Milwaukee, WI vs Lowell, MA: 67 vs 119

$1,033/mo ↓ 36%

Median Rent

$1,603/mo ↑ 55%

$51,888/yr ↓ 32%

Median Income

$76,205/yr ↑ 47%

$172,000 ↓ 56%

Home Value

$395,100 ↑ 130%

$1,082/mo ↓ 35%

Owner Costs

$1,672/mo ↑ 55%

569,756

Population

114,799

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Milwaukee, WI and Lowell, MA, the overall cost of living indices are 67 and 119 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $570/month cheaper in Milwaukee, saving renters about $6,840/year.

Median household income is $24,317/year higher in Lowell. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Milwaukee is $172,000 compared to $395,100 in Lowell.

Wisconsin has a lower income tax rate, making Milwaukee slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Milwaukee vs Lowell — common questions

Is Milwaukee or Lowell cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Milwaukee is cheaper to live in with an index of 67 compared to 119 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Milwaukee and Lowell?

Median rent in Milwaukee is $1,033/month and in Lowell it's $1,603/month — a difference of $570/month.

Which city has higher income, Milwaukee or Lowell?

Median household income is $51,888 in Milwaukee and $76,205 in Lowell. Median household income is $24,317/year higher in Lowell.

How do taxes compare between Wisconsin and Massachusetts?

Wisconsin has 7.65% income tax, 5.0% sales tax, and 1.61% property tax. Massachusetts has 9.0% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 1.15% property tax.

Should I move to Milwaukee or Lowell?

It depends on your priorities. Milwaukee has a cost index of 67 with median rent of $1,033/mo, while Lowell has a cost index of 119 with rent of $1,603/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Milwaukee, WI vs Lowell, MA (2026)

Milwaukee

Lowell

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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