How your housing costs change when you relocate. Based on 2026 data with 10% down, 6.5% rate, 30-year fixed.
Your housing costs will decrease by approximately $44 per month ($528/year) when you move from Illinois to Wisconsin.
If you sell your median-priced Illinois home ($270K) and buy in Wisconsin ($280K):
Your Illinois equity covers the 20% down payment on a median Wisconsin home with $25K left over. That surplus can cover closing costs, moving expenses, or go into savings.
Over 10 years, this move saves you approximately $5K in housing costs alone.
Housing costs more in Wisconsin. The median home is 4% higher than in Illinois — a $10K jump. You may need to adjust your expectations on square footage or location, or come with a larger down payment to keep your monthly costs manageable.
Good news on taxes: Wisconsin's 1.76% property tax rate is significantly lower than Illinois's 2.07%. You'll save approximately $661 per year on property taxes, which adds up to $7K over a decade.
You'll save on insurance moving to Wisconsin: $1,300/year versus $1,900/year in Illinois. That's $600 less per year in premiums, putting $50 back in your monthly budget.
When you buy in Wisconsin, expect about $4K in closing costs (1.4% of purchase price). This includes a 0.3% transfer tax. Budget for this amount on top of your down payment.
Wisconsin's WHEDA First-Time Advantage offers Up to $3,050 Easy Close grant. If you haven't owned a home in three years (or are buying in Wisconsin for the first time), you may qualify. Check eligibility requirements and income limits on Wisconsin's housing finance agency website.