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Cost of Living in Jefferson County

Is it better to rent or buy in Jefferson County? Explore median costs, utility estimates, and run the numbers on your own budget to see how far your income goes.

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Rent vs. Buy Affordability Calculator

Adjust the sliders to match your scenario. We recommend keeping total housing costs under 40% of your gross income.

$85,822
$1,055/mo

Median in area: $1,055

$282,301

Median in area: $282,301

$56,460

If you Rent

🔑
$1,241 /mo
Base Rent$1,055
Est. Utilities$186
% of Income17.4%
Pre-tax Residual$5,911

If you Buy

🏠
$2,118 /mo
P&I (7.072%)$1,513
Taxes & Ins$419
Est. Utilities$186
% of Income29.6%
Pre-tax Residual$5,033

Compare Nearby Areas

See how Jefferson County stacks up against neighboring areas.

countyWalworth County, WI
$1,161/mo
countyRock County, WI
$1,067/mo
countyDodge County, WI
$997/mo
countyDane County, WI
$1,404/mo
countyWaukesha County, WI
$1,460/mo

Cost of Living FAQs

Is it cheaper to rent or buy in Jefferson County?›

Based on median housing data, renting is currently more affordable on a monthly basis in Jefferson County. The estimated all-in monthly cost for renting is $1,241, while owning a median-priced home with a 20% down payment is roughly $2,118 per month (a difference of $877).

How much do utilities cost in Jefferson County?›

The average monthly utility cost (electricity and natural gas) for a typical home in Jefferson County is approximately $186. This estimate uses local utility rate schedules combined with median energy consumption profiles.

What is a good salary to live comfortably in Jefferson County?›

To comfortably afford the median rent and utilities in Jefferson County without exceeding the recommended 30% housing-to-income threshold, a household should earn a gross salary of approximately $49,640 per year.