Cost of Living: Milwaukee, WI vs Chandler, AZ (2026)

Milwaukee

Wisconsin
67
VS

Chandler

Arizona
134

Milwaukee is 50% cheaper than Chandler.

$1,033/mo ↓ 43%
Median Rent
$1,806/mo ↑ 75%
$51,888/yr ↓ 50%
Median Income
$103,691/yr ↑ 100%
$172,000 ↓ 63%
Home Value
$469,800 ↑ 173%
$1,082/mo ↓ 38%
Owner Costs
$1,743/mo ↑ 61%
569,756
Population
278,123

Tax Comparison

7.65%
Income Tax
2.5%
5.0%
State Sales Tax
5.6%
1.61%
Property Tax
0.62%

Affordability

23.9%
rent-to-income
Affordability
20.9%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Milwaukee, WI and Chandler, AZ, the overall cost of living indices are 67 and 134 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $773/month cheaper in Milwaukee, saving renters about $9,276/year.

Median household income is $51,803/year higher in Chandler. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Milwaukee is $172,000 compared to $469,800 in Chandler.

Arizona has a lower income tax rate, making Chandler slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Milwaukee vs Chandler — common questions

Is Milwaukee or Chandler cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Milwaukee is cheaper to live in with an index of 67 compared to 134 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Milwaukee and Chandler?
Median rent in Milwaukee is $1,033/month and in Chandler it's $1,806/month — a difference of $773/month.
Which city has higher income, Milwaukee or Chandler?
Median household income is $51,888 in Milwaukee and $103,691 in Chandler. Median household income is $51,803/year higher in Chandler.
How do taxes compare between Wisconsin and Arizona?
Wisconsin has 7.65% income tax, 5.0% sales tax, and 1.61% property tax. Arizona has 2.5% income tax, 5.6% sales tax, and 0.62% property tax.
Should I move to Milwaukee or Chandler?
It depends on your priorities. Milwaukee has a cost index of 67 with median rent of $1,033/mo, while Chandler has a cost index of 134 with rent of $1,806/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
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