Waunona, Madison,WI

For those considering a move to Madison, WI, the Waunona neighborhood offers a charming blend of suburban comfort and urban convenience. Nestled in the southeast part of the city, Waunona is known for its tree-lined streets, friendly community vibe, and a variety of housing options that appeal to families, young professionals, and retirees alike. One of the neighborhood’s biggest draws is its close proximity to Waunakee Elementary and Hawthorne Elementary, making it an ideal spot for families prioritizing education. Residents enjoy easy access to plenty of parks and green spaces, such as the scenic Warner Park, which features walking trails, tennis courts, and playgrounds perfect for weekend recreation and social gatherings.

What really sets Waunona apart are its local attractions and amenities that enhance everyday living. The neighborhood boasts a vibrant shopping area along East Washington Avenue, where you can find quaint cafes, boutique shops, and popular eateries like Daisy Cafe & Cupcakery. For those who enjoy the outdoors, the nearby Yahara River Parkway provides beautiful trails for biking and jogging, connecting residents to other parts of the city through a network of scenic routes. Community events and farmers markets often take place in the area, fostering a welcoming atmosphere where neighbors come together to celebrate local culture and fresh, seasonal produce.

Another major perk of living in Waunona is its convenient distance to Downtown Madison, which is roughly a 10 to 15-minute drive or a quick bus ride away. This means residents can enjoy the best of both worlds: the peaceful, residential feel of a close-knit neighborhood and easy access to the bustling downtown district with its theaters, museums, shopping, and dining options. Whether you’re commuting for work or heading out for a night on the town, Waunona’s location makes it a smart choice for anyone looking to settle in a community that offers a balanced lifestyle with plenty of local charm and amenities.

In Waunona, 26% of residents aged 16 and older are married, which is notably higher than the national average. This could point to a more settled, community-driven neighborhood where long-term residents and homeowners are common. It’s the kind of place where stability, and a close-knit atmosphere make it especially appealing to families and couples looking to put down roots.

With only 26% 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.

Waunona 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 1,958 residents, Waunona 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 1,626 people per square mile, Waunona 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 39, 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 Waunona 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 Waunona, the median home price is about $294,275, 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 Waunona 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 $1,304, 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 Waunona 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 Waunona 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.