Monona

If you are thinking about moving to Monona, you are looking at one of the most charming and unique lakefront communities in Dane County. Monona sits on the eastern shore of Lake Monona and offers a rare blend of small-town warmth, natural beauty, and unbeatable access to Madison. It is the kind of place where you can watch the sunrise over the lake, walk to local coffee shops, bike along scenic trails, and still reach downtown Madison in just a few minutes.

Monona has an unmistakable identity. It is independent, community-centered, and proud of its history. Once primarily a cottage community for Madison residents who wanted lake access, Monona has evolved into a thriving residential city with beautiful neighborhoods, strong schools, locally owned restaurants, and extensive parks and shoreline. People who move here often fall in love with the lake lifestyle, the friendly vibe, and the convenience of being close to everything.

Whether you are relocating to the Madison area or simply considering a new neighborhood, you probably want to understand what makes Monona special. What can you expect from the lifestyle? How do the schools compare? What is the housing market like in a community this close to the lake? How does the commute work? And what do locals do for fun?

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

1. Lifestyle and Local Vibe

Monona has a small, close-knit community feel with a strong connection to the lake and outdoor recreation. The lifestyle is relaxed, friendly, and centered around local gatherings, nature, and family life.

Who lives in Monona

Monona attracts a wide range of people, including:

• Families who want great schools

• Professionals who want a short commute to Madison

• People who love lake views and access to boating, kayaking, and fishing

• Longtime residents who have called Monona home for decades

• Retirees who enjoy the peaceful yet connected lifestyle

Even though Monona sits right next to Madison, it maintains its own distinct identity and character. Residents value the small city feel and the slower pace compared to downtown Madison.

Strong sense of community

Monona is known for its neighborly atmosphere. Locals participate in community events, support small businesses, and enjoy being involved in city activities.

Popular annual events include:

• Monona Community Festival with fireworks every Fourth of July

• Monona Fall Festival in the autumn

• Monona Farmers Market from spring through fall

• Monona Memorial Day Parade which draws large crowds

• Local concerts and movie nights in the parks during summer

It is the kind of place where you see familiar faces at the local coffee shop or during evening walks.

Lake centered lifestyle

Lake Monona defines much of the city's personality. You will find residents:

• Biking or walking the Lake Monona Loop

• Kayaking or paddle boarding from local launches

• Fishing along the shoreline

• Watching sunsets at Schluter Beach

• Enjoying lakeside picnics and barbeques

For people who love being near the water, Monona is a dream location.

2. Schools & Education
Monona offers a combination of local public schooling through the Monona Grove School District, access to additional educational programs, and nearby higher-education institutions. Families moving to the area often appreciate the range of academic and extracurricular options within the district, as well as convenient access to post-secondary opportunities in the broader region.

Public Schools
The Monona Grove School District (MGSD) serves students from early childhood through high school in Monona and nearby Cottage Grove. The district emphasizes academic achievement, student engagement, and a supportive learning environment across all grade levels.

District Overview
The Monona Grove School District includes seven public schools offering education from 4K through 12th grade: four elementary schools, one middle school, and two high school programs. The district educates approximately 3,696 students.

Programs and Opportunities
Monona Grove School District provides a range of academic and co-curricular opportunities typical of comprehensive K–12 programs, including:

• English/Language Arts, mathematics, science, and social studies core coursework

• Fine arts, music, theater, and band programs

• Athletics, team sports, and school clubs

• Personalized learning support and enrichment opportunities

Recent Publicly Available District-Level Data:

• Number of Schools: 7 public schools in MGSD. 

• Student Enrollment: ~ 3,696 (2023–24).

• Student-Teacher Ratio: ~ 12:1 (local reporting). 

• Math Proficiency (approximate district average): ~ 41%

• Reading / English Language Arts Proficiency (approximate district average): ~ 43%.

• Graduation Rate (high school): High school graduation rates are reported among the stronger outcomes in the district, with Monona Grove High School noting around 94.8% in recent summary statistics.

• District Ranking / Rating: Monona Grove School District ranks among the top 20 percent of Wisconsin school districts and has solid overall performance indicators.

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

Private & Charter Options
In addition to the public schools, Monona and the surrounding Madison region offer private and alternative schooling options:

Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic School (Monona area)

• Private Catholic school option offering faith-based instruction for elementary grades.

• Emphasizes academic foundations and community values in a smaller school setting.

Nearby Private & Alternative Programs

• Families living in Monona may also explore additional private or independent schools in the broader Madison area, each with its own admissions process and curriculum.

• Options may include faith-based, academically focused, or other specialized educational programs.

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

Higher Education
While Monona does not host a major university, residents have convenient access to several notable higher-education institutions in the Madison region:

Madison College (MATC)

• Public technical college with a wide range of certificates, diplomas, and associate degrees.

• Provides workforce training, transfer pathways, and flexible learning options.

Edgewood University

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

• Offers smaller class sizes and a more personalized academic experience.

University of Wisconsin–Madison (UW–Madison)

• Large public research university offering extensive undergraduate, graduate, and professional degree programs.

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

Regional Technical & Community College Options

• Additional nearby institutions provide trade, workforce, certificate, continuing-education, and adult learner programs.

• Supports flexible degree paths and skill development for a wide range of students.

