Racine, WI vs Wausau, WI

Racine, WI and Wausau, WI have a very similar cost of living, with only a 3.7% difference in their overall index. Racine scores 76 while Wausau scores 73 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 Racine is $983/month compared to $950/month in Wausau — a 4% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Wausau is more affordable at $155,900 median vs $158,100.

Median household income in Racine is $55,705 compared to $61,877 in Wausau (-10%). Wausau offers a double advantage: higher earnings combined with a lower cost of living, giving residents significantly more purchasing power. Looking at affordability, residents of Racine spend roughly 21.2% of their income on rent, more than the 18.4% in Wausau.