Ridgewood, Madison,WI

Ridgewood is a charming and welcoming neighborhood in the southeast part of Madison, WI, perfect for anyone considering a move to the area. Known for its peaceful residential streets and friendly community vibe, Ridgewood offers a perfect blend of suburban comfort with easy access to city amenities. Families and young professionals alike appreciate the neighborhood’s well-maintained parks and green spaces, making it an ideal spot for outdoor activities and weekend strolls. The local schools are highly rated, which adds to the appeal for those relocating with children.

One of the standout attractions of Ridgewood is the nearby Vilas Park, a beloved destination for locals that features a beautiful lagoon, tennis courts, and playgrounds. This area is also close to the Madison Area Technical College, providing educational opportunities and community events that bring neighbors together. Food enthusiasts will enjoy the variety of dining options available just a short drive away, especially around the nearby Madison East Towne Mall area, which has a range of restaurants and shops to explore. Ridgewood’s proximity to the Yahara River also offers scenic spots for fishing and kayaking, adding to the neighborhood’s outdoor appeal.

Despite its tranquil atmosphere, Ridgewood is conveniently located only about 10 minutes from Downtown Madison, making commutes to work or entertainment venues quick and stress-free. This proximity allows residents to enjoy the vibrant cultural scene of the city center, including theaters, museums, and a bustling farmers market, while retreating to the calm of their neighborhood at day’s end. Whether you’re seeking a tight-knit community or easy access to city life, Ridgewood strikes a wonderful balance that makes it an attractive destination for new residents looking to put down roots in Madison.

24% of the Ridgewood 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 24% 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.

Ridgewood 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 1,806 residents, Ridgewood 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.

Ridgewood has a population density of 2,191, 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 Ridgewood 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 Ridgewood, the median home price is about $271,933, 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 Ridgewood 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 $1,259, 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 quality plays an important role in shaping the overall appeal of a neighborhood like Ridgewood. Ratings based on student achievement, graduation rates, and standardized tests — supported by national benchmarks like the NAEP (National Assessment of Educational Progress) — help paint a clearer picture of how local schools perform. Additionally, understanding the education levels of residents in Ridgewood offers valuable context about the community’s emphasis on learning and opportunity, helping families make confident decisions about where to settle and invest in their children’s future.