Last updated 2026-06-12 ยท MovePlan Editorial Team
Below the national average, with cheap rent and lake views as the trade-off for hard winters.
Cost of living index (US avg = 100): 95
Median 2BR rent: $1,400/mo
Housing: 88 vs 100
Groceries: 97 vs 100
Utilities: 105 vs 100
Transportation: 97 vs 100
Healthcare: 96 vs 100
Milwaukee offers Lake Michigan views, a strong beer and food culture, and affordable rent. Brutal winters are the main downside, not the cost of living.