Cost of Living in Wausau, WI

How far does a $70,000 salary go in Wausau? Estimated income taxes on that gross salary total approximately $9,863 per year — combining federal taxes with Wisconsin's state income tax. Subtract rent for a 2-bedroom apartment ($1,147/month based on HUD Fair Market Rents for the Wausau metro area) and the estimated annual take-home is $46,373, or roughly $3,864 per month for everything else: food, transportation, savings, and discretionary spending.

The Wausau metro has a cost of living index of 66.0 according to the Bureau of Economic Analysis Regional Price Parities (national average = 100). At 34% below the national average, Wausau is a genuinely affordable metro where everyday expenses stretch further than in most cities.

At a $70,000 salary, the estimated 2-bedroom rent in Wausau represents approximately 20% of gross income. That falls comfortably below the 30% rent-burden guideline, a healthy position for building savings.