Cost of Living in Polk County, Wisconsin
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Polk County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Polk County ranks #1,438 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 46%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Polk County, Wisconsin
Polk rents slightly above national comfort zone
Polk County residents spend 15.1% of household income on rent, slightly higher than the national recommendation of 14%. With a median household income of $76,208—just 1.9% above the U.S. average—renters here face modest affordability pressure.
Polk ranks middle of Wisconsin pack
At 15.1%, Polk's rent-to-income ratio sits just above Wisconsin's state average of 14.9%, placing it in the midrange among the state's 72 counties. Homeowners benefit from a median value of $241,200, offering solid wealth-building potential.
Slightly pricier than nearby Portage
Polk's median rent of $958/month runs $55 higher than neighboring Portage County ($903), though both counties maintain similar affordability ratios near the state average. Polk homeowners pay $118 more monthly than Portage ($1,144 vs. $1,026).
Housing takes 43% of renters' budgets
Renters in Polk spend $958/month on housing, while homeowners allocate $1,144/month for ownership costs. Combined with a median income of $76,208 annually, housing consumes roughly 15% of gross income for renters and 18% for homeowners.
Polk offers stability for budget-conscious movers
If you're comparing Wisconsin counties, Polk delivers above-average income ($76,208) with near-average housing costs—making it a balanced choice. Consider it if you value moderate affordability and a strong median home value of $241,200 for long-term investment.
Cost of Living Advisory: Polk County
Affordability Verdict
Polk County offers affordable rental housing at a median of $958/month — about 15.1% of the typical household income here.
Rent vs. Own
The median rent in Polk County is $958/month, while owner costs run $1,144/month. Renting saves approximately $186/month.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $38,320/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $49,029/year. With a median household income of $76,208, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 23.0% of renter households in Polk County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Compared to Jefferson County where rent averages $1,012/month, Polk County is approximately 5% less expensive.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Polk County
Rent Burden
15.1%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,778
per month
Owner Cost Burden
18.0%
of gross income
The median home in Polk County may be a stretch
Median home value is $241,200. Estimated monthly cost: $1,926 vs. your max of $1,778.
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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