Rochester, WI vs Waupun, WI

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Waupun is 24.8% cheaper than Rochester. With a cost index of 71 vs 89, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Waupun to Rochester should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Rochester is $920/month compared to $830/month in Waupun — a 11% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Waupun is more affordable at $167,700 median vs $340,900.

Median household income in Rochester is $104,429 compared to $66,931 in Waupun (+56%). While Rochester is more expensive, its higher salaries more than compensate — residents there may actually end up with more disposable income. Looking at affordability, residents of Rochester spend roughly 10.6% of their income on rent, less than the 14.9% in Waupun.