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Cities and Towns in Dane County, Wisconsin

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Founded in 1836, Dane County is one of 72 counties in the state of Wisconsin. Historically, Dane County was formed from Crawford, Iowa, and Milwaukee Counties. The city of Madison is the county seat. With FIPS code of 25, Dane County has a population of 563,951 and area of 1,197.24 square miles (3,101 km²).

 

List of all cities in Dane County, WI alphabetically

  • Belleville, WI
  • Black Earth, WI
  • Blue Mounds, WI
  • Cambridge, WI
  • Cottage Grove, WI
  • Cross Plains, WI
  • Dane, WI
  • De Forest, WI
  • Deerfield, WI
  • Madison, WI
  • Marshall, WI
  • Mazomanie, WI
  • Mc Farland, WI
  • Middleton, WI
  • Morrisonville, WI
  • Mount Horeb, WI
  • Oregon, WI
  • Stoughton, WI
  • Sun Prairie, WI
  • Verona, WI
  • Waunakee, WI
  • Windsor, WI

Major Cities and Towns in Dane County, Wisconsin

City of Madison

Overview

  • Area: 101.53 square miles
  • Population: Approximately 269,000
  • ZIP Codes: 53703, 53704, 53705, 53711, 53713, 53715, 53716, 53717, 53718, 53719, 53726, 53792
  • Latitude: 43.0731° N
  • Longitude: 89.4012° W

Madison, the capital city of Wisconsin, is located in the southern part of Dane County. Founded in 1836 and named after James Madison, the fourth President of the United States, Madison was strategically chosen as the state capital due to its central location between Milwaukee and the Mississippi River. The city was built on an isthmus between Lakes Mendota and Monona, providing stunning natural scenery and a unique urban layout. Madison has grown into a vibrant and diverse city, known for its strong economy, prestigious University of Wisconsin-Madison, and rich cultural scene. The city blends government, education, technology, and the arts, making it a dynamic hub in the Midwest.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Madison is served by the Madison Metropolitan School District, which includes several high schools such as Madison West, Madison East, and Madison Memorial. The city is also home to the University of Wisconsin-Madison, one of the top public universities in the United States. Significant landmarks include the Wisconsin State Capitol, a stunning building located at the heart of the city, and the Monona Terrace, a community and convention center designed by Frank Lloyd Wright. Madison’s cultural highlights include the Chazen Museum of Art, the Madison Museum of Contemporary Art, and the Overture Center for the Arts. The city also hosts numerous festivals and events, such as the Dane County Farmers’ Market and the Wisconsin Film Festival.

City of Sun Prairie

Overview

  • Area: 13.50 square miles
  • Population: Approximately 36,000
  • ZIP Codes: 53590, 53596
  • Latitude: 43.1836° N
  • Longitude: 89.2137° W

Sun Prairie is a rapidly growing city located just northeast of Madison in Dane County. Established in 1837, Sun Prairie is one of the oldest cities in the county. The city was named by a group of settlers who arrived after a long journey and were delighted to find a sunny prairie to settle on. Initially an agricultural community, Sun Prairie has experienced significant growth in recent decades, transforming into a suburban hub with a diverse economy that includes manufacturing, retail, and services. The city is known for its family-friendly atmosphere, excellent schools, and active community life.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Sun Prairie is served by the Sun Prairie Area School District, which includes Sun Prairie High School and several other educational institutions. Notable landmarks in the city include the historic Sun Prairie Downtown, which features a variety of shops, restaurants, and community spaces, and the Sun Prairie Family Aquatic Center, a popular destination for families. The city is also known for the Sun Prairie Corn Festival, an annual event celebrating the city’s agricultural heritage with parades, music, and, of course, corn. The nearby Prairie Lakes Shopping Center provides additional shopping and entertainment options for residents and visitors.

