Quick answer
Overall prices in the San Diego, CA metro were 111.9 vs 96.9 in Milwaukee, WI in 2024 (US = 100), so San Diego is 15.4% more expensive than Milwaukee; housing rents differ by 85% (179.3 vs 97.1). A $75,000 income in San Diego buys about what $64,979 buys in Milwaukee, per BEA.
Data as of 2024. Source: U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis, Regional Price Parities 2024
| Price index (US = 100) | San Diego | Milwaukee | San Diego vs Milwaukee |
|---|---|---|---|
| All items | 111.9 | 96.9 | +15.4% |
| Goods | 108.0 | 93.8 | +15.1% |
| Housing (rents) | 179.3 | 97.1 | +84.6% |
| Utilities | 174.2 | 91.6 | +90.2% |
| Other services | 99.6 | 99.4 | +0.2% |
| All items, 2008 | 113.7 | 97.7 | +16.4% |
| $50,000 in San Diego equals in Milwaukee | $43,319 | ||
| $100,000 in San Diego equals in Milwaukee | $86,638 | ||
| $150,000 in San Diego equals in Milwaukee | $129,957 |
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Last updated 2026-10-16. Data only, not financial or tax advice.