Cost of Living: Milwaukee, WI vs Huntsville, AL (2026)

Milwaukee

Wisconsin
67
VS

Huntsville

Alabama
78

Milwaukee is 14% cheaper than Huntsville.

$1,033/mo ↓ 4%
Median Rent
$1,078/mo ↑ 4%
$51,888/yr ↓ 27%
Median Income
$70,778/yr ↑ 36%
$172,000 ↓ 35%
Home Value
$263,100 ↑ 53%
$1,082/mo ↑ 3%
Owner Costs
$1,046/mo ↓ 3%
569,756
Population
218,814

Tax Comparison

7.65%
Income Tax
5.0%
5.0%
State Sales Tax
4.0%
1.61%
Property Tax
0.41%

Affordability

23.9%
rent-to-income
Affordability
18.3%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Milwaukee, WI and Huntsville, AL, the overall cost of living indices are 67 and 78 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is comparable in both cities, with less than $50/month separating them.

Median household income is $18,890/year higher in Huntsville. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Milwaukee is $172,000 compared to $263,100 in Huntsville.

Alabama has a lower income tax rate, making Huntsville slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Milwaukee vs Huntsville — common questions

Is Milwaukee or Huntsville cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Milwaukee is cheaper to live in with an index of 67 compared to 78 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Milwaukee and Huntsville?
Median rent in Milwaukee is $1,033/month and in Huntsville it's $1,078/month — a difference of $45/month.
Which city has higher income, Milwaukee or Huntsville?
Median household income is $51,888 in Milwaukee and $70,778 in Huntsville. Median household income is $18,890/year higher in Huntsville.
How do taxes compare between Wisconsin and Alabama?
Wisconsin has 7.65% income tax, 5.0% sales tax, and 1.61% property tax. Alabama has 5.0% income tax, 4.0% sales tax, and 0.41% property tax.
Should I move to Milwaukee or Huntsville?
It depends on your priorities. Milwaukee has a cost index of 67 with median rent of $1,033/mo, while Huntsville has a cost index of 78 with rent of $1,078/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Milwaukee details → View Huntsville details →

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