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Talk to a Specialist →The Tax Math
Wisconsin taxes all retirement income at progressive rates up to 7.65% and has the 5th highest property taxes in America at 1.73%. A $300K home costs $5,190/yr in WI property tax vs $2,375 in Polk County. Add $3,000-$5,000 in income tax savings and reduced heating costs for total annual savings of $6K-$11K.
Property Tax Comparison ($300K Home)
| Location | Effective Rate | Annual Tax |
|---|---|---|
| Wisconsin | ~1.73% | $5,190 |
| Polk County, FL (homestead) | ~0.95% | $2,375 |
| Annual Savings | $2,815 | |
Income Tax Comparison
| Income Source | Wisconsin | Florida |
|---|---|---|
| Social Security | Partially taxed | $0 |
| Pension ($50,000) | Taxed at 3.5-7.65% | $0 |
| 401(k)/IRA Withdrawals | Taxed at 3.5-7.65% | $0 |
Total Estimated Annual Savings
For a couple with $80,000 combined retirement income and a $300,000 home: $6,000-$11,000 per year.
Over 10 years: $60K–$110K in cumulative savings. Over 20 years of retirement, the gap compounds further.
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Best Communities for Wisconsin Buyers
- Golf lifestyle: Sandpiper Golf ($150/mo all-in with golf) or Lake Ashton (resort-scale amenities)
- Lakefront: Traditions at Lake Ruby (boat dock, Lennar built)
- Lowest cost: Lake Henry Estates ($5,650/yr) or Highlands Ridge (homes under $100K)
- Newest construction: Lakes at Laurel Highlands (D.R. Horton, $170/mo, no CDD)