Shell Lake, WI vs Wilton, WI

Wilton is moderately more affordable than Shell Lake, with a 13.2% lower cost of living index. Shell Lake scores 72 compared to 63 for Wilton, where the US average is 100. This difference means residents of Shell Lake can expect to pay noticeably more for everyday expenses, housing, and services.

On the housing front, median rent in Shell Lake is $713/month compared to $575/month in Wilton — a 24% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Wilton is more affordable at $156,300 median vs $207,100.

Median household income in Shell Lake is $56,875 compared to $80,750 in Wilton (-29.6%). Wilton offers a double advantage: higher earnings combined with a lower cost of living, giving residents significantly more purchasing power. Looking at affordability, residents of Shell Lake spend roughly 15% of their income on rent, more than the 8.5% in Wilton.