Cost of Living in Chippewa County, Wisconsin
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Chippewa County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Chippewa County ranks #2,333 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 26%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Chippewa County, Wisconsin
Chippewa rents slightly above national norm
Chippewa County's rent-to-income ratio of 15.6% sits above the national benchmark, meaning renters here spend a larger share of their paychecks on housing than the typical American household. The median rent of $963 per month is 8% higher than Wisconsin's state average of $891, despite household incomes nearly matching the national median of $74,755.
Mid-tier affordability in Wisconsin rankings
Among Wisconsin's 72 counties, Chippewa ranks in the middle for affordability—its 15.6% rent-to-income ratio exceeds the state average of 14.9%, but trails the most expensive counties. This positions Chippewa as a reasonably accessible option within the state, though rents have outpaced income growth.
More affordable than Door or Dane Counties
Chippewa's median rent of $963 undercuts nearby Door County ($995) and significantly trails the Madison-area Dane County ($1,345). Yet it costs more than rural neighbors Clark and Crawford Counties, reflecting Chippewa's position as a mid-size county with moderate but rising housing costs.
Housing claims 31% of gross income
Renters spend roughly $963 monthly while homeowners pay $1,055, together totaling about 31% of the median household income of $74,009. This allocation leaves Chippewa households with less discretionary income than national averages, particularly for families juggling multiple housing and living costs.
Consider Chippewa for balanced trade-offs
If you're relocating, Chippewa offers slightly more affordable rents than Door County while maintaining similar incomes to the state average. Comparing its $237,700 median home value against pricier Dane County ($366,100) shows genuine savings for homebuyers willing to embrace a mid-size Wisconsin community.
Cost of Living Advisory: Chippewa County
Affordability Verdict
Chippewa County is affordable for renters, with a median gross rent of $963/month representing approximately 15.6% of median household income. The rent burden (GRAPI) stands at 25.0%.
Rent vs. Own
Renters in Chippewa County pay $963/month on average, compared to $1,055/month for homeowners. This market favors renters by about 9%.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $38,520/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $45,214/year. With a median household income of $74,009, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 25.0% of renter households in Chippewa County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Within Wisconsin, Chippewa County is less affordable than Racine County by roughly 5% ($963/mo vs $1,017/mo).
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Chippewa County
Rent Burden
15.6%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,727
per month
Owner Cost Burden
17.1%
of gross income
The median home in Chippewa County may be a stretch
Median home value is $237,700. Estimated monthly cost: $1,898 vs. your max of $1,727.
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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