Milwaukee, WI vs Norfolk, VA: 67 vs 89

$1,033/mo ↓ 17%

Median Rent

$1,246/mo ↑ 21%

$51,888/yr ↓ 19%

Median Income

$64,017/yr ↑ 23%

$172,000 ↓ 37%

Home Value

$271,900 ↑ 58%

$1,082/mo ↓ 21%

Owner Costs

$1,366/mo ↑ 26%

569,756

Population

235,037

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Milwaukee, WI and Norfolk, VA, the overall cost of living indices are 67 and 89 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $213/month cheaper in Milwaukee, saving renters about $2,556/year.

Median household income is $12,129/year higher in Norfolk. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Milwaukee is $172,000 compared to $271,900 in Norfolk.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Milwaukee vs Norfolk — common questions

Is Milwaukee or Norfolk cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Milwaukee is cheaper to live in with an index of 67 compared to 89 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Milwaukee and Norfolk?

Median rent in Milwaukee is $1,033/month and in Norfolk it's $1,246/month — a difference of $213/month.

Which city has higher income, Milwaukee or Norfolk?

Median household income is $51,888 in Milwaukee and $64,017 in Norfolk. Median household income is $12,129/year higher in Norfolk.

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 Norfolk?

It depends on your priorities. Milwaukee has a cost index of 67 with median rent of $1,033/mo, while Norfolk has a cost index of 89 with rent of $1,246/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

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

Milwaukee

Norfolk

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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