Milwaukee, WI vs Downey, CA: 67 vs 169

$1,033/mo ↓ 45%

Median Rent

$1,892/mo ↑ 83%

$51,888/yr ↓ 41%

Median Income

$87,400/yr ↑ 68%

$172,000 ↓ 76%

Home Value

$728,500 ↑ 324%

$1,082/mo ↓ 46%

Owner Costs

$1,997/mo ↑ 85%

569,756

Population

111,793

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Milwaukee, WI and Downey, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 67 and 169 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $859/month cheaper in Milwaukee, saving renters about $10,308/year.

Median household income is $35,512/year higher in Downey. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Milwaukee is $172,000 compared to $728,500 in Downey.

Wisconsin has a lower income tax rate, making Milwaukee slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Milwaukee vs Downey — common questions

Is Milwaukee or Downey cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Milwaukee is cheaper to live in with an index of 67 compared to 169 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Milwaukee and Downey?

Median rent in Milwaukee is $1,033/month and in Downey it's $1,892/month — a difference of $859/month.

Which city has higher income, Milwaukee or Downey?

Median household income is $51,888 in Milwaukee and $87,400 in Downey. Median household income is $35,512/year higher in Downey.

How do taxes compare between Wisconsin and California?

Wisconsin has 7.65% income tax, 5.0% sales tax, and 1.61% property tax. California has 13.3% income tax, 7.25% sales tax, and 0.71% property tax.

Should I move to Milwaukee or Downey?

It depends on your priorities. Milwaukee has a cost index of 67 with median rent of $1,033/mo, while Downey has a cost index of 169 with rent of $1,892/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Milwaukee, WI vs Downey, CA (2026)

Milwaukee

Downey

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

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