Deforest

If you are considering a move to DeForest, Wisconsin, you are looking at one of Dane County’s most welcoming and steadily growing suburban communities. DeForest sits just north of Madison and offers a peaceful, community-centered lifestyle with beautiful parks, convenient access to major highways, and a charming small town atmosphere. It is the kind of place where neighbors greet each other on morning walks, where kids can bike to school, and where community events bring everyone together throughout the year.

Over the past decade, DeForest has grown significantly as more people seek larger homes, quiet neighborhoods, top rated schools, and quick access to Madison without the busyness of city living. The community has invested in parks, trails, new developments, and revitalized business areas, all while preserving its small town identity. Whether you are relocating from across the country or moving from elsewhere in Dane County, DeForest offers a wonderful blend of comfort and convenience.

Here are the five things every home buyer wants to know before moving to Deforest, WI:

1. Lifestyle and Local Vibe

DeForest is known for its friendly, relaxed, and community-oriented lifestyle. Residents enjoy quiet neighborhoods, strong community pride, and a slower pace of life compared to Madison, yet they remain close enough to enjoy everything the city offers.

Who lives in DeForest

DeForest attracts a variety of people, including:

• Professionals who commute to Madison, Sun Prairie, or Waunakee

• First-time buyers who want more space for their budget

• Longtime residents who appreciate the small town character

• Retirees who enjoy peace and convenience

The community feel is strong. People look out for each other, support local businesses, and take pride in maintaining their homes.

A community built around parks and nature

One of the standout features of DeForest is its natural beauty. The Yahara River winds through the community, and parks and trails are woven into many neighborhoods.

Popular outdoor spots include:

• Fireman’s Park with its lake, fishing, and scenic trails

• Western Green with playgrounds and open spaces

• Token Creek County Park just minutes from town

• The Upper Yahara River Trail for walking, running, and biking

• Windsor Sports Commons for youth leagues and outdoor activities

Nature is always close by, which makes DeForest ideal for anyone who enjoys an active outdoor lifestyle.

Community events and local traditions

DeForest hosts a variety of community focused events throughout the year, including:

• The DeForest Area Fourth of July Festival

• Yahara River Fest

• Winter Fest with seasonal activities

• Farmers markets during warmer months

• Holiday parades and local gatherings

These events reflect the town’s strong sense of connection and pride.

2. Schools & Education
DeForest offers a range of educational opportunities through the DeForest Area School District and nearby private/alternative options. Families moving to the area often appreciate the district’s solid graduation outcomes, community support, and access to regional higher-education resources.

Public Schools
The DeForest Area School District (DASD) serves students from early childhood through high school and emphasizes academic development, student engagement, and community involvement across all grade levels. The district covers approximately 100 square miles and serves the communities of DeForest and Windsor. 

District Overview
The district operates 7 public schools including elementary, intermediate, middle, and high school levels. Enrollment for the 2024–25 school year was approximately 4,246 students. 

Programs and Opportunities
The district provides a broad academic curriculum along with a variety of co-curricular and enrichment offerings, such as:

• Advanced coursework and core academic subjects

• Fine arts, music, theater, and band programs

• Athletics, team sports, and student clubs

• Support services and enrichment activities

Recent publicly available district-level data:

• Overall District Rank: Top 30 % of Wisconsin districts based on combined math and reading proficiency and other measures.

• Graduation Rate: 97 % of students graduate on time, among the higher rates in the state.

• Math Proficiency (district-wide average): ~ 51 % proficient or above. 

• Reading / English Language Arts Proficiency (district-wide average): ~ 44 % proficient or above. 

• Science Proficiency (district-wide average): ~ 52 % proficient or above. 

• Student-Teacher Ratio: ~ 14:1. 

• Number of Schools: 7 public schools serving PK–12.

Families can review curriculum options, enrollment boundaries, transportation information, and official state-published performance data through DASD and the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction (DPI).

Private & Charter Options
DeForest and the surrounding region offer several private and alternative schooling choices. Each school maintains its own admissions process, curriculum model, and tuition (if applicable):

Little University of Vienna

• Small micro-school with multi-age classrooms and project-based learning.

• Personalized instruction with early foreign language exposure and portfolio-based progress tracking. 

Local Private & Alternative Programs

• Nearby communities provide additional private and independent schools with faith-based, academically focused, or specialized programs.

• Families can contact each institution for curriculum details, admissions information, and program options.

Higher Education
While DeForest does not host a major university within city limits, residents have convenient access to several higher-education institutions in the broader region:

Madison College (MATC)

• Public technical college offering certificates, diplomas, and associate degrees.

• Provides transfer pathways, workforce training, adult education, and flexible scheduling.

Edgewood University

• Private four-year university with a variety of undergraduate majors and graduate programs.

• Smaller class sizes support a more personalized academic experience.

University of Wisconsin–Madison (UW–Madison)

• Large public research university offering a wide range of undergraduate, graduate, and professional degree programs.

• Provides access to research, cultural events, arts, and athletic resources.

Regional Technical & Community College Options

• Other nearby institutions offer trade, workforce, certificate, continuing-education, and adult learner programs.

