Milwaukee, WI vs Spokane, WA: 67 vs 90

$1,033/mo ↓ 9%

Median Rent

$1,141/mo ↑ 10%

$51,888/yr ↓ 21%

Median Income

$65,745/yr ↑ 27%

$172,000 ↓ 47%

Home Value

$326,200 ↑ 90%

$1,082/mo ↓ 11%

Owner Costs

$1,213/mo ↑ 12%

569,756

Population

229,228

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Milwaukee, WI and Spokane, WA, the overall cost of living indices are 67 and 90 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $108/month cheaper in Milwaukee, saving renters about $1,296/year.

Median household income is $13,857/year higher in Spokane. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Milwaukee is $172,000 compared to $326,200 in Spokane.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Milwaukee vs Spokane — common questions

Is Milwaukee or Spokane cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Milwaukee is cheaper to live in with an index of 67 compared to 90 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Milwaukee and Spokane?

Median rent in Milwaukee is $1,033/month and in Spokane it's $1,141/month — a difference of $108/month.

Which city has higher income, Milwaukee or Spokane?

Median household income is $51,888 in Milwaukee and $65,745 in Spokane. Median household income is $13,857/year higher in Spokane.

How do taxes compare between Wisconsin and Washington?

Wisconsin has 7.65% income tax, 5.0% sales tax, and 1.61% property tax. Washington has 0% income tax, 6.5% sales tax, and 0.92% property tax.

Should I move to Milwaukee or Spokane?

It depends on your priorities. Milwaukee has a cost index of 67 with median rent of $1,033/mo, while Spokane has a cost index of 90 with rent of $1,141/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Milwaukee, WI vs Spokane, WA (2026)

Milwaukee

Spokane

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

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