Quick answer
Overall prices in the Washington, DC metro were 108.9 vs 96.9 in Milwaukee, WI in 2024 (US = 100), so Washington is 12.3% more expensive than Milwaukee; housing rents differ by 56% (151.1 vs 97.1). A $75,000 income in Washington buys about what $66,771 buys in Milwaukee, per BEA.
Data as of 2024. Source: U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis, Regional Price Parities 2024
| Price index (US = 100) | Washington | Milwaukee | Washington vs Milwaukee |
|---|---|---|---|
| All items | 108.9 | 96.9 | +12.3% |
| Goods | 104.8 | 93.8 | +11.8% |
| Housing (rents) | 151.1 | 97.1 | +55.6% |
| Utilities | 106.7 | 91.6 | +16.5% |
| Other services | 102.3 | 99.4 | +2.9% |
| All items, 2008 | 114.8 | 97.7 | +17.5% |
| $50,000 in Washington equals in Milwaukee | $44,514 | ||
| $100,000 in Washington equals in Milwaukee | $89,028 | ||
| $150,000 in Washington equals in Milwaukee | $133,542 |
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Last updated 2026-10-16. Data only, not financial or tax advice.