Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
22% cheaper
Milwaukee is 22% more affordable than New Haven. A $75,000 salary in New Haven is equivalent to $58,475 in Milwaukee.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: Wisconsin salaries · Connecticut salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Milwaukee has a housing index of 80 while New Haven sits at 137 (national average = 100). The median home in Milwaukee costs $175,000 compared to $250,000 in New Haven, a difference of $75,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,100 in Milwaukee versus $1,400 in New Haven.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: Milwaukee scores 100 while New Haven scores 106.
Healthcare costs in Milwaukee (102) are lower than New Haven (114).
Median household income in Milwaukee is $44,044 compared to $42,158 in New Haven. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Milwaukee.
Amazon affiliate links