Cost of Living: Milwaukee, WI vs Scottsdale, AZ (2026)

Milwaukee

Wisconsin
67
VS

Scottsdale

Arizona
165

Milwaukee is 59% cheaper than Scottsdale.

$1,033/mo ↓ 46%
Median Rent
$1,910/mo ↑ 85%
$51,888/yr ↓ 52%
Median Income
$107,372/yr ↑ 107%
$172,000 ↓ 76%
Home Value
$709,900 ↑ 313%
$1,082/mo ↓ 41%
Owner Costs
$1,824/mo ↑ 69%
569,756
Population
242,169

Tax Comparison

7.65%
Income Tax
2.5%
5.0%
State Sales Tax
5.6%
1.61%
Property Tax
0.62%

Affordability

23.9%
rent-to-income
Affordability
21.3%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Milwaukee, WI and Scottsdale, AZ, the overall cost of living indices are 67 and 165 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $877/month cheaper in Milwaukee, saving renters about $10,524/year.

Median household income is $55,484/year higher in Scottsdale. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Milwaukee is $172,000 compared to $709,900 in Scottsdale.

Arizona has a lower income tax rate, making Scottsdale slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Milwaukee vs Scottsdale — common questions

Is Milwaukee or Scottsdale cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Milwaukee is cheaper to live in with an index of 67 compared to 165 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Milwaukee and Scottsdale?
Median rent in Milwaukee is $1,033/month and in Scottsdale it's $1,910/month — a difference of $877/month.
Which city has higher income, Milwaukee or Scottsdale?
Median household income is $51,888 in Milwaukee and $107,372 in Scottsdale. Median household income is $55,484/year higher in Scottsdale.
How do taxes compare between Wisconsin and Arizona?
Wisconsin has 7.65% income tax, 5.0% sales tax, and 1.61% property tax. Arizona has 2.5% income tax, 5.6% sales tax, and 0.62% property tax.
Should I move to Milwaukee or Scottsdale?
It depends on your priorities. Milwaukee has a cost index of 67 with median rent of $1,033/mo, while Scottsdale has a cost index of 165 with rent of $1,910/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
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