South Milwaukee, WI

Very Low · 73

Wisconsin · Population 20,547 · Updated March 2026

$1,014
Median Rent / Month
$70,146
Median Income
$216,400
Median Home Value
$1,144
Owner Costs / Month

Affordability

How far your income goes in South Milwaukee

17.3%
Rent-to-Income Ratio
Affordable
Rent takes less than 25% of median income — considered affordable by HUD standards.

Tax Burden in Wisconsin

State-level tax rates that affect your costs

7.65%
Income Tax (Top Rate)
5.0%
Sales Tax
1.61%
Property Tax Rate

Estimated Annual Costs

$12,168
Annual Rent
$5,366
State Income Tax
$3,484
Property Tax (est.)

Cost of Living Overview

South Milwaukee is significantly cheaper than the national average, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious individuals and families. With a cost index of 73 (where 100 equals the national median), South Milwaukee residents can expect to pay median rent of $1,014/month while earning a median household income of $70,146/year.

The median home value in South Milwaukee, WI is $216,400, with typical monthly owner costs around $1,144 including mortgage, insurance, and taxes. The median rent-to-income ratio of 17.3% means housing is relatively affordable here — well below the 30% threshold that HUD considers cost-burdened.

Wisconsin has a moderate income tax rate of 7.65%. Combined with a 5.0% sales tax rate and 1.61% effective property tax rate, the overall tax environment is a factor in the total cost of living in South Milwaukee.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about living costs in South Milwaukee

What is the cost of living in South Milwaukee, WI?
The cost of living index in South Milwaukee, WI is 73 (US average = 100). Median monthly rent is $1,014, median household income is $70,146/year, and the median home value is $216,400.
Is South Milwaukee, WI affordable?
Yes, South Milwaukee is more affordable than the national average with a cost index of 73. The rent-to-income ratio is 17.3%—below the 30%% threshold considered affordable by HUD.
What is the average rent in South Milwaukee, WI?
The median gross rent in South Milwaukee, WI is $1,014 per month according to the US Census Bureau ACS 2023 data. Annual rent costs approximately $12,168.
What is the median household income in South Milwaukee?
The median household income in South Milwaukee, WI is $70,146 per year. This compares to the national median of approximately $80,000.
What are the taxes like in Wisconsin?
Wisconsin has a top income tax rate of 7.65%, a sales tax of 5.0%, and an effective property tax rate of 1.61%.