Is Madison more expensive than Milwaukee?

Madison is 17.9% more expensive than Milwaukee overall. Rent is 21.7% higher, groceries 5.5% more expensive, and restaurants 4.0% more expensive.

Which city has better purchasing power, Milwaukee or Madison?

Milwaukee has a purchasing power index of 136.3 while Madison has 143.4 (NYC = 100). Madison offers better purchasing power.

Milwaukee vs Madison: Madison is 17.9% more expensive, rent 22% higher (2026)

Category	🇺🇸 Milwaukee	🇺🇸 Madison	Difference
Cost of Living	49.7	58.6	+17.9%
Rent	34.5	42.0	+21.7%
Groceries	74.4	78.5	+5.5%
Restaurants	73.1	76.0	+4.0%
Purchasing Power	136.3	143.4	+5.2%

Data from March – October 2026 · Cost of living: Numbeo, blended with Expatistan and LivingCost where available. Rent, groceries, restaurants and purchasing power: Numbeo (NYC = 100) · Indices reflect relative costs; absolute prices vary by neighbourhood.

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🇺🇸 Cost of Living in Milwaukee

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🇺🇸 Cost of Living in Madison

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🇺🇸 Should I Move to Milwaukee?

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🇺🇸 Should I Move to Madison?

🇺🇸 Milwaukee vs 🇺🇸 Madison

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