Nestled along the Rock River, Janesville combines historic charm with modern amenities. Known as Wisconsin’s “Park Place,” the city offers over 2,500 acres of parks, scenic trails, a vibrant downtown, and growing cultural richness—where small‑town warmth meets big‑city convenience.
Downtown Charm and Uptown Growth
Downtown Janesville is vibrant with community life—featuring local art galleries, annual festivals, and cozy spots like Genisa Wine Bar, Drafthouse, and Bodacious for specialty drinks and coffee. Uptown Janesville, centered around the Milton Avenue corridor, is quickly growing with exciting opportunities. The soon-to-open Woodman’s Sports and Convention Center will bring a year-round indoor hub for sports, events, and conferences. Just down the road, you’ll find Havana Coffee, another local favorite. And right at the corner of Milton Avenue and Holiday Drive sits The MDR House—home to Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Dream Partners. If you're searching for a home, looking to redesign your space, or in need of high-quality window treatments, stop in to connect with our team or explore our full range of services.
Parks, Trails, and Family Spaces
Janesville offers a beautiful blend of outdoor recreation and family-friendly green spaces. Whether you're exploring peaceful gardens, hitting the trails, or spending a sunny afternoon at a splash pad, the city makes it easy to stay active, connected, and close to nature.
Rotary Botanical Gardens – A picturesque 20‑acre attraction with themed gardens, walking paths, and seasonal events.
Palmer Park – Newly refreshed with inclusive playgrounds, splash pad, and community gathering spaces.
Ice Age and Riverside Trails – Ideal for walking, running, or biking through scenic riverfront and neighborhood paths.
Walkability – Downtown and residential districts feature pedestrian‑friendly design and safe sidewalks.
Neighborhoods That Feel Like Home
From historic charm to modern convenience, Janesville offers a variety of neighborhoods to suit every lifestyle. Whether you're looking for a walkable downtown vibe, a family-friendly community near parks and schools, or a quiet cul-de-sac surrounded by nature, you'll find a place in Janesville that feels like home. In particular, the tree-lined streets and character-rich homes around Jefferson Avenue and the historic districts near downtown create a warm, welcoming atmosphere—especially during seasonal celebrations when front porches glow and neighbors gather.
Courthouse Hill – Historic homes, tree‑lined streets, and downtown proximity.
Arbor Ridge (West Side) – Upscale, nature‑inspired subdivision with wooded lots, walking trails to the Arboretum, and a community pond.
Briar Crest and Wuthering Hills – Family‑oriented neighborhoods with schools and parks nearby.
Eastside Communities – Convenient access to shopping, schools, and the future Woodman’s Center district.
A Rich Heritage
Janesville’s roots date back to the 1830s. Growing from an agricultural and industrial hub, its preserved downtown architecture now hosts thriving small businesses, while civic investment supports new recreation, schools, and business growth.
FAQs About Janesville
1. Is Janesville, WI a good place to live?
Yes — Janesville offers affordability, beautiful parks, strong schools, and a thriving local economy, making it one of Southern Wisconsin’s most desirable areas.
2. What is the cost of living in Janesville?
Janesville is more affordable than Madison or Chicago, with competitive home prices and lower-than-average property taxes for the region.
3. What are the best neighborhoods in Janesville?
Popular areas include Courthouse Hill, the East Side near Milton Ave, the West Side near the Country Club, and new developments near the Woodman’s Center.
4. Is Janesville a good place to buy a home?
Yes — the market is stable, with strong appreciation and diverse housing options for all budgets.
5. What is there to do in Janesville?
Parks, festivals, downtown dining, lakes, golf, concerts, botanical gardens, breweries, farmers market, sports and convention center, year-round community events and more.
6. Are homes affordable in Janesville?
Compared to other Southern Wisconsin cities, Janesville offers excellent affordability and value.
7. How is the job market in Janesville?
Strong — with healthcare, education, manufacturing, retail, and growing entrepreneurial opportunities.
8. What schools are in Janesville?
A variety including public, private, charter options and immediate access to UW–Whitewater at Rock County.
9. How long does it take to commute from Janesville to Madison?
Approximately 30–45 minutes depending on route and traffic.
