Marshall

If you are considering a move to Marshall, Wisconsin, you are exploring one of Dane County’s most friendly, peaceful, and steadily growing rural villages. Located just east of Madison, Marshall offers a quiet small town atmosphere surrounded by lakes, parks, and scenic agricultural land. It is a place where kids play outside until the streetlights come on, where neighbors know one another, and where local traditions bring the community together throughout the year.

Marshall appeals to home buyers looking for affordability, outdoor recreation, and a relaxed lifestyle while still being within a short commute of Madison, Sun Prairie, and Cottage Grove. Known for its strong schools, lake access, and expanding housing options, Marshall offers a balance of comfort, nature, and convenience. Whether you are moving for work, family, or a slower pace of life, Marshall provides a warm and welcoming environment for residents of all ages.

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

1. Lifestyle and Local Vibe

Marshall is known for its small town charm, friendly residents, and love of the outdoors. It offers a relaxed pace with easy access to parks, lakes, and community gatherings.

Who lives in Marshall

Marshall attracts a wide mix of residents, including:

• Families looking for good schools

• Commuters who work in Madison or Sun Prairie

• Longtime residents who appreciate tradition and quiet living

• Retirees who enjoy peaceful surroundings

• Outdoor enthusiasts who want lake access and open space

• First time buyers seeking affordability and community

The village has a close knit and inviting atmosphere.

A quiet small town with natural surroundings

Residents appreciate:

• A charming village center

• Quiet streets and walkable neighborhoods

• Scenic farmland and open countryside

• Access to two local lakes for recreation

• A friendly environment where people look out for each other

Marshall offers a calm, grounded lifestyle ideal for those who prefer peaceful living.

Community events and local traditions

Popular community events include:

• Marshall Fireman’s Festival

• Fourth of July celebrations

• Youth sports tournaments

• Local parades and holiday events

• Farmers markets and craft fairs

• Community fundraisers and school activities

These traditions help bring residents together and reinforce Marshall’s strong community feel.

A community-oriented and relaxed lifestyle

Daily life in Marshall moves at a comfortable pace. The community is welcoming, easygoing, and centered around outdoor recreation and neighborhood connection.

2. Schools & Education
Marshall provides local educational opportunities through the Marshall School District, along with private and alternative options in nearby communities and access to higher-education institutions in the broader region. Families moving to Marshall often consider academic programs, graduation outcomes, and community involvement when evaluating neighborhoods.

Public Schools
The Marshall School District serves students from early childhood through high school with multiple campuses. The district focuses on academic foundations, student development, and extracurricular opportunities across all grade levels. 

District Overview

• Number of Schools: 5 public schools serving grades PK–12.

• Enrollment (2024–25): About 964 students district-wide. 

• Student-Teacher Ratio: 13:1. 

Programs and Opportunities
The district provides a variety of academic and enrichment offerings, including:

• Core academic curriculum with preparation for postsecondary pathways

• Arts, music, theater, and band programs

• Athletics and team sports

• Clubs, leadership activities, and student enrichment options

Recent publicly available district-level data:

• Overall District Rating (2024–25): 70.0 / Meets Expectations according to the Wisconsin DPI accountability report card.

• Math Proficiency (district average): ~33 % proficient or above, which is below state averages.

• English / Reading Proficiency (district average): ~31 % proficient or above. 

• Science Proficiency (district average): ~46 % proficient or above.

• Graduation Rate: Approximately 90–94 % on-time graduation rate.

• Student-Teacher Ratio: 13:1. 

• Number of Schools: 5 public schools serving PK–12. 

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

Private & Charter Options
Marshall and nearby communities offer private and alternative schooling options. Each school operates its own admissions process, tuition structure, and curriculum model:

St. John the Baptist Catholic School (near Marshall)

• Private Catholic school serving elementary and middle school grades.

• Emphasizes core academics and community values in a smaller school setting.

Cambridge Christian School (nearby)

• Private faith-based option providing education for early and elementary levels.

• Focuses on academic foundations and character development.

Families can contact each school directly for curriculum descriptions, admissions details, and program information.

Higher Education
While Marshall does not host a major university within village 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 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 provide 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 Marshall due to:

• Access to a comprehensive public school system serving all grade levels

• Graduation outcomes and instructional programs that support student progression

• Availability of private and alternative schooling choices in the region

• Convenient access to regional higher-education institutions such as Madison College, Edgewood University, and UW–Madison

3. Real Estate Market and Home Styles

Marshall offers a variety of homes ranging from historic properties to modern new construction. Buyers appreciate the affordability and strong sense of community the area provides.

