Chicago vs Milwaukee: Which City is Right for You? Comparing Real Estate, Cost of Living, Culture, and More
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Are you torn between settling in a new Chicago apartment or buying a house in Milwaukee? These two Midwestern cities may share a Great Lake, but they offer distinct lifestyles. Chicago boasts a dynamic job market, iconic architecture, and world-class cultural opportunities, while Milwaukee provides a lower cost of living, a close-knit community vibe, and a rich brewing heritage.
From real estate affordability and job opportunities to lifestyle and cultural highlights, there’s much to explore before making your decision. In this Redfin article, we’ll break down the key differences to help you decide which city to call home.
Housing in Chicago vs Milwaukee
Chicago and Milwaukee present distinct real estate markets, from Chicago’s bustling urban landscape to Milwaukee’s more laid-back and affordable housing scene. Let’s explore the key differences in housing costs, space, and living options between these two Midwest cities.
Housing in Chicago
Chicago offers a mix of housing styles, from sleek high-rise condos downtown to charming historic homes in Chicago neighborhoods like Lincoln Park and Wicker Park. Whether you’re looking for an urban lifestyle or a suburban retreat, Chicago provides a variety of options to fit diverse preferences. Its real estate market is pricier than Milwaukee but still affordable compared to other major cities.
Median home cost in Chicago: Around $370,000, with more space and value compared to cities like NYC or San Francisco.
Average rental cost:Chicago’s rent is approximately $2,223 per month, with higher prices in areas like the Loop and River North.
Housing in Milwaukee
Milwaukee stands out for its affordability and distinctive character. Housing ranges from charming bungalows in friendly neighborhoods to modern apartments in revitalized downtown districts. Milwaukee provides a more relaxed pace of life, making it an attractive option for those seeking affordability and quality of life.
Average rental cost:Apartments in Milwaukee are about $1,710 per month, significantly less expensive than Chicago for similar proximity to amenities.
Deciding between renting or buying your next home? Explore your options.
Compare the costs of renting vs buying and find a lender to secure your mortgage.
Deciding between renting or buying your next home?
Compare the costs of renting vs buying and find a lender to secure your mortgage.
Cost of living in Chicago vs Milwaukee
The cost of living in Milwaukee, WI, is 12% lower than in Chicago, IL, reflecting differences in utilities, transportation, and lifestyle expenses. Chicago’s higher costs are driven by its larger size, urban density, and greater range of amenities. Here’s how the two cities compare:
1. Utilities
Utilities in Milwaukee are 1% higher than in Chicago. Milwaukee’s smaller infrastructure typically results in efficiency, but Chicago’s urban density and population offset some costs, keeping them slightly lower overall.
2. Groceries
Groceries in Milwaukee are 2% less expensive than in Chicago. Proximity to Wisconsin’s agricultural regions and lower transportation costs keep Milwaukee’s food prices more affordable compared to Chicago’s urban environment.
3. Transportation
Transportation costs in Milwaukee are 4% lower than in Chicago. Chicago’s larger public transit system and higher parking fees in urban areas, like the Loop, significantly increase costs. Milwaukee’s smaller size and simpler roadways make driving and parking more affordable.
4. Healthcare
Healthcare in Milwaukee is 1% less expensive than in Chicago. Milwaukee’s smaller-scale healthcare system helps keep costs manageable, while Chicago’s larger network of specialized medical services increases overall expenses.
5. Lifestyle
Lifestyle expenses in Milwaukee are 9% less expensive than in Chicago. Chicago’s renowned dining, entertainment, and cultural opportunities come at a premium, while Milwaukee offers a more relaxed and affordable lifestyle with its own unique charm.
Chicago vs Milwaukee in size and population
Chicago and Milwaukee may both sit along Lake Michigan, but their sizes and populations differ greatly. Chicago covers about 227 square miles with a population of 2.7 million, creating a bustling urban center with dense neighborhoods and towering skyscrapers. Milwaukee, on the other hand, spans just 96 square miles with a population of around 577,000, giving it a much smaller and more relaxed feel. Chicago’s size allows for a wide range of experiences, from busy downtown streets to sprawling suburban-style areas, while Milwaukee’s compact design offers easy navigation and a close-knit community vibe.
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Weather and climate in Chicago vs Milwaukee
Chicago’s climate and Milwaukee’s climate both experience the full range of seasons, with warm summers and cold, snowy winters. However, Chicago’s winters tend to be slightly harsher, as its larger urban area amplifies wind chills and snow accumulation. Milwaukee, while also impacted by Lake Michigan, experiences milder breezes and slightly less snowfall overall. Both cities share a risk of severe thunderstorms in the summer, though Chicago occasionally faces stronger storms due to its larger size and density.
