Is Boston or Milwaukee more affordable?
Boston has a median rent of $1,783/month, while Milwaukee is $900/month. Milwaukee is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Boston, MA vs Milwaukee, WI
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Boston and Milwaukee.
2
Boston wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
3
Milwaukee wins
MA
Boston
vs
WI
Milwaukee
Overview
672,814
Population
577,222
$81,744✓
Median Income
-44.7%$45,191
Cost of Living
$1,783
Median Rent / mo
-49.5%$900✓
$610,400
Median Home Price
-73.0%$165,000✓
26%
Rent-to-Income %
24%
Taxes
5.00%✓
State Income Tax
7.65%
0.00%
Local Tax Rate
5.50%
Climate & Weather
45.41°F
Avg High Temp
55°F
42.48°F
Avg Low Temp
37°F
N/A
Sunny Days / Year
188 days✓
N/A
Annual Rainfall
35"
Who should choose
Boston, MA
Boston is a city in Massachusetts with a population of 672,814.
Read full Boston guide →Who should choose
Milwaukee, WI
Milwaukee is a city in Wisconsin with a population of 577,222.
Read full Milwaukee guide →Boston vs Milwaukee — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Boston or Milwaukee?
Massachusetts has a 5.00% state income tax. Wisconsin has a 7.65% state income tax. Boston wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Boston and Milwaukee?
Milwaukee gets 188 sunny days/year. Avg high in Boston: 45.41°F. Avg high in Milwaukee: 55°F
Which city is better for families — Boston or Milwaukee?
Boston. Milwaukee. The right choice depends on your priorities — income, affordability, taxes, and climate all play a role.
More city comparisons
Data sourced from U.S. Census Bureau, Bureau of Labor Statistics, and NOAA. Green values indicate a better outcome for that metric.