A+
4%
Overall NAT. AVG.
1%
Groceries NAT. AVG.
7%
Housing NAT. AVG.
Date & Last Updated: These cost of living estimates reflect 2026 modeled data using U.S. Census housing inputs and AI-assisted city-level pricing models.
The cost of living index is based on a national average of 100. For example, if the cost of living score is 90, then the estimated cost of living is 10% lower than the national average. If the score is 110, then the estimated cost of living is 10% higher than average. The overall index is calculated using weighted estimates across major everyday expense categories, including housing (30%), groceries (16%), transportation (12%), healthcare (10%), utilities (8%), lifestyle and entertainment (8%), household expenses (8%), and education and childcare (8%). All values are AI-assisted city-level estimates designed for directional comparisons.
Index South Milwaukee Wisconsin National
Cost of living9696100
Groceries9999100
Health care9798100
Housing9389100
Transportation10098100
Utilities99101100
Lifestyle & Entertainment9898100
Household Items9699100
Education & Childcare9398100
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An Overview of Cost of Living in South Milwaukee, WI

Are you thinking about relocating, but curious about the potential cost of living in South Milwaukee? Is it more expensive or more affordable than average? Based on the most recent report, the cost of living in South Milwaukee stands at 96, making it 4% lower than the national average. The cost of living directly affects the affordability of one's desired lifestyle. Knowing the cost of housing, transportation, groceries and other essentials in the new area allows people to gauge whether they can maintain their preferred standard of living.

The cost of living in South Milwaukee closely mirrors the national average in comparison to other cities nationwide. Essential items such as groceries, houshold expenses, health care and utilities are priced at a level consistent with similar urban areas. This means that residents of South Milwaukee can anticipate that their daily expenses will remain reasonably in line with those of an average city, contributing to a manageable cost of living.

Is South Milwaukee Affordable?

Is South Milwaukee affordable? This is a pivotal question, especially when mulling over a move, as affordability carries substantial weight in your decision-making process. Factors such as the cost of living index (discussed earlier), housing expenses and income levels all contribute to a location's affordability. For instance, in South Milwaukee, the median home price is 7.6% lower than the national average and monthly rent prices are 6.7% lower than the typical rates. Additionally, the median income levels play a role in affordability, with South Milwaukee boasting a median household income of $84,169, 3.5% higher than the national average.

What Factors can Influence the Cost of Living in South Milwaukee?

Healthcare: The costs associated with healthcare and insurance premiums can exhibit notable disparities based on the city or state of residence. Access to healthcare facilities, out-of-pocket expenses for medical appointments, dental care charges, prescription medication costs and specialized medical care expenses all contribute to variations in the cost of living. In South Milwaukee, healthcare costs are 3% lower than the national average.

Utilities: Much like any other costs, utility expenses can exhibit considerable variations, influenced by factors such as climate, available energy sources, geographic location and state regulations. The costs associated with electricity, water, heating, and waste disposal can vary significantly depending on the city or state in question. In South Milwaukee, the utilities index stands at 0.9% lower than the national average.

Transportation: If public transportation is limited or not available, residents may need to own and maintain vehicles, which can add to the cost of living. Gas, insurance, regular maintenance and potentially lease or finance payments will all need to be paid on a monthly basis. In South Milwaukee, the transportation index is 0% equal to the national average.

Where is the Data From?

The South Milwaukee cost of living data above is designed around a U.S. average baseline of 100, allowing for easy comparisons of relative living costs. Housing incorporates U.S. Census home price and rental data, while all other figures are AI-assisted estimates that account for regional price trends, climate, transportation dynamics, and common everyday expenses. These values are best used as directional city-to-city comparisons.

Cost Of Living Quick Facts

  • The cost of living in South Milwaukee is 1% higher than the Wisconsin average
  • The cost of living in South Milwaukee is 4% lower than the national average
  • South Milwaukee housing is 7% lower than the national average
  • Wisconsin general sales tax is 2% lower than the national average
  • Wisconsin state income tax is 36% higher than the national average

Most Affordable Places to Live in and Around South Milwaukee

See all the best places to live around South Milwaukee

Compare South Milwaukee, WI Cost of Living

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      Median Income & Debt-To-Income Ratio

      Median Income Per Year Per Month Max Budget (28% DTI) Max Budget (36% DTI)
      Owners$115,776$9,648$2,701$3,474
      Renters$54,012$4,501$1,260$1,621
      The percent of monthly income spent on housing can be a good indicator of the affordability of housing in South Milwaukee, WI, as well as the overall cost of living. As a general rule of thumb, the debt-to-income ratio (DTI) for homeowners or renters should be not more than 28 percent of gross income to be spent on housing related costs and not more than 36 percent of income on all expenses, including debts. The median income for South Milwaukee homeowners, is $115,776. This would allow for a maximum of $2,701 per month to be spent on housing costs. For renters, the median monthly income is $54,012 which would result in a maximum of $1,260 to be spent on rental costs.

      Wisconsin Sales Tax

      State General Sales Tax With Max Surtax
      Wisconsin 5% 6.75%

      Wisconsin Income Tax

      State Income Tax (Low) Income Tax (High)
      Wisconsin 3.54% 7.65%

      Nearby cities with low cost of living

      City Population Cost of Living Index National Avg.
      Racine, WI79,849909.7%
      Milwaukee, WI605,531937.2%
      West Milwaukee, WI4,258928.3%
      St. Francis, WI9,923954.9%
      West Allis, WI61,432936.8%
      South Milwaukee, WI21,661963.9%

      Cities with similar population

      City Population Cost of Living Index National Avg.
      DeBary, FL21,6651099.4%
      Battle Ground, WA21,66912525.2%
      Sweetwater, FL21,6731076.9%
      Lakeside, CA21,63614645.9%
      Florida Ridge, FL21,6341021.8%
      South Milwaukee, WI21,661963.9%
      Date & Last Updated: These cost of living estimates reflect 2026 modeled data using U.S. Census housing inputs and AI-assisted city-level pricing models.