Milwaukee, WI vs Santa Maria, CA: 67 vs 137

$1,033/mo ↓ 44%

Median Rent

$1,842/mo ↑ 78%

$51,888/yr ↓ 39%

Median Income

$84,617/yr ↑ 63%

$172,000 ↓ 64%

Home Value

$478,200 ↑ 178%

$1,082/mo ↓ 40%

Owner Costs

$1,789/mo ↑ 65%

569,756

Population

109,880

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Milwaukee, WI and Santa Maria, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 67 and 137 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $809/month cheaper in Milwaukee, saving renters about $9,708/year.

Median household income is $32,729/year higher in Santa Maria. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Milwaukee is $172,000 compared to $478,200 in Santa Maria.

Wisconsin has a lower income tax rate, making Milwaukee slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Milwaukee vs Santa Maria — common questions

Is Milwaukee or Santa Maria cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Milwaukee is cheaper to live in with an index of 67 compared to 137 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Milwaukee and Santa Maria?

Median rent in Milwaukee is $1,033/month and in Santa Maria it's $1,842/month — a difference of $809/month.

Which city has higher income, Milwaukee or Santa Maria?

Median household income is $51,888 in Milwaukee and $84,617 in Santa Maria. Median household income is $32,729/year higher in Santa Maria.

How do taxes compare between Wisconsin and California?

Wisconsin has 7.65% income tax, 5.0% sales tax, and 1.61% property tax. California has 13.3% income tax, 7.25% sales tax, and 0.71% property tax.

Should I move to Milwaukee or Santa Maria?

It depends on your priorities. Milwaukee has a cost index of 67 with median rent of $1,033/mo, while Santa Maria has a cost index of 137 with rent of $1,842/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Milwaukee, WI vs Santa Maria, CA (2026)

Milwaukee

Santa Maria

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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