Cost of Living: Milwaukee, WI vs Columbus, GA (2026)

Milwaukee

Wisconsin
67
VS

Columbus

Georgia
69

Milwaukee and Columbus have a similar cost of living.

$1,033/mo ↓ 4%
Median Rent
$1,072/mo ↑ 4%
$51,888/yr ↓ 8%
Median Income
$56,622/yr ↑ 9%
$172,000 ↓ 6%
Home Value
$182,300 ↑ 6%
$1,082/mo ↑ 2%
Owner Costs
$1,064/mo ↓ 2%
569,756
Population
204,383

Tax Comparison

7.65%
Income Tax
5.49%
5.0%
State Sales Tax
4.0%
1.61%
Property Tax
0.92%

Affordability

23.9%
rent-to-income
Affordability
22.7%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Milwaukee, WI and Columbus, GA, the overall cost of living indices are 67 and 69 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is comparable in both cities, with less than $50/month separating them.

Median household income is $4,734/year higher in Columbus. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Milwaukee is $172,000 compared to $182,300 in Columbus.

Georgia has a lower income tax rate, making Columbus slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Milwaukee vs Columbus — common questions

Is Milwaukee or Columbus 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 Columbus?
Median rent in Milwaukee is $1,033/month and in Columbus it's $1,072/month — a difference of $39/month.
Which city has higher income, Milwaukee or Columbus?
Median household income is $51,888 in Milwaukee and $56,622 in Columbus. Median household income is $4,734/year higher in Columbus.
How do taxes compare between Wisconsin and Georgia?
Wisconsin has 7.65% income tax, 5.0% sales tax, and 1.61% property tax. Georgia has 5.49% income tax, 4.0% sales tax, and 0.92% property tax.
Should I move to Milwaukee or Columbus?
It depends on your priorities. Milwaukee has a cost index of 67 with median rent of $1,033/mo, while Columbus has a cost index of 69 with rent of $1,072/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
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More Comparisons

Other cost of living comparisons for Milwaukee and Columbus

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