Cost of Living: Milwaukee, WI vs Tuscaloosa, AL (2026)

Milwaukee

Wisconsin
67
VS

Tuscaloosa

Alabama
73

Milwaukee is 8% cheaper than Tuscaloosa.

$1,033/mo ↑ 3%
Median Rent
$1,005/mo ↓ 3%
$51,888/yr ↑ 7%
Median Income
$48,536/yr ↓ 6%
$172,000 ↓ 27%
Home Value
$236,600 ↑ 38%
$1,082/mo ↑ 4%
Owner Costs
$1,038/mo ↓ 4%
569,756
Population
107,699

Tax Comparison

7.65%
Income Tax
5.0%
5.0%
State Sales Tax
4.0%
1.61%
Property Tax
0.41%

Affordability

23.9%
rent-to-income
Affordability
24.8%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Milwaukee, WI and Tuscaloosa, AL, the overall cost of living indices are 67 and 73 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is comparable in both cities, with less than $50/month separating them.

Median household income is $3,352/year higher in Milwaukee. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Milwaukee is $172,000 compared to $236,600 in Tuscaloosa.

Alabama has a lower income tax rate, making Tuscaloosa slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Milwaukee vs Tuscaloosa — common questions

Is Milwaukee or Tuscaloosa cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Milwaukee is cheaper to live in with an index of 67 compared to 73 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Milwaukee and Tuscaloosa?
Median rent in Milwaukee is $1,033/month and in Tuscaloosa it's $1,005/month — a difference of $28/month.
Which city has higher income, Milwaukee or Tuscaloosa?
Median household income is $51,888 in Milwaukee and $48,536 in Tuscaloosa. Median household income is $3,352/year higher in Milwaukee.
How do taxes compare between Wisconsin and Alabama?
Wisconsin has 7.65% income tax, 5.0% sales tax, and 1.61% property tax. Alabama has 5.0% income tax, 4.0% sales tax, and 0.41% property tax.
Should I move to Milwaukee or Tuscaloosa?
It depends on your priorities. Milwaukee has a cost index of 67 with median rent of $1,033/mo, while Tuscaloosa has a cost index of 73 with rent of $1,005/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Milwaukee details → View Tuscaloosa details →

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