The job market in Chicago vs Milwaukee
Chicago: A stronghold in finance, manufacturing, and healthcare
Chicago is a Midwest economic giant, powered by finance, manufacturing, and healthcare industries. With an employment rate of 64% and a median household income of $74,000, the city offers diverse job opportunities. The average hourly wage of $33.41 reflects its robust economy, and sectors like tech and logistics are steadily growing. Chicago is home to major employers such as Northern Trust and Abbott Laboratories, making it a central hub for professionals across various fields.
Milwaukee: Brewing heritage and growing healthcare presence
Milwaukee’s job market thrives on its industrial history and growing healthcare sector. With an employment rate of 62% and a median household income of $61,000, the city provides a competitive yet affordable environment for workers. The average hourly wage of $30.11 supports a range of roles in manufacturing, healthcare, and brewing. Major employers like Aurora Health Care and Molson Coors Beverage Company drive job creation, making Milwaukee an appealing choice for professionals seeking a smaller-city lifestyle.
Transportation in Chicago vs Milwaukee
Chicago: Extensive transit with car-friendly options
Chicago offers a well-developed public transportation system, including CTA trains (the “L”) and bus services, making it easy to navigate the city without a car. Downtown Chicago is highly walkable, and biking is increasingly popular, supported by the Divvy bike-share program. For those who prefer driving, Chicago provides more accessible parking and wider streets compared to larger cities like NYC, balancing public transit with car-friendly infrastructure.
Milwaukee: Car-centric with growing transit options
Milwaukee’s transportation system is more car-dependent, with its compact size and suburban layout making driving the primary choice for most residents. The city also offers bus services through the Milwaukee County Transit System and a streetcar line, The Hop, which connects key downtown areas. Biking is becoming more popular thanks to added bike lanes and trails, though it remains a developing option.
Both cities offer convenient travel options, with Chicago serving as a major Midwest transportation hub and Milwaukee providing strong regional connections.
Chicago: O’Hare International and Midway International airports, Amtrak connecting to major U.S. cities, Greyhound and Megabus services, and scenic river and lake cruises from the city’s port.
Milwaukee: Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport, Amtrak’s Hiawatha service connecting to Chicago, Greyhound and intercity bus services, and Lake Michigan ferries offering regional transportation.
Lifestyle and things to do in Chicago vs Milwaukee
A day in the life of a Chicagoan
Living in Chicago is about blending vibrant urban life with midwestern warmth. Start your day with a stroll along the Lakefront Trail or a visit to a neighborhood café in Logan Square. The city’s diverse cultural scene offers endless opportunities, from exploring iconic museums to catching live music in legendary venues like the Green Mill. Weekends might include kayaking on the Chicago River, attending a street festival, or cheering on the Cubs at Wrigley Field.
Milwaukee offers a laid-back, community-focused lifestyle with plenty of charm. Start your morning with coffee from a local roastery and a walk along the Milwaukee Riverwalk. The city’s thriving beer culture pairs well with its festivals, offering opportunities to explore its heritage. Evenings might include attending a Brewers game, exploring the Historic Third Ward, or enjoying live music at Summerfest grounds.
Chicago is renowned for its hearty and diverse food scene, with iconic dishes like deep-dish pizza, hot dogs, and Italian beef sandwiches leading the way. Neighborhoods like the West Loop and Pilsen expand the culinary palette with high-end dining and authentic Mexican fare. Chicago’s rich cultural offerings include festivals like Taste of Chicago and the Chicago Blues Festival, as well as legendary theaters and jazz clubs that make the city a hub for live performances.
Milwaukee: Brew City
Milwaukee’s food scene reflects its brewing heritage, with beer pairing perfectly alongside bratwurst, cheese curds, and German-inspired dishes. The city also boasts a thriving farm-to-table movement and diverse cuisine in neighborhoods like Bay View and the Historic Third Ward. Milwaukee’s cultural charm shines through in events like Summerfest, the Milwaukee Film Festival, and its vibrant art galleries and museums, all contributing to its unique Midwest appeal.
Sports scene in Chicago vs Milwaukee
Chicago: Basketball and baseball passion
Chicago’s sports culture is synonymous with passionate fans and historic teams. The Bulls and Cubs are cornerstones of the city’s athletic identity, drawing loyal crowds to the United Center and Wrigley Field. Football is a major draw, with the Bears uniting the city on game days, while hockey fans fill the United Center for Blackhawks games. The White Sox and Fire FC add to the city’s year-round sports excitement.
Milwaukee: Brew City pride
Milwaukee’s sports scene is centered around basketball and baseball, with the Bucks and Brewers leading the way. Fiserv Forum comes alive with Bucks fans cheering for their NBA champions, while American Family Field draws families and diehard baseball fans alike. Milwaukee also embraces hockey, with the Admirals representing the city, and the Packers in nearby Green Bay further energize the region’s love for football.
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