City Profile
West Allis, Wisconsin
USA · Comprehensive city data and intelligence
West Allis, Wisconsin, affectionately known locally as 'Stallis,' is a vibrant inner-ring suburb of Milwaukee steeped in a rich industrial heritage. Originally established as a manufacturing powerhouse anchored by companies like Allis-Chalmers, the city has evolved into a diverse and tight-knit community offering accessible urban-suburban living. Today, residents are drawn to its historic neighborhoods, active parks, and a revitalized downtown commercial corridor that features local breweries, unique dining, and community festivals.
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 60/100 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: $63,500 Income needed to live here: $52,000 Unemployment rate: 4% | 63.8 | 20% | 12.8 |
| Growth | Population growth rate: 0.5% Job growth rate: 1.8% | 46.8 | 15% | 7.0 |
| Business climate assessment | Business climate assessment: 69 / 100 | 69.0 | 10% | 6.9 |
| Overall score | 59.9 | |||
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 West Allis remains noticeably below both the national average and many surrounding metropolitan suburbs, making it an attractive destination for first-time homebuyers and young families. Housing costs, while rising in line with broader regional trends, continue to offer strong value compared to Milwaukee's more upscale enclaves or coastal U.S. markets. Everyday expenses such as groceries, utilities, and transportation track closely with or slightly below national baselines, providing solid financial breathing room for residents.
Income
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West Allis boasts a resilient and diverse economy deeply rooted in its manufacturing legacy, alongside growing sectors in healthcare, retail, and professional services. Major local employers like Aurora West Allis Medical Center and various light industrial manufacturers provide a steady stream of stable employment opportunities for the local workforce. Furthermore, the city's close proximity to downtown Milwaukee ensures that residents have seamless access to a broader regional job market and remote-work support infrastructure.
The average salary in West Allis is $64,000 per year. You would need approximately $52,000 to live comfortably.
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Getting around West Allis is convenient for both motorists and transit riders, thanks to its grid street layout and robust regional connectivity. The Milwaukee County Transit System (MCTS) operates multiple bus routes connecting West Allis directly to downtown Milwaukee and surrounding suburbs. While the city is largely car-dependent for daily errands, certain commercial corridors boast solid walkability and bike lanes, facilitating alternative commuting options.
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