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Cost of Living in La Crosse

Is it better to rent or buy in La Crosse? 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.

$59,217
$1,083/mo

Median in area: $1,083

$211,994

Median in area: $211,994

$42,399

If you Rent

🔑
$1,242 /mo
Base Rent$1,083
Est. Utilities$159
% of Income25.2%
Pre-tax Residual$3,693

If you Buy

🏠
$1,673 /mo
P&I (6.989%)$1,127
Taxes & Ins$387
Est. Utilities$159
% of Income33.9%
Pre-tax Residual$3,262

Cost of Living FAQs

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

Based on median housing data, renting is currently more affordable on a monthly basis in La Crosse. The estimated all-in monthly cost for renting is $1,242, while owning a median-priced home with a 20% down payment is roughly $1,673 per month (a difference of $431).

How much do utilities cost in La Crosse?›

The average monthly utility cost (electricity and natural gas) for a typical home in La Crosse is approximately $159. This estimate uses local utility rate schedules combined with median energy consumption profiles.

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

To comfortably afford the median rent and utilities in La Crosse without exceeding the recommended 30% housing-to-income threshold, a household should earn a gross salary of approximately $49,680 per year.