Phoenix, AZ vs Milwaukee, WI: 109 vs 67

$1,458/mo ↑ 41%

Median Rent

$1,033/mo ↓ 29%

$77,041/yr ↑ 48%

Median Income

$51,888/yr ↓ 33%

$381,900 ↑ 122%

Home Value

$172,000 ↓ 55%

$1,430/mo ↑ 32%

Owner Costs

$1,082/mo ↓ 24%

1,624,832

Population

569,756

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Phoenix, AZ and Milwaukee, WI, the overall cost of living indices are 109 and 67 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $425/month cheaper in Milwaukee, saving renters about $5,100/year.

Median household income is $25,153/year higher in Phoenix. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Phoenix is $381,900 compared to $172,000 in Milwaukee.

Arizona has a lower income tax rate, making Phoenix slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Phoenix vs Milwaukee — common questions

Is Phoenix or Milwaukee cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Milwaukee is cheaper to live in with an index of 67 compared to 109 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Phoenix and Milwaukee?

Median rent in Phoenix is $1,458/month and in Milwaukee it's $1,033/month — a difference of $425/month.

Which city has higher income, Phoenix or Milwaukee?

Median household income is $77,041 in Phoenix and $51,888 in Milwaukee. Median household income is $25,153/year higher in Phoenix.

How do taxes compare between Arizona and Wisconsin?

Arizona has 2.5% income tax, 5.6% sales tax, and 0.62% property tax. Wisconsin has 7.65% income tax, 5.0% sales tax, and 1.61% property tax.

Should I move to Phoenix or Milwaukee?

It depends on your priorities. Phoenix has a cost index of 109 with median rent of $1,458/mo, while Milwaukee has a cost index of 67 with rent of $1,033/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Phoenix, AZ vs Milwaukee, WI (2026)

Phoenix

Milwaukee

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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