You might be considering a house in Minneapolis, MN, or an apartment in Milwaukee, WI, as these two Midwest cities share a rich cultural history and a love for the arts. Minneapolis boasts a thriving job market and vibrant lakeside neighborhoods, while Milwaukee offers a lower cost of living and a reputation for its brewing heritage. Whether you’re drawn to the bustling streets of Minneapolis or Milwaukee’s riverside charm, choosing the right city to call home is a big decision.
From real estate prices and job opportunities to cost of living and cultural experiences, there’s a lot to consider. In this Redfin article, we’ll explore the key differences to help you determine which city is the best fit for your next move.
Housing in Minneapolis vs Milwaukee
Minneapolis and Milwaukee each offer unique housing markets, balancing urban living and suburban charm. Let’s compare the key differences in housing costs, space, and lifestyle between these two Midwest cities.
Housing in Minneapolis
Minneapolis features a diverse housing market, from modern condos in Downtown Minneapolis to classic Craftsman-style homes in neighborhoods like Northeast and Uptown. The city’s mix of urban energy and lakeside living appeals to professionals and families alike. Minneapolis is known for its strong housing market and vibrant community life, offering options for every budget and style.
Housing in Milwaukee
Milwaukee’s housing market is more affordable, with charming homes in historic Milwaukee neighborhoods like Bay View and Brewers Hill. The city offers a range of housing styles, from cozy bungalows to contemporary apartments downtown. Milwaukee’s affordability, combined with its strong community feel, makes it an attractive option for buyers and renters alike.
Cost of living in Minneapolis vs Milwaukee
The cost of living in Milwaukee, WI is 7% higher than the cost of living in Minneapolis, MN. Differences in utilities, groceries, transportation, and healthcare contribute to much of the gap.
1. Utilities
Utilities in Milwaukee are about 1% less expensive than in Minneapolis. Harsh winters in Minneapolis lead to higher heating costs, while Milwaukee’s slightly milder climate helps keep utility expenses lower.
2. Groceries
Groceries in Minneapolis and Milwaukee cost about the same. Both cities benefit from Midwest agriculture, resulting in similar pricing, although Milwaukee’s smaller population sometimes offers slight savings.
3. Transportation
Transportation costs in Milwaukee are about 6% more expensive than in Minneapolis. While Minneapolis has a robust public transit system and bike-friendly infrastructure, Milwaukee’s commuting expenses are higher due to fewer public transit options and reliance on cars.
4. Healthcare
Healthcare in Milwaukee is approximately 6% more expensive than in Minneapolis. Despite Minneapolis having a concentration of specialized medical facilities, Milwaukee’s healthcare costs surpass those of Minneapolis due to fewer competitive options.
5. Lifestyle
Lifestyle expenses in Milwaukee are about 2% more expensive than in Minneapolis. While Minneapolis offers a wider range of cultural and recreational activities, Milwaukee’s growing arts and dining scene has driven costs slightly higher.
Minneapolis vs Milwaukee in size and population: A Midwest comparison
Minneapolis and Milwaukee, two major Midwest cities, showcase distinct characteristics in size and population. Minneapolis covers about 57 square miles with a population of approximately 430,000, creating a vibrant and lively urban core. Milwaukee, slightly larger at 96 square miles, has a population of around 577,000, making it more spread out but equally energetic. Minneapolis offers a more compact and walkable city experience with abundant green spaces around its many lakes, while Milwaukee’s larger footprint balances urban living with access to its iconic riverside and Lake Michigan shoreline. Both cities provide a dynamic mix of metropolitan and natural attractions, appealing to diverse lifestyles.
Weather and climate in Minneapolis vs Milwaukee
Minneapolis’ climate and Milwaukee’s climate both experience a classic Midwest climate, with hot, humid summers and long, cold winters. Minneapolis sees colder and snowier winters due to its more northern location, while Milwaukee benefits from Lake Michigan’s moderating effect, making its winters slightly milder but more prone to lake-effect snow. Summers are warm in both cities, though Milwaukee’s proximity to the lake keeps temperatures slightly cooler. Both cities are occasionally at risk for severe thunderstorms and tornadoes during the warmer months, with Minneapolis typically facing harsher winter conditions overall.
The job market in Minneapolis vs Milwaukee
Minneapolis: A diverse and growing economy
Minneapolis boasts a diverse job market, with strong sectors in finance, healthcare, and manufacturing. Major employers like Target, UnitedHealth Group, and 3M drive the city’s economic growth. The employment rate in Minneapolis is around 72%, with a median household income of $81,000. The average hourly wage is $33.80, reflecting the city’s robust earning potential, particularly in industries like healthcare, technology, and retail.
Milwaukee: Industry and brewing heritage
Milwaukee’s job market is rooted in manufacturing, healthcare, and its famous brewing industry. Companies like Harley-Davidson, Aurora Health Care, and Molson Coors provide a steady stream of employment opportunities. Milwaukee’s employment rate is approximately 62%, with a median household income of $53,000. The average hourly wage is $30.11, offering competitive earnings in sectors like advanced manufacturing, healthcare, and brewing, along with a lower cost of living compared to Minneapolis.
Transportation in Minneapolis vs Milwaukee
Minneapolis: Transit-friendly and bikeable
Minneapolis features a well-connected transportation system, including Metro Transit buses and light rail services like the Blue and Green Lines, which make commuting convenient. The city is highly bike-friendly, with extensive bike lanes and trails, such as the Midtown Greenway. While car ownership is common, public transit and biking are widely used, especially in the urban core.
