Moving to Milwaukee WI

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By
Mohit

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    Planning to navigate to Milwaukee to initiate the next chapter of your life? Well, you are not alone! With more than 600,000 residents, the city welcomes expats in large numbers every year and offers them a reasonable cost of living, a wide range of history tourism and entertainment options, a laid-back life, a family-friendly neighbourhood, and great city amenities. 

    This blog post provides important information and insights regarding transition and lifestyle in Milwaukee, Wisconsin to make your journey and living smooth and enjoyable. So, read on! 

    1. Is Milwaukee Safe?

    Milwaukee, Wisconsin is a moderately safe area to live in as it has a higher violent and property crime rate of 73 and 60, respectively, which is higher than the US average crime rate of 23 and 35 respectively. 

    Milwaukee is severely affected by the violent and property crime rates, like anywhere else in the US nation.

    The total violent and property crimes committed in Milwaukee per 100,000 people is 697 and 1902 respectively. Some of the most common types of crime are racism, assault, Robbery and murder.

    This is quite an issue for residents and tourists and are suggested to take safety measures and avoid rougher areas of the city as much as they can.

    Travelling at night and roaming alone at night should also be avoided due to safety concerns. This at a glance, is taking the city’s trend downwards, not encouraging expats to settle in. 

    If compare the crime rates between Milwaukee and Chicago, Chicago has much lower violent and property crime scenes than Milwaukee with 50 and 46 homicides per every 100 crimes.

    However, it’s still higher than when compared with the national average. 

    2. Things to know before moving to Milwaukee, WI

    Moving to Milwaukee comes with a lot of thrilling as well as challenging experiences.

    Things-to-know-before-moving-to-Milwaukee-WI

    Not just moving from one place to another and settling down there, but there are various things to know about that place, that will help you adjust to the new place.

    Read out to know what more these pleasant surprises the Midwestern city will offer. 

    3. Living in Milwaukee

    Milwaukee, the largest city of Wisconsin, is situated along the shorelines of Lake Michigan, of about 233.09 square kilometres.

    The city is a combination of 5 counties becoming home to more than 6 lakh Milwaukeeans.

    The “city of brews” has a lot of beer and brew samplings and a bustling music, art scene and nightlife surrounding the area. 

    Milwaukee is a good place to live in Wisconsin. It offers ample job opportunities, a reasonable cost of living, top-rated public transportation, a diverse economy, fun activities, lakefront museums, fine dining options, and more to its residents.

    People find a lot of fun things to do in Milwaukee for families such as visiting zoos, museums, monuments, public markets, festival parks, and more, for which it has been ranked #32 in the best, most fun cities in the US. 

    4. Cost of Living in Milwaukee

    Milwaukees enjoy a lower cost of living, scoring 85, which is 5% less than the average cost of living in Wisconsin and 15% less than the national average of 100.

    Cost-of-Living-in-Milwaukee

    The annual average salary in Milwaukee is around $70,000 and the average minimum hourly wage is about $20.

    This concludes that you can lead a great life in Milwaukee at an earning above $30,000 as a single individual and $80,000 with a family of four.

    The average cost to build a house in Wisconsin Milwaukee ranges somewhere between $400,000 to $750,000. 

    The city of Milwaukee is a premium commercial hub that offers an affordable cost of living at an above-average median household income.

    This means you can afford high-end savings, and a luxurious lifestyle as well as own a house for yourself, which is also available at an affordable price point and is readily available in the market.

    While the cost of utilities, public transportation and other miscellaneous expenses remain higher side; food, grocery, and healthcare are also available at a reasonable price range compared to other parts of the country. 

    The below table describes the cost of living index of Milwaukee vs. Wisconsin and the US average of 100. 

    Cost Of Living MilwaukeeWisconsin USA
    Overall Expenses 10098100
    Groceries9799100
    Housing10099100
    Utilities108106100
    Transportation9398100
    Healthcare118112100
    Miscellaneous101100100

    Source: https://www.mmac.org/uploads/1/1/3/5/113552797/3q20col_news_rel_2020_1_.pdf

    5. Taxes in Milwaukee

    The city of Milwaukee pays a combined sales tax rate of 5.5% which includes the state and County sales taxes.

    It also imposes an income tax rate of 3.55% to 7.65% on the salaried employees of Milwaukee.

