salaryAbout the sameBased on official 2024 price levels from the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis.
I need in Milwaukee to live the same way.
🏠 Rent per month
$1,723
$1,284
🛏️ 2-bedroom rent
$1,628
$1,170
💵 Families earn per year
$84,177
$58,491
🔑 Buying a house
$372,900
$184,000
📊 Overall prices (U.S. = 100)
97.3
96.9
🏛️ Property tax per year
$6,541
$3,668
⚡ Electric bill per month
$120
$156
👥 People living there
278,001
566,973
Commute to work
19.4 min
22.4 min
College degree
59.9%
27.4%
Own their home
46%
41.8%
Below poverty line
16.4%
22.8%
Unemployment
2.7%
6.2%
Bottom line
- Pick Madison for higher incomes, shorter commutes, a more educated workforce and 2 more.
- Pick Milwaukee for lower rent, cheaper 2-bedroom apartments, cheaper homes.
Pay for the same job
| Job | Madison | Milwaukee | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cashier | $34,550 | $30,400 | -12% in Milwaukee |
| Firefighter | $56,430 | $49,760 | -12% in Milwaukee |
| Market Research Analyst | $67,990 | $73,880 | +9% in Milwaukee |
| Lawyer | $124,130 | $131,100 | +6% in Milwaukee |
| Software Developer | $130,630 | $123,730 | -5% in Milwaukee |
| Retail Salesperson | $35,830 | $34,410 | -4% in Milwaukee |
| Registered Nurse | $101,190 | $97,360 | -4% in Milwaukee |
| Elementary School Teacher | $63,690 | $61,480 | -3% in Milwaukee |
Frequently asked questions
Is Madison or Milwaukee cheaper to live in?
Madison and Milwaukee cost about the same once rent and everyday costs are combined.
What salary do I need in Milwaukee to match $60,000 in Madison?
About $59,784 a year gives the same standard of living in Milwaukee.
Where do people earn more, Madison or Milwaukee?
The typical household earns $84,177 in Madison and $58,491 in Milwaukee, 44% more in Madison.