Cost of Living in Wood County, Wisconsin
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Wood County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Wood County ranks #1,288 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 41%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Wood County, Wisconsin
Wood County delivers rural affordability
Wood County's 15.0% rent-to-income ratio matches the national benchmark perfectly despite a median household income of $66,417—11% below the nation's average. The key: $831 monthly rents keep housing costs low enough to balance below-average earnings.
Wisconsin's most affordable ownership market
Wood County ranks among Wisconsin's best values, especially for homebuyers: with median owner costs of just $838/month and home values at $168,100, it's the state's most accessible ownership market. The 15.0% rent-to-income ratio matches state average despite modest incomes.
Cheapest homes, competitive rents
Wood County's $168,100 median home value is Wisconsin's lowest among these eight counties, while its $831 rent undercuts Winnebago ($924) and Walworth ($1,090). For ownership seekers, Wood is unbeatable; renters find better rates in Waushara and Washburn.
Homeownership is the clear win
Wood County homeowners spend just 15.1% of income on ownership versus renters at 15.0%—nearly identical, but ownership includes equity-building. With median home values at $168,100 and incomes at $66,417, first-time buyers have genuine opportunity here.
First-time buyers: Wood leads the way
Wood County is Wisconsin's most accessible homeownership market, combining the state's lowest median home value ($168,100) with modest ownership costs ($838/month). If building equity on a $66,000 income is your goal, Wood County is unmatched.
Cost of Living Advisory: Wood County
Affordability Verdict
Wood County is affordable for renters, with a median gross rent of $831/month representing approximately 15.0% of median household income. The rent burden (GRAPI) stands at 25.0%.
Rent vs. Own
Renters in Wood County pay $831/month on average, compared to $838/month for homeowners. This market favors renters by about 1%.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $33,240/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $35,914/year. With a median household income of $66,417, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 25.0% of renter households in Wood County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Wood County sits 7% more expensive than Manitowoc County ($777/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Wood County
Rent Burden
15.0%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,550
per month
Owner Cost Burden
15.1%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Wood County
Median home value is $168,100. Estimated monthly cost: $1,342 vs. your max of $1,550.
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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