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Cost of Living in LaCrosse

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

Rent vs. Buy Affordability Calculator

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

$81,667
$1,146/mo

Median in area: $1,146

$315,000

Median in area: $315,000

$63,000

If you Rent

$1,303 /mo
Base Rent$1,146
Est. Utilities$157
% of Income19.1%
Pre-tax Residual$5,503

If you Buy

$2,090 /mo
P&I (6.852%)$1,652
Taxes & Ins$281
Est. Utilities$157
% of Income30.7%
Pre-tax Residual$4,716

Cost of Living FAQs

Is it cheaper to rent or buy in LaCrosse?

Based on median housing data, renting is currently more affordable on a monthly basis in LaCrosse. The estimated all-in monthly cost for renting is $1,303, while owning a median-priced home with a 20% down payment is roughly $2,090 per month (a difference of $787).

How much do utilities cost in LaCrosse?

The average monthly utility cost (electricity and natural gas) for a typical home in LaCrosse is approximately $157. This estimate uses local utility rate schedules combined with median energy consumption profiles.

What is a good salary to live comfortably in LaCrosse?

To comfortably afford the median rent and utilities in LaCrosse without exceeding the recommended 30% housing-to-income threshold, a household should earn a gross salary of approximately $52,120 per year.