Milwaukee, WI vs Metairie, LA: 67 vs 88

$1,033/mo ↓ 11%

Median Rent

$1,159/mo ↑ 12%

$51,888/yr ↓ 29%

Median Income

$73,256/yr ↑ 41%

$172,000 ↓ 44%

Home Value

$308,900 ↑ 80%

$1,082/mo ↓ 9%

Owner Costs

$1,186/mo ↑ 10%

569,756

Population

138,995

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Milwaukee, WI and Metairie, LA, the overall cost of living indices are 67 and 88 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $126/month cheaper in Milwaukee, saving renters about $1,512/year.

Median household income is $21,368/year higher in Metairie. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Milwaukee is $172,000 compared to $308,900 in Metairie.

Louisiana has a lower income tax rate, making Metairie slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Milwaukee vs Metairie — common questions

Is Milwaukee or Metairie cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Milwaukee is cheaper to live in with an index of 67 compared to 88 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Milwaukee and Metairie?

Median rent in Milwaukee is $1,033/month and in Metairie it's $1,159/month — a difference of $126/month.

Which city has higher income, Milwaukee or Metairie?

Median household income is $51,888 in Milwaukee and $73,256 in Metairie. Median household income is $21,368/year higher in Metairie.

How do taxes compare between Wisconsin and Louisiana?

Wisconsin has 7.65% income tax, 5.0% sales tax, and 1.61% property tax. Louisiana has 4.25% income tax, 4.45% sales tax, and 0.55% property tax.

Should I move to Milwaukee or Metairie?

It depends on your priorities. Milwaukee has a cost index of 67 with median rent of $1,033/mo, while Metairie has a cost index of 88 with rent of $1,159/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Milwaukee, WI vs Metairie, LA (2026)

Milwaukee

Metairie

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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