Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
9% cheaper
Wichita is 9% more affordable than Milwaukee. A $75,000 salary in Milwaukee is equivalent to $68,478 in Wichita.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: Wisconsin salaries · Kansas salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Milwaukee has a housing index of 80 while Wichita sits at 62 (national average = 100). The median home in Milwaukee costs $175,000 compared to $165,000 in Wichita, a difference of $10,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,100 in Milwaukee versus $900 in Wichita.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: Milwaukee scores 100 while Wichita scores 95. Both cities are close to the national average for grocery costs.
Healthcare costs in Milwaukee (102) are higher than Wichita (92).
Median household income in Milwaukee is $44,044 compared to $52,428 in Wichita. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Wichita.
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