Is Milwaukee or Chicago more affordable?
Milwaukee has a median rent of $900/month, while Chicago is $1,209/month. Milwaukee is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Milwaukee, WI vs Chicago, IL
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Milwaukee and Chicago.
3
Milwaukee wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
2
Chicago wins
WI
Milwaukee
vs
IL
Chicago
Overview
577,222
Population
2,742,119
$45,191
Median Income
+45.6%$65,781✓
Cost of Living
$900✓
Median Rent / mo
+34.3%$1,209
$165,000✓
Median Home Price
+68.2%$277,600
24%
Rent-to-Income %
22%
Taxes
7.65%
State Income Tax
4.95%✓
5.50%
Local Tax Rate
0.00%
Climate & Weather
55°F
Avg High Temp
54.12°F
37°F
Avg Low Temp
49.03°F
188 days✓
Sunny Days / Year
N/A
35"
Annual Rainfall
N/A
Who should choose
Milwaukee, WI
Milwaukee is a city in Wisconsin with a population of 577,222.
Read full Milwaukee guide →Who should choose
Chicago, IL
Chicago is a city in Illinois with a population of 2,742,119.
Read full Chicago guide →Milwaukee vs Chicago — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Milwaukee or Chicago?
Wisconsin has a 7.65% state income tax. Illinois has a 4.95% state income tax. Chicago wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Milwaukee and Chicago?
Milwaukee gets 188 sunny days/year. Avg high in Milwaukee: 55°F. Avg high in Chicago: 54.12°F
Which city is better for families — Milwaukee or Chicago?
Milwaukee. Chicago. 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.