Milwaukee, WI vs Lakewood, CO: 67 vs 141

$1,033/mo ↓ 41%

Median Rent

$1,746/mo ↑ 69%

$51,888/yr ↓ 40%

Median Income

$85,789/yr ↑ 65%

$172,000 ↓ 69%

Home Value

$548,200 ↑ 219%

$1,082/mo ↓ 37%

Owner Costs

$1,729/mo ↑ 60%

569,756

Population

156,309

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Milwaukee, WI and Lakewood, CO, the overall cost of living indices are 67 and 141 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $713/month cheaper in Milwaukee, saving renters about $8,556/year.

Median household income is $33,901/year higher in Lakewood. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Milwaukee is $172,000 compared to $548,200 in Lakewood.

Colorado has a lower income tax rate, making Lakewood slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Milwaukee vs Lakewood — common questions

Is Milwaukee or Lakewood cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Milwaukee is cheaper to live in with an index of 67 compared to 141 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Milwaukee and Lakewood?

Median rent in Milwaukee is $1,033/month and in Lakewood it's $1,746/month — a difference of $713/month.

Which city has higher income, Milwaukee or Lakewood?

Median household income is $51,888 in Milwaukee and $85,789 in Lakewood. Median household income is $33,901/year higher in Lakewood.

How do taxes compare between Wisconsin and Colorado?

Wisconsin has 7.65% income tax, 5.0% sales tax, and 1.61% property tax. Colorado has 4.4% income tax, 2.9% sales tax, and 0.51% property tax.

Should I move to Milwaukee or Lakewood?

It depends on your priorities. Milwaukee has a cost index of 67 with median rent of $1,033/mo, while Lakewood has a cost index of 141 with rent of $1,746/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Milwaukee, WI vs Lakewood, CO (2026)

Milwaukee

Lakewood

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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