Oshkosh, WI: The 2026 Relocation Deep Dive

Oshkosh: The Data Profile (2026)

Oshkosh represents a specific statistical niche in the post-2026 economic landscape: the affordable Midwest hub. With a population of 66,184, it retains a small-city demographic while functioning as a regional economic anchor. The primary data point driving migration here is the -34.6% variance in housing costs compared to the national average.

However, the economic trade-off is immediate. The median household income sits at $62,155, which is -16.7% below the US median of $74,580. Educational attainment is also lower, with 29.0% of residents holding a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the US average of 33.1%.

The statistical target demographic is the "Remote Value Seeker." This cohort leverages remote work salaries to arbitrage the 65.4 Housing Index, effectively buying 150% more square footage than they could in coastal markets, while accepting a lower local wage floor.

Cost of Living Analysis

While housing is the primary draw, the aggregate Cost of Living (COL) index sits at approximately 85.0 (derived from weighted housing, grocery, and transport data), offering significant relief. The aggregate monthly budget for a single resident is estimated at $2,485, while a family of four requires approximately $5,450.

The "Oshkosh Discount" is most visible in discretionary spending. Groceries and transportation are -6.9% cheaper than the national baseline. However, utilities require scrutiny; electricity costs 17.18 cents/kWh, which is +7.4% higher than the US average of 16.0 cents/kWh. This anomaly suggests that while housing is cheap, energy consumption costs are inflated.

Table 1: Monthly Budgets (2026 Estimates)

Housing Market Deep Dive

The Oshkosh housing market is decoupled from national volatility due to low investor activity and high owner-occupancy rates. The Housing Index of 65.4 is the defining metric. For 2026, the median home price is projected at $215,000, significantly undercutting the US average of $345,000.

For renters, the market is exceptionally stable. A 1-bedroom unit averages $779/mo, while a spacious 3-bedroom runs $1,347/mo. The Price-to-Square-Foot ratio of $135 allows for purchasing power that is nearly impossible in Tier-1 or Tier-2 cities.

Table 2: Housing Market Data (Buying vs Renting)

Analysis: Buying is mathematically superior in Oshkosh. The monthly carrying cost of a median home (assuming 20% down at 6.5% interest) is roughly $1,100/month, which is only +37% higher than renting a 1-bedroom. This tight spread incentivizes equity building over leasing.

Economic & Job Market Outlook

The 2026 post-remote economy has stabilized Oshkosh's labor market. The unemployment rate is 3.1%, well below the national average of 4.0%, indicating a tight labor market for local service and manufacturing roles.

However, the "RTO" (Return to Office) mandate has had a negligible impact here. With only 29.0% of the workforce holding degrees, the city lacks the high-density corporate HQs that drive strict RTO policies. Commute times remain low, averaging 16.5 minutes, which is -25% faster than the US average. This efficiency boosts effective hourly wages by reclaiming lost transit time.

Quality of Life Audit

Oshkosh presents a complex health profile. While the aggregate Health Score is a respectable 77.9/100, underlying risk factors are elevated. The obesity rate is 40.8%, which is +8.9% higher than the US average of 31.9%. This is a critical data point for health insurance premiums and lifestyle planning.

Air quality is generally good, with an AQI averaging 45 (Good), though winter temperature inversions can temporarily spike PM2.5 levels to 12.0 µg/m³. Crime rates are a major positive, with violent crime significantly lower than national averages.

Table 3: Quality of Life Metrics (2026)

Safety & Environment:

• Violent Crime: 178 per 100k (US Avg: 380 per 100k) - Safe.
• Property Crime: 1,520 per 100k (US Avg: 1,950 per 100k) - Average.
• Schools: Math proficiency is 42%, Reading 38% (District Rank: 5/10).
• Weather: Winters are harsh (Avg Jan Temp: 18°F), requiring robust vehicle and home heating budgeting.

The Verdict

Pros:

• Housing Arbitrage: The 65.4 Housing Index allows for wealth accumulation via low fixed costs.
• Labor Stability: Unemployment at 3.1% ensures job security for local workers.
• Commute Efficiency: 16.5 minute average commute reclaims personal time.

Cons:

• Income Ceiling: Median income of $62,155 limits local purchasing power without external remote income.
• Health Risks: Obesity rate of 40.8% suggests a challenging environment for maintaining healthy lifestyle habits.
• Education Gap: College attainment at 29.0% may limit networking for white-collar professionals.

Recommendation:
Oshkosh is a Strong Buy for the remote worker earning $80,000+ annually. If you can import coastal wages, the -34.6% housing discount creates a massive financial surplus. It is a Hold for local wage earners due to the -16.7% income deficit relative to the US.

FAQs

1. What salary is needed for a comfortable life in Oshkosh?
For a single person, a salary of $65,000 provides a comfortable lifestyle with savings. For a family of four, $95,000 is recommended to account for the higher effective costs of healthcare and utilities.

2. How does the value proposition compare to other Midwest cities?
Oshkosh offers -15% cheaper housing than Green Bay and -25% cheaper than Madison, though it lacks the nightlife and tech sector of the latter. It wins on pure housing cost-per-square-foot.

3. Are the safety statistics reliable?
Yes. With violent crime at 178 per 100k, Oshkosh is statistically 53% safer than the national average. It is considered a low-risk environment for property and personal safety.

4. When is the best time to relocate?
May through September. The housing market inventory peaks, and the weather (Highs of 75°F-82°F) is optimal for moving and home viewing. Avoid January moves due to snow removal logistics and sub-freezing temperatures.