List of Cities in Wisconsin Alphabetically

by btobers · Published August 30, 2024 · Updated November 11, 2024

Wisconsin has around 593 incorporated cities and towns. The state capital is Madison, which is also home to the University of Wisconsin. The largest city is Milwaukee, known for its brewing industry and cultural diversity. Other large cities include Green Bay, Kenosha, Racine, Appleton, Waukesha, Oshkosh, Eau Claire, Janesville, and La Crosse. Wisconsin’s cities are concentrated in the southeastern part of the state, with Milwaukee being the dominant urban center. Much of the state is rural, with agriculture, particularly dairy farming, playing a central role in the economy.

1. Milwaukee

City Facts

Population: Approximately 577,222 (2023 estimates)
Area Codes: 414
Zip Codes: 53201–53228
County: Milwaukee County

Geography and History

Milwaukee is located on the western shore of Lake Michigan, near the confluence of the Milwaukee, Menomonee, and Kinnickinnic rivers. The city experiences a humid continental climate, characterized by cold winters and warm summers. Established in 1846, Milwaukee grew quickly due to its location as a key port and its role in the brewing and manufacturing industries. The city became known for its large German immigrant population, which heavily influenced its culture and economy. Milwaukee played a significant role in the American brewing industry, with iconic names like Miller, Schlitz, and Pabst contributing to its “Brew City” moniker. Over time, Milwaukee has developed into Wisconsin’s largest city, maintaining a strong industrial base while also focusing on cultural and economic revitalization.

Colleges and Universities

University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee (UWM): The second-largest university in Wisconsin, offering a wide variety of undergraduate and graduate programs.
Marquette University: A private Jesuit university known for its strong programs in law, business, and health sciences.
Milwaukee School of Engineering (MSOE): A private institution offering programs in engineering, business, and nursing.
Alverno College: A private Catholic liberal arts college, known for its unique abilities-based curriculum and focus on women’s education.
Cardinal Stritch University: A Catholic university offering undergraduate and graduate programs in fields such as business, education, and health care.

Major Landmarks

Milwaukee is home to the Milwaukee Art Museum, featuring a striking design by architect Santiago Calatrava. The Harley-Davidson Museum celebrates the city’s iconic motorcycle brand. American Family Field, home to the Milwaukee Brewers, is a major sports venue. The Historic Third Ward, once an industrial area, has been transformed into a cultural district with shops, galleries, and restaurants. The Pabst Mansion is another key landmark, showcasing Milwaukee’s brewing history. The city’s waterfront includes Veterans Park and Bradford Beach, providing recreational opportunities along Lake Michigan.

2. Madison

City Facts

Population: Approximately 283,556 (2023 estimates)
Area Codes: 608
Zip Codes: 53701–53794
County: Dane County

Geography and History

Madison, Wisconsin’s capital, is located on an isthmus between Lake Mendota and Lake Monona. This geographical feature gives the city a scenic layout with multiple lakes and parks. The city experiences a humid continental climate with warm summers and cold, snowy winters. Madison was founded in 1836 when James Duane Doty, a land speculator, selected the area as the future state capital due to its central location. It became the state capital when Wisconsin was admitted to the Union in 1848. The University of Wisconsin was established in 1849, which has since played a pivotal role in the city’s growth. Over the decades, Madison has evolved from a small political town into a vibrant city known for its progressive culture, technology sector, and educational institutions.

Colleges and Universities

University of Wisconsin-Madison: The flagship campus of the University of Wisconsin System, known for its research programs and large student body.
Edgewood College: A private liberal arts college offering undergraduate and graduate programs with a focus on holistic education.
Madison Area Technical College (MATC): A public technical and community college providing a wide range of associate degrees and certificates.
Herzing University-Madison: A private institution offering degrees in nursing, business, and technology.
Upper Iowa University-Madison Center: Offers distance learning and in-person programs in various fields of study.

Major Landmarks

Madison’s most prominent landmark is the Wisconsin State Capitol, an impressive building located on Capitol Square, which offers panoramic views of the city. The University of Wisconsin-Madison campus is home to landmarks such as Bascom Hill and the Memorial Union Terrace. The Henry Vilas Zoo is a popular, family-friendly destination, while the Olbrich Botanical Gardens showcase the region’s diverse plant life. The Madison Museum of Contemporary Art and the Chazen Museum of Art add to the city’s cultural offerings. The Monona Terrace, designed by Frank Lloyd Wright, provides stunning lake views and hosts various events throughout the year.

3. Green Bay

City Facts

Population: Approximately 107,395 (2023 estimates)
Area Codes: 920
Zip Codes: 54301–54313
County: Brown County

Geography and History

Green Bay, located at the mouth of the Fox River as it empties into Lake Michigan’s Green Bay, has a strategic geographical position that has contributed to its growth as an industrial and shipping hub. The city has a humid continental climate with cold winters and warm summers. Green Bay is one of the oldest European settlements in the U.S., dating back to 1634 when French explorer Jean Nicolet arrived. It became a center for fur trading, followed by lumber and agriculture. In the 20th century, the city gained prominence for its paper mills and became widely known as the home of the Green Bay Packers, one of the oldest and most successful franchises in NFL history.

