Cost of Living in Dodge County, Wisconsin
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Dodge County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Dodge County ranks #2,144 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 32%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Dodge County, Wisconsin
Dodge's rents outpace income growth
Dodge County's rent-to-income ratio of 15.6% exceeds national averages, with median rent of $963 running 8% above Wisconsin's state average of $891. Despite household incomes of $73,992 nearly matching national levels, Dodge residents carry above-average housing-cost burden.
Above-average burden statewide
Dodge County's 15.6% rent-to-income ratio surpasses Wisconsin's 14.9% average, placing it among less affordable counties statewide. Housing costs have grown faster than income, creating mounting affordability pressure in this south-central county.
Pricier than Clark, cheaper than Dane
Dodge's $963 median rent matches Chippewa and costs significantly more than Clark ($786) and Crawford ($809), but remains a bargain compared to Dane's $1,345. This middle positioning makes Dodge a moderate option for those seeking balance between affordability and market access.
Housing consumes 31% of household income
Dodge residents spend roughly $963 on rent or $1,168 on monthly ownership costs, totaling about 31% of the $73,992 median household income. This allocation mirrors Chippewa and leaves households vulnerable to income disruption or unexpected housing-cost increases.
Dodge appeals to commuters balancing options
Dodge County's moderate housing costs and near-average incomes make it practical for relocators weighing commutes to both Milwaukee and Madison job markets. With a $218,400 median home value and 15.6% rent-to-income ratio, Dodge offers middle-ground affordability without the premium pricing of Dane County.
Cost of Living Advisory: Dodge County
Affordability Verdict
For renters in Dodge County, the market is affordable. Expect to pay around $963/month in gross rent, with 23.0% of renter households considered cost-burdened.
Rent vs. Own
The median rent in Dodge County is $963/month, while owner costs run $1,168/month. Renting saves approximately $205/month.
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 $50,057/year. With a median household income of $73,992, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 23.0% of renter households in Dodge County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Dodge County sits 5% less expensive than Racine County ($1,017/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Dodge County
Rent Burden
15.6%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,726
per month
Owner Cost Burden
18.9%
of gross income
The median home in Dodge County may be a stretch
Median home value is $218,400. Estimated monthly cost: $1,744 vs. your max of $1,726.
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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