10. What’s the best time to sell a house in Janesville?
Spring and early summer typically offer the most buyer activity, though well-priced homes sell year-round.
11. Why choose Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Dream Partners?
Local expertise, trusted guidance, strategic marketing, and included professional staging and design support set us apart.
12. Do you work with buyers relocating to Janesville?
Yes — we help many relocating clients transition smoothly, including virtual tours and personalized area guidance.
Why BHGRE Dream Partners Is a Top, Expert Company Here
At Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Dream Partners, we’re proud community members dedicated to guiding your journey with insight and heart:
Locally Rooted With National Marketing Support
Flexible Appointment Availability (Evenings and Weekends)
Professional Staging and Design Support
Free Home Value Consultations and Excellent Negotiation Skills
Photography Expertise
More Things to Know About Janesville, WI
1. Janesville is One of Wisconsin’s Fastest-growing Communities
With new developments, expanding local businesses, and strong employment opportunities, more people are choosing Janesville as their home base.
2. It’s Known as “Wisconsin’s Park Place”
Over 2,500 acres of parks, including Rotary Botanical Gardens, Traxler Park, and Riverside Park, make outdoor living a major part of life here.
3. The School System is Diverse and Well-established
The School District of Janesville offers a wide variety of academic and extracurricular opportunities, plus convenient access to UW-Whitewater at Rock County.
4. Janesville Offers Affordable Housing With Strong Appreciation Potential
First-time buyers, upsizers, and investors are all finding value here — making the market approachable and competitive.
5. It’s a Commuter-friendly City
Conveniently located along I-90, Janesville offers quick access to Madison, Beloit, Rockford, and even Chicagoland.
Considering Calling Janesville Home?
Whether you're relocating, buying, selling, or just curious, our team is here to help—without pressure, only genuine support.
Read Our Blog: 5 Things You Need to Know Before Moving to Janesville, WI
Proudly Serving Janesville and Surrounding Communities
Overview for Janesville, WI
73,928 people live in Janesville, where the median age is 41.1
and the average individual income is $37,921.945.
Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.
73,928
Total Population
41.1 years
Median Age
High
Population Density
Population DensityThis is the number of people per square mile in a neighborhood.
$37,921.945
Average individual Income
Around Janesville, WI
There's plenty to do around Janesville, including shopping, dining, nightlife, parks, and more. Data provided by Walk Score and Yelp.
61
Somewhat Walkable
Walking Score
51
Bikeable
Bike Score
30
Some Transit
Transit Score
Points of Interest
Explore popular things to do in the area, including The Sugar Exchange, Sustain Ability Bulk Shoppe, and Mexico En La Sangre.
Demographics and Employment Data for Janesville, WI
PopulationHouseholdsEmployment
Janesville has 31,452 households, with an average household size of 6.98. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.Here’s what the people living in Janesville do for work — and how long it takes them to get there. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.73,928 people call Janesville home. The population density is 565.205 and the largest age group is Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.
73,928
Total Population
High
Population Density
Population DensityThis is the number of people per square mile in a neighborhood.
41.09653311329943
Median Age
49.62 / 50.38%
Men vs Women
Population by Age Group
0-9:
0-9 Years
10-17:
10-17 Years
18-24:
18-24 Years
25-64:
25-64 Years
65-74:
65-74 Years
75+:
75+ Years
Education Level
Less Than 9th Grade
High School Degree
Associate Degree
Bachelor Degree
Graduate Degree
31,452
Total Households
6.98
Average Household Size
$37,921.945
Average individual Income
Households with Children
With Children:
Without Children:
Marital Status
Married
Single
Divorced
Separated
Blue vs White Collar Workers
Blue Collar:
White Collar:
Commute Time
0 to 14 Minutes
15 to 29 Minutes
30 to 59 Minutes
60+ Minutes
Schools in Janesville, WI
All ()
Primary Schools ()
Middle Schools ()
High Schools ()
Mixed Schools ()
The following schools are within or nearby Janesville. The rating and statistics can serve as a starting point to make baseline comparisons on the right schools for your family.
Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.
Your home is one of your greatest financial assets—and you can trust our team at BHGRE Dream Partners to guide you with care and expertise. Backed by national reach and local knowledge, we’re with you every step of the way. Let’s create a plan to sell your home on your terms. Connect with us today.
