Quick answer
Overall prices in the Columbus, OH metro were 95.5 vs 96.9 in Milwaukee, WI in 2024 (US = 100), so Columbus is 1.5% less expensive than Milwaukee; housing rents differ by 9% (87.9 vs 97.1). A $75,000 income in Columbus buys about what $76,153 buys in Milwaukee, per BEA.
Data as of 2024. Source: U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis, Regional Price Parities 2024
| Price index (US = 100) | Columbus | Milwaukee | Columbus vs Milwaukee |
|---|---|---|---|
| All items | 95.5 | 96.9 | -1.5% |
| Goods | 93.6 | 93.8 | -0.2% |
| Housing (rents) | 87.9 | 97.1 | -9.4% |
| Utilities | 95.5 | 91.6 | +4.3% |
| Other services | 98.9 | 99.4 | -0.5% |
| All items, 2008 | 96.6 | 97.7 | -1.2% |
| $50,000 in Columbus equals in Milwaukee | $50,769 | ||
| $100,000 in Columbus equals in Milwaukee | $101,538 | ||
| $150,000 in Columbus equals in Milwaukee | $152,307 |
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Last updated 2026-10-16. Data only, not financial or tax advice.