Is Milwaukee or San Diego more affordable?
Milwaukee has a median rent of $900/month, while San Diego is $2,100/month. Milwaukee is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Milwaukee, WI vs San Diego, CA
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Milwaukee and San Diego.
3
Milwaukee wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
2
San Diego wins
WI
Milwaukee
vs
CA
San Diego
Overview
577,222
Population
1,386,932
$45,191
Median Income
+76.3%$79,685✓
Cost of Living
$900✓
Median Rent / mo
+133.3%$2,100
$165,000✓
Median Home Price
+372.7%$780,000
24%
Rent-to-Income %
32%
Taxes
7.65%✓
State Income Tax
9.30%
5.50%
Local Tax Rate
7.75%
Climate & Weather
55°F
Avg High Temp
70°F
37°F
Avg Low Temp
55°F
188 days
Sunny Days / Year
266 days✓
35"
Annual Rainfall
12"
Who should choose
Milwaukee, WI
Milwaukee is a city in Wisconsin with a population of 577,222.
Read full Milwaukee guide →Who should choose
San Diego, CA
San Diego is a city in California with a population of 1,386,932.
Read full San Diego guide →Milwaukee vs San Diego — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Milwaukee or San Diego?
Wisconsin has a 7.65% state income tax. California has a 9.30% state income tax. Milwaukee wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Milwaukee and San Diego?
Milwaukee gets 188 sunny days/year. San Diego gets 266 sunny days/year. Avg high in Milwaukee: 55°F. Avg high in San Diego: 70°F
Which city is better for families — Milwaukee or San Diego?
Milwaukee. San Diego. 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.