Moving from Milwaukee to Louisville (2026)

Louisville has a COL index of 88 vs 89 for Milwaukee (100 = US average). You'd pay about 1% less for the same lifestyle.

Save ~$82/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline

Key differences

COL index
8988
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,350$1,300
per month
State tax
7.7%4%
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,259$4,491
per month

Salary needed in Louisville to match your Milwaukee lifestyle

Based on the 1% cost of living decrease between the two cities.

Your salary in MilwaukeeEquivalent in Louisville
$40K$39,551
$50K$49,438
$60K$59,326
$75K$74,157
$80K$79,101
$100K$98,876
$120K$118,652
$150K$148,315

Monthly budget at $75K — Milwaukee vs Louisville

ExpenseMilwaukeeLouisville
Monthly take-home$4,259$4,491
1BR rent$1,350$1,300
Groceries$372$361
Transport$72$60
Utilities$168$162
Internet$63$60
Left after essentials$2,234$2,548

Frequently asked questions

Is Louisville cheaper than Milwaukee?

Yes. Louisville has a cost of living index of 88 vs 89 for Milwaukee (100 = US average). That's about 1% cheaper.

How much will I save moving from Milwaukee to Louisville?

On a $75K salary, moving from Milwaukee to Louisville could save roughly $82/month on core expenses. That's ~$984/year.

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

To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Milwaukee, you'd need roughly $74,157/year in Louisville. 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