Cost of Living: Milwaukee, WI vs Norman, OK (2026)

Milwaukee

Wisconsin
67
VS

Norman

Oklahoma
76

Milwaukee is 12% cheaper than Norman.

$1,033/mo ↓ 3%
Median Rent
$1,064/mo ↑ 3%
$51,888/yr ↓ 20%
Median Income
$65,060/yr ↑ 25%
$172,000 ↓ 28%
Home Value
$239,300 ↑ 39%
$1,082/mo ↓ 3%
Owner Costs
$1,121/mo ↑ 4%
569,756
Population
128,714

Tax Comparison

7.65%
Income Tax
4.75%
5.0%
State Sales Tax
4.5%
1.61%
Property Tax
0.9%

Affordability

23.9%
rent-to-income
Affordability
19.6%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Milwaukee, WI and Norman, OK, the overall cost of living indices are 67 and 76 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is comparable in both cities, with less than $50/month separating them.

Median household income is $13,172/year higher in Norman. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Milwaukee is $172,000 compared to $239,300 in Norman.

Oklahoma has a lower income tax rate, making Norman slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Milwaukee vs Norman — common questions

Is Milwaukee or Norman cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Milwaukee is cheaper to live in with an index of 67 compared to 76 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Milwaukee and Norman?
Median rent in Milwaukee is $1,033/month and in Norman it's $1,064/month — a difference of $31/month.
Which city has higher income, Milwaukee or Norman?
Median household income is $51,888 in Milwaukee and $65,060 in Norman. Median household income is $13,172/year higher in Norman.
How do taxes compare between Wisconsin and Oklahoma?
Wisconsin has 7.65% income tax, 5.0% sales tax, and 1.61% property tax. Oklahoma has 4.75% income tax, 4.5% sales tax, and 0.9% property tax.
Should I move to Milwaukee or Norman?
It depends on your priorities. Milwaukee has a cost index of 67 with median rent of $1,033/mo, while Norman has a cost index of 76 with rent of $1,064/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Milwaukee details → View Norman details →

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