Beautifully situated on Lake Michigan's western shore, Milwaukee is one of the largest cities in the Midwest and has seen a major construction boom not observed since the 1960's. It has seen a major economic upturn and is known as the city of festivals for its events throughout the year, whether they be theatrical, musical, or sports related. The city is known for its brewing traditions and the water sports that occur regularly on Lake Michigan including sailing. Henry Maier Festival Park is where many of these festivals occur, and luckily for its residents, one could easily walk to the local events as it is known as one of the most walkable cities in the United States.
A very livable neighborhood, Downer Woods lies north of downtown Milwaukee on the shores of Lake Michigan. It's got parks and dining galore and right in the center of the neighborhood is the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. The university is home to many theaters and entertainment arenas, as well as coffee shops and restaurants. The cost of living, however, is pretty high, and unfortunately the crime is some of the worst in the city. The amenities, however, are good, and employment opportunities are better than average. The weather of Milwaukee doesn't get the highest rating--it is one of the coldest cities in the United States--but the charm of the city more than makes up for it. And with the kinds of cultural events you find in Downer Woods, you can be assured that living here is worth it, if you are single. We recommend not living here as a family because of the crime issues.
The neighborhood lying south of Downer Woods is Northpoint, home to Riverside Park and Lake Park, both beautiful areas on either side of the neighborhood. It is considered a very livable place, despite the high crime and high cost of living. The amenities, as they were in Downer Woods, are quite good, with educational opportunities reasonably good but not as impressive as Downer Woods. Quality of employment is average at best for the city of Milwaukee, and the same goes for their cost of living. This would be a good place for singles and young couples as well because it is still near the university, but pass if you are a family.
Murray Hill is in the same general vicinity as these other neighborhoods. Educationally, they are doing better than Northpoint, but the crime is still high, as it is in this general area of Milwaukee. There are several theaters and fun things to do in this area, and it is a short walk to the shore of the lake. Plenty of coffeehouses as well for those cold winter days. Employment looks pretty bleak in this area and the cost of living is high, but it could work as a neighborhood for a young single person or couple, as long as they stay safe.