Milwaukee, WI vs Fairfield, CA: 67 vs 167

$1,033/mo ↓ 53%

Median Rent

$2,191/mo ↑ 112%

$51,888/yr ↓ 49%

Median Income

$102,321/yr ↑ 97%

$172,000 ↓ 71%

Home Value

$592,500 ↑ 244%

$1,082/mo ↓ 51%

Owner Costs

$2,226/mo ↑ 106%

569,756

Population

119,985

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Milwaukee, WI and Fairfield, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 67 and 167 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $1,158/month cheaper in Milwaukee, saving renters about $13,896/year.

Median household income is $50,433/year higher in Fairfield. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Milwaukee is $172,000 compared to $592,500 in Fairfield.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Milwaukee vs Fairfield — common questions

Is Milwaukee or Fairfield cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Milwaukee is cheaper to live in with an index of 67 compared to 167 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Milwaukee and Fairfield?

Median rent in Milwaukee is $1,033/month and in Fairfield it's $2,191/month — a difference of $1,158/month.

Which city has higher income, Milwaukee or Fairfield?

Median household income is $51,888 in Milwaukee and $102,321 in Fairfield. Median household income is $50,433/year higher in Fairfield.

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 Fairfield?

It depends on your priorities. Milwaukee has a cost index of 67 with median rent of $1,033/mo, while Fairfield has a cost index of 167 with rent of $2,191/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

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

Milwaukee

Fairfield

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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