Average Rent in Janesville, WI↑ Rents rising 4.3% YoY🔺 5th priciest in WI
HUD FY2025 · Official government data · Updated annually · Metro pop. 163,944
Market Overview
Janesville, WI has rental prices ranging from $823/month to $1,531/month in 2025, depending on unit size. The typical 1-bedroom apartment rents for $879/month — 37% below the national average of $1,400/month. With a median household income of $74,390/year, spending $879/month on a 1-bedroom represents 14% of gross income — within the recommended 30% threshold.
How Janesville Compares
With an average 2-bedroom rent of $1,153/month, Janesville ranks #5 most expensive of the 63 cities tracked in Wisconsin — pricier than 79% of all US cities in our data.
The Janesville Rental Market
The Janesville, WI area has a population of about 163,944 and 29% of households renting rather than owning. That renter share runs below the US average of ~34%, a more homeowner-heavy market where rental inventory can be limited.
Rent Trends
2-bedroom rents in Janesville, WI have risen by $48/month (4.3%) over the past year, from $1,105 to $1,153. This modest growth is consistent with broader inflationary trends seen across US rental markets.
Affordability
To afford a 1-bedroom apartment in Janesville, WI without exceeding the 30% housing cost guideline, a renter needs an annual income of approximately $35,160. The local median household income of $74,390 exceeds that threshold by $39,230, making Janesville relatively accessible compared to local wages.
Rent vs. Buy
The median home value in Janesville, WI is $297,863, giving a price-to-rent ratio of 21.5. With a break-even horizon of approximately 22 years, renting is likely the more financially prudent option for most residents unless they plan to stay long-term.
Fair Market Rents
HUD FY2025Is Janesville, WI Affordable?
Income needed to rent or buy, price history, and how this city compares to nearby metros.
Affordability Index(30% income rule)
Rent or Buy in Janesville?
Break-even analysis and mortgage estimates based on local market data.
Should I Rent or Buy?
Break-even analysis using real Janesville data
Buying breaks even after 1 year — worth it if you stay 1+ years.
Mortgage Calculator
Estimate monthly payment for $297,863 home at 7% rate
Living in Janesville
Cost of living, job market, crime rates, and moving cost estimates.
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Frequently Asked Questions
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⚖️Rent vs Buy in JanesvilleIs it cheaper to rent or buy here?
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