    While the real estate prices are lower in Milwaukee, property tax rates are one of the highest in the state at the rate of 2.5% of the asserted value. 

    The reason behind higher tax rates in Milwaukee is to avoid bankruptcy. All the taxes are collected and deposited at the treasurer’s office, in Milwaukee County.

    The valuations are calculated by the Assessor’s office and are mailed to the owners to complete the payment by the end of the year. 

    Have a look at the type of taxes and their rates imposed on the residents of Milwaukee in the year 2023. 

    Particulars Milwaukee, WI
    Income Tax 3.55% to 7.65%
    Sales Tax 5.5%
    Property Tax 2.5%
    Gas Tax 30.90 cents per gallon for gasoline and diesel.

    Source: https://city.milwaukee.gov/treasurer/Tax-Records

    6. Weather conditions in Milwaukee 

    Milwaukee has a continental climate. The city experiences warm, humid summers; cold, windy, and snowy winters and partly cloudy skies year-round.

    Weather-conditions-in-Milwaukee

    The average temperature in Milwaukee typically ranges from 16°F to 83°F and rarely drops down to -1°F or above 90°F. 

    Milwaukee experiences four seasons in a year – summer, winter, fall and spring.

    While the fall and spring seasons are short-lived, summers remain for 191 days, winters remain for 104 days with 45 inches of snow per year.

    Rainfall is quite common that happens between May to October about 35 inches throughout the year. 

    While July is the hottest month of the year with an average temperature of 85°F January is the coldest month of the year in Milwaukee with an average temperature of 15°F. 

    Here is a more detailed breakdown of the average weather in Milwaukee by month: 

    Month Weather Conditions in Milwaukee 
    March-MayMild winters with average temperatures 40°F-60°FChances of snow Temperatures can sometimes drop below freezing3 inches of rain per month 
    June-AugustWarm and humid summers With average temperatures 70°F-80°FHottest month of the year Thunderstorms are common 4 inches of rain per month 
    September-NovemberCool & CrispWith average temperatures 60°F-40°F3 inches of rain per month 
    December-February Cold & Snowy With average temperatures of 20°F-30°FThe coldest month with a temperature of 18°F35 inches of snow per year

    7. Things to do in Milwaukee

    With several universal and quirky areas, Milwaukee is worth visiting, offering beautiful nature with picturesque greenery in the Midwest.

    The four distinct seasons come with several unique attractions, events, festivals and outdoor recreations, attracting visitors and city dwellers to make an escape from their urban life and take it all up.

    From sightseeing, and day trip touring to walking food tours and lively nightlife, there are many places to see in Milwaukee and explore. 

    If you are relocating to Milwaukee and want to explore something with your friends and family, here is what you can do. 

    Age GroupThings To Do
    Kids See Milwaukee County ZooVisit Betty Brinn Children’s MuseumExplore Mitchell Park DomesPlay at American Family FieldVisit Harley-Davidson Museum
    Singles Attend a sporting event Visit a museum Go to a concert or show to a sporting event Join a club or group
    Couples Visit Milwaukee Public MuseumEnjoy Milwaukee festivals to Discovery WorldSee Mitchell Park Horticultural ConservatoryJoin Lake Michigan
    Families Visit Milwaukee Public MuseumEnjoy Milwaukee festivalsGo to Discovery WorldSee Mitchell Park Horticultural ConservatoryJoin Lake Michigan
    Seniors Take a Milwaukee Food TourTake a Walk in Lakefront ParkVisit the Milwaukee Public LibraryVisit the Pabst MansionVisit the Milwaukee County Historical SocietyJoin the Wisconsin Center for the Performing Arts

    8. Cost of Moving to Milwaukee, WI

    The average cost of moving to Milwaukee from the same state ranges from $510 – $10,000.

    Cost-of-Moving-to-Milwaukee-WI

    However, you can expect to pay between $1,000 and $5,000 for a local move and between $4,000 and $10,000 for a long-distance move.

    Relocating from one place to another can often feel like a never-ending task that brings stress.

    But the solution to make this daunting process much smoother or easier is to hire a moving company.

    These professionals are taking care of all the heavy lifting, packing, and loading, leaving you with more time on your hands to concentrate on other essential aspects of your move. 

    Searching for moving companies in Milwaukee, here are some of the best service providers you can opt for:

    • Atlas Van Lines
    • Allied Van Lines
    • United Van Lines
    • Bekins Van Lines
    • Mayflower Transit
    • North American Van Lines

    9. Living in Milwaukee Pros and Cons

    Milwaukee has something to offer for everyone. There’s no shortage of everything that one can long for.

