La Crosse, WI

Very Low · 67

Wisconsin · Population 51,791 · Updated March 2026

$977
Median Rent / Month
$53,803
Median Income
$196,600
Median Home Value
$1,014
Owner Costs / Month

Affordability

How far your income goes in La Crosse

21.8%
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

$11,724
Annual Rent
$4,116
State Income Tax
$3,165
Property Tax (est.)

Cost of Living Overview

La Crosse is significantly cheaper than the national average, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious individuals and families. With a cost index of 67 (where 100 equals the national median), La Crosse residents can expect to pay median rent of $977/month while earning a median household income of $53,803/year.

The median home value in La Crosse, WI is $196,600, with typical monthly owner costs around $1,014 including mortgage, insurance, and taxes. The median rent-to-income ratio of 21.8% 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 La Crosse.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about living costs in La Crosse

What is the cost of living in La Crosse, WI?
The cost of living index in La Crosse, WI is 67 (US average = 100). Median monthly rent is $977, median household income is $53,803/year, and the median home value is $196,600.
Is La Crosse, WI affordable?
Yes, La Crosse is more affordable than the national average with a cost index of 67. The rent-to-income ratio is 21.8%—below the 30%% threshold considered affordable by HUD.
What is the average rent in La Crosse, WI?
The median gross rent in La Crosse, WI is $977 per month according to the US Census Bureau ACS 2023 data. Annual rent costs approximately $11,724.
What is the median household income in La Crosse?
The median household income in La Crosse, WI is $53,803 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%.