Quality of Life

Sustainable and thriving economies are integrally linked with quality of life. Strong economies tend to support a high quality of life, which in turn attracts and is a sign of flourishing business and industry.

There are a number of things to look at when evaluating the lifestyle of a region - health, education, employment, recreation, philanthropy and a diversity of opportunities. Throughout the Madison Region, residents enjoy good health, with access to a number of superior healthcare systems, including SSM Health Care, with 20 acute care hospitals and two nursing homes in four states, including Wisconsin. A skilled, well-educated workforce (thanks to the UW system, MATC, and more) benefits from artistic and cultural opportunities, ranging from a national performing arts center to an urban core with one of the highest numbers of restaurants per capita.

Boating and water sports on our lakes; hiking, biking, and skiing on our trails; and camping in our many state parks around the region offer a range of recreational opportunities in a breathtaking natural environment. Combine these factors with clean air, abundant green space, superior educational facilities K-16, a low unemployment rate, great communities and a sense of personal security, and you have the Madison Region.

Sometimes it's the little things that help us thrive. Evening concerts in Capitol Square, mornings at a Farmer's Market. Exploring the House on the Rock or touring the New Glarus Brewery. Birding at Horicon Marsh or visiting the world's only natural crane habitat. Spending the day in the Wisconsin Dells, the "Waterpark Capital of the World"; camping with the family at Devil's Lake. Taking advantage of lifelong learning opportunities through the University of Wisconsin System, or with one of our many technical or private colleges. Wearing red on game day. Feeling that there's always something to do, and that you're in a great place to do it.

What all this means is that the Madison Region isn't just a great place to do business, it's a great place to live. And both of these things are essential to any globally-competitive region.

"It's all about lifestyle. The Madison Region's quality of life continues to attract the creative class that invents new ideas and companies that help the Region grow. I wouldn't live any place else."

--Terrence Wall, President