Waukesha, WI vs West Allis, WI

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. West Allis is 16.2% cheaper than Waukesha. With a cost index of 80 vs 93, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from West Allis to Waukesha should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Waukesha is $1,183/month compared to $1,012/month in West Allis — a 17% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: West Allis is more affordable at $191,700 median vs $286,600.

Median household income in Waukesha is $81,651 compared to $69,685 in West Allis (+17.2%). While Waukesha is more expensive, its higher salaries more than compensate — residents there may actually end up with more disposable income. Looking at affordability, residents of Waukesha spend roughly 17.4% of their income on rent, less than the 17.4% in West Allis.