Is Milwaukee more expensive than Madison?

Milwaukee is 3.2% cheaper than Madison overall. Rent is 12.9% lower, groceries 5.9% cheaper, and restaurants 2.5% more expensive.

Which city has better purchasing power, Madison or Milwaukee?

Madison has a purchasing power index of 152.0 while Milwaukee has 146.5 (NYC = 100). Madison offers better purchasing power.

Cost of Living Comparison · 2026

🇺🇸 Madison vs 🇺🇸 Milwaukee

2026

Milwaukee is 3.2% cheaper

Category	🇺🇸 Madison	🇺🇸 Milwaukee	Difference
Cost of Living	68.7	66.5	-3.2%
Rent	39.6	34.5	-12.9%
Groceries	78.2	73.6	-5.9%
Restaurants	67.0	68.7	+2.5%
Purchasing Power	152.0	146.5	-3.6%

Data verified Q1 2026 · Source: Numbeo cost-of-living indices (NYC = 100 baseline) · Indices reflect relative costs; absolute prices vary by neighbourhood.

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🇺🇸 Cost of Living in Madison

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