Oregon

If you are considering a move to Oregon, Wisconsin, you are exploring one of Dane County’s most friendly, established, and community focused suburbs. Located just south of Madison, Oregon offers a peaceful small town atmosphere with the convenience of being minutes from major shopping, entertainment, and employment centers. It is a place where neighbors wave across the street, where kids ride their bikes to local parks, and where community events bring people together throughout the year.

Oregon has grown steadily over the past decade, attracting home buyers who want a balanced lifestyle that includes strong schools, beautiful outdoor spaces, and easy access to Madison. The community is known for its community centered feel, well maintained neighborhoods, and an active parks system that encourages outdoor enjoyment in every season. Whether you are moving for work, family, or a change of pace, Oregon provides a lifestyle that feels relaxed, welcoming, and well connected.

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

1. Lifestyle and Local Vibe

Oregon is known for its friendly atmosphere, small town charm, and strong sense of community involvement. It is peaceful without feeling isolated and offers residents a comfortable, grounded way of life.

Who lives in Oregon
The community attracts a diverse range of people, including:
Families looking for highly rated schools
Professionals who work in Madison but prefer quieter living
Longtime residents who take pride in the village’s history and traditions
Retirees who enjoy calm surroundings and an active community
Outdoor enthusiasts who appreciate the extensive trail and park system

Oregon’s mix of long term residents and new families creates a well balanced and welcoming environment.

Small town living close to Madison
Oregon provides the charm of a classic Wisconsin village while remaining only minutes from Madison’s amenities. Residents enjoy walking trails, community parks, local coffee shops, and a growing downtown area. Firefly Coffeehouse, The Tin Man, and Oregon Garden Center are just a few local favorites that contribute to the town’s character.

Community events and local traditions
Oregon maintains a strong calendar of events that keep residents connected. Popular traditions include:
Summer Fest
Concerts in the park
Farmers markets
Holiday celebrations
Youth sports tournaments
Community fun runs and charity events

These events bring people together and support the village’s reputation as a friendly, community driven place to live.

A relaxed and community-centered atmosphere
Daily life in Oregon feels calm, comfortable, and community-oriented. The community encourages outdoor activity, neighborhood involvement, and a slower pace that appeals to anyone looking for balance and simplicity.

2. Schools & Education
Oregon offers a range of educational opportunities through the Oregon School District, along with private and alternative options nearby, and convenient access to higher-education institutions in the region. Families moving to Oregon often appreciate the district’s strong academic outcomes, high graduation rates, and active community involvement in schools.

Public Schools
The Oregon School District (OSD) serves students living in Oregon and surrounding areas from early childhood through high school. The district is known for strong overall performance, high graduation outcomes, and a supportive learning environment.

District Overview

• Number of public schools: 8 affiliated schools serving the district.

• Enrollment (2024–25): ~4,186 students across all grades. 

• Student-Teacher Ratio: 13:1, consistent with or better than state averages. 

Programs and Opportunities
The Oregon School District offers a full range of academic and co-curricular programs typical of PK–12 education, including:

• Core academics with preparation for college and career pathways

• Fine arts, music, theater, and band programs

• STEM, hands-on and project-based learning opportunities

• Athletics, clubs, and leadership activities

Recent Publicly Available District-Level Data:

• Overall District Ranking: Oregon School District is ranked among the top 20 percent of Wisconsin public school districts based on combined academic performance and other measures. 

• Graduation Rate: 97 % of students graduate on time (notably above the state average). 

• Mathematics Proficiency (districtwide average): ~ 54 % proficient or above, above the statewide average. 

• English/Reading Proficiency (districtwide average): ~ 47 % proficient or above, above the statewide average.

• Science Proficiency (districtwide average): ~ 55 % proficient or above, above the statewide average.

• Student-Teacher Ratio: 13:1. 

• Number of Schools: 8 public schools serving PK-12. 

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

Private & Charter Options
In addition to its public school offerings, Oregon and nearby communities provide private and alternative educational choices. Each operates with separate admissions processes, tuition structures, and educational approaches:

St. Patrick School (Oregon area)

• Private Catholic school serving early childhood through middle school grades.

• Emphasizes faith-based instruction combined with core academics and community values.

Brooklyn Elementary – Charter or Choice Programs (nearby options)

• Some families explore specialized programs or independent options in nearby districts for different curricular approaches.

• These private and alternative programs may include faith-based, academically focused, or Montessori-style environments.

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

Higher Education
While Oregon does not have a major university within the village itself, residents have convenient access to several higher-education institutions in the broader region, including:

Madison College (MATC)

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

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

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 provide trade, workforce, certificate, continuing-education, and adult learner programs.

• Supports non-traditional students and career advancement opportunities.

