Cross Plains, located in Dane County, Wisconsin, is a quaint and charming village that offers a peaceful suburban lifestyle with close-knit community vibes. The area is known for its beautiful parks, friendly residents, and easy access to both rural landscapes and larger cities like Madison. This article explores the best residential areas in Cross Plains, detailing their unique features, cultural aspects, transportation options, available services, ambiance, housing options, and average prices.
Table of Contents
Historic Downtown

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Historic Downtown Cross Plains is a vibrant area filled with locally-owned shops, restaurants, and community events. This area is ideal for residents looking for a lively atmosphere with historical charm.
Characteristics of the Historic Downtown
* Culture: Rich local history, art events, local festivals
* Transportation: Well-connected by local roads, biking-friendly
* Services: Grocery stores, cafes, post office, and library
* Environment: Lively and community-oriented
Housing Options in the Historic Downtown
Single-family homes, Townhouses
Average Home Prices in the Historic Downtown
* Buying: $250,000 – $350,000
* Renting: $1,200 – $1,800/month
Pheasant Ridge

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Pheasant Ridge is a newer residential development known for its spacious lots and family-friendly amenities. This neighborhood provides a suburban feel with plenty of outdoor activities.
Characteristics of the Pheasant Ridge
* Culture: Community gatherings, family events, active homeowner association
* Transportation: Car-dependent, good access to main roads
* Services: Proximity to schools, parks, and recreational facilities
* Environment: Quiet and family-focused
Housing Options in the Pheasant Ridge
Single-family homes, Some custom-built options
Average Home Prices in the Pheasant Ridge
* Buying: $300,000 – $450,000
* Renting: $1,500 – $2,200/month
Northeast Cross Plains

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Northeast Cross Plains is a more rural area that offers larger parcels of land, perfect for those seeking more space and a quieter, country lifestyle while remaining close to town.
Characteristics of the Northeast Cross Plains
* Culture: Rural lifestyle with community farming
* Transportation: Mostly car-dependent, some bike paths
* Services: Limited, but a short drive to downtown amenities
* Environment: Tranquil and pastoral
Housing Options in the Northeast Cross Plains
Single-family homes, Farmhouses
Average Home Prices in the Northeast Cross Plains
* Buying: $275,000 – $400,000
* Renting: $1,000 – $1,500/month
Cross Plains West

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Cross Plains West is known for its scenic fields and easy access to the Ice Age Trail, ideal for outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy hiking and nature.
Characteristics of the Cross Plains West
* Culture: Outdoor activities and community fitness events
* Transportation: Car essential, hiking trails nearby
* Services: Parks and outdoor facilities, local shops, and schools
* Environment: Nature-oriented and active
Housing Options in the Cross Plains West
Modern single-family homes, Eco-friendly designs
Average Home Prices in the Cross Plains West
* Buying: $325,000 – $475,000
* Renting: $1,300 – $1,900/month
East Side Cross Plains

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The East Side area offers affordable living options while still being close to schools and parks, making it an excellent choice for young families and first-time homebuyers.
Characteristics of the East Side Cross Plains
* Culture: Family-friendly events, community volunteering
* Transportation: Accessible with a car, some bus routes available
* Services: Elementary and middle schools, community center
* Environment: Friendly and welcoming
Housing Options in the East Side Cross Plains
Townhouses, Single-family homes
Average Home Prices in the East Side Cross Plains
* Buying: $225,000 – $325,000
* Renting: $900 – $1,500/month
Willow Creek

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Willow Creek features spacious homes and a scenic environment, providing a great place for families and those who appreciate nature, such as nearby pond access and trails.
Characteristics of the Willow Creek
* Culture: Nature parks, community nature events
* Transportation: Car-dependent with local bike paths
* Services: Local parks and access to schools and shopping
* Environment: Peaceful and natural
Housing Options in the Willow Creek
Single-family homes, Larger lots available
Average Home Prices in the Willow Creek
* Buying: $320,000 – $475,000
* Renting: $1,400 – $2,000/month
Frequently Asked Questions About the Best Residential Areas in Cross Plains:
The best residential areas in Cross Plains include Historic Downtown, Pheasant Ridge, Northeast Cross Plains, Cross Plains West, East Side Cross Plains, and Willow Creek.
The Pheasant Ridge and East Side Cross Plains areas are most popular among families due to their spacious homes, schools, and community activities.
Average home prices in Cross Plains range between $225,000 to $475,000 depending on the neighborhood and property type.
Yes, Cross Plains is served by the Middleton-Cross Plains Area School District, which is known for its high-quality education.
Yes, Cross Plains is very pet-friendly, with many homes featuring yards and nearby parks for pets.
The community in Cross Plains is friendly and welcoming, with many local events, festivals, and gatherings throughout the year.
Cross Plains offers various outdoor activities including hiking, biking, and access to parks and the Ice Age Trail.
Cross Plains is largely car-dependent, but there are local bike paths and some bus routes connected to nearby towns.
Housing options include single-family homes, townhouses, and larger rural properties.
Yes, the Historic Downtown area has several local shops, cafes, and restaurants, while larger shopping centers are a short drive away.
Conclusion on the Best Residential Areas in Cross Plains:
Cross Plains, WI, offers a unique blend of small-town charm and access to nature. With various neighborhoods to choose from, each providing distinct cultural and lifestyle advantages, there is something for everyone in this community. Whether you desire the historical ambiance of Downtown, the family-oriented environment of Pheasant Ridge, or the tranquil landscapes of Northeast Cross Plains, this village is an excellent spot for those looking to live in Dane County. Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the many parks and trails, while families will find ample educational and recreational opportunities. Overall, Cross Plains is a welcoming place to call home, with diverse options for housing and a vibrant local culture.
About the Author

Published by:Eribert De Oliveira
Mechatronics Engineer and founder of Mi Inmueble Online, with a background in real estate. I combine technology and analysis to help you find the best areas to live.