Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
8% cheaper
Tulsa is 8% more affordable than Milwaukee. A $75,000 salary in Milwaukee is equivalent to $69,293 in Tulsa.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: Wisconsin salaries · Oklahoma salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Milwaukee has a housing index of 80 while Tulsa sits at 63 (national average = 100). The median home in Milwaukee costs $175,000 compared to $175,000 in Tulsa, a difference of $0. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,100 in Milwaukee versus $950 in Tulsa.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: Milwaukee scores 100 while Tulsa scores 95. Both cities are close to the national average for grocery costs.
Healthcare costs in Milwaukee (102) are higher than Tulsa (91).
Median household income in Milwaukee is $44,044 compared to $48,278 in Tulsa. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Tulsa.
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