What Salary Do You Need to Live in Milwaukee?

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Move to Milwaukee

Milwaukee is the largest city in the state of Wisconsin and is known for its brewing traditions and its museums and theaters. The city is located on Lake Michigan and has a population of over 600,000 people. Milwaukee is home to many large corporations, including Harley-Davidson and Miller Brewing Company. The city also has a thriving arts scene, with several museums and theaters located downtown. In recent years, Milwaukee has undergone a revitalization, with new businesses and attractions popping up all over the city. As a result, Milwaukee is an exciting place to live and work.

If you’re thinking of moving to Milwaukee, you may be wondering what salary you need to live comfortably in the city. The cost of living in Milwaukee is relatively affordable, especially when compared to other major cities in the United States. In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the costs of living in Milwaukee and what salary you will need.

Where Does Your Salary Go Living In Milwaukee?

Milwaukee is a great place to live. The cost of living is affordable, and there are plenty of things to do. But what does that mean for your salary? Where does it all go?

Housing is one of the most expensive things in your Milwaukee life. Utilities, such as electricity, gas, and water will also be factored in. When you live in Milwaukee, transportation and food become an important expenditure. Living in Milwaukee means you’ll have to spend money on other things as well, such as Healthcare, Childcare, Entertainment, and Taxes.

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Costs of Real Estate

Housing costs in Milwaukee are 6% lower than the national average. The median home cost in Milwaukee is $325,833. This number has been steadily increasing over the past few years. However, this cost is relatively low compared to other major U.S. cities. Cities such as San Francisco, New York, and Boston have a median home cost that is more than double Milwaukee’s.

If you’re looking to rent in Milwaukee, the average cost of a one-bedroom apartment is $1,021. This number has also been increasing in recent years but is still relatively affordable compared to other major cities. For example, the average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in New York City is more than $3,000.

Costs of real estate vary depending on the neighborhood you choose to live in. For example, downtown Milwaukee is more expensive than the suburbs. Other factors such as the size of the home, the number of bedrooms, and whether it is a condo or single-family home will affect the price. Some of the best neighborhoods in Milwaukee include:

  • The Third Ward- This neighborhood is located in downtown Milwaukee and is known for its arts and culture scene. The area is also home to many restaurants and bars. 
  • Bay View- This is another popular neighborhood located south of downtown Milwaukee. Bay View is known for its eclectic shops and restaurants. 
  • Shorewood- This is an affluent suburb located north of Milwaukee. Shorewood is known for its beautiful homes and tree-lined streets.

See Also: Best Moving Companies In Milwaukee

Transportation Cost

Milwaukee is a car-dependent city. The majority of people get around by car. However, some public transportation options are available, such as buses and trains. According to Payscale.com, transportation expenditures are 4% lower than the national average.

The average cost of gasoline in Milwaukee is $2.49 per gallon. This is lower than the national average of $2.60 per gallon. Milwaukee’s public transportation system is reliable, convenient, and affordable, making it a great option for getting around the city. The Milwaukee County Transit System (MCTS) operates buses, light rail, and commuter rail services and offers a variety of fare options to fit your budget. For example, a single ride on the bus costs just $2.25, and a day pass is just $4. If you’re looking for a more flexible option, MCTS also offers a 31-day unlimited ride pass for $72. Student fares are also available at a reduced rate. In addition to being cost-effective, public transportation is also good for the environment. By taking the bus or train instead of driving, you can help to reduce traffic congestion and air pollution.

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Taxes in Milwaukee

Milwaukee is well known for its high taxes, and property taxes are no exception. The average tax rate in Milwaukee County is 2.24 percent of a property’s assessed market value. For many families, this can be a significant financial burden. In addition to property taxes, Milwaukee also has sales tax and income tax rates in the state. The Sales Tax rate is 5.5%, and the Income Tax rate is between 3.54% to 7.65%. As a result, residents of Milwaukee pay a significant amount of money in taxes each year. While some people may complain about the tax rates, it is important to remember that these taxes help fund essential services like schools and police departments. Without these taxes, Milwaukee would not be able to provide the same level of quality of life for its residents.

