Rent comparison · HUD FY2026
Wausau, WI MSA vs Appleton, WI MSA
How do Wausau, WI MSA and Appleton, WI MSA rents compare? A side-by-side FY 2026 HUD Fair Market Rent breakdown, studio through 4-bedroom.
- $889
- Wausau, WI MSA (1BR)
- $960
- Appleton, WI MSA (1BR)
- −7%
- 1BR difference
Side-by-side FY 2026 HUD Fair Market Rent comparison. Data from U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).
A 1-bedroom in Wausau, WI MSA is 7% cheaper than Appleton, WI MSA at the HUD Fair Market Rent level ($889 vs $960). Both figures are the 40th percentile of gross rents (utilities included, telephone excluded) set by HUD for the federal fiscal year 2026. Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher payment standards in each area are set between 90% and 110% of these FMR numbers. Source: HUD Fair Market Rents.
How Do Rents Compare By Bedroom?
| Bedrooms | Wausau, WI MSA | Appleton, WI MSA | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio | $791 | $858 | −$67 (-8%) |
| 1 Bedroom | $889 | $960 | −$71 (-7%) |
| 2 Bedroom | $1,147 | $1,236 | −$89 (-7%) |
| 3 Bedroom | $1,511 | $1,701 | −$190 (-11%) |
| 4 Bedroom | $1,519 | $1,776 | −$257 (-14%) |
vs US National Average
National average 1BR: $959. Wausau, WI MSA is 7% below the US average. Appleton, WI MSA is 0% above.
Sources: HUD Fair Market Rents FY 2026. Population and median income from U.S. Census Bureau American Community Survey (ACS).