Wisconsin, known as the "America's Dairyland", is a moderate-cost Great Lakes state with affordable housing but higher taxes. Here is everything you need to know about the cost of living in the America's Dairyland — from housing and groceries to taxes, utilities, childcare, and what salary you actually need.
Here is what a typical month costs in Wisconsin for a single person earning the median income of $64,800/year:
Each category shows how Wisconsin compares to the national average. Green means cheaper, yellow means similar, orange/red means more expensive.
Adjust your salary to see a detailed monthly budget breakdown for living in Wisconsin.
Select a state to see how much salary you would need there to maintain the same lifestyle you have in Wisconsin.
The most popular cities for residents and newcomers in Wisconsin:
Housing is the single biggest expense in Wisconsin, as it is everywhere. The median home price in Wisconsin is $265,000, and the median rent for a one-bedroom apartment is $950/month. With a housing cost index of 80, Wisconsin housing is 20% cheaper than the national average.
Housing in Wisconsin is a genuine advantage. The low cost of housing frees up income for savings, investments, and discretionary spending that residents of expensive states simply cannot afford.
Wisconsin has a state income tax rate of 7.65%. On the median household income of $64,800, you will pay approximately $4,957/year in state income tax ($413/month). This is a moderate rate that most households can absorb.
The average single person in Wisconsin spends approximately $400/month on groceries. A family of four can expect to spend $1,000-$1,200/month. The food cost index of 97 means groceries in Wisconsin are 3% below the national average.
Gas prices in Wisconsin average $3.15/gallon. For the average commuter driving 15,000 miles/year at 25 MPG, that is roughly $1,890/year in fuel costs.
Wisconsin healthcare costs are 0% below the national average (index: 100). The average annual healthcare cost per person in Wisconsin is approximately $6,000 including premiums and out-of-pocket expenses. Employer-sponsored health insurance covers the majority of working adults.
Infant daycare in Wisconsin averages $1,000/month ($12,000/year). This is a substantial but manageable expense for dual-income households. Many families in Wisconsin find that one parent staying home is more cost-effective when two or more children need daycare.
Wisconsin offers a solid balance of cost, opportunity, and quality of life. With costs near the national average, you get access to growing job markets in Milwaukee and Madison, and a cost of living that leaves room for saving and investing.
See all Wisconsin financial calculators:
Wisconsin (WI) has a cost of living index of 93, meaning it is 7% cheaper than the US average. Housing is the biggest factor with an index of 80. The median rent is $950/month and the median home price is $265,000. Wisconsin ranks #23 out of 50 states for affordability (1 = cheapest).
For a single person, a comfortable salary in Wisconsin is approximately $84,240/year ($7,020/month). For a family of four, aim for $142,560/year. This covers housing at 30% of income, groceries ($400/mo), transportation, healthcare, and a 15% savings rate. The median household income in Wisconsin is $64,800.
The median rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Wisconsin is approximately $950/month. A two-bedroom averages $1,283/month. Rent varies significantly by city: Milwaukee, Madison, Green Bay are the most popular metro areas. Housing in Wisconsin is affordable compared to the national average.
Wisconsin is an excellent choice for affordability. With a cost of living 7% below the national average and median rent of just $950/month, your money goes significantly further here. Top cities include Milwaukee, Madison, Green Bay.
The most affordable areas in Wisconsin are typically smaller cities and rural areas away from the major metros. Within Wisconsin, costs can vary 20-40% between the most expensive city (Milwaukee metro) and more affordable areas. Kenosha and Racine tend to offer lower costs while still providing good amenities and job opportunities.
The average monthly grocery bill in Wisconsin for a single person is approximately $400 ($1,000 for a family of four). Wisconsin food costs are 3% below the national average. Shopping at Walmart, Aldi, and local discount stores can reduce this by 15-25%.
The average monthly electric bill in Wisconsin is approximately $125. Total utilities (electric, gas, water, internet) average $275/month. Wisconsin utilities are 2% above the national average. Utility costs are manageable for most households.
Wisconsin has a state income tax rate of 7.65%. On the median household income of $64,800, that is approximately $4,957/year in state income tax. This is among the highest in the nation.