Is Milwaukee or Phoenix more affordable?
Milwaukee has a median rent of $900/month, while Phoenix is $1,650/month. Milwaukee is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Milwaukee, WI vs Phoenix, AZ
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Milwaukee and Phoenix.
2
Milwaukee wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
3
Phoenix wins
WI
Milwaukee
vs
AZ
Phoenix
Overview
577,222
Population
1,608,139
$45,191
Median Income
+37.2%$62,000✓
Cost of Living
$900✓
Median Rent / mo
+83.3%$1,650
$165,000✓
Median Home Price
+154.5%$420,000
24%
Rent-to-Income %
32%
Taxes
7.65%
State Income Tax
2.50%✓
5.50%
Local Tax Rate
8.60%
Climate & Weather
55°F
Avg High Temp
86°F
37°F
Avg Low Temp
63°F
188 days
Sunny Days / Year
299 days✓
35"
Annual Rainfall
8"
Who should choose
Milwaukee, WI
Milwaukee is a city in Wisconsin with a population of 577,222.
Read full Milwaukee guide →Who should choose
Phoenix, AZ
Phoenix is a city in Arizona with a population of 1,608,139.
Read full Phoenix guide →Milwaukee vs Phoenix — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Milwaukee or Phoenix?
Wisconsin has a 7.65% state income tax. Arizona has a 2.50% state income tax. Phoenix wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Milwaukee and Phoenix?
Milwaukee gets 188 sunny days/year. Phoenix gets 299 sunny days/year. Avg high in Milwaukee: 55°F. Avg high in Phoenix: 86°F
Which city is better for families — Milwaukee or Phoenix?
Milwaukee. Phoenix. 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.