Cost of Living in Vilas County, Wisconsin
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Vilas County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Vilas County, Wisconsin
Vilas rents affordable, homes command premium
Vilas County's 14.5% rent-to-income ratio beats the state average of 14.9%, with $810 rent well below Wisconsin's $891 median. However, the $270,700 median home value far exceeds the state norm, creating a split market: cheap rentals for transient residents, expensive homes for buyers.
Vilas delivers northern Wisconsin rental relief
Vilas County's 14.5% rent-to-income ratio outperforms Wisconsin's 14.9% state average, ranking among the state's more affordable rental markets. For buyers, however, Vilas's $270,700 median home value ranks substantially higher than most Wisconsin counties, reflecting resort and recreation-driven demand.
Vilas: cheap rentals, expensive homes
Vilas's $810 rent undercuts neighbors Shawano ($777) and trails Sawyer ($683), but its $270,700 home value vastly exceeds the region, second only to St. Croix ($349,700). This split creates opportunity for renters seeking affordability and challenges for homebuyers.
Vilas split: renter heaven, buyer sticker shock
Renters allocate just 14.5% of $67,132 income to $810 monthly rent, enjoying above-average affordability in the state. Conversely, homebuyers face a $270,700 median that ranks among Wisconsin's highest—a stark contrast driven by recreational and resort property demand.
Vilas for renters and wealthy Northwoods buyers
Moving to Vilas makes sense if you're renting and prioritize Northwoods lifestyle, or if you have $300,000+ equity for a recreational property investment. Budget-conscious renters seeking to buy should explore Shawano or Taylor—rural counties where home prices align with modest incomes.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Vilas County
Rent Burden
14.5%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,566
per month
Owner Cost Burden
15.8%
of gross income
The median home in Vilas County may be a stretch
Median home value is $270,700. Estimated monthly cost: $2,161 vs. your max of $1,566.
Rent Affordability Guide
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of living in Vilas County, Wisconsin?
What is the median rent in Vilas County?
Is Vilas County affordable?
How does Vilas County's rent compare to the state average?
What is the median home value in Vilas County?
Planning a Move?
Researching the cost of living in Vilas County, Wisconsin? Compare moving quotes from top providers and save on your relocation.
Compare Moving QuotesCounties with Similar Housing Costs
Compare Mortgage Rates in Vilas County
Whether you're buying your first home or refinancing, compare rates from top lenders to find the best deal.
See Today's RatesData: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey (ACS) 5-Year Estimates (2019-2023) — Informational only. Not financial or legal advice.