Cost of Living in Milwaukee

Milwaukee might not be the first city that pops into your head when thinking about affordability, but it really should be.

Set along the shores of Lake Michigan, this Wisconsin gem has been quietly gaining attention, not just for its craft breweries and lakefront festivals, but also for its livability. If you're thinking about relocating, understanding the cost of living in Milwaukee is essential.

From rent prices to grocery bills and everything in between, this guide will give you a clear picture of what it really costs to live in Milwaukee. Let’s dig in.

If you’re coming from a city like Chicago or Minneapolis, Milwaukee’s housing market might feel like a breath of fresh air. The city offers a range of housing options, from charming historic homes to modern downtown apartments.

• Average Rent Prices: Rent is one of the more affordable aspects of the cost of living in Milwaukee. As of 2025, a one-bedroom apartment in the city center runs around $1,200 a month. Outside the downtown area, that can drop closer to $950.

• Home Prices: Planning to buy? The median home price is around $240,000. That’s well below the national average, making Milwaukee a desirable spot for first-time buyers and investors alike.

Of course, prices vary depending on the neighborhood. Bay View and the East Side are popular (and pricier), while Riverwest and Layton Park offer more budget-friendly options.

Utilities are a solid middle ground in Milwaukee, not too cheap, not too outrageous. A typical monthly bill for electricity, heating, cooling, water, and garbage for an 850-square-foot apartment is about $180.

If you’re a remote worker or streamer, you’ll be happy to know that the internet in Milwaukee is fast and affordable. A standard broadband plan will cost about $60–$75 per month.

Milwaukee isn’t New York City, you’ll likely need a car. Public transportation is available, but most residents find it more convenient to drive.

• Gas Prices: Hover around the national average, currently about $3.40 per gallon.

• Bus Passes: A monthly MCTS (Milwaukee County Transit System) pass is around $72. Not bad if you're living and working in the city.

• Parking: In most neighborhoods, parking is plentiful and cheap. Downtown is a bit trickier, with monthly parking garages charging between $100 and $150.

Milwaukee is also one of the more bike-friendly cities in the Midwest. If you live near the Lakefront or in a neighborhood like Walker’s Point, cycling is a great and cost-effective way to get around.

Food prices in Milwaukee are fairly close to the national average. You’ll save money by cooking at home, but there’s no shortage of tasty dining options if you want to eat out.

Here’s a basic breakdown of average grocery costs:

• A gallon of milk: $3.50

• A loaf of bread: $2.60

• A dozen eggs: $3.20

• Chicken (1 lb): $4.50

• Apples (1 lb): $1.80

Eating out? A mid-range restaurant meal for two typically runs $55–$70. You’ll find everything from Polish pierogies to high-end sushi, and yes, the cheese curds are as good as they say.

The cost of healthcare is an important part of understanding the cost of living in Milwaukee. Fortunately, healthcare in Milwaukee is more affordable than in many U.S. metro areas.

• A routine doctor’s visit: $110–$130 without insurance.

• Dental check-up: Around $95.

• Health insurance: Employer-sponsored plans are common, but private plans average $350 per month per person.

Major hospitals like Aurora Health Care and Froedtert Hospital offer high-quality care, and the competition helps keep pricing in check.

For families considering Milwaukee, childcare and schooling are a big part of the equation. Childcare isn’t cheap here, but it’s still below the rates you’ll find in cities like San Francisco or Boston.

• Full-time daycare: Around $1,200/month per child.

• Preschool programs: Typically $800–$1,000/month.

• Private school tuition: Varies widely, from $4,000 to $20,000 annually.

On the bright side, Milwaukee has public school options and charter schools with strong reputations, especially in neighborhoods like Wauwatosa and Whitefish Bay.

Wisconsin isn’t known for being a tax haven. Here's how taxes factor into the cost of living in Milwaukee:

• State Income Tax: Ranges from 3.5% to 7.65%.

• Sales Tax: 5.5% in Milwaukee County.

• Property Tax: Higher than average, expect to pay around 2% of your home's value annually.

While these rates might seem steep, the lower cost of housing balances things out for many residents.

One of the best parts about living in Milwaukee? You don’t need a huge budget to have a good time. The city has an impressive amount of free and low-cost events.

• Summerfest: The world’s largest music festival, tickets are just $25 a day.

• Milwaukee Art Museum: Entry is $22, and free on the first Thursday of every month.

• Lakefront Activities: Beaches, parks, and trails are all free to enjoy.

A gym membership costs around $45/month, and movie tickets are about $13. Brewer games at American Family Field are a great deal compared to other MLB teams.

Let’s get some perspective. How does the cost of living in Milwaukee stack up?

• Versus Chicago: Milwaukee is around 20–25% cheaper, particularly in housing.

• Versus Minneapolis: Slightly cheaper in most categories, though healthcare costs are comparable.

• Versus New York or LA: No contest, Milwaukee wins big in affordability.

In short, if you're looking for a city with a metropolitan feel but a lower price tag, Milwaukee delivers.

If you’re preparing to make the jump, budgeting accurately is crucial. Here’s a simple monthly cost estimate for a single person living in Milwaukee:

• Rent (1-bedroom): $1,100

• Utilities: $180

• Internet: $70

• Groceries: $300

• Transportation: $150

• Entertainment: $150

• Miscellaneous: $150

Total: ~$2,100/month

For a family of four, the average monthly costs (excluding rent) come to around $4,200.

Like any city, Milwaukee has a few surprise expenses:

• Snow Removal: Winters can be brutal. If you own property, you may need to pay for snow removal services.

• Heating Bills: Expect higher gas bills during the coldest months (January and February).

• Parking Permits: Some neighborhoods require street parking permits, though they’re relatively inexpensive.

Planning ahead can help you avoid budget busters during the year.

If you're ready to make Milwaukee your home, it's worth teaming up with professionals who know the area inside and out. From navigating neighborhoods to managing a smooth move, local experts make all the difference.

We recommend working with movers in Milwaukee WI, who understand the ins and outs of relocating to the Cream City.

Whether you're moving across the street or the state, our professional team makes the process smooth and stress-free.

With a growing reputation in the Milwaukee area, we continue to be a go-to choice for anyone seeking reliability and peace of mind during their move.

So, what’s the final verdict on the cost of living in Milwaukee?

Compared to many U.S. cities, Milwaukee offers a rare combination of affordability, livability, and culture. Whether you're starting a new job, moving your family, or seeking a more budget-friendly lifestyle, Milwaukee should absolutely be on your radar.

It’s a city that lets you live well, without spending a fortune to do it.