These institutions contribute significantly to the region’s educational resources, workforce preparation, 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 neighborhood interest in Monona. Areas near schools, parks, and community amenities often draw steady interest due to:

• Access to a well-regarded local district with solid academic outcomes

• Opportunities for students in arts, athletics, and enrichment programs

• Availability of private and alternative options in the surrounding region

• Proximity to major higher-education institutions including Madison College and UW–Madison

3. Real Estate Market and Home Styles

Monona’s housing market is unique because it combines lakefront living, mature neighborhoods, and close proximity to Madison. The community is mostly established, with fewer new construction developments than surrounding suburbs. This gives Monona its character and stability.

Home styles you can expect

• Mid century ranch homes which make up a large portion of Monona housing

• Larger renovated homes in classic neighborhoods

• Lakefront homes with expansive views of Lake Monona

• Two story homes in established residential areas

• Condos and townhomes in smaller developments

• Cottages and unique older homes from Monona’s early years

Monona’s homes are full of variety. Many properties have been updated or remodeled over the last decade, while others are ready for a buyer who wants to personalize a space.

Price ranges

Pricing varies greatly depending on size, updates, and proximity to the lake, but general ranges include:

• Condos and townhomes: approximately 220,000 to 400,000

• Single family homes: approximately 350,000 to 800,000

• Lakefront homes: typically 1,000,000 and above depending on frontage and condition

Lake properties are the most sought after, especially those with private docks or sweeping shoreline views.

Is it a buyers market or a sellers market

Monona tends to lean toward a sellers market because inventory is limited and demand is steady. Homes in good condition, especially near the lake, often sell quickly. Buyers looking for lake access or specific neighborhoods may need to act fast when a property becomes available.

Popular neighborhoods

Some well known areas include:

• Winnequah Park neighborhood with walkability and parks

• Monona Shores near the lake

• Maywood and Nichols area close to schools and community facilities

• Lake Monona neighborhoods with waterfront views

Because Monona is fully developed, neighborhoods are established, walkable, and full of character.

4. Commute and Connectivity

Monona is one of the most conveniently located communities in the Madison area. It offers easy access to downtown Madison, the Beltline, and surrounding cities.

Driving times

Typical commute times include:

• Monona to Downtown Madison: approximately 5 to 10 minutes

• Monona to UW Madison campus: approximately 10 to 15 minutes

• Monona to East Madison: approximately 10 minutes

• Monona to Fitchburg: approximately 15 minutes

• Monona to Sun Prairie: approximately 15 to 20 minutes

• Monona to Dane County Regional Airport: approximately 15 minutes

These short commute times are a major draw for professionals working in Madison.

Main routes

Monona is connected by:

• The Beltline Highway which runs directly along the city

• Monona Drive which hosts shops, restaurants, and services

• Atwood Avenue and Cottage Grove Road which lead into Madison

• Broadway Avenue which connects to major retail centers

Public transit and biking

Monona has its own bus service known as the Monona Express which provides direct routes for commuters into Madison.

The city is also extremely bike friendly. The Lake Monona Loop and nearby Capital City Trail allow bikers to reach Madison safely and enjoyably.

Daily conveniences

You will find everything close by, including:

• Grocery stores

• Specialty food shops and bakeries

• Pharmacies, medical clinics, and dental offices

• Gyms and yoga studios

• Local restaurants and coffee shops

• Parks and beaches

Because Monona is compact, errands are quick and easy.

5. Things To Do and Local Hot Spots

Monona may be small, but it has a vibrant and diverse range of activities, restaurants, parks, and entertainment options. Residents enjoy a peaceful lake lifestyle with the convenience of Madison right next door.

Restaurants and cafes locals love

Popular Monona dining spots include:

• Breakwater Monona for lakeside dining

• Swad Indian Restaurant

• Mr. Brew’s Taphouse

• Tully’s II a longtime local favorite

• Kristine’s Kitchen for homestyle breakfasts

• Rosie’s Coffee Bar and Bakery

Many restaurants offer relaxed atmospheres that match the lakeside vibe.

Parks, trails, and lake access

Monona excels in outdoor recreation. Residents frequently visit:

• Schluter Beach for swimming and lake views

• Winnequah Park with fields, play areas, and walking paths

• Maywood Park tucked in a quiet neighborhood

• Lake Monona Loop for biking and walking

• Monona Wetlands which offer beautiful nature scenery

The city also has public boat launches and designated fishing areas.

Entertainment and community activities

• Monona Community Pool in the summer

• Monona Bait and Ice Cream Shop which is a charming local stop

• Art exhibits and classes at local community centers

• Golfing at nearby public and private courses

• Live outdoor concerts during warm months

Hidden gems and insider spots

• Enjoy sunrise views from Stone Bridge Park.

• Grab a peaceful lunch on the deck at Breakwater Monona.

• Explore the quiet neighborhoods around Winnequah Park for evening walks.

• Bike the scenic path linking Monona to the Capital City Trail.

Monona has a calm, cozy aesthetic that wins people over instantly.

Key Takeaways

Yes. Monona is a wonderful place to call home. It offers lakefront beauty, great schools, established neighborhoods, a warm community feel, and incredibly convenient access to Madison. It is peaceful without being isolated and active without feeling busy. With beautiful parks, water activities, and friendly neighbors, Monona is ideal for buyers who want charm, nature, and convenience all in one.

Whether you want lake views, walkability, or a tight knit community, Monona delivers a lifestyle that is easy to appreciate.