Cost of Living: Milwaukee, WI vs Sioux Falls, SD (2026)

Milwaukee

Wisconsin
67
VS

Sioux Falls

South Dakota
78

Milwaukee is 14% cheaper than Sioux Falls.

$1,033/mo ↑ 4%
Median Rent
$993/mo ↓ 4%
$51,888/yr ↓ 31%
Median Income
$74,714/yr ↑ 44%
$172,000 ↓ 37%
Home Value
$271,400 ↑ 58%
$1,082/mo ↓ 4%
Owner Costs
$1,122/mo ↑ 4%
569,756
Population
197,642

Tax Comparison

7.65%
Income Tax
0%
5.0%
State Sales Tax
4.2%
1.61%
Property Tax
1.28%

Affordability

23.9%
rent-to-income
Affordability
15.9%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Milwaukee, WI and Sioux Falls, SD, the overall cost of living indices are 67 and 78 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is comparable in both cities, with less than $50/month separating them.

Median household income is $22,826/year higher in Sioux Falls. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Milwaukee is $172,000 compared to $271,400 in Sioux Falls.

South Dakota has no state income tax, giving Sioux Falls residents a significant tax advantage over Wisconsin's 7.65% rate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Milwaukee vs Sioux Falls — common questions

Is Milwaukee or Sioux Falls cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Milwaukee is cheaper to live in with an index of 67 compared to 78 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Milwaukee and Sioux Falls?
Median rent in Milwaukee is $1,033/month and in Sioux Falls it's $993/month — a difference of $40/month.
Which city has higher income, Milwaukee or Sioux Falls?
Median household income is $51,888 in Milwaukee and $74,714 in Sioux Falls. Median household income is $22,826/year higher in Sioux Falls.
How do taxes compare between Wisconsin and South Dakota?
Wisconsin has 7.65% income tax, 5.0% sales tax, and 1.61% property tax. South Dakota has 0% income tax, 4.2% sales tax, and 1.28% property tax.
Should I move to Milwaukee or Sioux Falls?
It depends on your priorities. Milwaukee has a cost index of 67 with median rent of $1,033/mo, while Sioux Falls has a cost index of 78 with rent of $993/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Milwaukee details → View Sioux Falls details →

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