What is the gay dating scene like in Madison (Milwaukee: hotel, quality of life)

[nathansparks516]

I am a 23-year-old gay, single young professional. I would really like to move to Madison for a job that I want, but I am worried that my dating odds are going to be low since I would be gay in a mid-sized city like Madison. I like Madison, but that's just one major concern that I have before deciding to move here. I am from Grand Rapids, where the LGBT dating scene is virtually inactive. Are the LGBT nightlife and dating scene strong? How progressive is Madison? I would expect the city to be conservative considering that Wisconsin is GOP-run. Also, please don't suggest Milwaukee. That city does not have enough jobs within my field.

[brrabbit]

Madison is right where you want to be. It is very progressive.

[timberline742]

The city isn't conservative, I don't know why you would expect that, most conservative states have places of sanity that are progressive (usually they're the educated areas with strong economies). That said, it isn't as progressive as many like to portray it to be. It is no SF, or Portland, etc. It is liberal for the upper Midwest, however.


It's not the same scene since the Hotel Washington disappeared, but there are still gay bars and clubs, and loads of gay singles.

[brrabbit]

It's definitely not the capital of the Bible belt... Wisconsin (in general - and Madison much more so) can be conservative on fiscal policies, but much more liberal on social issues than many other states.

[damba]

Originally Posted by nathansparks516

I am a 23-year-old gay, single young professional. I would really like to move to Madison for a job that I want, but I am worried that my dating odds are going to be low since I would be gay in a mid-sized city like Madison. I like Madison, but that's just one major concern that I have before deciding to move here. I am from Grand Rapids, where the LGBT dating scene is virtually inactive. Are the LGBT nightlife and dating scene strong? How progressive is Madison? I would expect the city to be conservative considering that Wisconsin is GOP-run. Also, please don't suggest Milwaukee. That city does not have enough jobs within my field.

I suggest you do more research since it will be in your favor. You will really like Madison.

[InnovativeAmerican]

Despite Madison's progressive reputation, it's a mid-sized city (although that is changing quickly) and its gay culture is subpar compared to Midwestern cities like Milwaukee, Chicago, and the Twin Cities, mostly because those cities are much bigger metros (hence more variety and diversity). Since you're looking for a "strong gay nightlife and dating scene", Milwaukee fits your criteria, but don't rely on my advice alone because I'm not a gay guy. My assertion is purely based on observations and experiences since I've had years of experience with Madison.

In short, Madison is most definitely a gay-friendly city, but it lacks the "gay vibrancy" that Milwaukee has. Otherwise, I hope this minor problem alone doesn't deter you from moving to Madison. It has the best quality of life and economy in Wisconsin. My wife and I recently moved here and love it.