Quick answer
Overall prices in the Philadelphia, PA metro were 102.6 vs 96.9 in Milwaukee, WI in 2024 (US = 100), so Philadelphia is 5.8% more expensive than Milwaukee; housing rents differ by 17% (113.1 vs 97.1). A $75,000 income in Philadelphia buys about what $70,892 buys in Milwaukee, per BEA.
Data as of 2024. Source: U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis, Regional Price Parities 2024
| Price index (US = 100) | Philadelphia | Milwaukee | Philadelphia vs Milwaukee |
|---|---|---|---|
| All items | 102.6 | 96.9 | +5.8% |
| Goods | 96.8 | 93.8 | +3.2% |
| Housing (rents) | 113.1 | 97.1 | +16.5% |
| Utilities | 114.4 | 91.6 | +24.9% |
| Other services | 103.1 | 99.4 | +3.7% |
| All items, 2008 | 106.4 | 97.7 | +8.9% |
| $50,000 in Philadelphia equals in Milwaukee | $47,261 | ||
| $100,000 in Philadelphia equals in Milwaukee | $94,523 | ||
| $150,000 in Philadelphia equals in Milwaukee | $141,784 |
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Last updated 2026-10-16. Data only, not financial or tax advice.