Milwaukee, WI vs Naperville, IL: 67 vs 147

$1,033/mo ↓ 44%

Median Rent

$1,852/mo ↑ 79%

$51,888/yr ↓ 66%

Median Income

$150,937/yr ↑ 191%

$172,000 ↓ 66%

Home Value

$509,900 ↑ 196%

$1,082/mo ↓ 50%

Owner Costs

$2,161/mo ↑ 100%

569,756

Population

149,424

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Milwaukee, WI and Naperville, IL, the overall cost of living indices are 67 and 147 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $819/month cheaper in Milwaukee, saving renters about $9,828/year.

Median household income is $99,049/year higher in Naperville. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Milwaukee is $172,000 compared to $509,900 in Naperville.

Illinois has a lower income tax rate, making Naperville slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Milwaukee vs Naperville — common questions

Is Milwaukee or Naperville cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Milwaukee is cheaper to live in with an index of 67 compared to 147 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Milwaukee and Naperville?

Median rent in Milwaukee is $1,033/month and in Naperville it's $1,852/month — a difference of $819/month.

Which city has higher income, Milwaukee or Naperville?

Median household income is $51,888 in Milwaukee and $150,937 in Naperville. Median household income is $99,049/year higher in Naperville.

How do taxes compare between Wisconsin and Illinois?

Wisconsin has 7.65% income tax, 5.0% sales tax, and 1.61% property tax. Illinois has 4.95% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 2.07% property tax.

Should I move to Milwaukee or Naperville?

It depends on your priorities. Milwaukee has a cost index of 67 with median rent of $1,033/mo, while Naperville has a cost index of 147 with rent of $1,852/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Milwaukee, WI vs Naperville, IL (2026)

Milwaukee

Naperville

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

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