What Is a Good Salary in Wisconsin for a Single Person?

Understanding what constitutes a desirable salary for an individual living alone in Wisconsin involves a careful examination of local economic conditions and personal financial goals. This exploration goes beyond merely covering basic expenses, delving into the income necessary to achieve financial stability, save for the future, and enjoy a comfortable quality of life within the state.

Understanding a Good Salary

Defining a “good” salary for a single person extends beyond meeting immediate needs. It encompasses the ability to manage personal finances effectively, including debt repayment, building emergency savings, and contributing to retirement accounts. This income also provides flexibility for discretionary spending, enabling participation in leisure activities, hobbies, and personal development. Ultimately, it signifies an income level that supports both current well-being and future financial security.

Major Cost of Living Factors in Wisconsin

Housing costs represent a substantial portion of expenses for single individuals in Wisconsin. The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Wisconsin is projected to be around $1,231 to $1,327 per month in 2025, although this can vary significantly by location. This monthly outlay translates to an annual housing expense of approximately $15,000 to $16,000.

Utility expenses, including electricity, heating, and internet, typically average around $395 per month, contributing approximately $4,740 annually to living costs. Food expenditures for a single person, encompassing both groceries and occasional dining out, can amount to about $450 per month, totaling $5,400 per year. Transportation costs, such as vehicle maintenance, fuel, and insurance, are estimated to be upwards of $5,300 annually for a single adult.

Healthcare expenses also factor into the overall cost of living. While employer-sponsored health insurance premiums average around $1,685 annually, individual plans can cost substantially more. A single person might budget approximately $4,800 per year for healthcare, considering premiums and potential out-of-pocket costs. State and local taxes also reduce disposable income, with Wisconsin having progressive income tax rates and a statewide sales tax.

Salary Tiers for Single Individuals

To meet basic needs in Wisconsin, a single person generally requires an annual gross income close to the living wage, which is approximately $43,600. This income level covers essential expenses such as housing, food, transportation, and healthcare, allowing for a no-frills existence. It ensures fundamental necessities are met without much room for savings or discretionary spending.

Achieving a comfortable standard of living, often defined by the 50/30/20 budgeting rule (50% for necessities, 30% for wants, and 20% for savings and debt repayment), necessitates a higher income. Based on current projections, a single person in Wisconsin would need an annual gross income of approximately $87,194 to comfortably afford their lifestyle. This salary enables individuals to adequately cover all their necessities, enjoy a reasonable amount of discretionary spending, and consistently build their financial reserves.

For a thriving lifestyle that includes substantial savings, significant investments, and ample discretionary income, a single person would typically require an annual gross income exceeding $100,000. This income tier allows for greater financial flexibility, enabling accelerated debt repayment, larger contributions to retirement accounts, and the pursuit of more extensive personal and leisure activities. It provides a robust financial foundation for long-term goals and a higher quality of life.

Regional Differences Across Wisconsin

The cost of living, and consequently what defines a good salary, varies significantly across Wisconsin’s diverse regions. Major metropolitan areas such as Milwaukee and Madison generally present higher living expenses compared to smaller cities or rural communities. For instance, average one-bedroom rents in Madison can be around $1,679 to $1,694 per month, while Milwaukee averages approximately $1,180 to $1,712.

In contrast, smaller cities like Green Bay offer more affordable housing, with average one-bedroom rents around $942 per month. Oshkosh also presents lower costs, with average rents around $880 per month. These disparities are largely driven by differences in housing markets, local job opportunities, and the availability of services and amenities, which influence overall demand and pricing. Therefore, an income that provides a comfortable lifestyle in a rural area might only cover basic needs in one of Wisconsin’s larger urban centers.