Cost of Living in Milwaukee, WI

Key Statistics

See what your Milwaukee salary is worth in another city:

Living in Milwaukee, WI — 2026 Cost of Living Guide

Milwaukee is moderately affordable compared to the national average, with an overall cost of living index of 90. This means living in Milwaukee is approximately 10% less expensive than the national average.

Housing Costs in Milwaukee

Housing costs are roughly in line with the national average. The housing index for Milwaukee is 82, which means housing costs are 18% below the national average. This includes both rental prices and home purchase costs in the metropolitan area.

Income and Employment

The median household income in Milwaukee is $43,125, with a population of approximately 577,222. The median household income is below the national average, which can make the cost of living feel more impactful for many residents.

The job market in Milwaukee is solid, with steady growth in several key sectors and reasonable unemployment rates.

Daily Living Expenses

Beyond housing, daily expenses in Milwaukee are near the national average. Groceries and dining carry an index of 98, while transportation costs sit at 98. Healthcare expenses index at 100, and utilities come in at 92.

Taxes

Taxes in Milwaukee are above average at 102, which factors into the overall cost of living. State income taxes and local levies contribute to the higher burden.

Quality of Life

The climate can be challenging, with harsh winters and significant seasonal temperature swings that residents should prepare for.

Like many major cities, Milwaukee faces some safety challenges, though many neighborhoods remain safe and vibrant communities.

Is Milwaukee a Good Place to Live?

Milwaukee offers strong value for those looking to stretch their dollar further without sacrificing too much in terms of amenities and opportunities. With a good job market and cold/harsh weather, Milwaukee continues to attract new residents drawn by the favorable cost of living.

Related Financial Tools