New Berlin, WI Apartment Renter's Guide

Much better than old Berlin and warmer to boot. In actuality, New Berlin is not named as a new world version of Germany’s capital city. It was actually named after New Berlin, NY, which oddly enough was actually named after the town of Berlin in Connecticut. So actually this city near the Great Lakes has nothing to do with the old world whatsoever, except for Gasthaus, which offers some of the best German food in Wisconsin.

New Berlin is a sleepy area southwest of Milwaukee, near the Milwaukee Bay. Contrary to what movies and television would have you believe, it doesn’t snow every day in Wisconsin. Not every day. In fact, summers here can get quite warm. Residents like to get outside, which is apparent by the 850 acres of parkland reserved within the city. When not relaxing in Greenfield Park or teeing off at Deer Haven Golf Club, the Milwaukee Bay is only a short drive away for swimming, water skiing, fishing and any number of other water sports.

So, no snow banks... in summer. Let’s assume you’re moving in the summer time (which is a really good idea for a number of reasons). You’re going to need to pick a neighborhood. Good news -- there aren’t many. New Berlin (put the stress on the first syllable, by the way) is only about six miles square. At that, it is almost a perfect square. The whole area can be divided into a handful of distinct sections.

City Center: This is the area immediately surrounding National Ave. This is the four block area where National and Moorland cross. This is the commercial center with Moorland shopping center and several strips. To the south, Regal Manors houses a number of single family homes and rental properties.

East: Everything east of City Center. Weatherwood is the largest community in this neighborhood. The colors are stunning in the fall due to the large number of tree-lined streets. This is where you will find trick-or-treaters on Halloween, and children riding toboggans in December.

Northeast: Mostly industrial. Not a lot of rentals here, just parking lots and factories.

West: There’s not a lot but open pastures to the west. There’s plenty of land for everyone, with only a half of a dozen houses per street. There’s also plenty of room for golf.

Most of the residents here migrated from Milwaukee during the 70s. Due to the two cities being neighbors, it is not unusual for Berlinites to make their money in the city and bring it home to the burbs. You will need a car here. Chances are you’re going to be doing a fair bit of traveling during your average week. Also, you may want to look into a midsize to heavier vehicle, or at the very least a good set of snow tires. It only snows about four to five months a year but you will be hard pressed to get around during those times without proper equipment. That being said, there are some things to check before you move in. When looking at places for rent, especially studios and one bedroom apartments, check into the heating situation. Even if heat is included, which is a huge bonus, given utility bills during colder months, a lot of times the heating system just doesn't cover it. Additions like a fireplace or indoor hallways, which conserve heat inside the building, are not to be overlooked. Vacancy rates may be highest in the winter months, but for comfort and assurance that there aren't any overlooked drafts, visiting during the fall to make your decisions may not be the worst decision either. This would also be a good time to pick up a snazzy new parka: you will be using it a lot.

People here are friendly. This region is notorious for its polite nature and welcoming demeanor. The city is small by comparison to most, which lends itself easily to a sense of community. Residential areas are limited so it is likely you are going to know a few of your neighbors, and rest assured they will know you. Familiarity is just one of those small-town charms people grow attached to over time. The good news is that although the weather can be harsh at times, and the suburbs can take some getting used to for more city-oriented people, the scenery is priceless and the perks are plenty. This city has been voted one of the best undiscovered towns in the country and it doesn't take long to understand why. It is quiet, peaceful and everything you could want from metropolitan living is literally a five-minute drive away. It’s hard to find a more pleasant place to live.