Altoona, WI vs South Milwaukee, WI

Altoona, WI and South Milwaukee, WI have a very similar cost of living, with only a 4% difference in their overall index. Altoona scores 85 while South Milwaukee scores 82 on the cost of living index, where 100 represents the national average. The day-to-day expenses for residents in both cities are comparable, though differences emerge when looking at specific categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Altoona is $1,157/month compared to $1,014/month in South Milwaukee — a 14% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: South Milwaukee is more affordable at $216,400 median vs $220,900.

Median household income in Altoona is $80,126 compared to $70,146 in South Milwaukee (+14.2%). While Altoona is more expensive, its higher salaries more than compensate — residents there may actually end up with more disposable income. Looking at affordability, residents of Altoona spend roughly 17.3% of their income on rent, less than the 17.3% in South Milwaukee.