Cost of Living: Milwaukee, WI vs Ann Arbor, MI (2026)

Milwaukee

Wisconsin
67
VS

Ann Arbor

Michigan
121

Milwaukee is 45% cheaper than Ann Arbor.

$1,033/mo ↓ 33%
Median Rent
$1,552/mo ↑ 50%
$51,888/yr ↓ 36%
Median Income
$81,089/yr ↑ 56%
$172,000 ↓ 60%
Home Value
$435,100 ↑ 153%
$1,082/mo ↓ 34%
Owner Costs
$1,638/mo ↑ 51%
569,756
Population
121,179

Tax Comparison

7.65%
Income Tax
4.25%
5.0%
State Sales Tax
6.0%
1.61%
Property Tax
1.38%

Affordability

23.9%
rent-to-income
Affordability
23.0%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Milwaukee, WI and Ann Arbor, MI, the overall cost of living indices are 67 and 121 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $519/month cheaper in Milwaukee, saving renters about $6,228/year.

Median household income is $29,201/year higher in Ann Arbor. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Milwaukee is $172,000 compared to $435,100 in Ann Arbor.

Michigan has a lower income tax rate, making Ann Arbor slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Milwaukee vs Ann Arbor — common questions

Is Milwaukee or Ann Arbor cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Milwaukee is cheaper to live in with an index of 67 compared to 121 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Milwaukee and Ann Arbor?
Median rent in Milwaukee is $1,033/month and in Ann Arbor it's $1,552/month — a difference of $519/month.
Which city has higher income, Milwaukee or Ann Arbor?
Median household income is $51,888 in Milwaukee and $81,089 in Ann Arbor. Median household income is $29,201/year higher in Ann Arbor.
How do taxes compare between Wisconsin and Michigan?
Wisconsin has 7.65% income tax, 5.0% sales tax, and 1.61% property tax. Michigan has 4.25% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 1.38% property tax.
Should I move to Milwaukee or Ann Arbor?
It depends on your priorities. Milwaukee has a cost index of 67 with median rent of $1,033/mo, while Ann Arbor has a cost index of 121 with rent of $1,552/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Milwaukee details → View Ann Arbor details →

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