These institutions contribute significantly 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 Oregon, often due to:

• High district performance and above-average proficiency outcomes

• A strong graduation rate that ranks among the best in the region

• A mix of academic, arts, athletic, and enrichment programs across grade levels

• Access to private and alternative schooling choices in the community and nearby

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

1. Real Estate Market and Home Styles

Oregon offers a variety of home styles, from established neighborhoods with mature trees to new construction developments. The community has expanded steadily while maintaining its small town feel.

Home styles you can expect
Popular home options include:
New construction with modern layouts and energy efficient features
Traditional two story homes
Ranch style homes that appeal to all ages
Condos and townhomes for low maintenance living
Mid century homes with character and larger lots
Luxury homes and large acreage properties on the outskirts

Neighborhoods are well maintained and offer safe, walkable environments.

Price ranges
Although pricing varies, typical ranges in Oregon include:
Condos and townhomes: $250,000 to $400,000
Single family homes: $375,000 to $725,000
New construction: $500,000 to $900,000
Acreage or luxury properties: $900,000 and above

Many buyers appreciate that Oregon provides excellent value compared to other nearby suburbs with similar features.

Is it a buyers market or a sellers market?
For homes under roughly $650,000, Oregon often leans toward a sellers market due to buyer demand and limited inventory. Higher priced homes may experience longer market times depending on location and lot size. New construction remains a strong option for buyers seeking customization.

Popular neighborhoods
Notable neighborhoods and residential areas include:
Bergamont
Oregon Parks
Autumn Ridge
West Haven Trails
Neighborhoods near Lerner Conservation Park
Developments on the southern and western edges of the village

Each area offers its own personality, with many neighborhoods featuring walking trails, open green spaces, and easy access to parks.

1. Commute and Connectivity

Oregon offers one of the easiest commutes to Madison among Dane County suburbs. Its location just south of the Beltline makes travel fast and direct.

Driving times
Typical commute times from Oregon include:
Oregon to Downtown Madison: approximately 15 to 20 minutes
Oregon to UW Madison: approximately 18 to 25 minutes
Oregon to Fitchburg: approximately 10 to 12 minutes
Oregon to Verona: approximately 15 to 18 minutes
Oregon to East Madison: approximately 20 minutes
Oregon to Dane County Regional Airport: approximately 25 minutes

Main routes
Oregon has convenient access to:
Highway 14
The Beltline (Highway 12 and 18)
County Highway MM
Fish Hatchery Road
Nearby access to Verona Road, I 39, and I 90

This road network makes commuting and regional travel simple.

Public transit and biking
Oregon does not currently have full Madison Metro Transit service, but discussions continue as the area grows. Biking is popular, and the community features:
Extensive neighborhood trails
Safe biking routes into Fitchburg and Madison
Access to nearby regional bike systems

Daily conveniences
Residents enjoy easy access to:
Grocery stores
Local restaurants and coffee shops
Medical clinics
Fitness centers
Hardware stores
Parks, trails, and community facilities

Daily errands are simple and efficient.

1. Things To Do and Local Hot Spots

Oregon offers a mix of outdoor recreation, local dining, community activities, and quick access to the wider Madison entertainment scene.

Restaurants and cafes locals enjoy
Popular Oregon dining options include:
Firefly Coffeehouse for coffee and desserts
Monty’s Blue Plate Diner (nearby) for comfort food
The Tin Man for casual dining
Charlie’s on Main in nearby Oregon
Quick access to Fitchburg’s dining options, including sushi, pizza, and farm to table restaurants

Outdoor recreation and natural beauty
Oregon is a great fit for outdoor lovers. Highlights include:
Lerner Conservation Park
Kennedy Park
Oregon Rotary Bike Trail
Walking paths throughout the village
Nearby access to Fitchburg and Verona trail systems
Youth sports complexes and community fields

The village’s parks and green spaces encourage year round outdoor enjoyment.

Entertainment and activities
Residents can enjoy:
Local festivals and community events
Bowling and entertainment at Oregon Bowl
Youth and adult sports leagues
Library programs and community workshops
Quick access to Madison’s theaters, nightlife, and museums

Hidden gems and local favorites
Visit Firefly Coffeehouse for a cozy morning drink
Walk the Oregon Rotary Trail during sunrise or sunset
Explore Lerner Conservation Park
Check out summer concerts in the park series
Visit local markets for fresh produce and handmade goods

Key Takeaways

Oregon is a wonderful place to call home. It offers strong schools, a relaxed atmosphere, friendly neighborhoods, beautiful parks, and convenient access to Madison. With diverse home options, steady growth, and a true sense of community, Oregon is an excellent choice for anyone looking for both comfort and convenience.

Oregon stands out as one of the most desirable southern suburbs of Madison.