Is Milwaukee or Seattle more affordable?
Milwaukee has a median rent of $900/month, while Seattle is $1,801/month. Milwaukee is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Milwaukee, WI vs Seattle, WA
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Milwaukee and Seattle.
3
Milwaukee wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
2
Seattle wins
WI
Milwaukee
vs
WA
Seattle
Overview
577,222
Population
726,054
$45,191
Median Income
+133.2%$105,391✓
Cost of Living
$900✓
Median Rent / mo
+100.1%$1,801
$165,000✓
Median Home Price
+365.2%$767,500
24%
Rent-to-Income %
21%
Taxes
7.65%
State Income Tax
None✓
5.50%
Local Tax Rate
0.00%
Climate & Weather
55°F
Avg High Temp
49.82°F
37°F
Avg Low Temp
46.72°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
Seattle, WA
Seattle is a city in Washington with a population of 726,054.
Read full Seattle guide →Milwaukee vs Seattle — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Milwaukee or Seattle?
Wisconsin has a 7.65% state income tax. Washington has no state income tax. Seattle wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Milwaukee and Seattle?
Milwaukee gets 188 sunny days/year. Avg high in Milwaukee: 55°F. Avg high in Seattle: 49.82°F
Which city is better for families — Milwaukee or Seattle?
Milwaukee. Seattle. 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.