Cost of Living in Portage County, Wisconsin
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Portage County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Portage County ranks #1,400 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 45%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Portage County, Wisconsin
Portage keeps rent costs remarkably low
Portage County's rent-to-income ratio of 14.8% sits almost exactly at the national average, despite a median household income of $73,284—slightly below the U.S. median of $74,755. Renters here enjoy some of Wisconsin's most affordable rental options.
Portage stands out as affordability leader
With a 14.8% rent-to-income ratio, Portage ranks among Wisconsin's most affordable counties, sitting just below the state average of 14.9%. The median rent of $903/month is $12 cheaper than the state average, reflecting strong local affordability.
Portage undercuts Polk on rent costs
Portage renters pay $903/month—$55 less than Polk County—while maintaining nearly identical affordability ratios (14.8% vs. 15.1%). Homeowners in Portage also face lower ownership costs ($1,026) compared to neighboring Polk ($1,144).
Housing costs stay below state average
At $903/month for renters and $1,026/month for homeowners, Portage offers below-average housing expenses relative to Wisconsin. The median income of $73,284 means renters dedicate roughly 14.8% of annual earnings to rent, leaving more for other essentials.
Portage: Wisconsin's affordable sweet spot
If affordability is your priority, Portage County delivers some of the state's best rent-to-income ratios with a median home value of $230,400. This county works well for cost-conscious families and renters seeking sustainable housing expenses.
Cost of Living Advisory: Portage County
Affordability Verdict
Housing in Portage County is affordable. The median rent is $903/month against a median household income of $73,284, putting rent at 14.8% of income.
Rent vs. Own
At $903/month rent versus $1,026/month in owner costs, renting is roughly $123/month cheaper — a 12% difference.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $36,120/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $43,971/year. With a median household income of $73,284, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 26.0% of renter households in Portage County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Portage County sits 6% more expensive than Green County ($851/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Portage County
Rent Burden
14.8%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,710
per month
Owner Cost Burden
16.8%
of gross income
The median home in Portage County may be a stretch
Median home value is $230,400. Estimated monthly cost: $1,839 vs. your max of $1,710.
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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