What Is a Good Salary in Wisconsin?

What constitutes a good salary is a question without a single answer, as it depends on an individual’s unique circumstances, financial goals, and personal definition of comfort. This concept is fluid, adapting to varying lifestyles, family sizes, and financial obligations. Understanding a good salary requires looking beyond the number to consider what it can actually provide.

Understanding Income Levels in Wisconsin

To establish a baseline for earnings, it is helpful to examine income levels across Wisconsin. The median household income was $75,670 in 2023, while the average household income reached $99,059 in 2024. For individuals, the median income for single-person households stood at $40,510. The average income per person, also known as per capita income, was $42,019.

Looking specifically at those employed full-time, the average salary was $74,879, with the median salary being $58,613. For families, the median family income was $97,261 in 2024, increasing to $122,571 for a family of four. These figures represent the typical earnings landscape within the state.

Connecting Salary to Cost of Living

A salary’s true value is determined by its purchasing power, which is directly influenced by the cost of living in a particular area. Wisconsin generally offers a lower cost of living compared to the national average, making income potentially stretch further. Housing costs in the state are notably below national averages, with the average home value around $262,652 as of March 2023, and average rent at approximately $1,126 per month in March 2024. The median home sale price was $317,800.

Beyond housing, other significant expenses factor into a household budget. Utility costs in Wisconsin are among the lowest nationally, with an average monthly expense around $395. Groceries, while generally aligning with national prices, can average about $385 per month for one person. Transportation costs are also slightly more affordable than the national average. Wisconsin’s progressive state income tax ranges from 3.50% to 7.65%, and the state sales tax is 5%, with local additions potentially raising it to 6.75%.

Geographic Differences in Earning Power

Earning power and the affordability of a given salary can vary significantly across different regions within Wisconsin. Urban centers typically present a different financial landscape than smaller towns or rural areas. Milwaukee, the state’s largest city, often has higher average weekly wages compared to other parts of the state. However, housing costs in Milwaukee, with a one-bedroom apartment averaging around $1,712, are higher than in many other Wisconsin cities.

Madison, the state capital, is considered one of Wisconsin’s more costly metropolitan areas. While it might require a higher salary to maintain a comfortable lifestyle, its job market can offer higher earning potential in certain sectors. In contrast, cities like Green Bay offer more affordable housing options, with average rents around $945 per month. Rural areas across the state tend to have lower costs of living, which can make a more modest income feel substantial.

Individual Factors Affecting Income

An individual’s earning potential in Wisconsin is shaped by several personal attributes and career choices. Education plays a significant role in determining salary levels. Individuals with only a high school diploma earned an average of $40,104, while those with some college or an associate degree saw their average earnings rise to $45,729. A bachelor’s degree generally leads to average earnings of $61,428. Graduates from the University of Wisconsin System reported a median salary of $49,200 one year after earning their bachelor’s degree, which grew to $66,500 after five years.

The specific industry and occupation also impact income. In May 2025, workers in the construction sector had the highest average weekly earnings at $1,627, while those in leisure and hospitality had the lowest at $467. A plumber had median earnings of $71,690, which was higher than an early childhood education administrator at $46,910. Experience level is another determinant, with entry-level positions averaging $14.63 per hour, while specialized roles like an Employee Experience professional could command an average annual pay of $107,368. Additionally, a gender wage gap exists, with men earning an average of $56,462 compared to women’s $41,920.