Milwaukee, WI vs Lexington, KY: 67 vs 82

$1,033/mo ↓ 6%

Median Rent

$1,101/mo ↑ 7%

$51,888/yr ↓ 23%

Median Income

$67,631/yr ↑ 30%

$172,000 ↓ 37%

Home Value

$272,100 ↑ 58%

$1,082/mo ↓ 7%

Owner Costs

$1,160/mo ↑ 7%

569,756

Population

321,122

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Milwaukee, WI and Lexington, KY, the overall cost of living indices are 67 and 82 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $68/month cheaper in Milwaukee, saving renters about $816/year.

Median household income is $15,743/year higher in Lexington. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Milwaukee is $172,000 compared to $272,100 in Lexington.

Kentucky has a lower income tax rate, making Lexington slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Milwaukee vs Lexington — common questions

Is Milwaukee or Lexington cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Milwaukee is cheaper to live in with an index of 67 compared to 82 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Milwaukee and Lexington?

Median rent in Milwaukee is $1,033/month and in Lexington it's $1,101/month — a difference of $68/month.

Which city has higher income, Milwaukee or Lexington?

Median household income is $51,888 in Milwaukee and $67,631 in Lexington. Median household income is $15,743/year higher in Lexington.

How do taxes compare between Wisconsin and Kentucky?

Wisconsin has 7.65% income tax, 5.0% sales tax, and 1.61% property tax. Kentucky has 4.0% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 0.83% property tax.

Should I move to Milwaukee or Lexington?

It depends on your priorities. Milwaukee has a cost index of 67 with median rent of $1,033/mo, while Lexington has a cost index of 82 with rent of $1,101/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Milwaukee, WI vs Lexington, KY (2026)

Milwaukee

Lexington

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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