Cost of Living in Winnebago County, Wisconsin
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Winnebago County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Winnebago County ranks #2,015 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 36%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Winnebago County, Wisconsin
Winnebago slightly above national benchmark
Winnebago County's 15.2% rent-to-income ratio exceeds the national 14.9%, placing modest pressure on renters despite a median household income of $72,873 just below the national average. At $924 monthly rent, Winnebago costs more than rural peers but less than wealthy suburbs.
Mid-range affordability across Wisconsin
Winnebago ranks solidly average among Wisconsin counties with a 15.2% rent-to-income ratio slightly above the state's 14.9% and rents of $924 versus $891 statewide. The county offers moderate housing costs without the affordability premiums of its rural neighbors.
More expensive than rural, cheaper than suburbs
Winnebago's $924 rent sits between rural bargains like Waushara ($789) and Washburn ($815) and suburban demands like Walworth ($1,090) and Waukesha ($1,300). The county serves as the affordability bridge between Wisconsin's rural and urban housing markets.
Renting and owning roughly balanced
Winnebago renters spend 15.2% of income on housing while homeowners spend 18.5%, reflecting modest income growth. With median home values at $208,600, the county's $72,873 income supports both markets reasonably well.
Relocate for balance, not bargains
Winnebago County offers solid middle-ground housing costs without the premium pricing of wealthy suburbs or the rural isolation of budget alternatives. Move here if you value community amenities and moderate affordability over extreme bargain-hunting.
Cost of Living Advisory: Winnebago County
Affordability Verdict
Housing in Winnebago County is affordable. The median rent is $924/month against a median household income of $72,873, putting rent at 15.2% of income.
Rent vs. Own
Renters in Winnebago County pay $924/month on average, compared to $1,121/month for homeowners. This market favors renters by about 18%.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $36,960/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $48,043/year. With a median household income of $72,873, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 25.0% of renter households in Winnebago County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Within Wisconsin, Winnebago County is less affordable than Eau Claire County by roughly 5% ($924/mo vs $977/mo).
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Winnebago County
Rent Burden
15.2%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,700
per month
Owner Cost Burden
18.5%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Winnebago County
Median home value is $208,600. Estimated monthly cost: $1,665 vs. your max of $1,700.
Rent Affordability Guide
Income Needed Calculator
See how much you need to earn to comfortably afford housing
$0/yr
Needed to stay within recommended threshold
$0/yr
Needed to stay within recommended threshold
$0/yr
Needed to stay within recommended threshold
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
What is the cost of living in Winnebago County, Wisconsin?
What is the median rent in Winnebago County?
Is Winnebago County affordable?
How does Winnebago County's rent compare to the state average?
What is the median home value in Winnebago County?
Counties with Similar Housing Costs
Planning a Move?
Researching the cost of living in Winnebago County, Wisconsin? Compare moving quotes from top providers and save on your relocation.
Compare Moving QuotesCompare Mortgage Rates in Winnebago 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.
CostByCounty participates in affiliate programs. We may earn a commission when you use our links, at no extra cost to you.