Quick answer
Overall prices in the Providence, RI metro were 101.8 vs 96.9 in Milwaukee, WI in 2024 (US = 100), so Providence is 5.0% more expensive than Milwaukee; housing rents differ by 7% (103.9 vs 97.1). A $75,000 income in Providence buys about what $71,436 buys in Milwaukee, per BEA.
Data as of 2024. Source: U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis, Regional Price Parities 2024
| Price index (US = 100) | Providence | Milwaukee | Providence vs Milwaukee |
|---|---|---|---|
| All items | 101.8 | 96.9 | +5.0% |
| Goods | 97.1 | 93.8 | +3.5% |
| Housing (rents) | 103.9 | 97.1 | +6.9% |
| Utilities | 148.8 | 91.6 | +62.5% |
| Other services | 102.3 | 99.4 | +2.9% |
| All items, 2008 | 103.7 | 97.7 | +6.1% |
| $50,000 in Providence equals in Milwaukee | $47,624 | ||
| $100,000 in Providence equals in Milwaukee | $95,248 | ||
| $150,000 in Providence equals in Milwaukee | $142,872 |
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Last updated 2026-10-16. Data only, not financial or tax advice.