What Salary Do You Need to Live in Milwaukee, WI?
To live comfortably in Milwaukee, a household needs to earn roughly $45,000/year. That's about $3,750/month before taxes.
The Number: $45,000/year
At $45,000 per year, a household in Milwaukee can afford median-priced rental housing at roughly 28% of gross income.
This is based on Milwaukee's median monthly rent of $1,081 and the 28% housing guideline. Source: Census ACS 2024.
Milwaukee at a Glance
Sources: Census ACS 2024, Tax Foundation.
For Single Residents
A single person can live comfortably in Milwaukee on roughly $30,000/year. That's about $2,500/month before taxes.
Salary Questions About Milwaukee
The median monthly rent is $1,081. Using the 30% guideline, you need about $43,000/year to afford this comfortably.
The median home price is $207,900. With a 20% down payment, you would need roughly $41,580 saved and a household income to support the mortgage payments.
The median household income is $56,792/year. Our recommended salary of $45,000/year is near the median, reflecting a comfortable (not extravagant) standard of living.