Moving From Chicago to Milwaukee's North Shore

Wisconsin's #1 Boutique Broker

Powers Realty Group has been Milwaukee's North Shore luxury leader for over two decades. More than 30% of our clients come from Chicago — because the people who know quality, know us.

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Helping Chicago buyers find luxury homes in Whitefish Bay, Shorewood, Fox Point, Bayside, River Hills, and Mequon.

POWERS REALTY GROUP - BY THE NUMBERS

$2.6B + in Career Sales

Career Sales Volume

6,000 + Homes Sold

TRANSACTIONS CLOSED

TOP 1% of REALTORS

NATIONWIDE - REAL TRENDS - 14 YEARS

30% of Traffic

WEBSITE TRAFFIC from CHICAGO

WHY CHICAGO BUYERS CHOOSE THE NORTH SHORE

The lake is still there.

The price is not.

Milwaukee's North Shore offers everything Chicago buyers are looking for, Lake Michigan waterfront, walkable villages, nationally ranked school districts, and historic architecture with genuine character, at a fraction of what comparable properties cost in Lake Forest, or Lincoln Park.

The drive is 90 minutes on I-94. The lifestyle shift is immediate. And Powers Realty Group has been guiding Chicago buyers through this transition for over two decades, with the kind of concierge, relationship that turns a transaction into a homecoming.

"When it's time to sell or buy, you want an advisor whose happiness depends on yours."
Suzanne Powers · Milwaukee Magazine

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WHY POWERS REALTY GROUP

Milwaukee's most trusted name in North Shore Luxury Homes

✦ Wisconsin's #1 Boutique Broker — recognized by RealTrends for 14 consecutive years, top 1% nationwide

✦ $2.5B+ in career sales across Milwaukee's North Shore luxury market

✦ 1.3 million monthly buyers on PowersRealty.com — the largest audience of any boutique firm in Wisconsin

✦ Full concierge buyer experience — neighborhood tours, school guidance, community introductions

✦ Dual-market expertise: Milwaukee's North Shore and Naples, FL — one advisor, two exceptional markets

✦ Access to both listed and off-market properties across all North Shore communities

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Frequently Asked Questions

How far is Milwaukee's North Shore from Chicago?

Milwaukee's North Shore communities including Whitefish Bay, Shorewood, Fox Point, Mequon, Bayside, and River Hills are approximately 85 to 95 miles north of downtown Chicago, making the drive roughly 90 minutes via I-94. For Chicago buyers, that's close enough for a weekend visit, a school tour, or a property showing and far enough to feel like a genuine lifestyle change the moment you arrive.

Why are Chicago buyers moving to Milwaukee's North Shore?

Chicago buyers consistently choose Milwaukee's North Shore for four reasons: Lake Michigan waterfront access, top ranked public school districts, historic architecture with genuine character, and a price point that allows them to buy significantly more home for their budget. A property that would cost $2M–$3M in Lake Forest or Winnetka often sells for a fraction of that on the North Shore with the same lake, the same trees, and the same quality of life.

Which North Shore community is the best fit for Chicago buyers?

The right community depends on what you're looking for. Whitefish Bay is the most popular choice for Chicago families walkable, highly rated schools, and a village atmosphere that feels immediately familiar. Shorewood appeals to buyers who want an urban edge, historic homes, and a thriving arts scene. Fox Point offers privacy, dramatic ravines, and large lakefront lots. Mequon is ideal for buyers seeking acreage, equestrian properties, or a quieter pace in Ozaukee County. Bayside and River Hills attract buyers who prioritize prestige, seclusion, and estate-sized properties. Powers Realty Group specializes in all six communities and can help you find the right fit based on your lifestyle, school priorities, and budget.

Who is the best real estate agent for Chicago buyers looking at Milwaukee's North Shore?

Suzanne Powers of Powers Realty Group is Milwaukee's North Shore's most recognized luxury broker, ranked in the top 1% nationwide by RealTrends for 14 consecutive years with $2.5B+ in career sales. More than 30% of Powers Realty Group's clients come from the Chicago market not by accident, but because Chicago buyers who know quality seek out the same standard in their advisor. Suzanne offers a full concierge experience for out-of-market buyers, including guided community tours, school district guidance, and access to both listed and off-market properties.

What types of luxury homes are available on Milwaukee's North Shore for Chicago buyers?

Milwaukee's North Shore offers an exceptionally diverse luxury market. Chicago buyers will find historic Tudor and Colonial estates in Whitefish Bay and Shorewood, dramatic bluff and ravine properties with direct Lake Michigan access in Fox Point, sprawling lakefront and equestrian estates in Mequon, newly constructed modern homes throughout Bayside, and private estate properties on two acre plus lots in River Hills. Powers Realty Group provides access to both the active MLS and off-market opportunities that never appear in public searches.

How does buying a home on Milwaukee's North Shore compare to buying in Chicago's North Shore suburbs?

For the same budget, Milwaukee's North Shore typically offers significantly more more square footage, larger lots, more established architecture, and in many cases, direct Lake Michigan access than comparable Chicago suburbs like Lake Forest, Winnetka, or Evanston. Property taxes and cost of living are also meaningfully lower in Wisconsin. Chicago buyers who make the comparison are often surprised by how much further their dollar goes, without giving up the lakefront lifestyle, the school quality, or the community character they're looking for.

Does Powers Realty Group help Chicago clients looking at Naples, Florida as well?

Yes. Powers Realty Group serves clients in both Milwaukee's North Shore and Naples, Florida and many of those clients started in Milwaukee. When Chicago buyers who found their North Shore home with Suzanne Powers were ready for a second home or seasonal retreat, they didn't start over with a new advisor. They called Suzanne. Powers Realty Group's Naples practice covers premier communities including Pelican Bay, Fiddler's Creek, Port Royal, Old Naples, and Park Shore. One trusted advisor across two exceptional markets.

How do I get started as a Chicago buyer with Powers Realty Group?

The best first step is a no obligation consultation call with Suzanne Powers or her team. In 20 minutes, she'll understand your timeline, budget, community preferences, and lifestyle priorities and give you a clear picture of what the process looks like for out of market buyers. Many Chicago clients start with a guided North Shore tour before beginning their formal search. You can reach Powers Realty Group at 414.963.0000, email info@powersrealty.com, or submit the contact form on this page. There's no pressure just an honest conversation about whether the North Shore is the right move for you

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Wisconsin's #1
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POWERS REALTY GROUP OFFICE LOCATIONS

Powers Realty Group, Inc. - Shorewood

4214 North Oakland Avenue
Shorewood, WI 53211

powersrealty.com

414.963.0000

Powers Realty Group, Inc. - Naples / Marco Island

780 Fifth Avenue South, Suite #200
Naples, FL 34102

powersrealtyfl.com

239.682.7476

414.963.0000

suzanne@powersrealty.com

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