Colleges and Universities

University of Wisconsin-Green Bay: A public university offering undergraduate and graduate degrees, with a focus on environmental sciences, business, and education.
Northeast Wisconsin Technical College (NWTC): Provides a range of associate degrees and technical certifications in various fields.
Bellin College: Specializes in nursing and health sciences, offering bachelor’s and master’s degrees in healthcare fields.
St. Norbert College (De Pere, WI): A private Catholic liberal arts college located just south of Green Bay in De Pere, offering undergraduate and graduate programs.
Lakeland University-Green Bay Center: Offers undergraduate and graduate degrees with flexible scheduling, including online courses.

Major Landmarks

Lambeau Field, home to the Green Bay Packers, is the city’s most famous landmark and a pilgrimage site for football fans. The Packers Hall of Fame is located within the stadium, chronicling the team’s storied history. The National Railroad Museum showcases the city’s transportation heritage. Heritage Hill State Historical Park offers a glimpse into Wisconsin’s past with restored buildings and reenactments. Bay Beach Amusement Park, one of the oldest amusement parks in the country, remains a popular family destination. The Meyer Theatre, an art-deco movie palace turned live performance venue, adds to Green Bay’s cultural landscape.

4. Kenosha

City Facts

Population: Approximately 100,596 (2023 estimates)
Area Codes: 262
Zip Codes: 53140–53144
County: Kenosha County

Geography and History

Kenosha is located on the southwestern shore of Lake Michigan, between Milwaukee and Chicago, making it part of the Chicago metropolitan area. The city enjoys a humid continental climate, with cold winters and warm summers moderated by the lake. Kenosha’s history dates back to its founding in 1835 under the name “Pike Creek,” later changed to “Southport” before settling on its current name. In the 19th and 20th centuries, Kenosha was a hub for manufacturing, including automobile production by companies like Nash Motors. Its economy diversified over the years, and today, Kenosha benefits from its lakeside location and access to major transportation networks.

Colleges and Universities

University of Wisconsin-Parkside: A public university offering a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs, particularly strong in liberal arts and business.
Carthage College: A private liberal arts college located on the shores of Lake Michigan, offering undergraduate and graduate degrees.
Gateway Technical College: Provides associate degrees and technical certifications across a range of industries, including healthcare, engineering, and information technology.
Herzing University-Kenosha: A private university focused on business, healthcare, and technology degrees.
Concordia University (Kenosha Center): Offers adult education and graduate programs in business, healthcare, and education.

Major Landmarks

Kenosha’s Lake Michigan shoreline is a focal point, with landmarks like the Kenosha Lighthouse and the Civil War Museum, which commemorates the region’s role in the Civil War. The Kenosha Public Museum features exhibits on natural history and fine arts. The Dinosaur Discovery Museum showcases the city’s paleontological history. Kenosha’s historic streetcar system, which operates along the lakefront, offers scenic rides through the city’s downtown and parks. The Southport Marina is a popular spot for boating, while the Sculpture Walk provides an outdoor art experience along the lake.

5. Racine

City Facts

Population: Approximately 77,816 (2023 estimates)
Area Codes: 262
Zip Codes: 53401–53408
County: Racine County

Geography and History

Racine is situated on the shore of Lake Michigan, just south of Milwaukee. Its location along the Root River, which flows into the lake, made it an ideal site for early industry and shipping. The city has a humid continental climate, with cold winters and mild, breezy summers influenced by Lake Michigan. Founded in 1834, Racine became known as a manufacturing hub in the 19th century, particularly for its production of agricultural equipment and tools. The city was home to several major companies, including J.I. Case, which specialized in tractors and heavy equipment. Racine’s industrial legacy continues today, though it has diversified into other areas like healthcare and education.

Colleges and Universities

University of Wisconsin-Parkside (Shared with Kenosha): Offers undergraduate and graduate programs.
Gateway Technical College: Provides vocational training and associate degrees in fields like manufacturing, healthcare, and technology.
Herzing University (Nearby campuses): Offers business, healthcare, and technology programs.
Carthage College (Located in Kenosha): A liberal arts college offering degrees in arts, science, and business fields.

Major Landmarks

Racine is home to the Wind Point Lighthouse, one of the oldest and tallest operating lighthouses on Lake Michigan. The Racine Art Museum features one of the largest collections of contemporary crafts in the U.S. The Johnson Wax Headquarters, designed by famed architect Frank Lloyd Wright, is another architectural landmark. The Racine Zoological Gardens, located along the lakefront, is a popular attraction for families. North Beach, a sandy public beach, provides recreation and relaxation on Lake Michigan.

List of Cities in Wisconsin Alphabetically

1. Milwaukee

City Facts

Geography and History

Colleges and Universities

Major Landmarks

2. Madison

City Facts

Geography and History

Colleges and Universities

Major Landmarks

3. Green Bay

City Facts

Geography and History

Colleges and Universities

Major Landmarks

4. Kenosha

City Facts

Geography and History

Colleges and Universities

Major Landmarks

5. Racine

City Facts

Geography and History

Colleges and Universities

Major Landmarks

List of All Cities and Towns in Wisconsin in Alphabetical Order

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