Cost of Living: Baltimore, MD vs Milwaukee, WI 2026

$1,290/mo ↑ 25%

Median Rent

$1,033/mo ↓ 20%

$59,623/yr ↑ 15%

Median Income

$51,888/yr ↓ 13%

$219,300 ↑ 28%

Home Value

$172,000 ↓ 22%

$1,333/mo ↑ 23%

Owner Costs

$1,082/mo ↓ 19%

577,193

Population

569,756

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Baltimore, MD and Milwaukee, WI, the overall cost of living indices are 84 and 67 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $257/month cheaper in Milwaukee, saving renters about $3,084/year.

Median household income is $7,735/year higher in Baltimore. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Baltimore is $219,300 compared to $172,000 in Milwaukee.

Maryland has a lower income tax rate, making Baltimore slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Baltimore vs Milwaukee — common questions

Is Baltimore or Milwaukee cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Milwaukee is cheaper to live in with an index of 67 compared to 84 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Baltimore and Milwaukee?

Median rent in Baltimore is $1,290/month and in Milwaukee it's $1,033/month — a difference of $257/month.

Which city has higher income, Baltimore or Milwaukee?

Median household income is $59,623 in Baltimore and $51,888 in Milwaukee. Median household income is $7,735/year higher in Baltimore.

How do taxes compare between Maryland and Wisconsin?

Maryland has 5.75% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 1.07% property tax. Wisconsin has 7.65% income tax, 5.0% sales tax, and 1.61% property tax.

Should I move to Baltimore or Milwaukee?

It depends on your priorities. Baltimore has a cost index of 84 with median rent of $1,290/mo, while Milwaukee has a cost index of 67 with rent of $1,033/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Baltimore, MD vs Milwaukee, WI (2026)

Baltimore

Milwaukee

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions