Is Milwaukee or San Jose more affordable?
Milwaukee has a median rent of $900/month, while San Jose is $2,500/month. Milwaukee is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Milwaukee, WI vs San Jose, CA
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Milwaukee and San Jose.
3
Milwaukee wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
2
San Jose wins
WI
Milwaukee
vs
CA
San Jose
Overview
577,222
Population
1,013,240
$45,191
Median Income
+159.9%$117,474✓
Cost of Living
$900✓
Median Rent / mo
+177.8%$2,500
$165,000✓
Median Home Price
+566.7%$1,100,000
24%
Rent-to-Income %
26%
Taxes
7.65%✓
State Income Tax
9.30%
5.50%
Local Tax Rate
9.38%
Climate & Weather
55°F
Avg High Temp
70°F
37°F
Avg Low Temp
50°F
188 days
Sunny Days / Year
257 days✓
35"
Annual Rainfall
15"
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 Jose, CA
San Jose is a city in California with a population of 1,013,240.
Read full San Jose guide →Milwaukee vs San Jose — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Milwaukee or San Jose?
Wisconsin has a 7.65% state income tax. California has a 9.30% state income tax. Milwaukee wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Milwaukee and San Jose?
Milwaukee gets 188 sunny days/year. San Jose gets 257 sunny days/year. Avg high in Milwaukee: 55°F. Avg high in San Jose: 70°F
Which city is better for families — Milwaukee or San Jose?
Milwaukee. San Jose. 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.