Kenosha Relocation Deep Dive: 2026 Data Report

Kenosha: The Data Profile (2026)

Kenosha, Wisconsin, presents a specific economic profile for the 2026 remote-capable workforce. With a population of 98,210, it functions as a smaller city environment, distinct from major metropolitan hubs. The median household income sits at $68,885, which is 7.6% below the US median of $74,580. This income disparity is partially offset by a cost of living index where housing is significantly lower at 88.0 (12% below average). However, the educational attainment rate is 28.1%, trailing the national average of 33.1%, indicating a workforce historically rooted in manufacturing and logistics rather than the tech or finance sectors dominating coastal cities.

Target Demographic: The statistical target for Kenosha in the post-remote era is the "Arbitrage Hunter." This demographic consists of remote workers earning at or above the national median ($74,580+) who can leverage the 12% housing discount to maximize disposable income, while accepting the trade-offs of a smaller city infrastructure and a distinct seasonal climate.

Cost of Living Analysis

The primary financial advantage of Kenosha is the aggregate reduction in daily expenses. While electricity costs are a statistical outlier—averaging 17.18 cents/kWh against a US average of 16.0 cents/kWh (a 7.4% premium)—this is absorbed by savings elsewhere. Groceries (92.2), transportation (92.8), and healthcare (95.0) all sit below the national baseline.

Disposable Income Analysis:
For a single person, the monthly budget is approximately $2,167, compared to the US average of roughly $2,300. This yields a monthly savings of $133, or $1,596 annually. For a family of four, the gap widens due to housing and food variances, saving approximately $350–$400 monthly. However, the local median income of $68,885 does not unlock these savings; a household earning $85,000+ is required to fully capitalize on the low-cost structure while maintaining a standard savings rate.

Table 1: Cost of Living Breakdown (Monthly Budgets)

Housing Market Deep Dive

The housing market is the statistical anchor of Kenosha's value proposition. The median home price is estimated at $245,000, which is 21.5% lower than the US average of $312,000. The Price per Square Foot sits at $165, offering $40 in savings per square foot compared to the national norm.

The rent-to-price ratio favors buying. With a 1-bedroom apartment costing $1,071 monthly, the annual rent is $12,852. Against a median home price of $245,000, the price-to-rent ratio is roughly 19, which is generally considered the "buy" threshold (anything under 20). However, the 17.18 cents/kWh electricity rate impacts the total cost of ownership for older housing stock common in Kenosha.

Table 2: Housing Market Data (Buying vs Renting Analysis)

Economic & Job Market Outlook

In 2026, Kenosha's economy is defined by stability rather than growth. The unemployment rate is 3.1%, significantly lower than the US average of 4.0%. This low rate suggests a tight labor market, but one heavily reliant on local industry—primarily manufacturing and distribution—rather than the high-growth tech sector.

RTO & Commute: For hybrid workers, Kenosha offers a strategic geographic position. It sits approximately 40 miles from downtown Chicago and 30 miles from Milwaukee. While this allows for occasional in-office attendance, the commuter rail (Metra) service frequency remains a limiting factor compared to inner-ring suburbs. The average commute time is 24 minutes, slightly below the national average, but traffic congestion on I-94 during peak hours can significantly impact reliability.

Quality of Life Audit

Kenosha presents a mixed Quality of Life (QoL) score. While the unemployment rate is low (3.1%) and air quality is excellent (AQI 38), health risk factors are elevated. The obesity rate stands at 41.7%, a staggering 10% above the national average of 31.9%. This correlates with a high diabetes rate (11.7%). The "Health Score" of 77.3 is likely a composite metric that is pulled down by these lifestyle factors.

Safety & Environment:
Violent crime is 324/100k (US avg: 380/100k), and property crime is 1,679/100k (US avg: 2,000/100k). Both metrics are "Average" but statistically safer than the aggregate US figures. The weather, however, remains a significant filter. With current temperatures at 37°F and "Light Snow Likely," the region demands a high tolerance for winter conditions.

Table 3: Quality of Life Metrics

The Verdict

Pros:

• Housing Arbitrage: A 21.5% discount on median home prices provides immediate equity potential for buyers.
• Economic Stability: An unemployment rate of 3.1% indicates a resilient local job market.
• Air Quality: An AQI of 38 is excellent, offering a respiratory health benefit often lacking in industrial hubs.

Cons:

• Health Profile: An obesity rate of 41.7% suggests a community culture that may not support active lifestyle goals.
• Energy Costs: Electricity at 17.18 cents/kWh adds a hidden tax on homeowners, particularly in winter.
• Income Ceiling: Median income of $68,885 is 7.6% below average, limiting local purchasing power without remote income.

Recommendation:
Kenosha is a Buy for remote workers earning $85,000+ annually who prioritize housing equity over urban amenities. It is a Pass for those seeking a vibrant, health-conscious culture or who rely on local salaries alone.

FAQs

1. What salary is needed to live comfortably in Kenosha?
To live alone and save 20% of income, a salary of $65,000 is required. To support a family of four comfortably (including housing ownership), a household income of $110,000+ is recommended to offset the 7.4% premium on electricity and maintain savings.

2. How does the value compare to nearby cities?
Kenosha offers roughly 15% better value than Milwaukee and 35% better value than Chicago regarding housing costs. However, it lacks the transit infrastructure of those cities, making car ownership mandatory.

3. Are the safety stats reliable?
Yes. With violent crime at 324/100k and property crime at 1,679/100k, Kenosha is statistically safer than the national average. However, property crime is still nearly 10x higher than the violent crime rate, indicating a need for standard home security measures.

4. Is the housing market going to crash?
With a Housing Index of 88.0 and a price-to-rent ratio of 19, the market is not considered overvalued compared to coastal bubbles. The low unemployment rate (3.1%) also supports housing demand stability.