Cost of Living: Milwaukee, WI vs Newport News, VA (2026)

Milwaukee

Wisconsin
67
VS

Newport News

Virginia
87

Milwaukee is 23% cheaper than Newport News.

$1,033/mo ↓ 20%
Median Rent
$1,285/mo ↑ 24%
$51,888/yr ↓ 22%
Median Income
$66,718/yr ↑ 29%
$172,000 ↓ 29%
Home Value
$243,300 ↑ 41%
$1,082/mo ↓ 19%
Owner Costs
$1,328/mo ↑ 23%
569,756
Population
184,774

Tax Comparison

7.65%
Income Tax
5.75%
5.0%
State Sales Tax
5.3%
1.61%
Property Tax
0.8%

Affordability

23.9%
rent-to-income
Affordability
23.1%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Milwaukee, WI and Newport News, VA, the overall cost of living indices are 67 and 87 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $252/month cheaper in Milwaukee, saving renters about $3,024/year.

Median household income is $14,830/year higher in Newport News. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Milwaukee is $172,000 compared to $243,300 in Newport News.

Virginia has a lower income tax rate, making Newport News slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Milwaukee vs Newport News — common questions

Is Milwaukee or Newport News cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Milwaukee is cheaper to live in with an index of 67 compared to 87 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Milwaukee and Newport News?
Median rent in Milwaukee is $1,033/month and in Newport News it's $1,285/month — a difference of $252/month.
Which city has higher income, Milwaukee or Newport News?
Median household income is $51,888 in Milwaukee and $66,718 in Newport News. Median household income is $14,830/year higher in Newport News.
How do taxes compare between Wisconsin and Virginia?
Wisconsin has 7.65% income tax, 5.0% sales tax, and 1.61% property tax. Virginia has 5.75% income tax, 5.3% sales tax, and 0.8% property tax.
Should I move to Milwaukee or Newport News?
It depends on your priorities. Milwaukee has a cost index of 67 with median rent of $1,033/mo, while Newport News has a cost index of 87 with rent of $1,285/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Milwaukee details → View Newport News details →

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