If you're searching for a friendly, convenient, and family-oriented community in Eau Claire, Wisconsin, Oakwood Hills may be just the place for you. Known for its peaceful streets, well-kept homes, abundant green space, and strong neighborhood spirit, Oakwood Hills draws newcomers and lifelong locals alike. Here’s what it’s really like to live in this cherished Eau Claire neighborhood.
A Strong Sense of Community
Oakwood Hills is renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Walk down Oakwood Hills Parkway, Tamara Drive, or Pine Park Drive, and you’ll notice neighbors greeting one another, kids riding bikes, and families walking dogs in the evenings. Residents often mention the “small town in a city” feel—people look out for each other, but everyone still enjoys plenty of personal space.
Community events, while laid-back, help tie the neighborhood together. Seasonal decorations, neighborly cookouts, and block parties create a sense of togetherness without anyone feeling overwhelmed. The Oakwood Hills Neighborhood Association keeps an active social media presence and helps coordinate local gatherings. Newcomers are welcomed warmly, making it easy to put down roots.
Types of Housing
Oakwood Hills offers a nice variety of residential options, making it appealing for everyone from young professionals to retirees. Most homes here are single-family, built between the 1980s and early 2000s. The housing stock ranges from spacious multi-levels to classic ramblers and split-entries, with well-maintained yards and mature trees lining the streets.
- *Spacious ranch and two-story homes with 3-5 bedrooms*
- *Attached garages and generous driveways*
- *Well-kept lawns and established landscaping*
- *Townhomes and condos, mostly along Golf Road and near Oakwood Mall, providing lower-maintenance living options*
Prices tend to be mid-range for Eau Claire but deliver strong value due to the area’s amenities and high quality of life. It’s not uncommon for homes to sell quickly, thanks to steady demand.
Walkability and Everyday Convenience
Oakwood Hills scores well on walkability, especially for the area’s suburban character. Many daily needs are met within a short walk or bike ride:
- *Oakwood Mall anchors the neighborhood, with shopping, fitness gyms, and dozens of restaurants nearby.*
- *Supermarkets like Festival Foods and Target are a quick drive or walk away.*
- *Sidewalks line the main residential streets, and quiet cul-de-sacs keep traffic low.*
You’ll often see residents out for morning jogs or evening strolls. While bikes are popular for getting around, the neighborhood’s layout—with its pleasant winding streets and plenty of shade—also makes walking a joy.
Schools and Family-Friendliness
Families with children love Oakwood Hills for its convenient access to well-regarded schools. The neighborhood is primarily within the boundaries of Robbins Elementary—a top-rated Eau Claire public school located just a few minutes away on Bartlett Avenue. DeLong Middle School and Memorial High School, both also highly respected, serve the area, making school commutes quick and easy.
Oakwood Hills is designed for kids to thrive:
- *Safe sidewalks and cul-de-sacs for biking and play*
- *Close proximity to several childcare centers and preschools*
- *Nearby public libraries and after-school activity options*
Family-friendly amenities, from parks to shopping to kids’ classes at the Oakwood Mall, make this a convenient place to raise children.
Parks and Green Spaces
Outdoor lovers will enjoy Oakwood Hills’ abundance of nearby green space. Pine Park, located right in the neighborhood off Pine Park Drive, features a lovely playground, open grassy fields, and shady picnic spots. In winter, it’s a popular place for sledding and building snowmen.
Slightly further afield but still very close, you’ll find Fairfax Park—home to Eau Claire’s beloved Fairfax Pool, tennis courts, and wooded walking trails. Buffalo Park, behind Oakwood Mall, offers additional trails and a peaceful pond—perfect for quiet relaxation or a family walk.
- *Pine Park: playground, fields, and events*
- *Buffalo Park: walking trails and pond*
- *Fairfax Park: aquatic center, sports courts, nature paths*
These parks are easily walkable or bikeable, and their well-kept facilities add to the area’s charm.
Safety and Peace of Mind
Safety is a point of pride for Oakwood Hills. Police reports consistently show low crime rates compared to other parts of Eau Claire. Neighbors tend to watch out for one another, and it's common to see outdoor lights on in the evenings and neighborhood watch signs posted.
Residents appreciate the calm: kids can play outside, joggers and dog-walkers roam freely, and late evenings are peaceful. Most streets have low speed limits, and traffic-calming measures like curb extensions help keep the area safe.
Close to Everything: Downtown, Employers, and More
One of Oakwood Hills’ strongest suits is its location on Eau Claire’s south side. Proximity to major routes like US Hwy 53 and Golf Road makes for quick access to:
- *Downtown Eau Claire (10-minute drive) for restaurants, art galleries, and riverfront concerts*
- *Mayo Clinic Health System and other major employers within a few miles*
- *Oakwood Mall and surrounding retail for all your shopping needs*
- *Easy commutes to the Eau Claire Energy Cooperative and local schools*
With major amenities just minutes away, Oakwood Hills strikes a sweet spot between suburban calm and city convenience.
What Residents Love Most
Ask long-time Oakwood Hills neighbors what draws them to the area and you’ll hear a few common themes:
- *“It’s safe, friendly, and just a really nice place to come home to.”*
- *“We love the parks—our kids are outside all the time with friends.”*
- *“Everyone watches out for each other, but it never feels intrusive. It’s just…comfortable.”*
- *“Shopping and schools are so close! We barely spend time in the car.”*
Residents cherish the sense of community, the peaceful nights, and the ease of everyday life.
Thinking About a Move?
If you’re considering a move to Eau Claire, Oakwood Hills stands out as a neighborhood that blends comfort, community, and convenience. Whether you’re looking to settle down with your family, buy your first home, or enjoy the next phase of life, you’ll find a warm welcome waiting here.