Eau Claire, WI

Very Low · 71

Wisconsin · Population 69,274 · Updated March 2026

$971
Median Rent / Month
$65,369
Median Income
$228,000
Median Home Value
$1,037
Owner Costs / Month

Affordability

How far your income goes in Eau Claire

17.8%
Rent-to-Income Ratio
Affordable
Rent takes less than 25% of median income — considered affordable by HUD standards.

Tax Burden in Wisconsin

State-level tax rates that affect your costs

7.65%
Income Tax (Top Rate)
5.0%
Sales Tax
1.61%
Property Tax Rate

Estimated Annual Costs

$11,652
Annual Rent
$5,001
State Income Tax
$3,671
Property Tax (est.)

Cost of Living Overview

Eau Claire is significantly cheaper than the national average, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious individuals and families. With a cost index of 71 (where 100 equals the national median), Eau Claire residents can expect to pay median rent of $971/month while earning a median household income of $65,369/year.

The median home value in Eau Claire, WI is $228,000, with typical monthly owner costs around $1,037 including mortgage, insurance, and taxes. The median rent-to-income ratio of 17.8% means housing is relatively affordable here — well below the 30% threshold that HUD considers cost-burdened.

Wisconsin has a moderate income tax rate of 7.65%. Combined with a 5.0% sales tax rate and 1.61% effective property tax rate, the overall tax environment is a factor in the total cost of living in Eau Claire.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about living costs in Eau Claire

What is the cost of living in Eau Claire, WI?
The cost of living index in Eau Claire, WI is 71 (US average = 100). Median monthly rent is $971, median household income is $65,369/year, and the median home value is $228,000.
Is Eau Claire, WI affordable?
Yes, Eau Claire is more affordable than the national average with a cost index of 71. The rent-to-income ratio is 17.8%—below the 30%% threshold considered affordable by HUD.
What is the average rent in Eau Claire, WI?
The median gross rent in Eau Claire, WI is $971 per month according to the US Census Bureau ACS 2023 data. Annual rent costs approximately $11,652.
What is the median household income in Eau Claire?
The median household income in Eau Claire, WI is $65,369 per year. This compares to the national median of approximately $80,000.
What are the taxes like in Wisconsin?
Wisconsin has a top income tax rate of 7.65%, a sales tax of 5.0%, and an effective property tax rate of 1.61%.