Cost of Living in Monroe County, Wisconsin
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Monroe County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Monroe County ranks #2,395 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 24%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Monroe County, Wisconsin
Monroe County offers moderate rent affordability
Monroe County's rent-to-income ratio of 16.2% falls comfortably within the sustainable housing-cost range and below both the state average of 14.9% and the broader context of affordability benchmarks. With a median household income of $68,213, slightly below the national median of $74,755, residents here manage housing costs more effectively than many peers.
Middle-ground affordability within Wisconsin
Monroe County ranks in the mid-range for rental affordability across Wisconsin, with a 16.2% rent-to-income ratio that sits between the most and least affordable counties statewide. The $920 median monthly rent is nearly $30 below the state average, offering renters modest savings.
Competitive rates in the region
Monroe County's $920 rent is comparable to nearby Oneida County ($868) and significantly cheaper than Milwaukee County's $1,069. For buyers, Monroe's $197,200 median home value is accessible compared to Pierce County ($308,600) while remaining comparable to similarly sized regional markets.
Balanced housing expenses for stability
Monroe County residents allocate roughly 16% of income to rent and 17% to ownership costs, leaving room for other budget priorities. The $920 median rent totals approximately $11,040 annually, a manageable burden for households earning around $68,000.
Monroe County scores as a solid option
If you're relocating within Wisconsin, Monroe County delivers reasonable housing costs without sacrificing regional access or amenities. The balanced rent-to-income ratio here means more of your paycheck stays in your pocket compared to higher-cost urban alternatives.
Cost of Living Advisory: Monroe County
Affordability Verdict
Monroe County offers affordable rental housing at a median of $920/month — about 16.2% of the typical household income here.
Rent vs. Own
The median rent in Monroe County is $920/month, while owner costs run $965/month. Renting saves approximately $45/month.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $36,800/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $41,357/year. With a median household income of $68,213, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 25.0% of renter households in Monroe County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Monroe County sits 6% more expensive than Oneida County ($868/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Monroe County
Rent Burden
16.2%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,592
per month
Owner Cost Burden
17.0%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Monroe County
Median home value is $197,200. Estimated monthly cost: $1,574 vs. your max of $1,592.
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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