Located just minutes from downtown Madison, Monona offers a rare blend of lakeside living, walkability, and close-knit community feel. Set along the shores of Lake Monona, this vibrant city appeals to buyers who want to be near the heart of Madison while enjoying a neighborhood-driven lifestyle. With easy access to the Beltline, downtown Madison, and major employers, Monona delivers everyday convenience without sacrificing charm or connection. Residents enjoy an active, social atmosphere paired with some of the best lake access in Dane County.
Monona’s real estate market is defined by variety and strong demand. Buyers will find classic mid-century ranch homes, well-kept established neighborhoods, newer construction, and coveted lakefront properties. Homes in Monona tend to move quickly due to the city’s limited size, desirable location, and proximity to downtown Madison. Compared to some of Madison’s core neighborhoods, Monona often offers a more approachable entry point for lake access and walkable living, making it especially attractive to professionals, downsizers, and long-term residents alike.
Life in Monona revolves around the lake, outdoor recreation, and community connection. The Lake Loop bike path runs through the city, making walking and biking part of daily life, while parks like Winnequah Park and Ahuska Park serve as gathering places for residents year-round. Monona Dream Park is a standout destination for families, and lake activities like kayaking, paddleboarding, and boating are woven into everyday routines. Monona feels active, engaged, and deeply rooted in its community.
Monona’s local scene blends neighborhood favorites with easy access to Madison’s dining, entertainment, and cultural offerings.
Local Favorites Include:
Lake Monona – Central to life in the city for recreation and sunset views
Monona Lake Loop – A beloved path for walking, biking, and running
Winnequah Park – Popular for events, green space, and lake access
Monona Farmers’ Market – Featuring local produce and community vendors
Nearby restaurants, coffee shops, and breweries just minutes away in downtown Madison
With its unbeatable location, lake-centered lifestyle, and strong sense of community, Monona, Wisconsin continues to stand out as one of the most desirable places to live in the Madison area.
8,604 people live in Monona, where the median age is 44.7 and the average individual income is $54,757. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.
Total Population
Median Age
Population Density Population Density This is the number of people per square mile in a neighborhood.
Average individual Income
There's plenty to do around Monona, including shopping, dining, nightlife, parks, and more. Data provided by Walk Score and Yelp.
Explore popular things to do in the area, including Atwood Scoop, Ancora Cafe + Bakery, and Pilates Central.
| Name | Category | Distance | Reviews |
Ratings by
Yelp
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|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dining | 2.84 miles | 6 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Dining | 2.05 miles | 7 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Active | 2.85 miles | 5 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Active | 2.6 miles | 7 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Active | 3.32 miles | 6 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Active | 2.68 miles | 6 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Active | 3.75 miles | 17 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Active | 2.85 miles | 6 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Active | 3.12 miles | 6 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Active | 2.7 miles | 6 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Active | 1.43 miles | 15 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Beauty | 2.57 miles | 6 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Beauty | 2.83 miles | 5 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Beauty | 2.83 miles | 5 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Beauty | 3.13 miles | 9 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Beauty | 4.67 miles | 5 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
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Monona has 4,175 households, with an average household size of 2.04. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau. Here’s what the people living in Monona do for work — and how long it takes them to get there. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau. 8,604 people call Monona home. The population density is 2,639.91 and the largest age group is Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.
Total Population
Population Density Population Density This is the number of people per square mile in a neighborhood.
Median Age
Men vs Women
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10-17 Years
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Education Level
Total Households
Average Household Size
Average individual Income
Households with Children
With Children:
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Marital Status
Blue vs White Collar Workers
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