Waukesha, WI vs Wausau, WI

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Wausau is 26.6% cheaper than Waukesha. With a cost index of 73 vs 93, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Wausau to Waukesha should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Waukesha is $1,183/month compared to $950/month in Wausau — a 25% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Wausau is more affordable at $155,900 median vs $286,600.

Median household income in Waukesha is $81,651 compared to $61,877 in Wausau (+32%). While Waukesha is more expensive, its higher salaries more than compensate — residents there may actually end up with more disposable income. Looking at affordability, residents of Waukesha spend roughly 17.4% of their income on rent, less than the 18.4% in Wausau.