Markesan, WI vs Waterloo, WI

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Markesan is 27% cheaper than Waterloo. With a cost index of 59 vs 81, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Markesan to Waterloo should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Markesan is $479/month compared to $974/month in Waterloo — a 51% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Markesan is more affordable at $147,800 median vs $219,100.

Median household income in Markesan is $61,250 compared to $78,103 in Waterloo (-21.6%). The higher salaries in Waterloo partially offset the cost difference, but don't fully close the gap. Looking at affordability, residents of Markesan spend roughly 9.4% of their income on rent, less than the 15% in Waterloo.