Appleton, WI vs Manitowoc, WI

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Manitowoc is 15.4% cheaper than Appleton. With a cost index of 69 vs 79, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Manitowoc to Appleton should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Appleton is $957/month compared to $787/month in Manitowoc — a 22% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Manitowoc is more affordable at $143,900 median vs $211,500.

Median household income in Appleton is $77,450 compared to $62,133 in Manitowoc (+24.7%). While Appleton is more expensive, its higher salaries more than compensate — residents there may actually end up with more disposable income. Looking at affordability, residents of Appleton spend roughly 14.8% of their income on rent, less than the 15.2% in Manitowoc.