Chicago, IL vs Milwaukee, WI: 100 vs 67

$1,380/mo ↑ 34%

Median Rent

$1,033/mo ↓ 25%

$75,134/yr ↑ 45%

Median Income

$51,888/yr ↓ 31%

$315,200 ↑ 83%

Home Value

$172,000 ↓ 45%

$1,502/mo ↑ 39%

Owner Costs

$1,082/mo ↓ 28%

2,707,648

Population

569,756

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Chicago, IL and Milwaukee, WI, the overall cost of living indices are 100 and 67 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $347/month cheaper in Milwaukee, saving renters about $4,164/year.

Median household income is $23,246/year higher in Chicago. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Chicago is $315,200 compared to $172,000 in Milwaukee.

Illinois has a lower income tax rate, making Chicago slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Chicago vs Milwaukee — common questions

Is Chicago or Milwaukee cheaper to live in?

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

What is the rent difference between Chicago and Milwaukee?

Median rent in Chicago is $1,380/month and in Milwaukee it's $1,033/month — a difference of $347/month.

Which city has higher income, Chicago or Milwaukee?

Median household income is $75,134 in Chicago and $51,888 in Milwaukee. Median household income is $23,246/year higher in Chicago.

How do taxes compare between Illinois and Wisconsin?

Illinois has 4.95% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 2.07% property tax. Wisconsin has 7.65% income tax, 5.0% sales tax, and 1.61% property tax.

Should I move to Chicago or Milwaukee?

It depends on your priorities. Chicago has a cost index of 100 with median rent of $1,380/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: Chicago, IL vs Milwaukee, WI (2026)

Chicago

Milwaukee

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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