Here’s a list of the ten best small towns in Wisconsin for retirement, chosen for their public safety, quality of life, access to quality healthcare, and amenities:

1. Middleton

  • Overview: Known as the "Good Neighbor City," Middleton offers a warm, welcoming community with excellent services. It’s just outside Madison, providing access to urban amenities while retaining a small-town feel.
  • Amenities: Middleton has a historic downtown with shops, restaurants, and cultural venues. There's also the Middleton Performing Arts Center.
  • Healthcare: Close proximity to UW Health at The American Center and SSM Health St. Mary’s Hospital.
  • Parks: Lakeview Park, Pheasant Branch Conservancy, and over 20 other parks provide abundant recreational opportunities.

2. Sturgeon Bay

  • Overview: Located in Door County, Sturgeon Bay offers scenic waterfront views, a strong arts scene, and a slower pace of life, ideal for retirees.
  • Amenities: Numerous art galleries, boutiques, and restaurants, along with the Door County Maritime Museum.
  • Healthcare: Door County Medical Center provides comprehensive healthcare services.
  • Parks: Potawatomi State Park, Sunset Park, and several waterfront parks along Sturgeon Bay.

3. Cedarburg

  • Overview: Cedarburg is a charming town with well-preserved 19th-century architecture, offering a blend of historic charm and modern convenience.
  • Amenities: Home to a thriving arts community with galleries, theaters, and festivals, including the popular Strawberry Festival.
  • Healthcare: Ascension Columbia St. Mary’s Ozaukee Hospital nearby in Mequon.
  • Parks: Cedar Creek Park, Covered Bridge Park, and walking trails along Cedar Creek.

4. Mount Horeb

  • Overview: Known as the "Troll Capital of the World," Mount Horeb offers a quirky, friendly atmosphere with a strong sense of community.
  • Amenities: Unique local shops, antique stores, and the famous Trollway, along with the Cave of the Mounds.
  • Healthcare: SSM Health Dean Medical Group provides accessible healthcare.
  • Parks: Stewart Lake County Park, Mount Horeb Dog Park, and proximity to the Military Ridge State Trail.

5. Fort Atkinson

  • Overview: Nestled along the Rock River, Fort Atkinson offers small-town charm with a vibrant cultural scene and ample outdoor recreation.
  • Amenities: The Fireside Dinner Theatre is a popular destination, along with a variety of local shops and restaurants.
  • Healthcare: Fort HealthCare provides full hospital services.
  • Parks: Dorothy Carnes Park, Rock River Park, and access to the Glacial River Trail.

6. Waunakee

  • Overview: Waunakee, the "Only Waunakee in the World," is a rapidly growing community that offers a balance of suburban amenities and rural charm.
  • Amenities: A variety of dining and shopping options, plus the Waunakee Village Center for community activities.
  • Healthcare: UW Health Waunakee Clinic and SSM Health facilities in nearby Madison.
  • Parks: Village Park, Ripp Park, and access to the Waunakee Marsh.

7. River Falls

  • Overview: Located on the Kinnickinnic River, River Falls is known for its scenic beauty and small-town atmosphere, yet it's within commuting distance of the Twin Cities.
  • Amenities: Numerous local shops, restaurants, and the University of Wisconsin-River Falls, which offers cultural events and activities.
  • Healthcare: River Falls Area Hospital provides quality medical care.
  • Parks: Glen Park, Hoffman Park, and access to the Kinnickinnic River for kayaking and fishing.

8. Verona

  • Overview: Known as "Hometown USA," Verona is a growing community near Madison with an excellent quality of life and access to world-class amenities.
  • Amenities: The Verona Public Library, a variety of local restaurants, and Epic Systems, which has an impressive corporate campus that offers public tours.
  • Healthcare: Access to UW Health and SSM Health facilities in nearby Madison.
  • Parks: Badger Prairie County Park, Fireman’s Park, and access to the Military Ridge State Trail.

9. Sheboygan Falls

  • Overview: This historic town on the Sheboygan River offers a quiet, scenic place to retire with easy access to the amenities of nearby Sheboygan.
  • Amenities: A quaint downtown with shops, cafes, and historic buildings, plus the Sheboygan Falls YMCA for community activities.
  • Healthcare: Aurora Sheboygan Memorial Medical Center provides full healthcare services.
  • Parks: River Park, Settlers Park, and access to the Sheboygan River for fishing and boating.

10. Lake Geneva

  • Overview: A popular resort town, Lake Geneva offers stunning lakefront views, a vibrant community, and plenty of activities for retirees.
  • Amenities: Numerous waterfront restaurants, boutiques, and the famous Geneva Lake Shore Path for walking.
  • Healthcare: Aurora Lakeland Medical Center provides comprehensive healthcare services.
  • Parks: Big Foot Beach State Park, Library Park, and several other lakeside parks.

Each of these towns offers a unique combination of safety, healthcare access, and amenities, making them excellent choices for retirees seeking a high quality of life in Wisconsin.