Moving from Fort Worth to Milwaukee (2026)

Milwaukee has a COL index of 89 vs 91 for Fort Worth (100 = US average). You'd pay about 2% less for the same lifestyle.

Save ~$38/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline

Key differences

COL index
9189
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,400$1,350
per month
State tax
None7.7%
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,741$4,259
per month

Salary needed in Milwaukee to match your Fort Worth lifestyle

Based on the 2% cost of living decrease between the two cities.

Your salary in Fort WorthEquivalent in Milwaukee
$40K$39,121
$50K$48,901
$60K$58,681
$75K$73,352
$80K$78,242
$100K$97,802
$120K$117,363
$150K$146,703

Monthly budget at $75K — Fort Worth vs Milwaukee

ExpenseFort WorthMilwaukee
Monthly take-home$4,741$4,259
1BR rent$1,400$1,350
Groceries$365$372
Transport$50$72
Utilities$180$168
Internet$68$63
Left after essentials$2,678$2,234

Frequently asked questions

Is Milwaukee cheaper than Fort Worth?

Yes. Milwaukee has a cost of living index of 89 vs 91 for Fort Worth (100 = US average). That's about 2% cheaper.

How much will I save moving from Fort Worth to Milwaukee?

On a $75K salary, moving from Fort Worth to Milwaukee could save roughly $38/month on core expenses. That's ~$456/year.

What salary do I need in Milwaukee to match my Fort Worth lifestyle?

To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Fort Worth, you'd need roughly $73,352/year in Milwaukee. This is based on the overall COL index difference between the two cities.

Estimates based on Q1 2026 COL index and market data. Budget uses simplified federal/state tax rates at $75K. Zillow · BLS · Numbeo · For general guidance only