Average Rent in Racine, WI↑ Rents rising 5.2% YoY🔺 6th priciest in WI

Racine, WI has rental prices ranging from $788/month to $1,814/month in 2025, depending on unit size. The typical 1-bedroom apartment rents for $901/month — 36% below the national average of $1,400/month. With a median household income of $75,331/year, spending $901/month on a 1-bedroom represents 14% of gross income — within the recommended 30% threshold.

How Racine Compares

With an average 2-bedroom rent of $1,149/month, Racine ranks #6 most expensive of the 63 cities tracked in Wisconsin — pricier than 79% of all US cities in our data.

The Racine Rental Market

The Racine, WI area has a population of about 196,888 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 Racine, WI have risen by $57/month (5.2%) over the past year, from $1,092 to $1,149. This modest growth is consistent with broader inflationary trends seen across US rental markets.

Affordability

To afford a 1-bedroom apartment in Racine, WI without exceeding the 30% housing cost guideline, a renter needs an annual income of approximately $36,040. The local median household income of $75,331 exceeds that threshold by $39,291, making Racine relatively accessible compared to local wages.

Rent vs. Buy

The median home value in Racine, WI is $221,934, giving a price-to-rent ratio of 16.1. With a break-even horizon of approximately 16 years, renting is likely the more financially prudent option for most residents unless they plan to stay long-term.

Neighborhoods

Home values — and by extension rent levels — vary significantly across Racine's neighborhoods. Among the highest-value areas are Live Towerview ($177,938 median home value), Douglas Avenue ($178,875 median home value), Downtown ($197,739 median home value). Renters on a tighter budget may find better value in less central neighborhoods or in adjacent metros with lower overall rent levels.

Is Racine, WI Affordable?

Income needed to rent or buy, price history, and how this city compares to nearby metros.

Rent or Buy in Racine?

Break-even analysis and mortgage estimates based on local market data.

Living in Racine

Cost of living, job market, crime rates, and moving cost estimates.