Racine, WI: 2026 Relocation Deep Dive Report

Racine: The Data Profile (2026)

Racine presents a distinct economic profile for 2026, defined by a significant divergence between local earnings and national averages. The city supports a population of 76,608, classifying it as a manageable small city environment. The primary economic constraint is the Median Household Income, which sits at $55,065. This figure represents a -26.2% deviation from the US Median Income of $74,580.

However, this income gap is partially offset by a Cost of Living index that sits below the national average. The "statistical target demographic" for Racine is the remote worker or hybrid professional. With a local workforce that is only 21.6% college-educated (compared to the US average of 33.1%), the city is not a traditional hub for high-competition corporate roles. Instead, it offers a low-cost base for those earning national-average salaries who can leverage remote work to maximize purchasing power.

Cost of Living Analysis

The cost structure in Racine offers significant relief, particularly in essential services. The aggregate cost of living index is driven down heavily by housing, which sits at 88.0 (12% below the national average). However, prospective residents must scrutinize utility costs, as electricity rates are currently 17.18 cents/kWh, notably higher than the US average of 16.0 cents/kWh.

Table 1: Cost of Living Breakdown (Monthly Budgets)

Disposable Income Analysis

A single adult earning the local median income of $55,065 (~$3,540 monthly take-home) faces a monthly burn rate of approximately $2,057. This leaves a disposable income of roughly $1,483. Conversely, a remote worker earning the US national median of $74,580 would retain approximately $2,600 monthly after expenses in Racine. The financial viability of relocating here is almost entirely dependent on income source relative to the local wage floor.

Housing Market Deep Dive

The housing market is the city's strongest asset. The Median Home Price is significantly depressed relative to national trends, making homeownership accessible. The Price per Square Foot ($138) is -16.6% lower than the US average. For those not ready to buy, the rental market offers deep value, with 1-Bedroom units averaging $842 and 3-Bedroom units at $1,429.

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

Buying vs. Renting Verdict

Given the -30.8% discount on median home prices, buying is mathematically superior in Racine for anyone planning a stay of 5+ years. The monthly mortgage payment on a median home is likely comparable to the rent of a 3-bedroom unit. Renting remains a viable strategy for those on short-term contracts or who are still capitalizing on the post-remote work liquidity, but the entry barrier to ownership is exceptionally low.

Economic & Job Market Outlook

Racine's economy is stabilizing in 2026, characterized by low unemployment but low wage growth. The local Unemployment Rate is 3.1%, which is -22.5% better than the national average of 4.0%. This indicates a stable, albeit lower-wage, workforce.

RTO (Return to Office) Impact:
For the 21.6% of residents with college degrees, the RTO mandate has not impacted Racine as heavily as major metros. The city functions as a "bedroom community" for Milwaukee (approx. 30 miles north) and Chicago (approx. 70 miles south).

• Commute to Milwaukee: ~35-45 minutes (Traffic dependent).
• Commute to Chicago: ~1 hour 15 minutes (Toll-dependent).

Local industry remains anchored in manufacturing and healthcare. The stability of these sectors insulates the local economy from tech-sector volatility, providing consistent employment for the non-remote workforce.

Quality of Life Audit

While the economic data is favorable, the health data presents a stark warning. The city's Health Score is 74.7/100, categorized as "Fair," but driven by high-risk behaviors. The obesity rate is 46.2%, a massive +44.8% increase over the US average of 31.9%. Similarly, the Diabetes Rate of 13.9% is significantly elevated.

Air quality, however, is excellent, with an AQI of 38 ("Good") and low PM2.5 levels.

Table 3: Quality of Life Metrics

Safety & Environment

• Violent Crime: 324 per 100k (US Avg: 380). Racine is -14.7% safer than the national average.
• Property Crime: 1,679 per 100k (US Avg: 2,000). Racine is -16.0% safer than the national average.
• Schools: Educational attainment is lower (21.6% college grads), which often correlates with underfunded school districts. Families should verify specific district ratings.
• Weather: Current conditions show 36.0°F with light rain. Winters are harsh (average highs in Jan are ~28°F), and summers are humid. Seasonal affective disorder is a consideration for relocation.

The Verdict

Pros

• Housing Value: A -30.8% discount on home prices compared to the national average.
• Low Unemployment: Job stability is high at 3.1%.
• Air Quality: Excellent AQI of 38.
• Crime: Safer than average on both violent and property metrics.

Cons

• Income Ceiling: Median income is -26.2% lower than the US average.
• Health Profile: Extremely high rates of obesity (46.2%) and diabetes (13.9%).
• Education: Low college attainment rates (21.6%) may impact social circles and school quality.
• Utilities: Electricity costs are above the national average.

Final Recommendation

Racine is a STRONG BUY for the Remote Worker.
If your income is decoupled from the local economy (i.e., you work remotely for a company based in Chicago, San Francisco, or New York), Racine offers a rare arbitrage opportunity. You can acquire a home for $235,000 while earning a national salary. However, for local job seekers, the wage suppression of -26.2% makes financial mobility difficult. Health-conscious individuals must be self-disciplined, as the local environment encourages poor lifestyle choices.

FAQs

1. What salary is needed to live comfortably in Racine?
For a single adult, a salary of $50,000 provides a comfortable buffer. For a family of four, the target rises to $90,000. However, earning the local median of $55,065 leaves minimal room for savings if you are the sole earner.

2. How does the value proposition compare to Milwaukee?
Racine offers ~20% cheaper housing than Milwaukee, but with a ~15% lower median income. The trade-off is the commute; Racine is ideal if you need occasional access to Milwaukee but want lower housing costs.

3. Are the safety statistics reliable?
Yes. With Violent Crime at 324/100k and Property Crime at 1,679/100k, Racine is statistically safer than the average American city. Standard urban precautions are still necessary, but it is not a high-risk relocation.

4. When is the best time to move to Racine?
Spring (May-June) or Early Autumn (September). Moving during the winter (Dec-Feb) is difficult due to harsh weather (temps often below 28°F) and snow. The housing market typically sees more inventory in Spring.