Manitowoc, WI vs Racine, WI

Manitowoc is moderately more affordable than Racine, with a 9.8% lower cost of living index. Manitowoc scores 69 compared to 76 for Racine, where the US average is 100. This difference means residents of Racine can expect to pay noticeably more for everyday expenses, housing, and services.

On the housing front, median rent in Manitowoc is $787/month compared to $983/month in Racine — a 20% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Manitowoc is more affordable at $143,900 median vs $158,100.

Median household income in Manitowoc is $62,133 compared to $55,705 in Racine (+11.5%). Manitowoc offers a double advantage: higher earnings combined with a lower cost of living, giving residents significantly more purchasing power. Looking at affordability, residents of Manitowoc spend roughly 15.2% of their income on rent, less than the 21.2% in Racine.