Cost of Living: Milwaukee, WI vs Tulsa, OK (2026)

Milwaukee

Wisconsin
67
VS

Tulsa

Oklahoma
67

Milwaukee and Tulsa have a similar cost of living.

$1,033/mo ↑ 4%
Median Rent
$998/mo ↓ 3%
$51,888/yr ↓ 11%
Median Income
$58,407/yr ↑ 13%
$172,000 ↓ 9%
Home Value
$189,600 ↑ 10%
$1,082/mo ↑ 5%
Owner Costs
$1,027/mo ↓ 5%
569,756
Population
412,322

Tax Comparison

7.65%
Income Tax
4.75%
5.0%
State Sales Tax
4.5%
1.61%
Property Tax
0.9%

Affordability

23.9%
rent-to-income
Affordability
20.5%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

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

Median household income is $6,519/year higher in Tulsa. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Milwaukee is $172,000 compared to $189,600 in Tulsa.

Oklahoma has a lower income tax rate, making Tulsa slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Milwaukee vs Tulsa — common questions

Is Milwaukee or Tulsa cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Tulsa is cheaper to live in with an index of 67 compared to 67 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Milwaukee and Tulsa?
Median rent in Milwaukee is $1,033/month and in Tulsa it's $998/month — a difference of $35/month.
Which city has higher income, Milwaukee or Tulsa?
Median household income is $51,888 in Milwaukee and $58,407 in Tulsa. Median household income is $6,519/year higher in Tulsa.
How do taxes compare between Wisconsin and Oklahoma?
Wisconsin has 7.65% income tax, 5.0% sales tax, and 1.61% property tax. Oklahoma has 4.75% income tax, 4.5% sales tax, and 0.9% property tax.
Should I move to Milwaukee or Tulsa?
It depends on your priorities. Milwaukee has a cost index of 67 with median rent of $1,033/mo, while Tulsa has a cost index of 67 with rent of $998/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
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