Nakoma is one of Madison’s most recognizable west-side neighborhoods, known for its quiet streets, consistent character, and proximity to everyday essentials. It sits just south of Monroe Street and feels residential without feeling isolated.
People who live in Nakoma tend to describe it by boundaries and landmarks rather than subdivisions. The experience of living here is shaped by tree-lined streets, walkability to nearby amenities, and easy access to both downtown Madison and the Beltline.
Day-to-day life in Nakoma is calm and predictable in the best way. Many errands happen on foot or by bike, and the neighborhood feels active without being busy. The proximity to Monroe Street, Nakoma Golf Club, and nearby parks makes it easy to settle into routines.
Residents often spend time walking the neighborhood, heading toward Monroe Street for coffee or dinner, or using the nearby bike routes that connect to the rest of the city.
Nakoma’s housing stock is primarily single-family homes, many built in the early to mid-20th century. Architectural styles vary, but homes tend to share similar scale, setbacks, and lot sizes, which contributes to the neighborhood’s cohesive feel.
Factors that commonly influence value in Nakoma include:
Nakoma is often described in terms of where you are within it rather than by formal sections. These are the reference points buyers most often use.
Homes closer to Monroe Street offer easy access to restaurants, coffee shops, and neighborhood businesses while still maintaining a residential feel.
People usually describe this area as “a few blocks off Monroe” rather than using a specific neighborhood name.
The interior of Nakoma feels quiet and consistent, with tree-lined streets and limited through traffic.
This is the part of Nakoma people are referring to when they say they want something “tucked in” but still walkable.
Properties near Nakoma Golf Club often feel slightly more open, with broader streets and a quieter rhythm.
This area is usually described by proximity to the golf course rather than by street names.
Homes closer to the Beltline offer quicker access for commuters while still being part of the neighborhood.
Buyers often mention this area when commute time is a top priority.
Nakoma is often compared to Westmorland, Sunset Village, and Dudgeon-Monroe when buyers are deciding where to live on the west side.
Comparisons usually focus on housing style, walkability, and access to Monroe Street.
Proximity to green space plays a role in how people describe where they live within Nakoma.
Nakoma Park and nearby green spaces are common landmarks locals reference.
Homes in the Nakoma neighborhood are served by the Madison Metropolitan School District.
School attendance areas, grade configurations, and assignments are determined by the district and may change over time. Buyers are encouraged to confirm current school information directly with the Madison Metropolitan School District.
School information is provided for general reference only and should not be relied upon as a guarantee of enrollment.
Nakoma residents have convenient access to:
In Nakoma, small location differences can shape daily routines more than people expect. Understanding how proximity to Monroe Street, parks, and commute routes fit together helps narrow the search effectively.
We know Nakoma and the surrounding west-side neighborhoods well. Share what matters most to you, and we’ll help you focus on areas that align with your priorities.
1,744 people live in Nakoma, where the median age is 40 and the average individual income is $80,792. 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 Nakoma, including shopping, dining, nightlife, parks, and more. Data provided by Walk Score and Yelp.
Explore popular things to do in the area, including Fresh Mart, El Pollo Rumbero, and Functional Integrated Training.
| Name | Category | Distance | Reviews |
Ratings by
Yelp
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|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dining | 2.07 miles | 11 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Dining | 2.94 miles | 9 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Active | 2.4 miles | 8 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Active | 3.29 miles | 6 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Active | 1.85 miles | 5 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Active | 2.06 miles | 5 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Beauty | 3.9 miles | 5 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Beauty | 2.43 miles | 5 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Beauty | 4.62 miles | 8 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Beauty | 3.51 miles | 9 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Beauty | 4.89 miles | 6 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Beauty | 2.56 miles | 10 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
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Nakoma has 616 households, with an average household size of 3. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau. Here’s what the people living in Nakoma do for work — and how long it takes them to get there. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau. 1,744 people call Nakoma home. The population density is 7,163.544 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
Population by Age Group
0-9 Years
10-17 Years
18-24 Years
25-64 Years
65-74 Years
75+ Years
Education Level
Total Households
Average Household Size
Average individual Income
Households with Children
With Children:
Without Children:
Marital Status
Blue vs White Collar Workers
Blue Collar:
White Collar:
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