Cost of Living in Ashland County, Wisconsin
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Ashland County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Ashland County ranks #2,718 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 14%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Ashland County, Wisconsin
Ashland County leads on rental affordability
Ashland County residents enjoy a 13.8% rent-to-income ratio, beating both the national standard and Wisconsin's 14.9% state average. The county's median household income of $57,645 is lower than the national median of $74,755, yet affordable rents at $665/month cushion that gap.
Among Wisconsin's most affordable counties
Ashland County ranks favorably statewide with a 13.8% rent-to-income ratio, comfortably below the state average of 14.9%. Its median rent of $665 is the lowest among the eight comparison counties, offering genuine affordability relief for renters.
Cheapest rents in the northern group
Ashland County's $665 monthly rent undercuts all comparable counties, including nearby Bayfield ($789) and Burnett ($758), reflecting its lower regional housing demand. Despite lower incomes, Ashland's 13.8% rent-to-income ratio is the best among its peers.
Rents consume just 14% of income
Ashland County renters spend $665 monthly—only 13.8% of the $57,645 median household income—leaving substantial room in household budgets. Homeowners face higher relative costs at $872/month, though median home values of $160,500 remain among the county's lowest in this group.
Best rental value in northern Wisconsin
Ashland County delivers the strongest rent-to-income ratio in this comparison, ideal for renters prioritizing affordability in a rural setting. If lower cost of living appeals to you more than wage premiums, Ashland's combination of cheap rents and manageable home values merits serious consideration.
Cost of Living Advisory: Ashland County
Affordability Verdict
Housing in Ashland County is affordable. The median rent is $665/month against a median household income of $57,645, putting rent at 13.8% of income.
Rent vs. Own
The median rent in Ashland County is $665/month, while owner costs run $872/month. Renting saves approximately $207/month.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $26,600/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $37,371/year. With a median household income of $57,645, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 25.0% of renter households in Ashland County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Ashland County sits 10% less expensive than Langlade County ($737/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Ashland County
Rent Burden
13.8%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,345
per month
Owner Cost Burden
18.2%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Ashland County
Median home value is $160,500. Estimated monthly cost: $1,281 vs. your max of $1,345.
Rent Affordability Guide
Income Needed Calculator
See how much you need to earn to comfortably afford housing
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Based on the 30% rule for rent and 28% rule for housing costs (mortgage + owner costs). Mortgage estimate assumes 20% down, 7.2% interest, 30-year fixed.
Frequently Asked Questions
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See Today's RatesData: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey (ACS) 5-Year Estimates (2019-2023) — Informational only. Not financial or legal advice.
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