Cost of Living Comparison · 2026

🇺🇸 Madison vs 🇺🇸 Milwaukee

2026

Milwaukee is 6.8% cheaper
Category 🇺🇸 Madison 🇺🇸 Milwaukee Difference
Cost of Living 72.4 67.5 -6.8%
Rent 42.2 35.2 -16.6%
Groceries 84.5 78.2 -7.5%
Restaurants 71.3 67.9 -4.8%
Purchasing Power 141.0 134.1 -4.9%
Data verified Q1 2026 · Source: Numbeo cost-of-living indices (NYC = 100 baseline) · Indices reflect relative costs; absolute prices vary by neighbourhood.

Add your salary for a personalized comparison

See exact tax differences, net income, and savings potential.

Explore
🇺🇸 Cost of Living in Madison
Explore
🇺🇸 Cost of Living in Milwaukee
Explore
🇺🇸 Should I Move to Madison?
Explore
🇺🇸 Should I Move to Milwaukee?