Income Reality in Wisconsin — Taxes, Housing & Salary
Affordable, above-average tax, manufacturing hub
Data: 2026-Q2 · BLS · HUD · KFFIncome tax overview
Wisconsin has a top income tax rate of 7.65%.
Housing snapshot
Median 1BR rent in Milwaukee is approximately $1,000 and Madison approximately $1,200.
Cost of living summary
At an index of 93, Wisconsin is about 7% cheaper than the national average of 100.
Wisconsin offers affordable living with a moderately high income tax. Milwaukee and Madison are the major urban centers with growing tech and healthcare sectors.
Major cities
Salary reality examples
Comfortable in Milwaukee and Madison. Low housing costs are the key advantage.
Good purchasing power despite moderately high tax rate.
Comfortable statewide. Wisconsin's low housing costs allow solid savings.
FAQ — Income Reality in Wisconsin
What is Wisconsin's income tax rate?
Wisconsin has a top income tax rate of 7.65% on income over $280,950 (single). Middle incomes face rates of 5.3-6.27%.
Is Wisconsin affordable?
Yes. Wisconsin has a cost of living index of 93, about 7% below the national average.
Related tools
Cost of Living Index from C2ER. This is a picture, not a verdict.