Middleton, Wisconsin

Known as “the Good Neighbor City,” Middleton is a small but growing suburb in the Madison metropolitan area where residents enjoy a lower tax rate than many communities in the region. It’s just five miles away from the University of Wisconsin, and University of Wisconsin Health is headquartered in Middleton itself.

It’s partly why health care and social assistance is the biggest job market in the area, followed by professional, scientific, technical, and educational services. There’s also a concentration of high-tech firms, specializing in everything from pharmaceuticals to agribusiness. It’s a strong economy for a town of only 20,000-plus residents. And those who work in Madison have a short commute, less than 20 minutes away.

With about a quarter of the city’s land dedicated to open space, Middleton has an abundance of recreational and nature offerings. It’s home to 22 parks and 25 conservancy areas as well as an aquatic center and golf course. Families often take to the outdoors during the summer, biking trails or splashing around on a waterslide.

Adults can have a cold one at Capital Brewery’s beer garden, while retirees can enjoy educational and recreational opportunities at the Middleton Senior Center, which also organizes local day trips every month.