Average Rent in Milwaukee, WI

Milwaukee offers affordable lakefront living with a strong beer culture, growing food scene, and revitalized downtown. The Third Ward and surrounding neighborhoods provide urban amenities at Midwest prices.

+2.5%YoY
Studio
$850
1-Bedroom
$1,050
2-Bedroom
$1,250
3-Bedroom
$1,550

Market Overview

Year-over-Year Change+2.5%
Vacancy Rate5%
Renter Population56%
Median Income$43,125/yr
Rent-to-Income Ratio29.2%
Cost of Living Index85 (US avg: 100)

Market Condition

Balanced Market

Market is relatively balanced between landlords and tenants.

Tenant Protections

  • Security deposit return within 21 days
  • No rent control (Wisconsin preemption)
  • Landlord must maintain habitable conditions
  • 28-day notice required for month-to-month termination

Rent by Neighborhood in Milwaukee

Third Ward

Converted warehouses with Milwaukee Public Market and galleries.

Walk Score: 85Safety: 8/10
1-Bed
$1,400
2-Bed
$1,700
3-Bed
$2,100

East Side

Near UWM with Brady Street dining and lakefront parks.

Walk Score: 82Safety: 7/10
1-Bed
$1,100
2-Bed
$1,350
3-Bed
$1,650

Bay View

Trendy neighborhood with KK Avenue restaurants and South Shore Park.

Walk Score: 60Safety: 7/10
1-Bed
$1,000
2-Bed
$1,200
3-Bed
$1,500

Walker's Point

Diverse neighborhood with craft distilleries and Fifth Street nightlife.

Walk Score: 72Safety: 6/10
1-Bed
$1,150
2-Bed
$1,400
3-Bed
$1,750

Tips for Renting in Milwaukee

  • 1Milwaukee winters are harsh - budget $100-200/month for heating
  • 2Lakefront living is surprisingly affordable compared to coastal cities
  • 3The Hop streetcar is free and connects downtown neighborhoods
  • 4Summerfest and other festivals make summer months vibrant but can affect noise levels

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FareRent provides data for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, legal, or real estate advice. Rent estimates are based on available market data and may not reflect your exact situation. Always verify independently before making housing decisions.