Hawthorne, Madison,WI

Hawthorne is a charming and vibrant neighborhood nestled in the southeast part of Madison, WI, perfect for anyone looking to settle in an area that balances suburban calm with urban convenience. What makes Hawthorne truly stand out are its beautiful tree-lined streets and a mix of classic mid-century homes alongside newer developments. It's a family-friendly community with a welcoming vibe, ideal for those who want a peaceful environment without sacrificing access to amenities. Local parks and green spaces offer plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities, making it a great spot for nature lovers and active families alike.

One of the highlights of living in Hawthorne is its proximity to some fantastic local attractions. The neighborhood boasts easy access to the popular Goodman Pool, a favorite summer spot for swimming and community events. Residents also enjoy being near the Vilas Park Zoo and the surrounding Vilas neighborhood, which offers a quaint, small-town feel with charming shops and eateries. Plus, the nearby Olbrich Botanical Gardens provide a serene escape with stunning gardens and a Thai pavilion, perfect for weekend strolls or photography enthusiasts. These attractions contribute to the neighborhood’s strong sense of community and offer plenty of options for entertainment and relaxation.

Convenience is key in Hawthorne, as it's only about a 10 to 15-minute drive from Downtown Madison, making it ideal for commuters or anyone who enjoys the buzz of city life without living right in the heart of it. Public transportation options are readily available, and major roads connect the neighborhood smoothly to the rest of the city. Whether you’re heading to work, school, or downtown events, Hawthorne provides an easy and comfortable commute. Overall, this neighborhood offers a perfect blend of quiet residential charm and accessibility, making it a fantastic choice for anyone relocating to Madison.

16% of the Hawthorne population aged 16 and up are married, which is in line with national averages. This balance suggests a neighborhood with a healthy mix of families, couples, and single residents, creating a well-rounded community dynamic. You are likely to find a blend of stability and social variety, appealing to both long-term homeowners and younger professionals alike.

With only 16% 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.

Hawthorne 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 1,544 residents, Hawthorne 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.

With a lower than average population density of 1,517 people per square mile, Hawthorne offers a more open and spacious environment compared to many other Madison neighborhoods. This often means quieter streets, less congestion, and a relaxed atmosphere — all while still providing access to the amenities and conveniences of city living.

With an average age of 37, 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 Hawthorne crime map offers a clear, data-driven look at how crime is distributed throughout the neighborhood, using block group data to highlight both safer areas and potential hot spots. The color-coded map makes it easy to see where crime is more concentrated and where it occurs less frequently, helping residents and prospective buyers better understand local safety patterns. It’s important to note that darker or red zones on the map don’t necessarily mean those areas are unsafe — locations near busy transit hubs, shopping districts, or popular attractions often show higher activity simply due to larger crowds and increased foot traffic.

Housing prices can reveal a lot about the balance and overall appeal of a neighborhood. In Hawthorne, the median home price is about $219,560, 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 Hawthorne 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 $1,180, 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 Hawthorne 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 Hawthorne 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.