Cost of Living: Milwaukee, WI vs Jackson, MS (2026)

Milwaukee

Wisconsin
67
VS

Jackson

Mississippi
58

Milwaukee is 16% more expensive than Jackson.

$1,033/mo ↑ 1%
Median Rent
$1,018/mo ↓ 1%
$51,888/yr ↑ 20%
Median Income
$43,238/yr ↓ 17%
$172,000 ↑ 59%
Home Value
$108,200 ↓ 37%
$1,082/mo ↑ 13%
Owner Costs
$956/mo ↓ 12%
569,756
Population
149,827

Tax Comparison

7.65%
Income Tax
5.0%
5.0%
State Sales Tax
7.0%
1.61%
Property Tax
0.67%

Affordability

23.9%
rent-to-income
Affordability
28.3%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Milwaukee, WI and Jackson, MS, the overall cost of living indices are 67 and 58 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is comparable in both cities, with less than $50/month separating them.

Median household income is $8,650/year higher in Milwaukee. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Milwaukee is $172,000 compared to $108,200 in Jackson.

Mississippi has a lower income tax rate, making Jackson slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Milwaukee vs Jackson — common questions

Is Milwaukee or Jackson cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Jackson is cheaper to live in with an index of 58 compared to 67 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Milwaukee and Jackson?
Median rent in Milwaukee is $1,033/month and in Jackson it's $1,018/month — a difference of $15/month.
Which city has higher income, Milwaukee or Jackson?
Median household income is $51,888 in Milwaukee and $43,238 in Jackson. Median household income is $8,650/year higher in Milwaukee.
How do taxes compare between Wisconsin and Mississippi?
Wisconsin has 7.65% income tax, 5.0% sales tax, and 1.61% property tax. Mississippi has 5.0% income tax, 7.0% sales tax, and 0.67% property tax.
Should I move to Milwaukee or Jackson?
It depends on your priorities. Milwaukee has a cost index of 67 with median rent of $1,033/mo, while Jackson has a cost index of 58 with rent of $1,018/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Milwaukee details → View Jackson details →

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