America's 'Little Switzerland' Has A Cost Of Living That Might Surprise You

Founded by Swiss settlers in 1845 in south central Wisconsin, three years before Wisconsin became a state, New Glarus features architecture reminiscent of Switzerland, especially when snow covers the roofs and balconies. Even today, many streets still bear the names of villages from the settlers' homeland alongside more modern road names. 

You might wonder what it costs to live in the town nicknamed Little Switzerland, located about 25 miles from Madison. According to Salary.com, New Glarus has a cost of living that's 8% higher than the national average, with a family of four needing $5,866 per month and a single person needing about $2,664 in 2026. That said, more affordable aspects exist in Little Switzerland. According to Zillow in July 2026, the average home value is $357,599, compared to the national average of $370,320. As far as rental costs, a two-bedroom unit goes for roughly $1,310, according to BestPlaces, about 8.4% below the national average.

Utility costs are 2.8% lower in New Glarus than the national average with grocery costs coming in at 3% less. As far as eating out, Little Switzerland is known for its delicious Swiss cuisine, ranging from rösti to schnitzel, making it tempting to eat out often. However, to protect your pocketbook when eating out at restaurants, consider enjoying lunch rather than dinner to save money.

Parts of New Glarus can be quite walkable, saving on gas costs for residents. Based on distances to shopping, schools, and other destinations, Walk Score gives New Glarus a score of 69, meaning some errands can be done on foot. Plus, it can be cheaper to own a car in Wisconsin than many states, with CarEdge ranking Wisconsin No. 13 in cheapest states to buy a car.

As far as recreation, outdoor lovers can hike, bike, camp, cross-country ski, and snowshoe at New Glarus Woods State Park. Although a vehicle admission sticker is required, Wisconsin residents can purchase one for just $28 annually. People aged 65 and up from the Badger State only need to pay $13 each year. The annual state pass also gets people into the Sugar River State Recreation Trail in New Glarus, a National Recreational Trail with 14 trestle bridges. If New Glarus intrigues you, it could be worth investigating the salary benchmarks required to live comfortably in the Midwest.