Wisconsin Rent Prices 2026: Average $1,366/mo
Find fair market rent prices for 3 major metro areas in Wisconsin. The average 2-bedroom rent across the state is $1,366/mo.
Major Cities in Wisconsin
Sorted by 2-bedroom rent price (highest to lowest)
Cheapest Cities in Wisconsin
Find the most affordable cities to rent in Wisconsin. Starting from $1,140/mo.
Most Expensive Wisconsin Cities
See the priciest rental markets in Wisconsin. Up to $1,620/mo.
Wisconsin Rent Trends
Analyze rent trends and market outlook for Wisconsin.
Explore Wisconsin Rent Data
Browse detailed rent prices for cities across Wisconsin. Each city page includes neighborhood breakdowns, rent trends, and local market insights.
Can You Afford to Rent in Wisconsin?
See the income needed to comfortably afford rent in Wisconsin cities based on the 30% rule.
View All Affordability Guides →Rent vs. Buy in Wisconsin Cities
Compare the cost of renting vs. buying a home in major Wisconsin metro areas.
View All Rent vs. Buy Guides →Wisconsin City Rent Comparison
Average 2-bedroom rent by city
Market Conditions Gauge
Wisconsin rental market analysis
Supply matches demand, stable conditions for renters
What This Means for Renters
- *Take time to compare options without rushing
- *Negotiate move-in specials or minor rent reductions
- *Stable market conditions favor fair dealings
Market conditions are calculated from supply/demand balance, price trends, and affordability metrics. Conditions can vary by neighborhood.
Top Cities in Wisconsin
Rent prices by metropolitan area
Click on a state to see details. Color indicates rent level relative to national range.
Wisconsin Rental Market Overview
The fair market rent (FMR) data for Wisconsin is published annually by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). These figures represent the 40th percentile of gross rents for standard quality rental housing in each metro area.
Wisconsin has 3 major metropolitan areas tracked in our database. The most expensive city for renters is Madison, WI with an average 2-bedroom rent of $1,620/mo, while the most affordable is Appleton, WI at $1,140/mo.
What Affects Rent Prices in Wisconsin?
- Location: Proximity to employment centers and urban amenities significantly impacts rent prices across Wisconsin metros.
- Local Economy: Job growth and industry presence drive rental demand. Strong employment markets typically have higher rents.
- Housing Supply: Areas with new construction tend to have more rental options and potentially competitive pricing.
- Schools: Quality school districts command premium rents, especially for family-sized apartments.
- Transportation: Access to highways and public transit affects neighborhood desirability and pricing.
Frequently Asked Questions About Wisconsin Rent
What is the average rent in Wisconsin?
The average rent in Wisconsin is $1,366 per month for a 2-bedroom apartment based on 2026 HUD Fair Market Rent data. Prices range from $1,140 in Appleton to $1,620 in Madison.
What is the cheapest city to rent in Wisconsin?
Appleton, WI offers the most affordable rent among major Wisconsin metros at $1,140/month for a 2-bedroom apartment. Studios in Appleton average $808/month.
What is the most expensive city to rent in Wisconsin?
Madison, WI has the highest rents in Wisconsin at $1,620/month for a 2-bedroom apartment. This is $254 above the state average.
How much do I need to earn to rent in Wisconsin?
To comfortably afford the average Wisconsin 2-bedroom at $1,366/month, you would need an annual income of approximately $54,640 (based on the 30% of income guideline). For the most affordable areas, you would need about $45,600/year.
Is Wisconsin affordable for renters?
Wisconsin offers moderate rental costs, with average 2-bedroom rents at $1,366/month. Some cities offer excellent value while others command premium prices.
Helpful Resources for Wisconsin Renters
Moving to Wisconsin? These comprehensive resources help you understand your rights, find assistance programs, and navigate the rental process.