Home styles you can expect

Common home types include:

• Historic homes near the village center

• Ranch style homes in established neighborhoods

• Traditional two story homes

• Mid century residences with large lots

• New construction subdivisions

• Lakefront and near lake homes

• Rural properties and farmhouses

• Condos and townhomes with low maintenance living

Marshall provides appealing options for many lifestyles and budgets.

Price ranges

Typical price ranges include:

• Condos and townhomes: $200,000 to $325,000

• Single family homes: $275,000 to $500,000

• New construction: $450,000 to $700,000

• Lakefront and acreage properties: $550,000 to over $1,000,000

Marshall offers strong value compared to many surrounding Dane County suburbs.

Is it a buyers market or a sellers market?

Marshall tends to lean toward a balanced market. Homes under $450,000 usually sell quickly due to limited inventory and demand from first time buyers and families. Higher priced homes vary based on size, acreage, and water access.

Popular neighborhoods

Well known areas include:

• Historic Village Center neighborhoods

• Neighborhoods near Fireman’s Park

• Marshall Heights subdivision

• Newer developments on the east and south sides

• Rural properties extending toward Deerfield and Lake Mills

• Homes near Little Amerricka and local recreation areas

Each area provides its own charm and appeal.

4. Commute and Connectivity

Marshall offers convenient access to Madison, Sun Prairie, Cottage Grove, and Jefferson County destinations.

Driving times

Typical commute times include:

• Marshall to Madison (east side): approximately 20 to 25 minutes

• Marshall to Madison (downtown): approximately 25 to 35 minutes

• Marshall to Sun Prairie: approximately 12 to 18 minutes

• Marshall to Deerfield: approximately 8 to 10 minutes

• Marshall to Cottage Grove: approximately 10 to 15 minutes

• Marshall to Lake Mills: approximately 12 to 18 minutes

Its central location makes regional travel efficient and manageable.

Main routes

Marshall is easily accessed by:

• Highway 19

• Highway 73

• County Highway TT

• Nearby access to Interstate 94

These routes provide fast connections to Dane and Jefferson Counties.

Public transit and biking

While Marshall does not offer bus service, residents benefit from:

• Close proximity to Park and Ride locations

• Scenic biking and walking routes

• Easy access to regional recreational trails

Daily conveniences

Marshall offers convenient access to:

• Grocery essentials and local markets

• Coffee shops and casual dining

• Medical and dental clinics

• Hardware stores and service businesses

• Parks, playgrounds, and recreational facilities

Larger retailers and entertainment options are available within minutes in Sun Prairie or Madison.

5. Things To Do and Local Hot Spots

Marshall offers a fun mix of outdoor recreation, local dining, lakeside activities, and small town entertainment.

Restaurants and cafes locals enjoy

Popular dining spots include:

• The Pye Lounge

• Hering’s Fish Bowl Bar for classic Wisconsin fare

• Local coffee and bakery options in nearby towns

• Easy access to Sun Prairie and Cottage Grove for expanded dining choices

Outdoor recreation and natural beauty

Marshall offers excellent access to lakes, parks, and natural areas, including:

• Fireman’s Park and Beach

• Little Amerricka amusement park

• Marshall Millpond

• Walking and biking paths

• Nearby access to Lake Koshkonong and Lake Ripley

• Scenic rural drives and countryside views

Entertainment and local activities

Residents enjoy:

• Annual Fireman’s Festival

• Youth sports programs and community events

• Local parades and holiday celebrations

• Little Amerricka’s rides and attractions

• Community center activities and gatherings

• Quick access to Madison’s entertainment and shopping

Hidden gems and local favorites

Locals often recommend:

• Spending a summer day at Fireman’s Park Beach

• Taking kids to Little Amerricka for classic amusement rides

• Kayaking or fishing on the Marshall Millpond

• Enjoying a meal at Silver Eagle Bar and Grill

• Exploring scenic back roads and bike routes around the village

Key Takeaways

Marshall is a wonderful place to call home. It offers peaceful living, friendly neighborhoods, strong schools, and a beautiful natural setting. With affordable housing, lake access, and a short commute to Madison and Sun Prairie, Marshall is ideal for anyone seeking comfort, convenience, and small town charm.

Marshall stands out as one of Dane County’s most welcoming and well balanced rural communities.