Moving from Long Beach to Milwaukee (2026)

Milwaukee has a COL index of 89 vs 148 for Long Beach (100 = US average). You'd pay about 40% less for the same lifestyle.

Save ~$1,101/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline

Key differences

COL index
14889
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$2,400$1,350
per month
State tax
9.3%7.7%
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,159$4,259
per month

Salary needed in Milwaukee to match your Long Beach lifestyle

Based on the 40% cost of living decrease between the two cities.

Your salary in Long BeachEquivalent in Milwaukee
$40K$24,054
$50K$30,068
$60K$36,081
$75K$45,101
$80K$48,108
$100K$60,135
$120K$72,162
$150K$90,203

Monthly budget at $75K — Long Beach vs Milwaukee

ExpenseLong BeachMilwaukee
Monthly take-home$4,159$4,259
1BR rent$2,400$1,350
Groceries$410$372
Transport$100$72
Utilities$148$168
Internet$68$63
Left after essentials$1,033$2,234

Frequently asked questions

Is Milwaukee cheaper than Long Beach?

Yes. Milwaukee has a cost of living index of 89 vs 148 for Long Beach (100 = US average). That's about 40% cheaper.

How much will I save moving from Long Beach to Milwaukee?

On a $75K salary, moving from Long Beach to Milwaukee could save roughly $1,101/month on core expenses. That's ~$13,212/year.

What salary do I need in Milwaukee to match my Long Beach lifestyle?

To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Long Beach, you'd need roughly $45,101/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