Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
21% cheaper
Milwaukee is 21% more affordable than Tacoma. A $75,000 salary in Tacoma is equivalent to $58,974 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 Tacoma sits at 140 (national average = 100). The median home in Milwaukee costs $175,000 compared to $400,000 in Tacoma, a difference of $225,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,100 in Milwaukee versus $1,600 in Tacoma.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: Milwaukee scores 100 while Tacoma scores 105. Both cities are close to the national average for grocery costs.
Healthcare costs in Milwaukee (102) are lower than Tacoma (106). Both are close to the national average.
Median household income in Milwaukee is $44,044 compared to $58,974 in Tacoma. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Milwaukee.
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