Cost of Living in Milwaukee County, Wisconsin
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Milwaukee County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Milwaukee County ranks #3,127 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 1%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Milwaukee County, Wisconsin
Milwaukee's rent burden exceeds national norms
Milwaukee County residents spend 20.6% of their income on rent, well above the national benchmark where housing should consume no more than 30% of income. However, Milwaukee's median household income of $62,118 trails the national median of $74,755 by nearly $13,000, making every housing dollar feel heavier.
Least affordable rentals in Wisconsin
Milwaukee County ranks among the least affordable counties in Wisconsin for renters, with a 20.6% rent-to-income ratio that significantly exceeds the state average of 14.9%. At $1,069 per month, median rent is $178 higher than Wisconsin's typical rent of $891.
Pricier than surrounding counties
Milwaukee County's $1,069 median rent substantially outpaces nearby Monroe County ($920) and Ozaukee County to the north ($1,112). Renters in Milwaukee pay roughly $150 more monthly than those in comparable Outagamie County ($998), adding up to nearly $1,800 annually.
Rent and ownership costs squeeze budgets
With median gross rent at $1,069 and median owner costs at $1,332 monthly, Milwaukee County households dedicate a substantial share to housing. The typical renter spends over $12,800 annually on housing alone, leaving less for savings, childcare, and other essentials.
Considering a move? Compare your options
If housing costs are straining your Milwaukee County budget, neighboring Oconto or Pepin counties offer significantly lower rents ($796 and $860 respectively) while maintaining similar median home values. Running the numbers before relocating could free up hundreds of dollars monthly for your family's priorities.
Cost of Living Advisory: Milwaukee County
Affordability Verdict
For renters in Milwaukee County, the market is affordable. Expect to pay around $1,069/month in gross rent, with 29.0% of renter households considered cost-burdened.
Rent vs. Own
Renters in Milwaukee County pay $1,069/month on average, compared to $1,332/month for homeowners. This market favors renters by about 20%.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $42,760/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $57,086/year. With a median household income of $62,118, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 29.0% of renter households in Milwaukee County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Milwaukee County sits 5% more expensive than Racine County ($1,017/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Milwaukee County
Rent Burden
20.7%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,449
per month
Owner Cost Burden
25.7%
of gross income
The median home in Milwaukee County may be a stretch
Median home value is $216,500. Estimated monthly cost: $1,728 vs. your max of $1,449.
Rent Affordability Guide
Income Needed Calculator
See how much you need to earn to comfortably afford housing
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Based on the 30% rule for rent and 28% rule for housing costs (mortgage + owner costs). Mortgage estimate assumes 20% down, 7.2% interest, 30-year fixed.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Counties with Similar Housing Costs
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See Today's RatesData: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey (ACS) 5-Year Estimates (2019-2023) — Informational only. Not financial or legal advice.
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