Utilities in Milwaukee

Milwaukee provides several utilities, including electric, gas, water, and sewer. Utility costs are approximately 7% higher than the national average. The average energy bill is $179.73 per month. The city is also served by a number of private companies that provide trash collection, recycling, and other services. Milwaukee is a member of the Wisconsin Public Service Commission, which regulates the state’s utilities. The commission ensures that utility companies provide safe and reliable service to their customers. In addition, the commission works to protect consumers from unfair practices by utility companies. Milwaukee residents can be sure that their utilities are well-regulated and receive safe and reliable service.

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Healthcare in Milwaukee

Healthcare costs in Milwaukee are 13% higher than the national average. A routine doctor’s visit may cost $125.55, while a trip to the dentist could cost $107.85, and a veterinary may cost $48.74 or more. But, there are a number of free and low-cost clinics available to residents of Milwaukee. These clinics provide basic medical care and can be a great resource for those who do not have health insurance or who cannot afford to pay for medical care. The city is also home to many hospitals and medical centers that provide high-quality care to patients.

Some of the best hospitals in Milwaukee include Aurora Sinai Medical Center, Froedtert Hospital, and Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin. Milwaukee is also home to the Medical College of Wisconsin, one of the country’s leading research institutions.

Childcare in Milwaukee

The cost of childcare in Milwaukee is significantly higher than the national average. The average cost of a Milwaukee, WI child care provider is $13.68 per hour. You may anticipate paying anything from $7.25 to $20 per hour. This is a significant financial burden for many families, and it can make it difficult to afford other basic necessities like housing and food. In addition, childcare costs can vary significantly depending on the type of care you need and the age of your children. Infant care is typically more expensive than care for older children, and family child care is usually more expensive than daycare centers.

If you are a parent in Milwaukee, there are a number of resources available to help you with the cost of childcare. The Wisconsin Child Care Subsidy Program provides financial assistance to low-income families who are struggling to pay for child care. In addition, the city of Milwaukee offers a number of programs and services to help families with the cost of childcare.

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Cost of Food

The cost of food in Milwaukee is relatively affordable. Milwaukee’s grocery costs are 2% below the national average. A gallon of milk costs an average of $1.90, a dozen eggs cost $1.77, and a loaf of bread is $3.26. This number will, of course, vary depending on the type of food you buy and how often you eat out.

Eating out in Milwaukee is also affordable. A meal for two at a mid-range restaurant will cost around $41, and a cup of coffee from a cafe will cost $3.50. Milwaukee has the best restaurants, such as Sanford, Harbor House, and Buckley’s.

There are no ways you can save money on food costs in Milwaukee. One way is to join a community-supported agriculture (CSA) program. CSAs are sponsored by local farmers and allow members to purchase a share of the farm’s produce. This can be a great way to get fresh, locally-grown food at a discounted price. Another way to save money on groceries is to shop at farmer’s markets. Farmer’s markets typically sell products for lower prices than grocery stores.

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Miscellaneous Costs in Milwaukee

You should be aware of a few other miscellaneous costs when living in Milwaukee. One is the cost of entertainment. A night out at the movies for two people can cost around $21. For those who are looking to stay fit, a gym membership can cost between $10-$70 per month. There are many venues to choose from for those who enjoy live music, and ticket prices start at around $30. While these costs may seem high, there are ways to save money on entertainment and fitness in Milwaukee. Discount movie theaters offer lower ticket prices.

Additionally, many gyms offer discounts for students or seniors, and some even offer free trial periods. With a little planning, it is possible to enjoy all that Milwaukee offers without breaking the bank.

