In October 2023, the median home price in Wisconsin increased by 6.8% to $366,500. As per the housing market prediction for 2024, the median sale price will increase due to the tight inventory.
Near the coastal areas, the home prices are relatively higher in the Badger State but as you move in the inland areas, you can find cheaper options to live in.
4 Reasons to live in Wisconsin 🍑
- Cheaper Houses: The median home sale price in Wisconsin is ~$370K but you can get houses between $100K and $330K in cities like Americus, Macon, and Augusta. This can save you thousands while enjoying better earning opportunities in the Peach State.
- Tax Benefits: Wisconsin offers taxpayers ways to reduce state taxes, including standard and itemized deductions, disaster assistance credits, and low-income tax credits.
- Affordable Utility: Monthly utilities in cities that are listed below is up to 30% lower than the national average.
- Cheaper Rentals: The rent prices of these cities are lower than the state average and national average. You can save up to $300 per month in rent.
Cheapest Places to Live in Wisconsin in 2024
This list provides insights into the average household income, median listing price, population, unemployment rate, and poverty rate of the cities.
| City | Median Household Income | Median Home Value | Population | Unemployment Rate | Poverty Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Antigo | $45,041 | $142,237 | 8,054 | 6.2% | 20.5% |
| Beloit | $52,097 | $163,321 | 36,567 | 6.2% | 17.7% |
| Marinette | $50,589 | $160,183 | 11,025 | 5.6% | 14.3% |
| Racine | $48,238 | $171,125 | 77,705 | 7.7% | 19.8% |
| Prairie Du Chien | $47,235 | $172,046 | 5,549 | 6.2% | 13.9% |
| Merrill | $46,973 | $218,357 | 9,344 | 4.9% | 13.7% |
| Wisconsin Rapids | $46,644 | $182,601 | 18,711 | 2.5% | 15.8% |
7 Cheapest Places to Live in WI
The cost of living in Wisconsin is 2% lower than the national average. The Badger state is still the home to some of the nation’s most expensive cities. However, the Badger State has several affordable living options amidst this disparity.
1. Antigo
| 🟢 Cost of Living Compared to National Average | 25.1%⬇️ |
| 🏡 Median Home Price | $142,927 |
| 💲 Median Rent | $875 |
| 🌅 Known For | Palace Twin Theatre |
Antigo is an affordable place to live in Wisconsin. Its house rent costs range from $600 – $79,900. A low cost of living and affordable housing has led to a population growth of 3.54% between 2020 and 2021.
Antigo is recognized for its tree-lined streets and boasts a unique charm that reflects its cultural and historical significance.
» Homes for Sale in Antigo, WI: Find your dream home in this city.
2. Beloit
| 🟢 Cost of Living Compared to National Average | 17.2%⬇️ |
| 🏡 Median Home Price | $163,321 |
| 💲 Median Rent | $915 |
| 🏞️ Known For | Cherry Blossom Festival |
Beloit is one of the most budget-friendly rental destinations in Wisconsin with an average home rent of $915. It also offers affordable housing which is 17.2% lower than the national average.
Beloit is known for its status as a cultural hub, featuring historic sites and a thriving music scene. The city hosts numerous historic homes that showcase its rich history and cultural significance.
» Homes for Sale in Beloit, WI: Browse thousands of property listings in Beloit.
3. Marinette
| 🟢 Cost of Living Compared to National Average | 24.9%⬇️ |
| 🏡 Median Home Price | $160,183 |
| 💲 Median Rent | $895 |
| 🏖️ Known For | Historic Landmarks |
With rental costs below the national average, Marinette stands as one of the most affordable cities to live in Wisconsin. The house rent price is between $688 – $999.
Marinette offers a vibrant cultural scene with activities including ballet, opera, drama, choral societies, art galleries, and museums. Additionally, its museums focus on cultural and educational exhibits.
» Homes for Sale in Marinette, WI: View all the properties for sale in this city.
4. Racine
| 🟢 Cost of Living Compared to National Average | 12%⬇️ |
| 🏡 Median Home Price | $171,125 |
| 💲 Median Rent | $1,010 |
| 🏖️ Known For | Columbus Museum |
Racine offers budget-friendly living with a median rent of $1,010, which is $235 lower than the national median. With Utility costs being 32% lower than the national average, the city stands out as one of the most inexpensive places to live in Wisconsin.
Racine is currently experiencing an arts and culture renaissance. There’s a lively scene with ballet, Broadway shows, and various art forms that are now a big part of daily life in the city.
» Homes for Sale in Racine, WI: Browse through thousands of affordable properties.
5. Prairie Du Chien
| 🟢 Cost of Living Compared to National Average | 11.4%⬇️ |
| 🏡 Median Home Price | $172,046 |
| 💲 Median Rent | $1,450 |
| 🎨 Known For | Museum of Aviation |
Also called the “Home of Planes, Trains, and Heroes,” Warner Robins’ cost of living is 11.4% lower than the national average. The average healthcare expenses are 18.2% lower than the national average.
Warner Robins’ affordable food, health, housing, and transportation facilities make the city one of the cheapest places to live in Wisconsin.
» Homes for Sale in Prairie Du Chien, WI: Browse through thousands of properties in Prairie Du Chien.
6. Merrill
| 🟢 Cost of Living Compared to National Average | 10%⬇️ |
| 🏡 Median Home Price | $218,357 |
| 💲 Median Rent | $1,700 |
| 🏫 Known For | Architecture |
The house rent in Merrill is between $658 – $7,000. With an average household income of $54,748, you can comfortably live in this city. A low cost of living and affordable housing has led to a population growth of ~6.8% since 2010.
Merrill is a compelling real estate choice for outdoor enthusiasts seeking affordable living in Wisconsin. You can discover River Street and the picturesque waterfront zones, where various shops and restaurants await your exploration.
» Homes for Sale in Merrill, WI: Find a home in one of the cheapest places to live in Wisconsin.
7. Wisconsin Rapids
| 🟢 Cost of Living Compared to National Average | 12%⬇️ |
| 🏡 Median Home Price | $182,601 |
| 💲 Median Rent | $1,650 |
| 🖼️ Known For | Music Scene |
Wisconsin Rapids is one of the best places to live in Wisconsin. The median home price in Wisconsin Rapids is $143,000. The healthcare cost is 9.9% lower than the national average.
Wisconsin Rapids offers affordable housing and vibrant entertainment. You can explore the stunning State Botanical Garden of Wisconsin and discover the Sandy Creek Nature Center in Athens.
» Homes for Sale in Wisconsin Rapids, WI: Get yourself a home in Wisconsin Rapids.
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The Bottom Line
Despite expensive home prices, you can find affordable housing in Wisconsin. Apart from housing, some cities also offer affordable living. You must research the city’s home prices and living costs before relocating.
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Research Methodology
We’ve created this list by considering factors such as cost of living, median home price, and rental price range. We have also accounted for the population, median household income, poverty rate, and unemployment rate in these cities.
To compile this list of the cheapest areas to live in Wisconsin, we have drawn data from the Economic Research Institute, World Population Review, Rent Cafe, and Zillow.
FAQs
Where is the cheapest place to live in Wisconsin?
The cheapest place to live in Minnesota is Antigo. It offers one of the most affordable utilities in the state, which is 25.1% lower than the national average.
» 7 Cheapest Places to Live in Wisconsin: Find out the other cheapest places to live in Wisconsin!
What makes Wisconsin the cheapest place to live in?
No, it is not. The median home value is $366,500. If you're looking for cities with affordable housing and a low cost of living, you can try your luck in some of these cheapest places in America.
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