Cost of Living in Brown County, Wisconsin
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Brown County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Brown County ranks #2,176 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 31%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Brown County, Wisconsin
Brown County earns above-average income
Brown County's median household income of $77,490 exceeds both the national median of $74,755 and Wisconsin's state average, giving residents more purchasing power. However, the county's 15.1% rent-to-income ratio sits slightly above the state average of 14.9%, reflecting its higher rents of $973/month.
Highest wages, elevated housing costs
Brown County ranks among Wisconsin's higher-income counties with $77,490 median household income, yet its 15.1% rent-to-income ratio exceeds the state average. The county's $973 monthly rent is the highest in this eight-county comparison, driven by stronger regional economic activity.
Most expensive county in the comparison
Brown County's $973 monthly rent and $245,900 median home value both exceed neighboring counties Ashland, Bayfield, and Burnett by substantial margins. Only Calumet County ($1,002 rent, $252,100 home value) rivals Brown's price levels, reflecting both counties' stronger urban economies.
Housing consumes 15% of household income
Brown County renters earning $77,490 annually spend $973/month—15.1% of gross income—on rent, while homeowners with $245,900 properties pay $1,231/month. Higher incomes offset the elevated housing costs, creating affordability despite price levels.
Urban amenities with manageable affordability
Brown County's strong median income of $77,490 supports its higher housing costs, making it accessible to relocated professionals and established households. If you're leaving a costlier region or seeking better wages alongside housing, Brown County's relative affordability and economic vitality warrant consideration.
Cost of Living Advisory: Brown County
Affordability Verdict
For renters in Brown County, the market is affordable. Expect to pay around $973/month in gross rent, with 25.0% of renter households considered cost-burdened.
Rent vs. Own
At $973/month rent versus $1,231/month in owner costs, renting is roughly $258/month cheaper — a 21% difference.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $38,920/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $52,757/year. With a median household income of $77,490, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 25.0% of renter households in Brown County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Within Wisconsin, Brown County is less affordable than Pierce County by roughly 5% ($973/mo vs $1,025/mo).
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Brown County
Rent Burden
15.1%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,808
per month
Owner Cost Burden
19.1%
of gross income
The median home in Brown County may be a stretch
Median home value is $245,900. Estimated monthly cost: $1,963 vs. your max of $1,808.
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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