Charlotte, NC vs Milwaukee, WI: 108 vs 67

$1,504/mo ↑ 46%

Median Rent

$1,033/mo ↓ 31%

$78,438/yr ↑ 51%

Median Income

$51,888/yr ↓ 34%

$351,500 ↑ 104%

Home Value

$172,000 ↓ 51%

$1,487/mo ↑ 37%

Owner Costs

$1,082/mo ↓ 27%

886,283

Population

569,756

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Charlotte, NC and Milwaukee, WI, the overall cost of living indices are 108 and 67 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $471/month cheaper in Milwaukee, saving renters about $5,652/year.

Median household income is $26,550/year higher in Charlotte. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Charlotte is $351,500 compared to $172,000 in Milwaukee.

North Carolina has a lower income tax rate, making Charlotte slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Charlotte vs Milwaukee — common questions

Is Charlotte or Milwaukee cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Milwaukee is cheaper to live in with an index of 67 compared to 108 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Charlotte and Milwaukee?

Median rent in Charlotte is $1,504/month and in Milwaukee it's $1,033/month — a difference of $471/month.

Which city has higher income, Charlotte or Milwaukee?

Median household income is $78,438 in Charlotte and $51,888 in Milwaukee. Median household income is $26,550/year higher in Charlotte.

How do taxes compare between North Carolina and Wisconsin?

North Carolina has 4.5% income tax, 4.75% sales tax, and 0.8% property tax. Wisconsin has 7.65% income tax, 5.0% sales tax, and 1.61% property tax.

Should I move to Charlotte or Milwaukee?

It depends on your priorities. Charlotte has a cost index of 108 with median rent of $1,504/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: Charlotte, NC vs Milwaukee, WI (2026)

Charlotte

Milwaukee

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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