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Living in Wisconsin: Cost of Living, Healthcare and What to Know About Living in Wisconsin | Expat Exchange
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Living in Wisconsin

By Betsy Burlingame

Last updated on Feb 20, 2023

Summary: People often describe life in Wisconsin as being laid-back and friendly. People love the natural beauty of the state, the abundance of outdoor activities, and the strong sense of community. The average cost of living in Wisconsin is slightly below the national average, making it an affordable place to live. The approximate population of Wisconsin is 5.8 million, and the largest cities are Milwaukee, Madison, Green Bay, Kenosha, and Racine. The cons of living in Wisconsin include the cold winters, the lack of diversity, and the high taxes. Additionally, the cost of living in some of the larger cities can be quite high.

SJB Global
SJB Global

Is the cost of living in Wisconsin high?

We asked people about the cost of living in Wisconsin, they wrote:

"The cost of living in Wisconsin is generally considered to be quite affordable. The average rental price for a nice 1 bedroom apartment in Wisconsin is around $800 per month, while a nice 2 bedroom apartment can cost around $1,000 per month. The cost of eating dinner at a moderately priced restaurant in Wisconsin is usually around $15 per person," mentioned an expat living in Wisconsin.

What type of recreational facilities are in Wisconsin?

When we asked people living in Wisconsin about recreational activities, they mentioned:

"Wisconsin residents enjoy a variety of recreational facilities, including parks, trails, beaches, and golf courses. There are also many lakes and rivers that offer fishing, boating, and swimming opportunities. For those who enjoy outdoor activities, Wisconsin has plenty of hiking, biking, and camping spots. In addition, there are many ski resorts and snowmobile trails for winter recreation. For those who prefer indoor activities, Wisconsin has a variety of museums, theaters, and other cultural attractions," wrote one expat living in Wisconsin.

What is the weather like in Wisconsin?

"Wisconsin has a wide range of weather throughout the year. In the summer, temperatures can reach into the 80s and 90s, while in the winter temperatures can dip below zero. Spring and fall are generally mild, with temperatures ranging from the 40s to the 70s. Rainfall is common throughout the year, with snowfall occurring in the winter months," mentioned one expat inWisconsin.

Are there good restaurants in Wisconsin?

"One of Wisconsin's favorite restaurants is the Old Fashioned, located in Madison. The Old Fashioned is known for its classic Wisconsin cuisine, such as cheese curds, bratwurst, and fish fry. The restaurant also serves a variety of craft beers and cocktails. The atmosphere is cozy and inviting, making it a great spot for a casual dinner or a night out with friends. Another popular restaurant in Wisconsin is the Lakely, located in Eau Claire. The Lakely is a farm-to-table restaurant that serves locally sourced ingredients. The menu features a variety of dishes, from salads and sandwiches to entrees like steak and seafood. The restaurant also has an extensive wine list and craft cocktails. Finally, the Charcoal Grill & Rotisserie in Brookfield is a favorite among Wisconsinites. The restaurant serves classic American fare, such as burgers, steaks, and ribs. The restaurant also has a full bar and a variety of craft beers. The atmosphere is casual and family-friendly, making it a great spot for a casual dinner or a night out with friends," mentioned one expat inWisconsin.

Where will I buy groceries and do other shopping in Wisconsin?

"People living in Wisconsin typically buy groceries at supermarkets, such as Pick 'n Save, Festival Foods, and Piggly Wiggly. Other shopping can be done at department stores like Kohl's, Target, and Walmart, as well as at local boutiques and specialty stores," said one expat living in Wisconsin.

What are the visa & residency requirements in Wisconsin?

"In order to obtain a visa to enter Wisconsin, applicants must first submit an application to the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). This application must include proof of identity, proof of financial support, and a valid passport. Once the application is approved, the applicant will receive a visa that will allow them to enter the United States. In order to apply for residency in Wisconsin, applicants must first submit an application to the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development. This application must include proof of identity, proof of financial support, and proof of legal status in the United States. Once the application is approved, the applicant will receive a residency card that will allow them to live and work in Wisconsin," mentioned an expat living in Wisconsin.

Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Wisconsin?

"Healthcare and health insurance in Wisconsin can be expensive. The cost of health insurance premiums in Wisconsin is higher than the national average, and the cost of healthcare services can also be high. Additionally, Wisconsin has some of the highest out-of-pocket costs for healthcare services in the country. These costs can be difficult for many people to afford, especially those who are uninsured or underinsured," said an expat in Wisconsin.

About the Author

Betsy Burlingame Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.

Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.

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