Cost of Living: Milwaukee, WI vs Denton, TX (2026)

Milwaukee

Wisconsin
67
VS

Denton

Texas
100

Milwaukee is 33% cheaper than Denton.

$1,033/mo ↓ 23%
Median Rent
$1,344/mo ↑ 30%
$51,888/yr ↓ 30%
Median Income
$73,719/yr ↑ 42%
$172,000 ↓ 47%
Home Value
$325,700 ↑ 89%
$1,082/mo ↓ 26%
Owner Costs
$1,461/mo ↑ 35%
569,756
Population
146,987

Tax Comparison

7.65%
Income Tax
0%
5.0%
State Sales Tax
6.25%
1.61%
Property Tax
1.6%

Affordability

23.9%
rent-to-income
Affordability
21.9%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Milwaukee, WI and Denton, TX, the overall cost of living indices are 67 and 100 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $311/month cheaper in Milwaukee, saving renters about $3,732/year.

Median household income is $21,831/year higher in Denton. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Milwaukee is $172,000 compared to $325,700 in Denton.

Texas has no state income tax, giving Denton residents a significant tax advantage over Wisconsin's 7.65% rate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Milwaukee vs Denton — common questions

Is Milwaukee or Denton cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Milwaukee is cheaper to live in with an index of 67 compared to 100 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Milwaukee and Denton?
Median rent in Milwaukee is $1,033/month and in Denton it's $1,344/month — a difference of $311/month.
Which city has higher income, Milwaukee or Denton?
Median household income is $51,888 in Milwaukee and $73,719 in Denton. Median household income is $21,831/year higher in Denton.
How do taxes compare between Wisconsin and Texas?
Wisconsin has 7.65% income tax, 5.0% sales tax, and 1.61% property tax. Texas has 0% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 1.6% property tax.
Should I move to Milwaukee or Denton?
It depends on your priorities. Milwaukee has a cost index of 67 with median rent of $1,033/mo, while Denton has a cost index of 100 with rent of $1,344/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Milwaukee details → View Denton details →

More Comparisons

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