Independence, WI vs Mauston, WI

Independence, WI and Mauston, WI have a very similar cost of living, with only a 3.1% difference in their overall index. Independence scores 71 while Mauston scores 69 on the cost of living index, where 100 represents the national average. The day-to-day expenses for residents in both cities are comparable, though differences emerge when looking at specific categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Independence is $856/month compared to $830/month in Mauston — a 3% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Mauston is more affordable at $135,600 median vs $152,600.

Median household income in Independence is $54,967 compared to $60,174 in Mauston (-8.7%). Mauston offers a double advantage: higher earnings combined with a lower cost of living, giving residents significantly more purchasing power. Looking at affordability, residents of Independence spend roughly 18.7% of their income on rent, more than the 16.6% in Mauston.