Cost of Living: Milwaukee, WI vs Baton Rouge, LA (2026)

Milwaukee

Wisconsin
67
VS

Baton Rouge

Louisiana
73

Milwaukee is 8% cheaper than Baton Rouge.

$1,033/mo ↓ 1%
Median Rent
$1,044/mo ↑ 1%
$51,888/yr ↑ 4%
Median Income
$49,944/yr ↓ 4%
$172,000 ↓ 23%
Home Value
$224,500 ↑ 31%
$1,082/mo ↑ 4%
Owner Costs
$1,043/mo ↓ 4%
569,756
Population
223,699

Tax Comparison

7.65%
Income Tax
4.25%
5.0%
State Sales Tax
4.45%
1.61%
Property Tax
0.55%

Affordability

23.9%
rent-to-income
Affordability
25.1%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Milwaukee, WI and Baton Rouge, LA, the overall cost of living indices are 67 and 73 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is comparable in both cities, with less than $50/month separating them.

Median household income is $1,944/year higher in Milwaukee. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Milwaukee is $172,000 compared to $224,500 in Baton Rouge.

Louisiana has a lower income tax rate, making Baton Rouge slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Milwaukee vs Baton Rouge — common questions

Is Milwaukee or Baton Rouge cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Milwaukee is cheaper to live in with an index of 67 compared to 73 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Milwaukee and Baton Rouge?
Median rent in Milwaukee is $1,033/month and in Baton Rouge it's $1,044/month — a difference of $11/month.
Which city has higher income, Milwaukee or Baton Rouge?
Median household income is $51,888 in Milwaukee and $49,944 in Baton Rouge. Median household income is $1,944/year higher in Milwaukee.
How do taxes compare between Wisconsin and Louisiana?
Wisconsin has 7.65% income tax, 5.0% sales tax, and 1.61% property tax. Louisiana has 4.25% income tax, 4.45% sales tax, and 0.55% property tax.
Should I move to Milwaukee or Baton Rouge?
It depends on your priorities. Milwaukee has a cost index of 67 with median rent of $1,033/mo, while Baton Rouge has a cost index of 73 with rent of $1,044/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
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