Milwaukee, WI vs Raleigh, NC: 67 vs 110

$1,033/mo ↓ 30%

Median Rent

$1,468/mo ↑ 42%

$51,888/yr ↓ 37%

Median Income

$82,424/yr ↑ 59%

$172,000 ↓ 54%

Home Value

$377,800 ↑ 120%

$1,082/mo ↓ 27%

Owner Costs

$1,487/mo ↑ 37%

569,756

Population

470,763

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Milwaukee, WI and Raleigh, NC, the overall cost of living indices are 67 and 110 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $435/month cheaper in Milwaukee, saving renters about $5,220/year.

Median household income is $30,536/year higher in Raleigh. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Milwaukee is $172,000 compared to $377,800 in Raleigh.

North Carolina has a lower income tax rate, making Raleigh slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Milwaukee vs Raleigh — common questions

Is Milwaukee or Raleigh cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Milwaukee is cheaper to live in with an index of 67 compared to 110 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Milwaukee and Raleigh?

Median rent in Milwaukee is $1,033/month and in Raleigh it's $1,468/month — a difference of $435/month.

Which city has higher income, Milwaukee or Raleigh?

Median household income is $51,888 in Milwaukee and $82,424 in Raleigh. Median household income is $30,536/year higher in Raleigh.

How do taxes compare between Wisconsin and North Carolina?

Wisconsin has 7.65% income tax, 5.0% sales tax, and 1.61% property tax. North Carolina has 4.5% income tax, 4.75% sales tax, and 0.8% property tax.

Should I move to Milwaukee or Raleigh?

It depends on your priorities. Milwaukee has a cost index of 67 with median rent of $1,033/mo, while Raleigh has a cost index of 110 with rent of $1,468/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Milwaukee, WI vs Raleigh, NC (2026)

Milwaukee

Raleigh

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

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