United States vs United States · 138 km apart
United States
single / month
Cheaper overallUnited States
single / month
| Expense | Milwaukee | Chicago | Cheaper |
|---|---|---|---|
| Meal at an inexpensive restaurant | $12.83 | $14.40 | Milwaukee |
| Three-course meal for two, mid-range | $51.30 | $57.60 | Milwaukee |
| Cappuccino | $3.85 | $4.32 | Milwaukee |
| Monthly groceries (single person) | $291 | $326 | Milwaukee |
| Monthly public transport pass | $47.03 | $52.80 | Milwaukee |
| Basic utilities for an 85m² apartment | $124 | $139 | Milwaukee |
| Internet (60 Mbps, unlimited) | $35.91 | $40.32 | Milwaukee |
| Fitness club membership | $35.91 | $40.32 | Milwaukee |
| Cinema ticket | $9.41 | $10.56 | Milwaukee |
| One-bedroom apartment in city centre | $840 | $971 | Milwaukee |
| One-bedroom apartment outside centre | $584 | $675 | Milwaukee |
| Three-bedroom apartment in city centre | $1,753 | $2,026 | Milwaukee |
| Total single-person budget | $1,439 | $1,635 | Milwaukee |
| Average net salary | $4,446 | $4,992 |
Milwaukee is cheaper overall. A single-person monthly budget in Milwaukee runs about $1,439 versus $1,635 in Chicago — a difference of roughly 14%.
Salary-adjusted, Chicago leaves more disposable income after basic expenses. Both figures are model estimates — see each city page for local-currency detail.
Full cost of living in Milwaukee · Full cost of living in Chicago