Milwaukee: Walkable with room for transit growth
Milwaukee offers a compact and walkable downtown, with The Hop streetcar and Milwaukee County Transit System buses providing public transit options. While not as extensive as Minneapolis, biking is gaining traction, supported by bike lanes and trails along Lake Michigan. Car ownership is common due to the city’s spread-out neighborhoods and limited transit reach beyond central areas.
Travel in and out of Minneapolis vs Milwaukee
Both Minneapolis and Milwaukee are well-connected transportation hubs in the Midwest, offering diverse travel options to meet regional and national needs.
- Minneapolis: Minneapolis−Saint Paul International Airport (MSP) is a major hub for domestic and international flights, serving as a key connection point in the Midwest. Amtrak’s Empire Builder line connects Minneapolis to Chicago and Seattle. Greyhound and Megabus provide regional bus services, while the Metro Transit system makes it easy to navigate the Twin Cities. The city’s location near the Mississippi River also allows for scenic river cruises during the warmer months.
- Milwaukee: General Mitchell International Airport serves Milwaukee with domestic and some international flights, offering convenient access to destinations across the U.S. Amtrak’s Hiawatha Service connects Milwaukee to Chicago with frequent daily routes. Greyhound and Megabus buses provide additional travel options, and Lake Michigan ferries offer a unique way to reach Michigan and other destinations across the Great Lakes.
Lifestyle and things to do in Minneapolis and Milwaukee
A day in the life of a Minneapolitan
Life in Minneapolis combines urban energy with natural beauty. Mornings might start with a bike ride along the Chain of Lakes or coffee at a cafe in the North Loop. The city’s thriving arts scene draws residents to galleries and theaters like the Guthrie. Evenings are often spent dining at a farm-to-table restaurant or catching a live performance at First Avenue. Weekends may involve kayaking on the Mississippi River or attending one of the city’s many festivals.
Top things to do in Minneapolis:
Google Street View of the Mill City Museum
Minneapolis parks and outdoor activities:
Google Street View of Minnehaha Falls Park
Minneapolis tourist attractions:
- Minneapolis Sculpture Garden
- Mall of America (nearby)
- Minnehaha Falls
- Mill City Museum
- Target Field
A day in the life of a Milwaukeean
Milwaukee life blends rich history with a laid-back vibe. Mornings might begin with a stroll along the RiverWalk or a cup of coffee at a Third Ward cafe. Residents enjoy visiting breweries, dining at local restaurants, or attending festivals like Summerfest. The city’s vibrant lakefront provides opportunities for sailing or biking along Lake Michigan. Evenings are often spent at a Bucks game or enjoying live music at historic venues.
Top things to do in Milwaukee:
Google Street View of the Milwaukee Art Museum
Milwaukee parks and outdoor activities:
Google Street View of the Oak Leaf Trail
Milwaukee tourist attractions:
- Milwaukee Art Museum
- Harley-Davidson Museum
- Mitchell Park Domes
- Milwaukee Public Market
- Discovery World Science and Technology Center
Food and culture in Minneapolis and Milwaukee
Minneapolis: A melting pot of flavors and creativity
Minneapolis is a haven for food lovers, offering a mix of traditional Midwest comfort food and international cuisine. Juicy Lucy burgers are a local favorite, but the city also boasts diverse dining options, including Scandinavian, Ethiopian, and Vietnamese fare. Minneapolis’ cultural festivals, such as the Minnesota State Fair and the Twin Cities Jazz Festival, bring people together to celebrate food, music, and the arts. The city’s thriving arts scene features renowned institutions like the Walker Art Center and live music venues such as First Avenue, making Minneapolis a cultural hotspot.
Milwaukee: Beer, brats, and beyond
Milwaukee’s food culture is deeply tied to its brewing history, with craft breweries and beer gardens scattered across the city. Classic Wisconsin fare, like cheese curds and bratwurst, is a must-try, but Milwaukee’s food scene also includes a growing array of global cuisines. Events like Summerfest and the Wisconsin State Fair celebrate the city’s vibrant culture with food, music, and art. Milwaukee’s cultural highlights include the Milwaukee Art Museum and historic theaters like the Pabst, which host performances ranging from Broadway shows to local acts.
Sports scene in Minneapolis and Milwaukee
Minneapolis: A diverse lineup of teams
Minneapolis offers a vibrant sports scene, with major teams across multiple leagues, including the Minnesota Vikings (NFL), Twins (MLB), Timberwolves (NBA), and Wild (NHL). The city also hosts Minnesota United FC for soccer fans, with Allianz Field providing a state-of-the-art venue. Minneapolis’ sports culture is enhanced by its college teams, particularly the University of Minnesota’s Golden Gophers, and its commitment to outdoor activities like cycling, running, and winter sports.
Milwaukee: Passionate fans and local pride
Milwaukee’s sports culture is built on its passionate fan base, with the Milwaukee Brewers (MLB) and Bucks (NBA) leading the way. The Bucks’ recent NBA championship has elevated the city’s basketball fervor, with Fiserv Forum becoming a central hub for sports and entertainment. Milwaukee also embraces soccer through Forward Madison FC and college athletics from Marquette University. The city’s annual events, like the Lakefront Marathon, add to its robust athletic culture, blending professional sports with community participation.
