Cost of Living in Buffalo County, Wisconsin
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Buffalo County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Buffalo County, Wisconsin
Buffalo County rents remain affordable
Buffalo County's 14.3% rent-to-income ratio sits below Wisconsin's state average of 14.9% and comfortably within affordability guidelines. The county's $68,722 median household income, while below the national median of $74,755, combines with $822 monthly rents to create solid rental value.
Below-average rent burden statewide
Buffalo County ranks favorably in Wisconsin with a 14.3% rent-to-income ratio, better than the state average of 14.9%. Its median household income of $68,722 places it in the upper tier of this comparison group, offering residents relative purchasing power.
Balanced costs between rural and urban
Buffalo County's $822 monthly rent falls between Burnett ($758) and Barron ($859), with a 14.3% rent-to-income ratio that beats most neighbors. Home values of $197,600 are moderate for the region, slightly below Barron but above the northern counties.
Housing takes 14% of household income
Buffalo County renters earning $68,722 annually spend $822/month on rent—just 14.3% of gross income, leaving room for savings and other expenses. Homeowners face $1,058/month payments on $197,600 median-valued properties, a solid middle ground for the region.
Solid value in Wisconsin's bluff country
Buffalo County offers below-average rent burden and respectable median income, appealing to households seeking rural character without sacrificing affordability. If you're comparing Wisconsin counties, Buffalo's balanced profile—reasonable rents, decent wages, and moderate home values—deserves serious evaluation.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Buffalo County
Rent Burden
14.4%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,604
per month
Owner Cost Burden
18.5%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Buffalo County
Median home value is $197,600. Estimated monthly cost: $1,578 vs. your max of $1,604.
Rent Affordability Guide
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.