Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
42% cheaper
Milwaukee is 42% more affordable than San Diego. A $75,000 salary in San Diego is equivalent to $43,125 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 · California salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Milwaukee has a housing index of 80 while San Diego sits at 248 (national average = 100). The median home in Milwaukee costs $175,000 compared to $800,000 in San Diego, a difference of $625,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,100 in Milwaukee versus $2,500 in San Diego.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: Milwaukee scores 100 while San Diego scores 107.
Healthcare costs in Milwaukee (102) are lower than San Diego (107). Both are close to the national average.
Median household income in Milwaukee is $44,044 compared to $79,646 in San Diego. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Milwaukee.
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