Watertown, WI vs West Allis, WI

Watertown, WI and West Allis, WI have a very similar cost of living, with only a 3.2% difference in their overall index. Watertown scores 82 while West Allis scores 80 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 Watertown is $1,061/month compared to $1,012/month in West Allis — a 5% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: West Allis is more affordable at $191,700 median vs $211,500.

Median household income in Watertown is $68,333 compared to $69,685 in West Allis (-1.9%). West Allis offers a double advantage: higher earnings combined with a lower cost of living, giving residents significantly more purchasing power. Looking at affordability, residents of Watertown spend roughly 18.6% of their income on rent, more than the 17.4% in West Allis.