Is Columbus or Milwaukee more affordable?
Columbus has a median rent of $1,050/month, while Milwaukee is $900/month. Milwaukee is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Columbus, OH vs Milwaukee, WI
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Columbus and Milwaukee.
2
Columbus wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
3
Milwaukee wins
OH
Columbus
vs
WI
Milwaukee
Overview
905,748
Population
577,222
$53,373✓
Median Income
-15.3%$45,191
Cost of Living
$1,050
Median Rent / mo
-14.3%$900✓
$240,000
Median Home Price
-31.3%$165,000✓
24%
Rent-to-Income %
24%
Taxes
3.99%✓
State Income Tax
7.65%
7.50%
Local Tax Rate
5.50%
Climate & Weather
62°F
Avg High Temp
55°F
42°F
Avg Low Temp
37°F
178 days
Sunny Days / Year
188 days✓
39"
Annual Rainfall
35"
Who should choose
Columbus, OH
Columbus is a city in Ohio with a population of 905,748.
Read full Columbus guide →Who should choose
Milwaukee, WI
Milwaukee is a city in Wisconsin with a population of 577,222.
Read full Milwaukee guide →Columbus vs Milwaukee — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Columbus or Milwaukee?
Ohio has a 3.99% state income tax. Wisconsin has a 7.65% state income tax. Columbus wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Columbus and Milwaukee?
Columbus gets 178 sunny days/year. Milwaukee gets 188 sunny days/year. Avg high in Columbus: 62°F. Avg high in Milwaukee: 55°F
Which city is better for families — Columbus or Milwaukee?
Columbus. 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.