Cost of Living in Washburn County, Wisconsin
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Washburn County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Washburn County ranks #763 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 24%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Washburn County, Wisconsin
Washburn rents well below national average
Washburn County's 16.0% rent-to-income ratio slightly exceeds the national 14.9%, but the county's low absolute rents of $815/month are a major relief compared to higher-cost regions. Despite a median household income of $61,270—18% below the national average—Washburn offers genuine housing affordability.
Wisconsin's most affordable rents
Washburn ranks among Wisconsin's most affordable counties with $815 monthly rent versus the state average of $891. At 16.0% rent-to-income ratio, Washburn hovers just slightly above Wisconsin's 14.9% state average despite lower incomes.
Cheapest rents in the region
Washburn's $815 rent undercuts every measured neighbor: Waupaca ($834), Waushara ($789, slightly lower), and Winnebago ($924). For budget-conscious renters, Washburn and rural Waushara are the region's affordability champions.
Low income, low costs align well
Washburn's $61,270 median income is paired with equally modest housing costs: $815 rent and $895 monthly owner costs. While incomes lag the state, the county maintains balance—neither renters nor homeowners face disproportionate housing burdens.
Budget movers: Washburn is your answer
Washburn County delivers genuine affordability with the state's lowest absolute rents and a welcoming 16.0% rent-to-income ratio. If you're relocating with a modest income, Washburn offers breathing room that pricier Wisconsin counties cannot match.
Cost of Living Advisory: Washburn County
Affordability Verdict
For renters in Washburn County, the market is affordable. Expect to pay around $815/month in gross rent, with 28.0% of renter households considered cost-burdened.
Rent vs. Own
The median rent in Washburn County is $815/month, while owner costs run $895/month. Renting saves approximately $80/month.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $32,600/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $38,357/year. With a median household income of $61,270, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 28.0% of renter households in Washburn County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Compared to Oneida County where rent averages $868/month, Washburn County is approximately 6% less expensive.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Washburn County
Rent Burden
16.0%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,430
per month
Owner Cost Burden
17.5%
of gross income
The median home in Washburn County may be a stretch
Median home value is $207,900. Estimated monthly cost: $1,660 vs. your max of $1,430.
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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