Melrose, WI vs Wautoma, WI

Melrose, WI and Wautoma, WI have a very similar cost of living, with only a 2.6% difference in their overall index. Melrose scores 65 while Wautoma scores 64 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 Melrose is $742/month compared to $725/month in Wautoma — a 2% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Wautoma is more affordable at $108,900 median vs $137,500.

Median household income in Melrose is $50,208 compared to $36,250 in Wautoma (+38.5%). While Melrose is more expensive, its higher salaries more than compensate — residents there may actually end up with more disposable income. Looking at affordability, residents of Melrose spend roughly 17.7% of their income on rent, less than the 24% in Wautoma.