Onalaska, WI

Below Avg · 82

Wisconsin · Population 18,909 · Updated March 2026

$1,096
Median Rent / Month
$84,898
Median Income
$279,100
Median Home Value
$1,153
Owner Costs / Month

Affordability

How far your income goes in Onalaska

15.5%
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

$13,152
Annual Rent
$6,495
State Income Tax
$4,494
Property Tax (est.)

Cost of Living Overview

Onalaska is significantly cheaper than the national average, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious individuals and families. With a cost index of 82 (where 100 equals the national median), Onalaska residents can expect to pay median rent of $1,096/month while earning a median household income of $84,898/year.

The median home value in Onalaska, WI is $279,100, with typical monthly owner costs around $1,153 including mortgage, insurance, and taxes. The median rent-to-income ratio of 15.5% 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 Onalaska.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about living costs in Onalaska

What is the cost of living in Onalaska, WI?
The cost of living index in Onalaska, WI is 82 (US average = 100). Median monthly rent is $1,096, median household income is $84,898/year, and the median home value is $279,100.
Is Onalaska, WI affordable?
Yes, Onalaska is more affordable than the national average with a cost index of 82. The rent-to-income ratio is 15.5%—below the 30%% threshold considered affordable by HUD.
What is the average rent in Onalaska, WI?
The median gross rent in Onalaska, WI is $1,096 per month according to the US Census Bureau ACS 2023 data. Annual rent costs approximately $13,152.
What is the median household income in Onalaska?
The median household income in Onalaska, WI is $84,898 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%.