Cost of Living in Door County, Wisconsin
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Door County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Door County ranks #475 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 15%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Door County, Wisconsin
Door's scenic charm carries housing premium
Door County's rent-to-income ratio of 16.6% ranks highest among these eight counties and exceeds national averages, driven by median rent of $995 and median home value of $305,800. This premium reflects the county's status as a tourist destination and sought-after residential community, despite household incomes of just $71,785.
Wisconsin's most housing-burdened county here
Door County's 16.6% rent-to-income ratio is the highest statewide among this group, significantly exceeding Wisconsin's 14.9% average. The county's popularity as a retreat destination has driven property values and rents far above what local incomes typically support.
Pricier than most, cheaper than Dane alone
Door's $995 median rent exceeds Chippewa ($963), Dodge ($963), and all others except Dane ($1,345). Similarly, Door's $305,800 median home value ranks second-highest after Dane, reflecting its appeal to affluent buyers seeking waterfront and recreational properties.
Housing takes 34% of household budgets
Door residents allocate roughly $995 in rent or $1,074 in monthly ownership costs, totaling about 34% of the $71,785 median household income. This leaves Door households with less discretionary income than most Wisconsin counties, despite the county's natural beauty and recreational advantages.
Door requires strong attachment to location
Door County's 16.6% rent-to-income ratio and $305,800 median home value make it Wisconsin's most expensive option here outside Dane County. Only relocate to Door if remote work, seasonal employment, or substantial savings offset the premium you'll pay for scenic living and recreational lifestyle.
Cost of Living Advisory: Door County
Affordability Verdict
Housing in Door County is affordable. The median rent is $995/month against a median household income of $71,785, putting rent at 16.6% of income.
Rent vs. Own
Renters in Door County pay $995/month on average, compared to $1,074/month for homeowners. This market favors renters by about 7%.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $39,800/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $46,029/year. With a median household income of $71,785, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 26.0% of renter households in Door County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Door County sits 6% more expensive than Dunn County ($942/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Door County
Rent Burden
16.6%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,675
per month
Owner Cost Burden
18.0%
of gross income
The median home in Door County may be a stretch
Median home value is $305,800. Estimated monthly cost: $2,441 vs. your max of $1,675.
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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