Cost of Living in Milwaukee, WI
Population: 569,756 • 2026 Data
$51,888
Median Household Income
-33% vs national
$1,033
Median Monthly Rent
-23% vs national
$172,000
Median Home Value
-49% vs national
5.9%
Unemployment Rate
Housing in Milwaukee
The median home value in Milwaukee, WI is $172,000. Monthly rent for a typical unit averages $1,033, while total monthly housing costs (including utilities and insurance) average $1,082.
Rent-to-income ratio: 23.9%. This is within the recommended 30% threshold, suggesting housing is relatively affordable for median-income earners.
Income and Employment
The median household income in Milwaukee, WI is $51,888. The unemployment rate stands at 5.9%, with a labor force of 281,280 people.
Data Sources
All data from the US Census Bureau American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates. National median figures used for comparison context.