    But, every place comes with a lot of weird things or bad things that you should know before moving to the place to deal with it even better.

    So, check out the pros and cons of living in Milwaukee. 

    Pros

    • Affordable cost of living
    • Strong job market
    • Beautiful lakefront
    • Great sports teams
    • Excellent schools and higher educational opportunities.
    • Ample outdoor activities
    • Short commute times

    Cons

    • Cold winters
    • High crime rates in some areas
    • Lack of public transportation
    • Poor air quality
    • High taxes

    10. Best Neighborhoods in Milwaukee

    The largest city in Wisconsin and the fifth largest city in the Midwest has a bad reputation for higher crime rates, making it one of the worst places to live in, as said by many visitors.

    Best-Neighborhoods-in-Milwaukee

    However, the residents of Milwaukee have stated the below 5 areas as the best neighbourhoods in Wisconsin Milwaukee, as far as safety is concerned. 

    1. Bay View

    Bay View is a neighbourhood in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. It is located on the shores of Lake Michigan, south of the downtown area and north of the City of St. Francis.

    Bay View has a rich history, dating back to the early 1800s. It is home to a mix of residential and commercial properties including shops, restaurants, bars, and cafes.

    Bay View is known for its friendly residents and its many community events and activities.

    2. Historic Third Ward

    The Historic Third Ward in Milwaukee is a vibrant neighbourhood known for its art galleries, boutiques, restaurants, and nightlife.

    It is home to numerous historic buildings and landmarks including the Milwaukee Public Market and the Broadway Theater Center. It was originally a centre of commerce and industry.

    3. Lower East Side

    The Lower East Side is a vibrant and diverse neighbourhood in Milwaukee, Wisconsin located between the Milwaukee River and Lake Michigan.

    It is known for its eclectic mix of businesses, including restaurants, bars, shops, and art galleries, as well as its historic architecture and welcoming community.

    One of the most famous areas in the Lower East Side is Brady Street, a four-block stretch of road lined with independent businesses and restaurants.

    4. Riverwest

    Riverwest is a neighbourhood in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, bordered by North Avenue to the north, Capitol Drive to the east, Lisbon Avenue to the south, and the Milwaukee River to the west.

    It is known for its diverse population, vibrant arts scene, and eclectic mix of businesses. It is home to people from all walks of life, including artists, students, families, and professionals.

    5. Walker’s Point

    Walker’s Point, Milwaukee is a vibrant, eclectic neighbourhood with a mix of old and new.

    It is home to a diverse population of artists, young professionals, and families drawn to its unique character and amenities.

    It is located on the shores of Lake Michigan, just south of downtown Milwaukee.

    Walker’s Point is also home to the Milwaukee Art Museum, it has the most comprehensive art museum in the US.

    Moving to Milwaukee WI FAQs

    Is Milwaukee a foodies state?

    Milwaukee is a foodie state known for its diverse culinary scene, which includes everything from classic Wisconsin comfort food to innovative fine dining.

    What are the best beaches in Milwaukee?

    Bradford Beach, South Shore Beach & McKinley Beach are the best beaches in Milwaukee.

    Is Milwaukee a good city to buy a house? 

    Milwaukee is the best city to buy a house. Its housing market is stable, with home prices increasing at a moderate pace. The median home price in Milwaukee is $200K, which is significantly lower than the national median. 

    How to get around in Milwaukee?

    There are several ways to get around Milwaukee including public transportation, ride-hailing apps, bike sharing, and walking. The Milwaukee County Transit System operates a network of buses that serve the entire county including downtown Milwaukee.

    The system includes a new Bus Rapid Transit line, Connect 1 that provides fast and reliable service between downtown Milwaukee and the east side of the city.

    Does Milwaukee have a growing job market?

    Milwaukee has a growing job market, with year-over-year job growth of 1.4%.

    Conclusion

    This midwest region of the US has a lot to offer from its beautiful shorelines to some safe neighbourhoods and vibrant arts culture and nightlife scene.

    By getting a suitable job to indulge in various outdoor activities one can get a sense of affirmation and excitement that is palpable.

    If you are preparing for this move, read our blog post thoroughly to ensure, Milwaukee is a good fit for you or not.