Portage County's composite score of 66.1 significantly outperforms the national median of 50.0, placing it in the upper tier of American counties. The county demonstrates broad livability strength across multiple dimensions.
2 / 5
Marginally better than Wisconsin baseline
Portage scores 66.1, just above Wisconsin's average of 65.6, positioning it in the middle-upper range of the state's 72 counties. While competitive statewide, the county is not among Wisconsin's top performers.
3 / 5
Outstanding health metrics and affordability
Portage County shines with a health score of 78.7—the highest among these eight counties—and a cost score of 76.5 reflecting median rents of $903/month. These strengths signal strong community health infrastructure and accessible housing.
4 / 5
Income and financial risk need attention
The income score of 31.2 is among the lowest in this group, with median household income at $73,284 indicating limited earning potential. A risk score of 37.3 also suggests economic vulnerability that deserves consideration.
5 / 5
Ideal for health-conscious, budget-minded residents
Portage County appeals to people prioritizing health, affordability, and community wellness over high incomes or cutting-edge amenities. It's a solid choice for families, young professionals, and retirees seeking a safe, healthy, affordable lifestyle.
Portage County's composite score of 66.1 significantly outperforms the national median of 50.0, placing it in the upper tier of American counties. The county demonstrates broad livability strength across multiple dimensions.
Marginally better than Wisconsin baseline
Portage scores 66.1, just above Wisconsin's average of 65.6, positioning it in the middle-upper range of the state's 72 counties. While competitive statewide, the county is not among Wisconsin's top performers.
Outstanding health metrics and affordability
Portage County shines with a health score of 78.7—the highest among these eight counties—and a cost score of 76.5 reflecting median rents of $903/month. These strengths signal strong community health infrastructure and accessible housing.
Income and financial risk need attention
The income score of 31.2 is among the lowest in this group, with median household income at $73,284 indicating limited earning potential. A risk score of 37.3 also suggests economic vulnerability that deserves consideration.
Ideal for health-conscious, budget-minded residents
Portage County appeals to people prioritizing health, affordability, and community wellness over high incomes or cutting-edge amenities. It's a solid choice for families, young professionals, and retirees seeking a safe, healthy, affordable lifestyle.
Score breakdown
5 dimensions have live data. 3 more coming as vertical sites launch.
🏛60.8
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
Portage County's effective tax rate of 1.474% sits just above the national median of 1.700%, placing it near the middle of American counties. Residents pay a median of $3,396 in annual property taxes on homes valued around $230,400.
Among the highest rates in Wisconsin
At 1.474%, Portage County's effective rate runs about 3% higher than Wisconsin's average of 1.436%. This puts the county in the upper half statewide—homeowners here pay roughly $315 more annually than the state median.
Tops surrounding counties for taxes
Portage County's 1.474% rate exceeds nearby Polk County (1.222%), Rusk County (1.207%), and Price County (1.445%). Among central Wisconsin peers, only Sauk County approaches this rate at 1.504%.
Median annual tax bill reaches $3,396
A typical Portage County home valued at $230,400 incurs $3,396 in annual property taxes. Homeowners with mortgages pay slightly more at $3,520, while mortgage-free owners average $3,214.
Assessment appeals can reduce your burden
With property taxes running relatively high in Portage County, comparing your home's assessed value to comparable sales is essential. Wisconsin law allows homeowners to formally challenge assessments each year, potentially unlocking meaningful tax savings.
Portage County's rent-to-income ratio of 14.8% sits almost exactly at the national average, despite a median household income of $73,284—slightly below the U.S. median of $74,755. Renters here enjoy some of Wisconsin's most affordable rental options.
Portage stands out as affordability leader
With a 14.8% rent-to-income ratio, Portage ranks among Wisconsin's most affordable counties, sitting just below the state average of 14.9%. The median rent of $903/month is $12 cheaper than the state average, reflecting strong local affordability.
Portage undercuts Polk on rent costs
Portage renters pay $903/month—$55 less than Polk County—while maintaining nearly identical affordability ratios (14.8% vs. 15.1%). Homeowners in Portage also face lower ownership costs ($1,026) compared to neighboring Polk ($1,144).
