Grand Rapids, MI vs Milwaukee, WI: Cost of Living Comparison
Milwaukee has the lower overall cost of living. (100 = US national average)
Category-by-Category Comparison
| Category | Grand Rapids | Milwaukee | Cheaper |
|---|---|---|---|
| Overall cost of living | 81 | 70 | Milwaukee |
| Housing | 65 ($834) | 49 ($723) | Milwaukee |
| Transportation | 103 ($3.50) | 105 ($3.50) | Grand Rapids |
| Food & groceries | 88 ($361) | 69 ($283) | Milwaukee |
| Utilities | 83 ($117) | 75 ($88) | Milwaukee |
| Healthcare | 83 ($85) | 75 ($64) | Milwaukee |
| Median annual wage | 102 ($49,270) | 104 ($50,270) | Grand Rapids |
Index 100 = US national average. Lower = cheaper. For wage, higher = better.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Grand Rapids, MI or Milwaukee, WI cheaper to live in?
Milwaukee, WI is cheaper overall by about 11 index points (Grand Rapids, MI: 81, Milwaukee, WI: 70; 100 = US national average).
What salary do I need in Grand Rapids, MI vs Milwaukee, WI?
A single adult needs roughly $28,350/year in Grand Rapids, MI and $24,500/year in Milwaukee, WI to cover basic living costs.