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Cost of Living in La Crosse County

Is it better to rent or buy in La Crosse 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.

$77,421
$1,119/mo

Median in area: $1,119

$259,397

Median in area: $259,397

$51,879

If you Rent

🔑
$1,308 /mo
Base Rent$1,119
Est. Utilities$189
% of Income20.3%
Pre-tax Residual$5,144

If you Buy

🏠
$1,988 /mo
P&I (7.08%)$1,392
Taxes & Ins$407
Est. Utilities$189
% of Income30.8%
Pre-tax Residual$4,464

Compare Nearby Areas

See how La Crosse County stacks up against neighboring areas.

countyJackson County, WI
$785/mo
countyWinona County, MN
$895/mo
countyVernon County, WI
$872/mo
countyTrempealeau County, WI
$956/mo
countyMonroe County, WI
$950/mo

Cost of Living FAQs

Is it cheaper to rent or buy in La Crosse County?›

Based on median housing data, renting is currently more affordable on a monthly basis in La Crosse County. The estimated all-in monthly cost for renting is $1,308, while owning a median-priced home with a 20% down payment is roughly $1,988 per month (a difference of $680).

How much do utilities cost in La Crosse County?›

The average monthly utility cost (electricity and natural gas) for a typical home in La Crosse County is approximately $189. This estimate uses local utility rate schedules combined with median energy consumption profiles.

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

To comfortably afford the median rent and utilities in La Crosse County without exceeding the recommended 30% housing-to-income threshold, a household should earn a gross salary of approximately $52,320 per year.