Cost of Living: Milwaukee, WI vs Lincoln, NE (2026)

Milwaukee

Wisconsin
67
VS

Lincoln

Nebraska
77

Milwaukee is 13% cheaper than Lincoln.

$1,033/mo ↓ 1%
Median Rent
$1,045/mo ↑ 1%
$51,888/yr ↓ 26%
Median Income
$69,991/yr ↑ 35%
$172,000 ↓ 31%
Home Value
$248,200 ↑ 44%
$1,082/mo ↓ 5%
Owner Costs
$1,140/mo ↑ 5%
569,756
Population
291,932

Tax Comparison

7.65%
Income Tax
6.64%
5.0%
State Sales Tax
5.5%
1.61%
Property Tax
1.73%

Affordability

23.9%
rent-to-income
Affordability
17.9%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Milwaukee, WI and Lincoln, NE, the overall cost of living indices are 67 and 77 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is comparable in both cities, with less than $50/month separating them.

Median household income is $18,103/year higher in Lincoln. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Milwaukee is $172,000 compared to $248,200 in Lincoln.

Nebraska has a lower income tax rate, making Lincoln slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Milwaukee vs Lincoln — common questions

Is Milwaukee or Lincoln cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Milwaukee is cheaper to live in with an index of 67 compared to 77 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Milwaukee and Lincoln?
Median rent in Milwaukee is $1,033/month and in Lincoln it's $1,045/month — a difference of $12/month.
Which city has higher income, Milwaukee or Lincoln?
Median household income is $51,888 in Milwaukee and $69,991 in Lincoln. Median household income is $18,103/year higher in Lincoln.
How do taxes compare between Wisconsin and Nebraska?
Wisconsin has 7.65% income tax, 5.0% sales tax, and 1.61% property tax. Nebraska has 6.64% income tax, 5.5% sales tax, and 1.73% property tax.
Should I move to Milwaukee or Lincoln?
It depends on your priorities. Milwaukee has a cost index of 67 with median rent of $1,033/mo, while Lincoln has a cost index of 77 with rent of $1,045/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Milwaukee details → View Lincoln details →

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