has a lot of character...I loved my childhood there.

My least favorite city would have to be Kenosha. I'm just not a fan. A cousin of mine lives there, and it just seems very bland to me. Plus, I couldn't imagine the commute for jobs.

[i4tas]

best = lake house in northwoods
worst = milwaukee's north side

[BadgerNut]

The reason why I asked this question is because I'm thinking of moving and was curious what people thought. Does anyone have an opinion of Manitowoc, Port Washington, Grafton/Cedarburg area, Portage, etc.

[JoshB]

Cedarburg area is expen$ive. Very nice area though. I was just over there a couple of weeks ago. Have you thought about Baraboo?

[radraja]

Agreed. Cebarburg = $$$.

[BadgerNut]

What can you tell me about Baraboo? I haven't really thought about that area, thought it was too close to Portage and therefore the same type of folk.

[nanannie]

Interesting about the "stand-offish" comments. My daughter is having a heck of a time in New Glarus. The moms at the parks and places she is trying to meet others are like zombies to her and her young son. Shes bright,sweet, outgoing and trying to get in the teaching world as well which has been a real trial for her, even though she had glowing recommendations from other schools. Shes having a tough time. She will be glad to know its not just her that feels it.

[JoshB]

Baraboo has many more options than Portage. The only thing with Baraboo is you don't get the great schools like Portage. Baraboo has many recreational opportunities, a zoo, circus world, theater, a beautiful downtown. Only 25 minutes from the West side of Madison. Only 10 minutes to Lake Delton. I would seriously check out Baraboo.

We can't generalize everyone in Portage.

[nanannie]

Originally Posted by BadgerNut

What can you tell me about Baraboo? I haven't really thought about that area, thought it was too close to Portage and therefore the same type of folk.

I can tell you that we visited for a week end in Baraboo last fall and thought it a really nice town. Picnic at Devils Head (large lake) was beautiful. Town was cute,quaint with well kept old buildings and 'hoods around with those old historice homes,,charming.