New Berlin, WI vs Salem Lakes, WI

Salem Lakes is moderately more affordable than New Berlin, with a 12.7% lower cost of living index. New Berlin scores 104 compared to 93 for Salem Lakes, where the US average is 100. This difference means residents of New Berlin can expect to pay noticeably more for everyday expenses, housing, and services.

On the housing front, median rent in New Berlin is $1,409/month compared to $1,132/month in Salem Lakes — a 25% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Salem Lakes is more affordable at $281,500 median vs $343,500.

Median household income in New Berlin is $97,414 compared to $94,554 in Salem Lakes (+3%). New Berlin does offer higher incomes, but the salary premium barely offsets the higher cost of living, leaving residents with a tighter budget. Looking at affordability, residents of New Berlin spend roughly 17.4% of their income on rent, more than the 14.4% in Salem Lakes.