Side-by-side comparison of home prices, mortgage payments, and housing costs between Manitowoc and Stevens Point, Wisconsin. Using Wisconsin's 1.76% property tax rate and $1,300/year insurance. Updated for 2026.
Manitowoc edges out Stevens Point in affordability, saving you roughly $301/month on total housing costs. Both cities are in Wisconsin, so property tax rates and insurance costs are the same — the difference comes down to home prices and what you get for your money in each market.
Estimated PITI payments assuming 10% down, 6.5% rate, 30-year fixed mortgage with PMI. Uses Wisconsin's 1.76% property tax rate.
Buying in Manitowoc saves you approximately $301/month ($3,612/year) compared to Stevens Point, based on median home prices with identical loan terms.
Manitowoc is the better choice for first-time buyers, with a median price of $165K versus $205K in Stevens Point. That's $40K less to save for a down payment. You'd need roughly $6K for an FHA 3.5% down payment in Manitowoc, compared to $7K in Stevens Point. Wisconsin offers the WHEDA First-Time Advantage program (Up to $3,050 Easy Close grant) which applies in both cities.
Manitowoc has the better price-to-rent ratio at 16.8x versus 18.6x in Stevens Point. A lower ratio generally signals better rental income relative to purchase price. Average rent in Manitowoc is $820/month on a $165K median home, making it a stronger candidate for buy-and-rent investors.
Manitowoc (pop. 32,537) offers more amenities, schools, and services typical of a larger city, while Stevens Point (pop. 26,717) may offer a quieter, more community-oriented lifestyle. Manitowoc offers both more options and lower housing costs, making it attractive for families who want urban amenities without a premium price.