Riverwest, Milwaukee,WI

If you’re considering a move to Milwaukee, the Riverwest neighborhood in the north east part of the city offers a unique blend of urban charm and community spirit that’s hard to beat. Known for its eclectic vibe and strong sense of neighborhood pride, Riverwest is a haven for artists, young professionals, and families alike. The area boasts a vibrant local scene with plenty of quirky coffee shops, craft breweries, and independent bookstores that give it a welcoming, creative atmosphere. One of the standout attractions here is the Riverwest 24, an annual bike race and festival that draws participants and spectators from all over, showcasing the community’s active and inclusive spirit.

Riverwest is also a great choice for those who want to be close to the action without living smack dab in the hustle and bustle of Downtown Milwaukee. It’s just about a 10-minute drive or a short bike ride away, making it incredibly convenient for commuters who work in the city center but prefer a more laid-back neighborhood vibe. Plus, its proximity to the Milwaukee River offers lovely green spaces like the Riverwest Public Library Park and the nearby Kosciuszko Park, perfect for weekend picnics, jogging, or simply unwinding by the water after a busy day. The neighborhood’s walkability and access to public transit also make getting around easy for those who prefer to leave the car at home.

Beyond the outdoor spaces and community events, Riverwest shines with its diverse culinary scene. Locals rave about spots like Beans & Barley, a cozy cafe known for its fresh, organic fare, and Odd Duck, which serves up inventive farm-to-table dishes. The neighborhood’s friendly, inclusive vibe is evident in its many community-driven initiatives and events, fostering a strong sense of belonging. Whether you’re looking for a lively cultural hub or a peaceful residential enclave with character, Riverwest offers the best of both worlds, making it a fantastic choice for anyone relocating to Milwaukee.

About 23% of the Riverwest 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 12% 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.

Exploring Riverwest demographics can reveal a lot about its character, pace, and overall lifestyle. Riverwest has a population of 12,368, which is larger than many other Milwaukee neighborhoods, creating a lively and dynamic atmosphere. Its size brings an abundance of amenities, entertainment options, and community activities, while still offering spaces to unwind and enjoy the neighborhood’s unique character.

Boasting a population density of 8,672, Riverwest is more densely populated than many other Milwaukee neighborhoods, creating a vibrant and energetic atmosphere. The higher concentration of residents contributes to a lively street scene, a strong sense of community, and convenient access to shops, restaurants, and urban amenities just steps from home.

With an average age of 32, 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 Riverwest 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 Riverwest, the median home price is about $223,993, 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 Riverwest 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 $1,091, 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 Riverwest 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 Riverwest 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.