Cost of Living in Eau Claire County, Wisconsin
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Eau Claire County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Eau Claire County ranks #1,525 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 49%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Eau Claire County, Wisconsin
Eau Claire rents stretch paychecks farther
Renters in Eau Claire County spend 16.3% of their income on housing—notably above the national average of 14.9%. With a median household income of $71,834 and median rent of $977, housing costs here claim a larger chunk than most American counties.
One of Wisconsin's tightest rental markets
Eau Claire's 16.3% rent-to-income ratio ranks among the least affordable in Wisconsin, exceeding the state average of 14.9% by a significant margin. The county's $977 monthly median rent is the highest among this regional group, suggesting strong demand in this regional hub.
Pricier than most surrounding counties
Eau Claire's $977 rent tops every comparable county in this group except for regional outliers. Renters here pay $392 more per month than Forest County's $585 and $166 more than nearby Dunn County's $942.
Housing consumes a third of income
Eau Claire renters allocate $977 monthly while homeowners commit $1,185 to mortgages against a $71,834 median income. This split reflects a county where housing—whether renting or owning—demands roughly 33% of household earnings.
A growing hub with trade-offs
Eau Claire's higher rents reflect its status as a regional employment and cultural center with strong job markets. If you value urban amenities and career opportunities, Eau Claire's costs may be justified—but compare it against more affordable neighbors like Green or Forest counties if budget is tight.
Cost of Living Advisory: Eau Claire County
Affordability Verdict
For renters in Eau Claire County, the market is affordable. Expect to pay around $977/month in gross rent, with 24.0% of renter households considered cost-burdened.
Rent vs. Own
The median rent in Eau Claire County is $977/month, while owner costs run $1,185/month. Renting saves approximately $208/month.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $39,080/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $50,786/year. With a median household income of $71,834, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 24.0% of renter households in Eau Claire County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Eau Claire County sits 6% more expensive than Columbia County ($926/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Eau Claire County
Rent Burden
16.3%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,676
per month
Owner Cost Burden
19.8%
of gross income
The median home in Eau Claire County may be a stretch
Median home value is $242,400. Estimated monthly cost: $1,935 vs. your max of $1,676.
Rent Affordability Guide
Income Needed Calculator
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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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