Burke Heights, Madison,WI

If you’re considering a move to Madison, WI, the Burke Heights neighborhood in the northwest part of the city offers a charming blend of suburban comfort and urban convenience. Known for its peaceful streets and family-friendly vibe, Burke Heights is a popular choice for those seeking a quieter lifestyle while still being close to the action. Residents enjoy easy access to local parks, community centers, and excellent schools, making it an ideal spot for families and professionals alike.

One of the standout attractions of Burke Heights is the nearby Nine Springs E-way, a beautiful natural area perfect for hiking, biking, and bird watching. The neighborhood also boasts proximity to the Madison Metropolitan Sewerage District’s nature trails, which offer serene spots to unwind after a busy day. For shopping and dining, the area features several local favorites as well as convenient access to larger retail centers just a short drive away. With a strong sense of community, Burke Heights often hosts neighborhood events and gatherings that make new residents feel right at home.

Another great perk of living in Burke Heights is its proximity to Downtown Madison, which is only about a 15-minute drive away. This means residents can easily enjoy the vibrant cultural scene, diverse restaurants, and bustling nightlife without sacrificing the tranquility of their neighborhood. Whether you’re commuting for work or heading downtown for an evening out, the location strikes a perfect balance between accessibility and peaceful living. For anyone relocating to Madison, Burke Heights provides a welcoming, well-rounded option that offers both convenience and charm.

About 32% of the Burke Heights population aged 16 and older are married, which is notably lower than average. This could suggest a community with a younger, more transient population—perhaps made up of students, professionals, or renters. It may also reflect a neighborhood that attracts singles or couples without children, contributing to a more independent, urban lifestyle.

With only 20% of people over 16 having children, you can expect an easygoing environment that tends to attract residents seeking a quieter lifestyle. The atmosphere here leans more toward adult-oriented living. Without the constant rhythm of school schedules or kid-centered events, the community maintains a slower, more relaxed pace. This makes it especially appealing to singles, couples, and empty nesters who appreciate tranquil streets, and recreation on their own terms.

Burke Heights demographics offer valuable insights into the character and lifestyle of the neighborhood, helping you understand who lives there and what daily life might feel like. Home to only about 1,152 residents, Burke Heights is notably smaller than many other Madison neighborhoods, creating a more peaceful and community-oriented atmosphere. Its lower population can translate to quieter streets, a more relaxed pace of life, and easier access to local amenities — all without sacrificing the vibrant urban lifestyle the city is known for.

Burke Heights has a population density of 2,105, which strikes a balanced feel when compared to other Madison neighborhoods. The area offers just the right mix of activity and breathing room, creating a community that’s lively yet comfortable, with easy access to amenities and everyday conveniences.

With an average age of 33, you're likely to find a well-balanced community where multiple generations live side by side. This mix of age groups contributes to a neighborhood atmosphere that’s both active and welcoming, offering a blend of fresh perspectives and long-standing community values.

The Burke Heights crime map uses detailed block group boundaries from address-based crime data to visualize crime patterns across the neighborhood, highlighting both low-crime zones and areas with higher levels of reported crime. This crime heat map helps paint a clearer picture of local safety trends, showing how crime can vary from one part of the community to another. Keep in mind that areas with higher activity on the map don’t always equate to dangerous conditions — locations near entertainment districts, major roads, or tourist destinations often see more reports simply due to the larger number of people passing through.

Housing prices can reveal a lot about the balance and overall appeal of a neighborhood. In Burke Heights, the median home price is about $286,433, which is on par with many comparable areas. This average pricing reflects a stable, affordable housing market and makes the neighborhood an appealing choice for a wide range of buyers seeking both value and long-term potential. Examining how home prices and appreciation rates in Burke Heights have shifted over time can reveal important clues about the neighborhood’s future value. These trends help potential buyers and investors understand market momentum and determine whether the area is likely to deliver strong returns over the long term.

The median rent is around $1,255, which is on par with many comparable neighborhoods. This balanced pricing offers a mix of affordability and value, making it a practical choice for a wide range of renters.

School ratings in Burke Heights combine factors like student performance, graduation rates, and standardized test scores to provide a clear picture of overall educational quality. The use of NAEP (National Assessment of Educational Progress) scores adds valuable context by offering a consistent national benchmark to see how local schools compare on a broader scale. Additionally, understanding the overall education level achieved by residents in Burke Heights can give insight into the community’s priorities and opportunities, helping families make more informed decisions about where to live and how well local schools may support long-term student success.