Is Milwaukee or Raleigh more affordable?
Milwaukee has a median rent of $900/month, while Raleigh is $1,450/month. Milwaukee is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Milwaukee, WI vs Raleigh, NC
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Milwaukee and Raleigh.
2
Milwaukee wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
3
Raleigh wins
WI
Milwaukee
vs
NC
Raleigh
Overview
577,222
Population
467,665
$45,191
Median Income
+60.6%$72,571✓
Cost of Living
$900✓
Median Rent / mo
+61.1%$1,450
$165,000✓
Median Home Price
+142.4%$400,000
24%
Rent-to-Income %
24%
Taxes
7.65%
State Income Tax
4.75%✓
5.50%
Local Tax Rate
7.25%
Climate & Weather
55°F
Avg High Temp
71°F
37°F
Avg Low Temp
50°F
188 days
Sunny Days / Year
213 days✓
35"
Annual Rainfall
46"
Who should choose
Milwaukee, WI
Milwaukee is a city in Wisconsin with a population of 577,222.
Read full Milwaukee guide →Who should choose
Raleigh, NC
Raleigh is a city in North Carolina with a population of 467,665.
Read full Raleigh guide →Milwaukee vs Raleigh — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Milwaukee or Raleigh?
Wisconsin has a 7.65% state income tax. North Carolina has a 4.75% state income tax. Raleigh wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Milwaukee and Raleigh?
Milwaukee gets 188 sunny days/year. Raleigh gets 213 sunny days/year. Avg high in Milwaukee: 55°F. Avg high in Raleigh: 71°F
Which city is better for families — Milwaukee or Raleigh?
Milwaukee. Raleigh. 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.