Cost of Living: Milwaukee, WI vs Richardson, TX (2026)

Milwaukee

Wisconsin
67
VS

Richardson

Texas
128

Milwaukee is 48% cheaper than Richardson.

$1,033/mo ↓ 43%
Median Rent
$1,825/mo ↑ 77%
$51,888/yr ↓ 46%
Median Income
$96,257/yr ↑ 86%
$172,000 ↓ 58%
Home Value
$405,600 ↑ 136%
$1,082/mo ↓ 40%
Owner Costs
$1,796/mo ↑ 66%
569,756
Population
118,269

Tax Comparison

7.65%
Income Tax
0%
5.0%
State Sales Tax
6.25%
1.61%
Property Tax
1.6%

Affordability

23.9%
rent-to-income
Affordability
22.8%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Milwaukee, WI and Richardson, TX, the overall cost of living indices are 67 and 128 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $792/month cheaper in Milwaukee, saving renters about $9,504/year.

Median household income is $44,369/year higher in Richardson. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Milwaukee is $172,000 compared to $405,600 in Richardson.

Texas has no state income tax, giving Richardson residents a significant tax advantage over Wisconsin's 7.65% rate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Milwaukee vs Richardson — common questions

Is Milwaukee or Richardson cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Milwaukee is cheaper to live in with an index of 67 compared to 128 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Milwaukee and Richardson?
Median rent in Milwaukee is $1,033/month and in Richardson it's $1,825/month — a difference of $792/month.
Which city has higher income, Milwaukee or Richardson?
Median household income is $51,888 in Milwaukee and $96,257 in Richardson. Median household income is $44,369/year higher in Richardson.
How do taxes compare between Wisconsin and Texas?
Wisconsin has 7.65% income tax, 5.0% sales tax, and 1.61% property tax. Texas has 0% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 1.6% property tax.
Should I move to Milwaukee or Richardson?
It depends on your priorities. Milwaukee has a cost index of 67 with median rent of $1,033/mo, while Richardson has a cost index of 128 with rent of $1,825/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
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More Comparisons

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