Milwaukee, WI vs Cincinnati, OH: 67 vs 69

$1,033/mo ↑ 8%

Median Rent

$953/mo ↓ 8%

$51,888/yr ≈ Same

Median Income

$51,707/yr ≈ Same

$172,000 ↓ 20%

Home Value

$215,300 ↑ 25%

$1,082/mo ↑ 4%

Owner Costs

$1,041/mo ↓ 4%

569,756

Population

309,595

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Milwaukee, WI and Cincinnati, OH, the overall cost of living indices are 67 and 69 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $80/month cheaper in Cincinnati, saving renters about $960/year.

Median household income is $181/year higher in Milwaukee. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Milwaukee is $172,000 compared to $215,300 in Cincinnati.

Ohio has a lower income tax rate, making Cincinnati slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Milwaukee vs Cincinnati — common questions

Is Milwaukee or Cincinnati cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Milwaukee is cheaper to live in with an index of 67 compared to 69 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Milwaukee and Cincinnati?

Median rent in Milwaukee is $1,033/month and in Cincinnati it's $953/month — a difference of $80/month.

Which city has higher income, Milwaukee or Cincinnati?

Median household income is $51,888 in Milwaukee and $51,707 in Cincinnati. Median household income is $181/year higher in Milwaukee.

How do taxes compare between Wisconsin and Ohio?

Wisconsin has 7.65% income tax, 5.0% sales tax, and 1.61% property tax. Ohio has 3.5% income tax, 5.75% sales tax, and 1.53% property tax.

Should I move to Milwaukee or Cincinnati?

It depends on your priorities. Milwaukee has a cost index of 67 with median rent of $1,033/mo, while Cincinnati has a cost index of 69 with rent of $953/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Milwaukee, WI vs Cincinnati, OH (2026)

Milwaukee

Cincinnati

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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