What Is the Cost of Living in Wisconsin?
Understand the actual cost of living in Wisconsin. Get a clear picture of expenses and key factors shaping your budget.
The cost of living refers to the amount of money required to cover basic expenses like housing, food, transportation, and healthcare to maintain a certain standard of living. Understanding these expenditures is an important step for individuals and families considering a move or managing their finances within a specific region. This article aims to provide an overview of the financial landscape in Wisconsin, detailing the general affordability and breaking down various key expense categories.
Overall Cost of Living in Wisconsin
Wisconsin’s overall cost of living is slightly above the national average, standing about 3% higher. Despite this, the state is generally considered moderately affordable, especially when compared to more expensive coastal regions. The economic landscape of Wisconsin is influenced by factors such as population growth, the balance of housing supply and demand, and local job market conditions.
Key Expense Categories
Housing represents a significant portion of living expenses, with the median home price in Wisconsin reported around $381,282 as of May 2025. For renters, the average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Wisconsin has been noted at approximately $1,327 in 2025. Broader rental data indicates a median rent of about $1,150.28 across all dwelling types.
Utility costs in Wisconsin are generally lower than the national average, approximately 6% below. This category includes necessities such as electricity, natural gas, water, internet, and trash services. While specific statewide average monthly figures for each utility can vary, these services collectively contribute to the household budget.
Food expenses are another regular outgoing for residents. The average monthly grocery cost per person in Wisconsin is about $221.46. Residents also spend an additional $84.76 weekly on food consumed outside the home. These figures provide a general indication of food-related expenditures.
Transportation costs in Wisconsin are slightly higher than the national average, approximately 1% more. This includes expenses such as fuel, with the average price per gallon of regular gas around $3.25. Car insurance premiums average about $824.23 annually for liability, collision, and comprehensive coverage. For those utilizing public transit, a one-way trip typically costs around $2.00.
Healthcare expenses in Wisconsin are generally on par with national averages. For individuals with employer-sponsored health insurance, premiums average approximately $140.42 per month, which totals about $1,685 annually. These costs encompass access to medical services, including doctor visits and prescription medications.
Beyond the primary categories, miscellaneous expenses also factor into the overall cost of living. Annual estimates for entertainment are around $2,400, while personal care services may amount to approximately $768 annually. Other general goods and services can add an estimated $707 per year to a household’s spending.
Regional Variations and Personal Factors
The cost of living is not uniform across Wisconsin, with significant differences observed between urban centers and more rural areas. For instance, major cities like Madison report a cost of living index that is 11.3% higher than the national average, while Milwaukee is 1.5% higher. In contrast, cities such as Appleton and Oshkosh show costs slightly below the national average, at -0.8% and -0.9% respectively. These variations are particularly noticeable in housing costs, where median home prices and rental rates can differ substantially from one locality to another.
Individual lifestyle choices also play a substantial role in determining personal expenses. Decisions such as dining out frequently versus preparing meals at home, relying on public transportation instead of private car ownership, or preferences for entertainment activities can significantly impact an individual’s actual spending. For example, a single person’s monthly grocery cost is estimated at $221.46, but this can fluctuate based on dietary habits and shopping choices.
Income levels and family size are additional factors that influence the overall financial picture for individuals and households. The median household income in Wisconsin is projected to be $70,000 in 2025, which affects the affordability of various expenses for different household compositions. State income tax rates, ranging from 3.54% to 7.65%, and property tax rates, around 1.61%, further shape the financial obligations of residents.