Milwaukee, WI vs Worcester, MA: 67 vs 104

$1,033/mo ↓ 27%

Median Rent

$1,415/mo ↑ 37%

$51,888/yr ↓ 23%

Median Income

$67,544/yr ↑ 30%

$172,000 ↓ 49%

Home Value

$339,500 ↑ 97%

$1,082/mo ↓ 29%

Owner Costs

$1,521/mo ↑ 41%

569,756

Population

205,501

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Milwaukee, WI and Worcester, MA, the overall cost of living indices are 67 and 104 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $382/month cheaper in Milwaukee, saving renters about $4,584/year.

Median household income is $15,656/year higher in Worcester. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Milwaukee is $172,000 compared to $339,500 in Worcester.

Wisconsin has a lower income tax rate, making Milwaukee slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Milwaukee vs Worcester — common questions

Is Milwaukee or Worcester cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Milwaukee is cheaper to live in with an index of 67 compared to 104 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Milwaukee and Worcester?

Median rent in Milwaukee is $1,033/month and in Worcester it's $1,415/month — a difference of $382/month.

Which city has higher income, Milwaukee or Worcester?

Median household income is $51,888 in Milwaukee and $67,544 in Worcester. Median household income is $15,656/year higher in Worcester.

How do taxes compare between Wisconsin and Massachusetts?

Wisconsin has 7.65% income tax, 5.0% sales tax, and 1.61% property tax. Massachusetts has 9.0% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 1.15% property tax.

Should I move to Milwaukee or Worcester?

It depends on your priorities. Milwaukee has a cost index of 67 with median rent of $1,033/mo, while Worcester has a cost index of 104 with rent of $1,415/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Milwaukee, WI vs Worcester, MA (2026)

Milwaukee

Worcester

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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