• Supports non-traditional students and career advancement opportunities.

These institutions contribute to the region’s educational resources and community engagement.

How Education Influences Real Estate

Education options are an important factor for many homebuyers, and proximity to schools or learning resources can shape how people consider neighborhoods in DeForest due to:

• Convenience for school and activity access

• High graduation outcomes and strong district rankings relative to state averages

• Availability of private and alternative schooling options in the region

• Easy access to Madison College and UW–Madison resources

3. Real Estate Market and Home Styles

DeForest offers a diverse and growing housing market. Buyers can choose from newer developments, established neighborhoods, and rural properties.

Home styles you can expect

• New construction with modern layouts and energy efficient features

• Two story homes in subdivisions

• Ranch homes, which are especially popular with both families and retirees

• Condos and townhomes for low maintenance living

• Split level homes from earlier development periods

• Acreage properties on the outskirts of town

Because DeForest continues to grow, there are many newer subdivisions with attractive homes and walkable design.

Price ranges

While prices vary by condition, size, and neighborhood, general price ranges include:

• Condos and townhomes: $230,000 to $400,000

• Single family homes: $350,000 to $700,000

• New construction: $450,000 to $850,000

• Acreage and luxury homes: $900,000 and above

Buyers often find that their budget stretches further in DeForest than in many parts of Madison or Middleton.

Is it a buyers market or a sellers market

DeForest tends to lean toward a sellers market in the entry level and mid price points. Inventory can be competitive for homes under $550,000. New construction offers more choices for buyers who want flexibility with floor plans and timelines.

Popular neighborhoods

Some well known areas include:

• Conservancy Place

• Rivers Turn

• Rosemary Meadows

• Heritage Gardens

• Eagle Watch

• Windsor neighborhoods just adjacent to DeForest

Each neighborhood offers its own unique layout, home style, and amenities.

4. Commute and Connectivity

DeForest is located just north of Madison and offers excellent commuter access. Its location near Interstate 39 and Highway 19 makes travel to surrounding communities efficient and predictable.

Driving times

Typical commute times include:

• DeForest to Downtown Madison: approximately 15 to 20 minutes

• DeForest to East Madison: approximately 10 to 15 minutes

• DeForest to UW Madison campus: approximately 18 to 25 minutes

• DeForest to Sun Prairie: approximately 10 to 15 minutes

• DeForest to Waunakee: approximately 12 minutes

• DeForest to Dane County Regional Airport: approximately 12 to 15 minutes

These short drive times are a major benefit for professionals.

Main routes

DeForest connects easily through:

• Interstate 39 and 90

• Highway 19

• County Highway CV

• Easy access to Highway 51

This makes commuting to Madison, Middleton, Sun Prairie, or anywhere in Dane County very manageable.

Public transit and biking

While DeForest is primarily a driving community, nearby Park and Ride options and regional bus routes offer additional convenience. The growing Yahara River Trail system makes biking more accessible as well.

Daily conveniences

DeForest has all the essentials close by, including:

• Grocery stores and markets

• Pharmacies and medical clinics

• Coffee shops and bakeries

• Family restaurants and bars

• Athletic fields and recreation centers

• Hardware stores and local shops

Most errands can be completed within minutes.

5. Things To Do and Local Hot Spots

DeForest offers a comfortable mix of local dining, outdoor recreation, family activities, and small town charm. Residents appreciate that the city feels peaceful but not boring.

Restaurants and cafes locals enjoy

Popular spots include:

• Norske Nook for pies and homestyle cooking

• DeForest Family Restaurant

• The Station for relaxed dining

• Norske Nook Bakery for breakfast treats

• BB Jacks Pizza for casual meals

• Windsor Breads Bakery and Coffeehouse in nearby Windsor

These locally owned establishments create a warm and welcoming dining scene.

Parks, trails, and outdoor recreation

DeForest shines in outdoor amenities. Local favorites include:

• Fireman’s Park Lake for fishing and picnics

• Upper Yahara River Trail for walking and biking

• Western Green Park for family fun

• Token Creek County Park for disc golf, trails, and dog parks

• Bike routes connecting to surrounding communities

There is no shortage of places to enjoy nature.

Entertainment and activities

Residents enjoy:

• Community festivals and holiday events

• Local farmers markets

• Yahara River kayaking routes

• Youth sports leagues

• Fitness classes and recreation programs

• Quick access to Madison’s museums, theaters, and events

Hidden gems and local favorites

• Take a quiet walk along the Yahara River Trail at sunset.

• Enjoy Friday fish fry at one of the local restaurants.

• Visit Token Creek Park for disc golf and peaceful forest trails.

• Stop by Windsor Breads for made from scratch pastries.

These experiences give DeForest its warm and welcoming feel.

Key Takeaways

Yes. DeForest is an excellent place to live for anyone who wants friendly neighborhoods, great schools, modern developments, and convenient access to Madison. It offers more space and quieter living without sacrificing amenities. With new parks, beautiful homes, and a strong community identity, DeForest continues to grow while staying true to its small town roots.

It is a place where life feels comfortable, connected, and community centered.