Is Milwaukee or Philadelphia more affordable?
Milwaukee has a median rent of $900/month, while Philadelphia is $1,100/month. Milwaukee is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Milwaukee, WI vs Philadelphia, PA
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Milwaukee and Philadelphia.
2
Milwaukee wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
3
Philadelphia wins
WI
Milwaukee
vs
PA
Philadelphia
Overview
577,222
Population
1,603,797
$45,191
Median Income
+8.7%$49,127✓
Cost of Living
$900✓
Median Rent / mo
+22.2%$1,100
$165,000✓
Median Home Price
+27.3%$210,000
24%
Rent-to-Income %
27%
Taxes
7.65%
State Income Tax
3.07%✓
5.50%
Local Tax Rate
8.00%
Climate & Weather
55°F
Avg High Temp
63°F
37°F
Avg Low Temp
44°F
188 days
Sunny Days / Year
208 days✓
35"
Annual Rainfall
42"
Who should choose
Milwaukee, WI
Milwaukee is a city in Wisconsin with a population of 577,222.
Read full Milwaukee guide →Who should choose
Philadelphia, PA
Philadelphia is a city in Pennsylvania with a population of 1,603,797.
Read full Philadelphia guide →Milwaukee vs Philadelphia — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Milwaukee or Philadelphia?
Wisconsin has a 7.65% state income tax. Pennsylvania has a 3.07% state income tax. Philadelphia wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Milwaukee and Philadelphia?
Milwaukee gets 188 sunny days/year. Philadelphia gets 208 sunny days/year. Avg high in Milwaukee: 55°F. Avg high in Philadelphia: 63°F
Which city is better for families — Milwaukee or Philadelphia?
Milwaukee. Philadelphia. 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.