See Also: The Average Cost of a Moving Company

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Understanding the Job Market

The job market in Milwaukee is booming thanks to a combination of factors, including a strong local economy, an educated workforce, and a convenient location. The city’s unemployment rate is below the national average, and its cost of living is relatively affordable. The city is home to a number of Fortune 500 companies and a growing number of start-ups and small businesses. Jobs are available in various industries, including manufacturing, healthcare, finance, and utilities.

The Milwaukee area is home to several large companies, including

  • Aurora Health Care
  • Ascension Wisconsin
  • Froedtert Health
  • Kohl’s
  • Quad/Graphics
  • Northwestern Mutual
  • WEC Energy
  • Harley-Davidson
  • Rexnord
  • Fiserv

These companies provide a variety of employment opportunities, from entry-level positions to management roles. In addition, Milwaukee is within driving distance of Chicago and Madison, making it a convenient location for commuters. Many public transportation options are available, making it easy to get around the city. With its strong economy and convenient location, the job market in Milwaukee is an attractive option for job seekers.

How Much Should You Earn To Live Comfortably Well In Milwaukee?

The cost of living in Milwaukee is relatively affordable compared to other major cities, but that doesn’t mean you can get by on a shoestring budget. In order to live comfortably well in Milwaukee, you’ll need to earn a household income of at least $62,539 per year. With a household income of $62,539, you’ll be able to cover all of your basic living expenses, including housing, food, transportation, and utilities. Depending on your lifestyle and the size of your family, the amount of money you need to live comfortably in Milwaukee will vary. If you want to live a truly lavish lifestyle in Milwaukee, you’ll need more.

According to the Department of Labor in the United States, a single individual must earn $16.89 per hour. If only one adult works, two adults with one child must earn $31.60 every hour. The cost of living for two parents who both work and have two children is approximately $26.22 per hour.

See Also: Hidden Moving Costs and Expenses

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Conclusion

Milwaukee is a great city to live in, thanks to its strong economy, educated workforce, and affordable cost of living. There are a lot of things to do in Milwaukee, from enjoying live music to visiting museums, which makes it an ideal place to call home. In order to live comfortably in Milwaukee, you’ll need to earn a household income of at least $62,539 per year. With a little planning, you can enjoy all that this city has to offer without breaking the bank. Thanks for Reading!

Frequently Asked Questions

How much should you earn to live comfortably in Milwaukee?

In order to live comfortably well in Milwaukee, you’ll need to earn a household income of at least $62,539.

What is the unemployment rate in Milwaukee?

The unemployment rate was about 3.7 percent in February 2022.

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What is the cost of living like in Milwaukee?

The cost of living in Milwaukee is relatively affordable compared to other major cities. The average cost of living index is 84.9

What is the best way to get around Milwaukee?

Milwaukee is a very convenient city to get around, thanks to its many public transportation options. The city’s public bus system, the Milwaukee County Transit System (MCTS), operates more than 80 bus routes throughout the county.

What are the best things to do in Milwaukee?

Milwaukee is a great city for foodies, thanks to its many Zagat-rated restaurants. The city is also home to a number of museums, including the Milwaukee Art Museum, the Milwaukee Public Museum, and the Harley-Davidson Museum. For those who enjoy live music, Milwaukee is home to a number of music venues, including the Pabst Theater, the Riverside Theater, and the Turner Hall Ballroom. The city also has a thriving nightlife scene, with a number of bars and clubs to choose from.

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What is the poverty wage in Milwaukee?

The poverty wage for a single adult without dependents is $6.19 per hour. If only a single adult is working, the required hourly pay for two adults with one kid is $10.56. For two adults with two children, it’s $6.37 if they’re both working.

Written by


Alex Sherr is the founder of My Long Distance Movers, a blog that provides moving information and resources for people who are relocating. He has more than two decades of experience in the moving and relocation industry, and he is passionate about helping people relocate smoothly and efficiently. When he's not writing or blogging, Alex enjoys spending time with his wife and two young children.