Cost of Living: Milwaukee, WI vs Des Moines, IA (2026)

Milwaukee

Wisconsin
67
VS

Des Moines

Iowa
70

Milwaukee is 4% cheaper than Des Moines.

$1,033/mo ↓ 2%
Median Rent
$1,054/mo ↑ 2%
$51,888/yr ↓ 19%
Median Income
$63,966/yr ↑ 23%
$172,000 ↓ 6%
Home Value
$183,700 ↑ 7%
$1,082/mo ↓ 5%
Owner Costs
$1,137/mo ↑ 5%
569,756
Population
212,464

Tax Comparison

7.65%
Income Tax
5.7%
5.0%
State Sales Tax
6.0%
1.61%
Property Tax
1.57%

Affordability

23.9%
rent-to-income
Affordability
19.8%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Milwaukee, WI and Des Moines, IA, the overall cost of living indices are 67 and 70 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is comparable in both cities, with less than $50/month separating them.

Median household income is $12,078/year higher in Des Moines. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Milwaukee is $172,000 compared to $183,700 in Des Moines.

Iowa has a lower income tax rate, making Des Moines slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Milwaukee vs Des Moines — common questions

Is Milwaukee or Des Moines cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Milwaukee is cheaper to live in with an index of 67 compared to 70 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Milwaukee and Des Moines?
Median rent in Milwaukee is $1,033/month and in Des Moines it's $1,054/month — a difference of $21/month.
Which city has higher income, Milwaukee or Des Moines?
Median household income is $51,888 in Milwaukee and $63,966 in Des Moines. Median household income is $12,078/year higher in Des Moines.
How do taxes compare between Wisconsin and Iowa?
Wisconsin has 7.65% income tax, 5.0% sales tax, and 1.61% property tax. Iowa has 5.7% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 1.57% property tax.
Should I move to Milwaukee or Des Moines?
It depends on your priorities. Milwaukee has a cost index of 67 with median rent of $1,033/mo, while Des Moines has a cost index of 70 with rent of $1,054/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
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