Quick answer
Overall prices in the San Jose, CA metro were 110.4 vs 96.9 in Milwaukee, WI in 2024 (US = 100), so San Jose is 13.9% more expensive than Milwaukee; housing rents differ by 118% (211.9 vs 97.1). A $75,000 income in San Jose buys about what $65,840 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 Jose | Milwaukee | San Jose vs Milwaukee |
|---|---|---|---|
| All items | 110.4 | 96.9 | +13.9% |
| Goods | 105.2 | 93.8 | +12.1% |
| Housing (rents) | 211.9 | 97.1 | +118.2% |
| Utilities | 156.7 | 91.6 | +71.0% |
| Other services | 100.3 | 99.4 | +0.9% |
| All items, 2008 | 119.3 | 97.7 | +22.1% |
| $50,000 in San Jose equals in Milwaukee | $43,893 | ||
| $100,000 in San Jose equals in Milwaukee | $87,787 | ||
| $150,000 in San Jose equals in Milwaukee | $131,680 |
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Last updated 2026-10-16. Data only, not financial or tax advice.