This report compares the relative adequacy of metropolitan and nonmetropolitan household income in Wisconsin. In 1981, 1,133 respondents completed the Wisconsin Basic Needs Survey, covering income, assets, debts, and taxes, filled out two-week diaries of food expenditures and small recurring expenses, and answered questions on perceived income needs and economic well-being. Compared to the metro sample, the nonmetro group contained more married men and farm workers, and was older and less educated. Average monthly incomes were $1,600 for nonmetro households and $1,858 for metro households. However, nonmetro households indicated they could "make ends meet" with $837 per month, compared to $931 for the metro group. There was little difference between groups in housing costs, possession of durable goods, or small recurring expenditures. Metro households spent more on large infrequent expenditures such as furniture and appliances, support payments, educational expenses, and trips. Although a large percentage of nonmetro households considered their financial status to be "just getting along," nonmetro households were no more negative about their standard of living or incomes than were metro households. High percentages of both groups were quite negative about the cost of basic necessities. It appears that nonmetro household are satisfied with less income, or nonmetro lifestyles may provide nonmonetary rewards that compensate for lower income. The report contains 10 references and 8 data tables. (SV)