Moving from San Antonio to Milwaukee (2026)

Milwaukee has a COL index of 89 vs 87 for San Antonio (100 = US average). Expect to pay about 2% more for the same lifestyle.

Pay ~$731 more/mo
on rent + taxes ยท $75K salary baseline

Change cities

Key differences

COL index
87 โ†’ 89
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,100 โ†’ $1,350
per month
State tax
None โ†’ 7.7%
income tax
COL difference
87 โ†’ 89
2% more expensive

Salary needed in Milwaukee to match your San Antonio lifestyle

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

Your salary in San AntonioEquivalent in Milwaukee
$40K$40,920
$50K$51,149
$60K$61,379
$75K$76,724
$80K$81,839
$100K$102,299
$120K$122,759
$150K$153,448

๐Ÿ’ต Household income (before tax)

$75K
$
$30K$300K
Pay ~$289/mo moreon core expenses at $75K

Monthly budget at $75K โ€” San Antonio vs Milwaukee

ExpenseSan AntonioMilwaukee
Monthly take-home$4,741$4,259
1BR rent$1,100$1,350
Groceries$353$372
Transport$48$72
Utilities$175$168
Internet$60$63
Left after essentials$3,005$2,234

Frequently asked questions

Is Milwaukee cheaper than San Antonio?

No. Milwaukee has a cost of living index of 89 vs 87 for San Antonio (100 = US average). That's about 2% more expensive.

How much will I save moving from San Antonio to Milwaukee?

On a $75K salary, core expenses in Milwaukee run about $731/month more than San Antonio. Factor this into your salary negotiation when relocating.

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

To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in San Antonio, you'd need roughly $76,724/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