Memphis, TN vs Milwaukee, WI: 68 vs 67

$1,123/mo ↑ 9%

Median Rent

$1,033/mo ↓ 8%

$51,211/yr ↓ 1%

Median Income

$51,888/yr ↑ 1%

$157,100 ↓ 9%

Home Value

$172,000 ↑ 9%

$1,087/mo ≈ Same

Owner Costs

$1,082/mo ≈ Same

629,063

Population

569,756

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Memphis, TN and Milwaukee, WI, the overall cost of living indices are 68 and 67 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $90/month cheaper in Milwaukee, saving renters about $1,080/year.

Median household income is $677/year higher in Milwaukee. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Memphis is $157,100 compared to $172,000 in Milwaukee.

Tennessee has no state income tax, giving Memphis residents a significant tax advantage over Wisconsin's 7.65% rate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Memphis vs Milwaukee — common questions

Is Memphis or Milwaukee cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Milwaukee is cheaper to live in with an index of 67 compared to 68 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Memphis and Milwaukee?

Median rent in Memphis is $1,123/month and in Milwaukee it's $1,033/month — a difference of $90/month.

Which city has higher income, Memphis or Milwaukee?

Median household income is $51,211 in Memphis and $51,888 in Milwaukee. Median household income is $677/year higher in Milwaukee.

How do taxes compare between Tennessee and Wisconsin?

Tennessee has 0% income tax, 7.0% sales tax, and 0.64% property tax. Wisconsin has 7.65% income tax, 5.0% sales tax, and 1.61% property tax.

Should I move to Memphis or Milwaukee?

It depends on your priorities. Memphis has a cost index of 68 with median rent of $1,123/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: Memphis, TN vs Milwaukee, WI (2026)

Memphis

Milwaukee

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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