Housing costs stay below state average
At $903/month for renters and $1,026/month for homeowners, Portage offers below-average housing expenses relative to Wisconsin. The median income of $73,284 means renters dedicate roughly 14.8% of annual earnings to rent, leaving more for other essentials.
Portage: Wisconsin's affordable sweet spot
If affordability is your priority, Portage County delivers some of the state's best rent-to-income ratios with a median home value of $230,400. This county works well for cost-conscious families and renters seeking sustainable housing expenses.
Portage County's median household income is $73,284, just 1.9% below the national median of $74,755. The county holds its own against typical American earnings, reflecting stable economic conditions.
Upper-middle tier in state
Portage County earns $73,284 annually, outpacing Wisconsin's state median of $71,715 by $1,569. This consistent advantage places Portage firmly in the state's upper-middle income cohort across its 72 counties.
Ahead of rural counterparts
Portage's $73,284 median exceeds Price County ($58,720) by 24.8% and Rusk County ($58,322) by 25.7%. Among its regional peers, Portage maintains a competitive income edge in central Wisconsin.
Strong rental affordability
Portage County's rent-to-income ratio of 14.8% is among the most affordable in the state, well below the 28-30% sustainability benchmark. A median home value of $230,400 keeps homeownership within reach for households at the county median.
Your income supports growth
With per capita income of $39,476, Portage households have genuine capacity for wealth-building. A 14.8% rent-to-income ratio leaves room to invest—prioritize emergency funds, then explore diversified portfolio growth.
At 79.3 years, Portage County residents outlive the U.S. average by 1.8 years, with only 14.5% reporting poor or fair health—well below national norms. This strong performance reflects healthier lifestyles and better access to preventive care across the county.
Wisconsin's health standout
Portage County ranks among Wisconsin's healthiest communities with a 1.5-year advantage over the state's 77.8-year average and a notably lower 6.3% uninsured rate. This outperformance positions Portage as a model for health outcomes in the state.
Clear advantage over regional peers
Portage County's 79.3-year life expectancy significantly exceeds Price County (78.4) and Sauk County (77.7), while its 14.5% poor/fair health rate is lowest in the region. Mental health provider access at 166 per 100K is solid, though primary care availability at 45 per 100K trails Polk County (79 per 100K).
Strong outcomes with modest care gaps
Portage County's 6.3% uninsured rate is the lowest among comparison counties, protecting most residents from sudden medical debt. However, primary care provider density at 45 per 100K means some rural areas may face longer travel times for routine appointments.
Ensure your family stays protected
Even with Portage County's strong insurance rates, 6% of residents remain uninsured and vulnerable to catastrophic costs from accidents or illness. If you lack coverage or face gaps, explore Wisconsin Medicaid or ACA plans today at HealthCare.gov—preventive care is both healthier and cheaper.
Portage County's composite risk score of 62.72 and Relatively Low rating indicate risk just above national norms across all hazard types. While not among America's highest-risk counties, residents should maintain standard natural disaster preparedness measures.
Slightly above Wisconsin's midline
At 62.72, Portage County ranks above Wisconsin's 59.08 state average but falls comfortably in the lower-to-middle risk tier across the state. This reflects Wisconsin's generally moderate natural hazard profile relative to more vulnerable regions nationwide.
Lower risk than nearby Polk County
Portage County's score of 62.72 sits slightly below neighboring Polk County's 63.30, making them quite similar in overall exposure. Both counties face comparable tornado threats, though Portage experiences notably higher flood risk (66.79 vs. 55.18), reflecting its position in a wetter region.
Floods and tornadoes are primary concerns
Tornado risk at 70.20 and flood risk at 66.79 dominate Portage County's hazard profile, while wildfire risk is relatively low at 32.35. The combination of frequent severe thunderstorms and water damage exposure means dual preparedness is essential here.
Prioritize flood and wind protection
Portage County residents should invest in flood insurance immediately—especially those in low-lying areas or near rivers—since standard homeowners policies exclude water damage. Reinforced roof anchoring and impact-resistant windows can reduce tornado damage; schedule an inspection to assess your home's storm resilience.