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Wisconsin vs California

A comprehensive side-by-side comparison of cost of living, wages, taxes, and housing between Wisconsin and California. Updated for 2026.

Quick Summary

Wisconsin is 46.7% cheaper to live in than California. However, California has a higher median household income ($87,200 vs $66,034). Average rent for a 1-bedroom is $950/mo in Wisconsin vs $1,850/mo in California.

Cost of Living Index

95.5

Wisconsin

142.2

California

32.8% lower in Wisconsin

Minimum Wage ($/hr)

$7.25

Wisconsin

$16.9

California

57.1% lower in Wisconsin

Median Household Income

$66,034

Wisconsin

$87,200

California

24.3% lower in Wisconsin

Average 1BR Rent ($/mo)

$950

Wisconsin

$1,850

California

48.6% lower in Wisconsin

State Sales Tax Rate

5.00%

Wisconsin

7.25%

California

31.0% lower in Wisconsin

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Wisconsin or California cheaper to live in?expand_more

Wisconsin has a lower cost of living index (95.5 vs 142.2), making it approximately 32.8% cheaper than California overall.

What is the minimum wage difference between Wisconsin and California?expand_more

Wisconsin has a minimum wage of $7.25/hr while California has $16.9/hr. The difference is $9.65/hr.

Which state has higher median income: Wisconsin or California?expand_more

California has a higher median household income at $87,200, compared to $66,034 in Wisconsin.

Explore Individual States

Wisconsin

Minimum Wage Salary Calculator Unemployment Data

California

Minimum Wage Salary Calculator Unemployment Data

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