City Profile
Milwaukee, Wisconsin
USA · Comprehensive city data and intelligence
Milwaukee, situated on the western shore of Lake Michigan, is Wisconsin's largest city and a historic cultural hub renowned for its rich brewing heritage and deep industrial roots. Today, the city seamlessly blends its architectural history—featuring striking cream city brick—with a revitalized downtown, dynamic arts scene, and expansive green spaces. People are increasingly drawn to Milwaukee for its vibrant neighborhood communities, relative affordability compared to coastal metros, and scenic lakeside living.
Wisconsin, located in the Upper Midwest, is characterized by its diverse landscapes, including Great Lakes shorelines, dense forests, and rolling hills, fostering a strong connection to outdoor recreation and a friendly, community-oriented lifestyle. The state's economy is robust, driven primarily by manufacturing, agriculture (especially dairy, earning it the nickname "America's Dairyland"), and a significant tourism sector. Living in Wisconsin generally offers a lower cost of living compared to the national average, with housing and groceries often more affordable. The climate features four distinct seasons, with warm summers and cold, snowy winters, providing opportunities for a variety of seasonal activities.
How this 59/100 was calculated five components, with every reading behind them
| Component | Readings used | Points | Weight | Contributes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Safety | Safety score: 68 / 100 | 68.0 | 30% | 20.4 |
| Affordability | Cost of living index (100 = national baseline): 94.0 | 51.3 | 25% | 12.8 |
| Economy & jobs | Median household income: $62,000 Income needed to live here: $52,000 Unemployment rate: 4.1% | 61.4 | 20% | 12.3 |
| Growth | Population growth rate: 0.4% Job growth rate: 1.8% | 45.5 | 15% | 6.8 |
| Business climate assessment | Business climate assessment: 70 / 100 | 70.0 | 10% | 7.0 |
| Overall score | 59.3 | |||
Provenance.
These figures were produced by the research pass recorded as
Tier 2 (reasoned) (q=54, partial — below threshold), last refreshed
16 October 2026.
They are researched estimates drawn from public sources, not a licensed data feed.
Each component is scored against fixed published endpoints, so this number is comparable with any other city and does not move as the dataset grows. Scoring framework 2026.10 — full methodology, weights and accepted ranges.
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Cost of Living
The cost of living in Milwaukee sits comfortably below the national average, making it an exceptionally attractive destination for young professionals, families, and retirees alike. Housing costs, utilities, and grocery prices are generally much more manageable here than in major coastal cities like Chicago or New York. While property taxes in Wisconsin can be relatively high, everyday expenses allow residents to enjoy a high quality of life without extreme financial strain.
Income
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Milwaukee boasts a diversified economy anchored by robust manufacturing, advanced healthcare systems, financial services, and burgeoning technology sectors. Major employers like Rockwell Automation, Northwestern Mutual, and local health networks drive stable employment opportunities across the metropolitan area. The city has also seen steady growth in entrepreneurial support and remote work infrastructure, fostering a resilient local business climate.
The average salary in Milwaukee is $65,000 per year. You would need approximately $52,000 to live comfortably.
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Getting around Milwaukee is facilitated by a grid-style road network, the Hop streetcar system, and extensive Milwaukee County Transit System (MCTS) bus routes. While many residents rely on personal vehicles for daily commuting, neighborhoods near the lakefront and downtown are increasingly walkable and bike-friendly. Average commute times are notably shorter than the national average, helping reduce daily transit friction.
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Senior Care in Milwaukee
8 assisted living, nursing & memory care facilities in Milwaukee.
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San Camillo
Milwaukee, WI
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Agape Supportive Living Services
Milwaukee, WI
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Crossroads Care Center of Milwaukee
Milwaukee, WI
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Bethesda Lutheran Group Home
Milwaukee, WI
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Bell Therapy Martin
Milwaukee, WI
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Armstead Ventures
Milwaukee, WI
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American Senior Living Center
Milwaukee, WI
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St. Rita Square
Milwaukee, WI
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