Wisconsin is a state in the upper Midwestern region of America.
It borders four states and two lakes – Minnesota, Iowa, Illinois, Lake Michigan, Michigan, and Lake Superior.
This state is in 25th place by area and 20th place by population.
Badger State is the most famous nickname for Wisconsin, but also for someones this state is known as The Dairy State, The Cheese State, and The Copper State.
However, it is an incredible living place, with many things to do.
It has fascinating attractions, outstanding views, and beautiful scenery.
Continuously, in the text below, we will have a detailed look at the cost of living generally and even more which cities are most expensive for living here.
Contents
The Cost of Living in This State
The cost of living in Wisconsin is totally a common question nowadays.
Many people are curious about the prices in this state.
But here is one great thing – Living in Wisconsin is pretty quiet pricey than it is on average across the territory of the United States.
Accordingly, services in Wisconsin cost 7.9% less than compared on average nationwide.
Moreover, this state has the 19th lowest overall cost of living.
We will look at every single cost separately – from housing costs to transportation, healthcare, and food prices.
Housing Costs
Prices for a house in Wisconsin are highly affordable and nearly 14% lower than the national standard.
In some places, such as Green Bay and Appleton, these prices for housing and rents are 14% below the national standards.
But, for example, in cities in the northern area of the state, these prices can be pretty higher.
Knowing that Wisconsin is home to twelve metropolitan areas, the most costly is the Madison metro area.
In this part, the cost of services and goods is only $2.8 lower than the national standard.
The standard price for a home is around $182.000, or $28.000 low than the national regular home price.
As for renting – the regular rent price per month is $850.
In detail – the monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment is $700, while for a unit with five or more bedrooms is $1.100.
Transportation Costs
In this Badger State, almost 90% of residents drive to work.
This conclusion leads that in Badger State, the number is much more high compared to the number nationwide.
Besides, the regular price of one gallon of gas is not above $2, which is a pretty economical price.
As so, Wisconsin has reasonable prices for transportation.
And even more an excellent transportation system across the whole territory.
For a one-way bus, you will only pay approximately $1.20.
If you are interested in other transportation prices like an insurance for the cars, etc., – they are also at very affordable prices.
We can say that the regular car insurance premium is not much than the standard national average – it costs only $1.200.
Healthcare Costs
Healthcare prices in Wisconsin are commonly equal to the national standard.
That means that although other costs are enormously low compared to the national standard, healthcare prices are not the same.
For example, standard health care expense for a single person is around $4.500 annually.
This price can get even higher for a family with four people – almost $14.000 per year.
Food Costs
When it comes to food in Wisconsin, there are plenty of places where you can have a tasty meal.
And all of that for an extremely cheap price.
In Wisconsin, the regular standard food price per year is low – below $3.000.
You can enjoy having lunch in this state with your friend for just approximately $40.
But, we have to mention that these prices are not the same in every city in this state.
Some cities have such high prices – not only for food but also for other essential things for a living.
The Most Expensive Cities in Wisconsin
Madison
The capital city – Madison, is one of the best cities in this state.
It is one of the most excellent places for students, families, and individuals.
Madison is famous for its beautiful views of the serene lakes, impressive architecture, and buildings.
And – what about the cost of living in this city?
Is it cheap or expensive to live in Madison?
Well, as the capital city, you probably know the answer.
Although we have said that Wisconsin has a pretty low standard for living, Madison ruins this perception with having a lunch per one person costs a fascinating $18.
On the other side, having a monthly ticket for local transport at the price of $67 is unreasonable.
Furthermore, one visit to the doctor will probably cost you around $90, while a dentist visit is more than $80.
Now, do you have any idea how expensive it is to live in this city?
Milwaukee
Milwaukee is one of the most populated cities in the state of Wisconsin.
But, The Brew City, as a nickname for Milwaukee, has a high cost of living.
We can not say that this city is expensive compared to the most expensive cities in the world ( like San Francisco, New York City, or San Jose) but compared to the other cities in this state – it is pretty costly.
Having dinner while enjoying the beautiful view in this state could cost you $20, while for two individuals, this price can triple – above $60.
The food prices in supermarkets are also above the state standard prices.
One gallon of milk is rough $3-$3.50, and a loaf of fresh white bread is more than $2.90.
Other prices, such as healthcare and transportation expenses, are identically the same as the prices in the capital city.
Green Bay
Green Bay is the third most populated city in Brown Country.
This city is categorized as one of the most expensive ones too.
And here are the reasons.
The usual price for housing in this city is $290,100, and the rent price is above $900 per one month.
On the other hand, one doctor’s appointment is $124, while a dentist visit – $100 up.
As for food and groceries – they are much above the state standard prices.
However, this city has many lovely things to be seen, so we highly recommend you to give it a chance and visit this fabulous city.
Kenosha
Living in Kenosha has many benefits but also at a high price.
Firstly, the regular price for a one-bedroom apartment is rough $1.200 – $.1400 per month.
Having a meal in an inexpensive restaurant will cost you $17.50, and this price for two can go even higher – to $60.
Continuously, this city has many shopping centers where fashion is from the newest trends.
As so, one pair of jeans(Levis or similar) is founding above $50.
Racine
And the last one – but the most expensive is definitely Racine.
This city has a location along Lake Michigan.
The regular living cost in Racine is $1880.
That makes this city in the top $10 of the most expensive cities worldwide.
Wisconsin Safety Overview
READ THE FULL REPORT: Wisconsin Safety Review
Safety Index:
- OVERALL RISK: MEDIUM
- TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: MEDIUM
- PICKPOCKETS RISK: MEDIUM
- NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: MEDIUM
- MUGGING RISK: MEDIUM
- TERRORISM RISK: MEDIUM
- SCAMS RISK: MEDIUM
- WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: MEDIUM
Additional Resources
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Cost of Living in Washington Cities: These Are the Top 5
Cost of Living in Texas Cities: These Are the Top 5
Cost of Living in South Dakota Cities: These Are the Top 5
