In a recent meeting held on May 10, 2025, Sawyer County officials discussed alarming trends in housing affordability that could significantly impact local residents. A housing study comparing data from 2020 to 2024 revealed a staggering 84% increase in construction costs for tenplex homes, with prices soaring from $226,800 to $416,000. This sharp rise in costs is compounded by a jump in interest rates from 2.9% to 7.3%, making homeownership increasingly unattainable for average families.

The study highlighted that while household income in Sawyer County increased by 17% from $75,000 in 2020 to $88,000 in 2024, it has not kept pace with the skyrocketing housing costs. As a result, the monthly mortgage payment for a typical home has nearly tripled, rising from approximately $850 to over $2,500. This has created a significant payment gap, with families now facing a deficit of nearly $1,000 in what they can afford versus the actual costs.

The discussion underscored the broader implications for the community, as the average sale price of homes in 2023 was reported at $355,000, further illustrating the disconnect between income levels and housing prices. With down payments now requiring nearly 50% of household income, many residents expressed concern about the feasibility of affording homes in the area.

Officials noted that this issue is not unique to Sawyer County, as similar trends are observed in neighboring Dane County, which is often perceived as a wealthier region. The meeting concluded with a commitment to address these challenges in future discussions, emphasizing the need for strategies to improve housing affordability and attract new residents to the county. As the community grapples with these pressing issues, the outcomes of upcoming meetings will be crucial in shaping the future of housing in Sawyer County.