Milwaukee, WI vs Columbia, SC: 67 vs 80

$1,033/mo ↓ 11%

Median Rent

$1,158/mo ↑ 12%

$51,888/yr ↓ 7%

Median Income

$55,653/yr ↑ 7%

$172,000 ↓ 29%

Home Value

$243,500 ↑ 42%

$1,082/mo ↓ 7%

Owner Costs

$1,169/mo ↑ 8%

569,756

Population

138,019

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Milwaukee, WI and Columbia, SC, the overall cost of living indices are 67 and 80 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $125/month cheaper in Milwaukee, saving renters about $1,500/year.

Median household income is $3,765/year higher in Columbia. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Milwaukee is $172,000 compared to $243,500 in Columbia.

South Carolina has a lower income tax rate, making Columbia slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Milwaukee vs Columbia — common questions

Is Milwaukee or Columbia cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Milwaukee is cheaper to live in with an index of 67 compared to 80 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Milwaukee and Columbia?

Median rent in Milwaukee is $1,033/month and in Columbia it's $1,158/month — a difference of $125/month.

Which city has higher income, Milwaukee or Columbia?

Median household income is $51,888 in Milwaukee and $55,653 in Columbia. Median household income is $3,765/year higher in Columbia.

How do taxes compare between Wisconsin and South Carolina?

Wisconsin has 7.65% income tax, 5.0% sales tax, and 1.61% property tax. South Carolina has 6.4% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 0.57% property tax.

Should I move to Milwaukee or Columbia?

It depends on your priorities. Milwaukee has a cost index of 67 with median rent of $1,033/mo, while Columbia has a cost index of 80 with rent of $1,158/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Milwaukee, WI vs Columbia, SC (2026)

Milwaukee

Columbia

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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