City of Fitchburg

Overview

  • Area: 35.22 square miles
  • Population: Approximately 30,000
  • ZIP Codes: 53711, 53713, 53719
  • Latitude: 42.9722° N
  • Longitude: 89.4246° W

Fitchburg is a city located immediately south of Madison in Dane County. Incorporated as a city in 1984, Fitchburg has a rich history that dates back to the early 19th century, when it was primarily an agricultural community. Over time, Fitchburg has developed into a diverse and dynamic city that balances urban growth with environmental stewardship. The city’s landscape includes urban areas, farmland, and natural spaces, offering residents a high quality of life. Fitchburg is known for its commitment to sustainability, with numerous initiatives aimed at preserving green spaces and promoting environmentally friendly development.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Fitchburg is served by multiple school districts, including the Madison Metropolitan School District and the Oregon School District. Key landmarks in the city include the Fitchburg Community Center, which hosts various community events and activities, and the McGaw Park, a large recreational area with sports fields, playgrounds, and walking trails. The city is also home to the Fitchburg Public Library, a modern facility that provides educational resources and programs for all ages. Fitchburg’s annual events, such as the Fitchburg Days festival, celebrate the city’s community spirit and diversity with music, food, and entertainment.

City of Middleton

Overview

  • Area: 9.12 square miles
  • Population: Approximately 20,000
  • ZIP Codes: 53562
  • Latitude: 43.0972° N
  • Longitude: 89.5045° W

Middleton, often referred to as “The Good Neighbor City,” is located just west of Madison in Dane County. Founded in the mid-19th century, Middleton began as a small farming community and grew steadily with the arrival of the railroad. Today, Middleton is a vibrant suburban city known for its excellent schools, thriving businesses, and high quality of life. The city has been recognized multiple times as one of the best places to live in the United States, thanks to its strong sense of community, beautiful parks, and top-notch amenities.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Middleton is served by the Middleton-Cross Plains Area School District, which includes Middleton High School and several other schools. Significant landmarks in the city include Pheasant Branch Conservancy, a natural area that offers hiking, birdwatching, and stunning views of the surrounding landscape, and the Middleton Historical Museum, which preserves the city’s history through exhibits and artifacts. The city is also home to the Greenway Station, an open-air shopping center with a variety of retail and dining options. Middleton’s annual Good Neighbor Festival is a popular event that brings the community together for parades, concerts, and family-friendly activities.

City of Stoughton

Overview

  • Area: 5.09 square miles
  • Population: Approximately 13,000
  • ZIP Codes: 53589
  • Latitude: 42.9170° N
  • Longitude: 89.2173° W

Stoughton is a historic city located in the southeastern part of Dane County, along the Yahara River. Founded in 1847 by Luke Stoughton, the city has a rich Norwegian heritage that is celebrated to this day. Stoughton was originally an agricultural center, known for tobacco farming and later for its wagon and carriage manufacturing. Today, Stoughton is known for its strong cultural identity, particularly its Norwegian heritage, which is reflected in the city’s architecture, festivals, and traditions. The city offers a blend of historic charm and modern amenities, making it a unique and attractive place to live.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Stoughton is served by the Stoughton Area School District, which includes Stoughton High School and several other schools. Key landmarks in the city include the Stoughton Opera House, a beautifully restored 19th-century theater that hosts a variety of performances, and the Livsreise Norwegian Heritage Center, which provides educational exhibits on the city’s Norwegian roots. The city’s annual Syttende Mai festival, celebrating Norwegian Constitution Day, is a major event that features parades, traditional music, and cultural activities. Stoughton is also home to Lake Kegonsa, a popular destination for boating, fishing, and picnicking.

Village of Waunakee

Overview

  • Area: 6.46 square miles
  • Population: Approximately 14,000
  • ZIP Codes: 53597
  • Latitude: 43.1917° N
  • Longitude: 89.4554° W

Waunakee is a rapidly growing village located just north of Madison in Dane County. Founded in 1871 with the arrival of the Chicago & Northwestern Railway, Waunakee developed as a small agricultural community. The village’s name, meaning “fair and pleasant valley,” reflects the scenic beauty of the area. Over the years, Waunakee has grown significantly, becoming a popular suburban community with a strong sense of identity and a commitment to preserving its small-town charm. Waunakee is known for its excellent schools, family-friendly atmosphere, and active community life.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Waunakee is served by the Waunakee Community School District, which includes Waunakee High School and several other schools. Notable landmarks in the village include the Waunakee Village Center, which hosts a variety of community events and activities, and the Waunakee Public Library, a modern facility that offers educational resources and programs. The village is also home to several parks and recreational areas, including the scenic Castle Creek Conservancy. Waunakee’s annual events, such as the Waunafest celebration, bring together residents and visitors for parades, music, and family-friendly entertainment.

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