Moving from Montgomery to Milwaukee (2026)

Milwaukee has a COL index of 89 vs 81 for Montgomery (100 = US average). Expect to pay about 10% more for the same lifestyle.

Pay ~$469 more/mo
on rent + taxes ยท $75K salary baseline

Change cities

Key differences

COL index
81 โ†’ 89
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,050 โ†’ $1,350
per month
State tax
5% โ†’ 7.7%
income tax
COL difference
81 โ†’ 89
10% more expensive

Salary needed in Milwaukee to match your Montgomery lifestyle

Based on the 10% cost of living increase between the two cities.

Your salary in MontgomeryEquivalent in Milwaukee
$40K$43,951
$50K$54,938
$60K$65,926
$75K$82,407
$80K$87,901
$100K$109,877
$120K$131,852
$150K$164,815

๐Ÿ’ต Household income (before tax)

$75K
$
$30K$300K
Pay ~$356/mo moreon core expenses at $75K

Monthly budget at $75K โ€” Montgomery vs Milwaukee

ExpenseMontgomeryMilwaukee
Monthly take-home$4,428$4,259
1BR rent$1,050$1,350
Groceries$353$372
Transport$38$72
Utilities$170$168
Internet$58$63
Left after essentials$2,759$2,234

Frequently asked questions

Is Milwaukee cheaper than Montgomery?

No. Milwaukee has a cost of living index of 89 vs 81 for Montgomery (100 = US average). That's about 10% more expensive.

How much will I save moving from Montgomery to Milwaukee?

On a $75K salary, core expenses in Milwaukee run about $469/month more than Montgomery. Factor this into your salary negotiation when relocating.

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

To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Montgomery, you'd need roughly $82,407/year in Milwaukee. This is based on the overall COL index difference.

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