Cost of Living in Waukesha County, Wisconsin
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Waukesha County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Waukesha County ranks #1,410 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 45%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Waukesha County, Wisconsin
Waukesha: Wisconsin's most affluent county
Waukesha County's median household income of $104,100 towers over the national average of $74,755—a 39% premium that anchors the county's prosperity. Despite the highest absolute housing costs in the region, Waukesha's 15.0% rent-to-income ratio matches the national norm perfectly.
Wisconsin's priciest, yet balanced
Waukesha County commands Wisconsin's highest rents ($1,300 vs. state average $891) and home values ($373,600), yet maintains a 15.0% rent-to-income ratio exactly matching the state average. This seeming paradox reflects Waukesha's outsized incomes—higher costs are affordable here.
Premium pricing for premium prosperity
Waukesha's $1,300 rent and $373,600 median home value both top every regional neighbor, while its $104,100 median income also leads. You pay for Waukesha's prosperity, but the county's economic engine makes those costs manageable for its residents.
Both renters and owners thrive
Waukesha renters spend 15.0% of income on housing while homeowners spend 18.8%—a gap reflecting the county's expensive real estate. Regardless, the $104,100 median income cushions both markets, making Waukesha genuinely affordable only for higher earners.
High-earning relocators: Waukesha's waiting
Waukesha County is Wisconsin's economic powerhouse, offering top incomes and excellent affordability metrics—but only if you clear the $100,000+ threshold. Moving here makes sense for prosperous professionals; budget-conscious families should explore cheaper alternatives.
Cost of Living Advisory: Waukesha County
Affordability Verdict
Housing in Waukesha County is affordable. The median rent is $1,300/month against a median household income of $104,100, putting rent at 15.0% of income.
Rent vs. Own
Renters in Waukesha County pay $1,300/month on average, compared to $1,628/month for homeowners. This market favors renters by about 20%.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $52,000/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $69,771/year. With a median household income of $104,100, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 27.0% of renter households in Waukesha County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Waukesha County sits 5% more expensive than St. Croix County ($1,238/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Waukesha County
Rent Burden
15.0%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$2,429
per month
Owner Cost Burden
18.8%
of gross income
The median home in Waukesha County may be a stretch
Median home value is $373,600. Estimated monthly cost: $2,983 vs. your max of $2,429.
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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