A+
8%
Overall NAT. AVG.
0%
Groceries NAT. AVG.
28%
Housing NAT. AVG.
Date & Last Updated: These cost of living estimates reflect 2026 modeled data using U.S. Census housing inputs and AI-assisted city-level pricing models.
The cost of living index is based on a national average of 100. For example, if the cost of living score is 90, then the estimated cost of living is 10% lower than the national average. If the score is 110, then the estimated cost of living is 10% higher than average. The overall index is calculated using weighted estimates across major everyday expense categories, including housing (30%), groceries (16%), transportation (12%), healthcare (10%), utilities (8%), lifestyle and entertainment (8%), household expenses (8%), and education and childcare (8%). All values are AI-assisted city-level estimates designed for directional comparisons.
Index Superior Wisconsin National
Cost of living9296100
Groceries10099100
Health care9998100
Housing7289100
Transportation10498100
Utilities107101100
Lifestyle & Entertainment9798100
Household Items10099100
Education & Childcare9898100
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An Overview of Cost of Living in Superior, WI

Understanding the cost of living in Superior can help future residents assess whether their current financial situation aligns with the expenses they will encounter. It enables them to plan for potential changes in their budget and lifestyle. The Superior cost of living index is 92, which is 8% lower than the national average. The cost of living index is calculated by taking into account multiple categories, which encompass both the cost of everyday expenditures and larger expenses as well.

Everyday expenditures like food, housing, lifestyle expenses, transportation and health care in Superior are priced in a manner consistent with other areas. This means that residents of Superior can anticipate their daily expenses remaining reasonably similar to those in an average city, thereby supporting a manageable cost of living.

What Do Locals Say About the Cost of Living in Superior?

Nobody knows their city better than the people who actually live there. So, we asked 5 local residents how they would rate the cost of living in Superior and this is how they responded. 20% of people said that the cost of living was affordable, with prices decreasing, while 80% of people said that the cost of living was very expensive and prices continue to rise.

Is Superior Affordable?

Is Superior affordable? This is a pivotal question, especially when mulling over a move, as affordability carries substantial weight in your decision-making process. Factors such as the cost of living index (discussed earlier), housing expenses and income levels all contribute to a location's affordability. For instance, in Superior, the median home price is 31.3% lower than the national average and monthly rent prices are 19% lower than the typical rates. Additionally, the median income levels play a role in affordability, with Superior boasting a median household income of $73,420, 9.7% lower than the national average.

What Factors can Influence the Cost of Living in Superior?

Healthcare: The costs associated with healthcare and insurance premiums can exhibit notable disparities based on the city or state of residence. Access to healthcare facilities, out-of-pocket expenses for medical appointments, dental care charges, prescription medication costs and specialized medical care expenses all contribute to variations in the cost of living. In Superior, healthcare costs are 0.6% lower than the national average.

Transportation: In cities with limited or no public transportation, residents may find it necessary to own and maintain vehicles, thereby elevating the cost of living. Monthly expenditures include fuel, insurance, routine maintenance and potential lease or financing commitments. In Superior, the transportation index stands at 3.5% higher than the national average.

Housing: When there's a high demand for housing in trendy places, it can cause property prices and rental rates to soar, leading to a significantly higher cost of living. Conversely, in less desirable locations, where demand is low, prices tend to decrease, resulting in a more budget-friendly cost of living. In Superior, the housing index is 27.7% lower than the national average.

Where is the Data From?

The Superior cost of living data displayed above uses a U.S. average baseline of 100 to provide a practical way to compare living expenses across cities. Housing estimates incorporate U.S. Census home price and rental data, while all other values are generated using AI-assisted models based on everyday expense expectations, regional pricing trends, climate, transportation patterns, and local economic conditions. These values are designed for directional city-to-city comparisons.

Cost Of Living Quick Facts

  • The cost of living in Superior is 4% lower than the Wisconsin average
  • The cost of living in Superior is 8% lower than the national average
  • Superior housing is 28% lower than the national average
  • Wisconsin general sales tax is 2% lower than the national average
  • Wisconsin state income tax is 36% higher than the national average

Most Affordable Places to Live in and Around Superior

See all the best places to live around Superior

Compare Superior, WI Cost of Living

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      Median Income & Debt-To-Income Ratio

      Median Income Per Year Per Month Max Budget (28% DTI) Max Budget (36% DTI)
      Owners$108,222$9,019$2,525$3,247
      Renters$44,883$3,740$1,047$1,347
      To approximate the cost of living and the housing affordability in Superior, WI, we can look at the percentage of income that is available to be spent on monthly housing, otherwise known as the debt-to-income ratio (DTI). To stay on the safe side, a consumer should not spend more than 28% of his or her gross income on housing-related expenses and costs and not more than 36% of income on all expenses and debts. Homeowners in Superior have a median income of $108,222. Therefore, the amount that a consumer should spend on housing costs should be no more than $2,525 per month to avoid calamity and poverty. The renters in the city have an income of about $44,883, which would make their monthly maximum allowable rental costs $1,047.

      Wisconsin Sales Tax

      State General Sales Tax With Max Surtax
      Wisconsin 5% 6.75%

      Wisconsin Income Tax

      State Income Tax (Low) Income Tax (High)
      Wisconsin 3.54% 7.65%

      Nearby cities with low cost of living

      City Population Cost of Living Index National Avg.
      Proctor, MN3,119945.6%
      Carlton, MN1,039955.1%
      Oliver, WI288955.0%
      Duluth, MN87,821982.1%
      Wrenshall, MN476981.8%
      Superior, WI26,920927.8%

      Cities with similar population

      City Population Cost of Living Index National Avg.
      Saint-Bruno-de-Montarville, QC26,923n/a 
      Belmont, MA26,925204104.1%
      Galt, CA26,92613332.8%
      Fremont, NE26,939937.0%
      Cloverleaf, TX26,890928.3%
      Superior, WI26,920927.8%
      Date & Last Updated: These cost of living estimates reflect 2026 modeled data using U.S. Census housing inputs and AI-assisted city-level pricing models.