Is Detroit or Milwaukee more affordable?
Detroit has a median rent of $800/month, while Milwaukee is $900/month. Detroit is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Detroit, MI vs Milwaukee, WI
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Detroit and Milwaukee.
3
Detroit wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
2
Milwaukee wins
MI
Detroit
vs
WI
Milwaukee
Overview
672,662
Population
577,222
$33,381
Median Income
+35.4%$45,191✓
Cost of Living
$800✓
Median Rent / mo
+12.5%$900
$85,000✓
Median Home Price
+94.1%$165,000
29%
Rent-to-Income %
24%
Taxes
4.25%✓
State Income Tax
7.65%
6.00%
Local Tax Rate
5.50%
Climate & Weather
58°F
Avg High Temp
55°F
40°F
Avg Low Temp
37°F
183 days
Sunny Days / Year
188 days✓
34"
Annual Rainfall
35"
Who should choose
Detroit, MI
Detroit is a city in Michigan with a population of 672,662.
Read full Detroit guide →Who should choose
Milwaukee, WI
Milwaukee is a city in Wisconsin with a population of 577,222.
Read full Milwaukee guide →Detroit vs Milwaukee — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Detroit or Milwaukee?
Michigan has a 4.25% state income tax. Wisconsin has a 7.65% state income tax. Detroit wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Detroit and Milwaukee?
Detroit gets 183 sunny days/year. Milwaukee gets 188 sunny days/year. Avg high in Detroit: 58°F. Avg high in Milwaukee: 55°F
Which city is better for families — Detroit or Milwaukee?
Detroit. Milwaukee. The right choice depends on your priorities — income, affordability, taxes, and climate all play a role.
More city comparisons
Data sourced from U.S. Census Bureau, Bureau of Labor Statistics, and NOAA. Green values indicate a better outcome for that metric.