Cost of Living in Marathon County, Wisconsin
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Marathon County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Marathon County, Wisconsin
Marathon rents match state average
Marathon County renters spend 15.0% of their $76,185 median household income on $950 monthly rent, matching Wisconsin's state average exactly and slightly above the national affordability comfort zone. With above-average incomes, Marathon's renters can sustain this level, though it's tighter than ideal.
Middle-of-the-pack within Wisconsin
Marathon's 15.0% rent-to-income ratio sits precisely at the state average, placing it squarely in the middle of Wisconsin's county-by-county affordability rankings. The county's strong median income of $76,185 (above the national median) helps offset slightly elevated housing costs.
Priciest rent in the regional cluster
Marathon's $950 median rent significantly outpaces rural neighbors: Langlade ($737), Lincoln ($768), Manitowoc ($777), and even Marinette ($749). This premium reflects Marathon's stronger economic core and larger urban center (Wausau), driving both higher rents and—crucially—higher incomes.
Owners pay premium too, but incomes help
Renters allocate $950 monthly (15.0%), while homeowners spend $1,027 monthly—about 16.2% of the $76,185 median income—for homes valued at $205,500, the county's highest. Marathon's stronger wages make these costs bearable despite the premium price tags.
Pay more, earn more in Marathon
Marathon County is Wisconsin's pricier option, with $950 rent and $205K home values, but it offsets costs with the state's stronger median income of $76,185. Compare Marathon's higher costs against rural neighbors if you're prioritizing affordability; choose Marathon if you value urban amenities and earning potential.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Marathon County
Rent Burden
15.0%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,778
per month
Owner Cost Burden
16.2%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Marathon County
Median home value is $205,500. Estimated monthly cost: $1,641 vs. your max of $1,778.
Rent Affordability Guide
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.