Is Milwaukee or San Francisco more affordable?
Milwaukee has a median rent of $900/month, while San Francisco is $2,130/month. Milwaukee is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Milwaukee, WI vs San Francisco, CA
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Milwaukee and San Francisco.
4
Milwaukee wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
1
San Francisco wins
WI
Milwaukee
vs
CA
San Francisco
Overview
577,222
Population
865,933
$45,191
Median Income
+179.2%$126,187✓
Cost of Living
$900✓
Median Rent / mo
+136.7%$2,130
$165,000✓
Median Home Price
+623.9%$1,194,500
24%
Rent-to-Income %
20%
Taxes
7.65%✓
State Income Tax
13.30%
5.50%
Local Tax Rate
0.00%
Climate & Weather
55°F
Avg High Temp
55.62°F
37°F
Avg Low Temp
48.76°F
188 days✓
Sunny Days / Year
N/A
35"
Annual Rainfall
N/A
Who should choose
Milwaukee, WI
Milwaukee is a city in Wisconsin with a population of 577,222.
Read full Milwaukee guide →Who should choose
San Francisco, CA
San Francisco is a city in California with a population of 865,933.
Read full San Francisco guide →Milwaukee vs San Francisco — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Milwaukee or San Francisco?
Wisconsin has a 7.65% state income tax. California has a 13.30% state income tax. Milwaukee wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Milwaukee and San Francisco?
Milwaukee gets 188 sunny days/year. Avg high in Milwaukee: 55°F. Avg high in San Francisco: 55.62°F
Which city is better for families — Milwaukee or San Francisco?
Milwaukee. San Francisco. 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.