Cost of Living in Oconto County, Wisconsin
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Oconto County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Oconto County ranks #957 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 30%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Oconto County, Wisconsin
Oconto County ranks among Wisconsin's most affordable
Oconto County boasts a rent-to-income ratio of just 12.6%, the lowest among these eight counties and well below the state average of 14.9%. With a median household income of $75,886 that matches the national median, residents here enjoy superior housing affordability relative to their earnings.
Best rental affordability in Wisconsin
Oconto County's 12.6% rent-to-income ratio ranks as the most affordable in the state among these surveyed counties. At $796 per month, Oconto's median rent undercuts the Wisconsin average by nearly $95, the biggest savings in the cohort.
Clear savings versus nearby counties
Oconto County's $796 median rent is significantly cheaper than all regional peers—$273 less than Milwaukee County, $124 less than Monroe County, and $72 less than Oneida County. Even compared to Pepin County, traditionally one of Wisconsin's most affordable, Oconto saves renters roughly $64 monthly.
Minimal rent burden leaves room to save
At $796 monthly, Oconto County renters spend just $9,552 annually on housing, freeing up substantially more income than higher-cost counties. Homeowners face similar affordability at $966 monthly, making both paths accessible for working families.
Oconto delivers best-in-class affordability
For families prioritizing housing affordability without compromising income levels, Oconto County is Wisconsin's standout choice. You'll pay $100+ less in monthly rent than many comparable counties, translating to genuine financial breathing room.
Cost of Living Advisory: Oconto County
Affordability Verdict
Oconto County offers affordable rental housing at a median of $796/month — about 12.6% of the typical household income here.
Rent vs. Own
The median rent in Oconto County is $796/month, while owner costs run $966/month. Renting saves approximately $170/month.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $31,840/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $41,400/year. With a median household income of $75,886, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 24.0% of renter households in Oconto County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Compared to Juneau County where rent averages $847/month, Oconto County is approximately 6% less expensive.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Oconto County
Rent Burden
12.6%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,771
per month
Owner Cost Burden
15.3%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Oconto County
Median home value is $212,000. Estimated monthly cost: $1,692 vs. your max of $1,771.
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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