Cost of Living in Jefferson County, Wisconsin
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Jefferson County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Jefferson County ranks #1,738 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 45%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Jefferson County, Wisconsin
Jefferson County: stretched but stable
Jefferson County's 15.1% rent-to-income ratio slightly exceeds the national comfort zone, signaling that housing costs consume a larger share of household budgets here. Median household income of $80,604 provides a cushion, but the 15.1% mark indicates tightening affordability pressure.
Above Wisconsin's affordability baseline
Jefferson County's 15.1% rent-to-income ratio edges above the state average of 14.9%, making it one of Wisconsin's pricier markets. Median rent of $1,012 runs 14% higher than the state average, reflecting the county's proximity to Milwaukee's economic sphere.
Premium pricing in southeast Wisconsin
Jefferson County's $1,012 median rent is the highest among Iowa, Jackson, and Juneau counties, though it remains $163 below Kenosha County. Home values of $253,800 place it among Wisconsin's priciest in this comparison, just behind Kenosha's $247,800.
Jefferson County's housing budget
Renters spend $1,012 monthly (15.1% of the $80,604 median income) while homeowners commit $1,342 (20.0% of income). Homeownership here demands considerably more of the household budget, pushing closer to the 30% affordability threshold for owners.
Jefferson County for suburban seekers
If you want suburban amenities and Milwaukee-area access, Jefferson County delivers—but expect to pay 15%+ of income for rent or 20%+ for a mortgage. Compare these costs against more rural alternatives like Jackson or Juneau before deciding the Milwaukee premium fits your budget.
Cost of Living Advisory: Jefferson County
Affordability Verdict
Jefferson County is affordable for renters, with a median gross rent of $1,012/month representing approximately 15.1% of median household income. The rent burden (GRAPI) stands at 25.0%.
Rent vs. Own
At $1,012/month rent versus $1,342/month in owner costs, renting is roughly $330/month cheaper — a 25% difference.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $40,480/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $57,514/year. With a median household income of $80,604, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 25.0% of renter households in Jefferson County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Compared to Polk County where rent averages $958/month, Jefferson County is approximately 6% more expensive.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Jefferson County
Rent Burden
15.1%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,881
per month
Owner Cost Burden
20.0%
of gross income
The median home in Jefferson County may be a stretch
Median home value is $253,800. Estimated monthly cost: $2,026 vs. your max of $1,881.
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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