Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
6% cheaper
Milwaukee is 6% more affordable than Spokane. A $75,000 salary in Spokane is equivalent to $70,408 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 · Washington salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Milwaukee has a housing index of 80 while Spokane sits at 94 (national average = 100). The median home in Milwaukee costs $175,000 compared to $310,000 in Spokane, a difference of $135,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,100 in Milwaukee versus $1,200 in Spokane.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a narrower gap: Milwaukee scores 100 while Spokane scores 99. Both cities are close to the national average for grocery costs.
Healthcare costs in Milwaukee (102) match Spokane (102). Both are close to the national average.
Median household income in Milwaukee is $44,044 compared to $48,834 in Spokane. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Milwaukee.
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