Cost of Living in Waukesha, WI

With a cost of living index of 99, Waukesha, WI is right around the national average in cost. Living here is 1% cheaper than the national average and 20% above the Wisconsin state average of 79. Waukesha is a smaller community of 8,479 residents, where everyday costs can differ substantially from nearby larger cities.

Housing costs are the biggest factor in Waukesha's cost of living. The median monthly rent is $1,167 (12% below the US median of $1,319), and the median home value sits at $375,700 (23% above the national median of $304,900). At current prices, the median home costs roughly 3x the median household income — well within traditional affordability guidelines.

The median household income in Waukesha is $126,286, which is 68% higher than the national median of $75,149. Residents spend roughly 11% of household income on rent. This is a comfortable ratio, well below the 30% threshold that financial experts recommend as a maximum.

Data sources: US Census Bureau (ACS 2023), Zillow Home Values, HUD Fair Market Rents, BEA Regional Price Parities, BLS Average Prices, and NOAA Climate Normals. Updated monthly.