Salaries in Janesville, WI

Here’s what the data says about making a living in Janesville in 2026, and it’s not what you might expect.

First, the headline: Janesville’s median household income sits at $71,885. That’s not a national powerhouse, but with a cost-of-living index of 91.4, your dollar stretches nearly 10% further here than the US average. A one-bedroom apartment runs about $841 a month. That’s not a typo. It means the city’s average salary of $68,500 feels more like $74,945 in real purchasing power. You can build a life here without the constant financial pressure you feel in bigger cities. It’s a genuine bargain if you’re coming from the coasts.

Who’s actually earning here? The economy is anchored by healthcare, manufacturing, and education. You’ve got Mercyhealth and the giant Parker Hannifin plant as major employers. The tech scene is quiet but growing, and the logistics corridor is always hungry for project managers and construction leads. The people thriving are those in skilled trades, healthcare, and the niche high-earning roles that support these industries.

Here’s the honest catch: while the cost of living is low, wages aren’t exactly exploding. The city’s educational attainment—a bachelor’s degree or higher for 33.7% of the population—is below the national average, which caps earning potential for many. A 2.9% unemployment rate means jobs are out there, but you need to be in the right field. This city works beautifully for a skilled professional who wants a house, not a condo, or for a remote worker cashing in a coastal salary. It’s a tougher sell if you’re in a low-wage service job looking to get ahead.

What follows is a breakdown of the top-paying jobs and what you can actually expect to take home.