Michigan vs Wisconsin: Which Is Better to Live In?
Michigan ranks #45 of 50 overall and Wisconsin #11 as of the latest release. Wisconsin is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 94.1 vs 96.2), collects a similar share of income in taxes, and has a 42% lower violent crime rate. Wisconsin scores higher overall, leading 8 of 11 categories to 1.
- Violent crime rate is 42% lower in Wisconsin (240 vs. 416 in Michigan).
- Center-based infant care, per year is 24% lower in Michigan ($14,064 vs. $18,604 in Wisconsin).
- Income needed to buy the typical home is 23% lower in Michigan ($73,945 vs. $95,433 in Wisconsin).
| Measure | MichiganMI | WisconsinWI | GapMI−WI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap -27.9 pts | 42.7#45 of 50 · D | 70.6#11 of 50 · B+ | -27.9 pts | — | WI |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +2.1 pts (+2%) · US 100 | 96.2#24 of 50 | 94.1#20 of 50 | +2.1 pts+2% | 100 | WI |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$15,363 · US -$11,758 | -$5,634#17 of 50 | -$20,997#32 of 50 | +$15,363 | -$11,758 | MI |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$73,407 (-22%) · US $368,697 | $266,292#12 of 50 | $339,699#25 of 50 | -$73,407-22% | $368,697 | MI |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -0.06 pts · US 8.74% | 8.25%#18 of 50 | 8.31%#19 of 50 | -0.06 pts | 8.74% | Even |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +176 (+73%) · US 328 | 416#40 of 50 | 240#18 of 50 | +176+73% | 328 | WI |
| Median household incomeGap -$5,099 (-7%) · US $80,903 | $72,389#37 of 50 | $77,488#28 of 50 | -$5,099-7% | $80,903 | WI |
| High school graduation rateGap -9.3 pts · US 85.62% | 81%#45 of 50 | 90.3%#3 of 50 | -9.3 pts | 85.62% | WI |
| Life expectancyGap -1.3 yrs · US 76.9 | 76.8#29 of 50 | 78.1#16 of 50 | -1.3 yrs | 76.9 | WI |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -9,286 · US -33 | -8,770#42 of 50 | +516#24 of 50 | -9,286 | -33 | WI |
Cost of living index from the Bureau of Economic Analysis (US = 100). Left after costs from the America's Dashboard affordability engine for a family of four earning $75,000. Typical home value from Zillow Research. Tax burden from WalletHub. Violent crime from the FBI, per 100,000 residents. Income and graduation from the Census Bureau and NCES. Life expectancy from the CDC. Net households from IRS Statistics of Income. US column is the 50-state average or median.
Is Michigan or Wisconsin better to live in?
Wisconsin scores higher overall: 70.6 to 42.7 out of 100, #11 of 50 against #45. Michigan leads 1 of 11 categories, Wisconsin leads 8, and 2 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | MichiganMI | WisconsinWI | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap -32.9 | 15% | 21.9#50 · F | 54.8#13 · B+ | -32.9 pts | WI |
| Safety12% of scoregap -17.7 | 12% | 63.9#31 · C+ | 81.6#8 · A | -17.7 pts | WI |
| Health12% of scoregap -5.1 | 12% | 55.4#27 · C+ | 60.5#18 · B+ | -5.1 pts | WI |
| Education12% of scoregap -34.3 | 12% | 42.2#44 · D | 76.5#4 · A+ | -34.3 pts | WI |
| Affordability10% of scoregap +3.5 | 10% | 73.3#22 · B | 69.8#25 · B | +3.5 pts | MI |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap -7.4 | 8% | 56.2#32 · C+ | 63.6#18 · B+ | -7.4 pts | WI |
| Growth7% of scoregap -15.7 | 7% | 24.3#41 · C | 40.0#26 · B | -15.7 pts | WI |
| Transportation7% of scoregap -2.9 | 7% | 49.4#27 · C+ | 52.3#22 · B | -2.9 pts | Even |
| Livability7% of scoregap -11.2 | 7% | 24.7#41 · C | 35.9#18 · B+ | -11.2 pts | WI |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap -6.1 | 6% | 17.8#32 · C+ | 23.9#25 · B | -6.1 pts | WI |
| Environment4% of scoregap +1.4 | 4% | 42.0#23 · B | 40.6#26 · B | +1.4 pts | Even |
Scores run 0 to 100 within each category; weight is the category's share of the composite. Grades follow rank (1–5 A+, 6–10 A, 11–18 B+, 19–26 B, 27–34 C+, 35–42 C, 43–48 D, 49–50 F). Methodology →
Is Michigan cheaper than Wisconsin?
Wisconsin is cheaper: cost of living index 94.1 vs 96.2 in Michigan (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $15,363 more a year in Michigan after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | MichiganMI | WisconsinWI | GapMI−WI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +2.1 pts (+2%) · US 100 | 96.2#24 of 50 | 94.1#20 of 50 | +2.1 pts+2% | 100 | WI |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +1.7 pts (+2%) · US 100 | 96#16 of 50 | 94.3#8 of 50 | +1.7 pts+2% | 100 | Even |
| Residential electricity priceGap +1.85¢ (+10%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 20.01¢/kWh#39 of 50 | 18.16¢/kWh#36 of 50 | +1.85¢+10% | 17.84¢/kWh | WI |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$0.18 (+2%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $10.92/Mcf#9 of 50 | $10.74/Mcf#8 of 50 | +$0.18+2% | $15.83/Mcf | Even |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.18 (-5%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.10/gal#16 of 50 | $3.28/gal#30 of 50 | -$0.18-5% | $3.32/gal | MI |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$4,540 (-24%) · US $15,633 | $14,064#21 of 50 | $18,604#36 of 50 | -$4,540-24% | $15,633 | MI |
Cost of living index and the price level for goods from the Bureau of Economic Analysis regional price parities (US = 100). Electricity, natural gas and gasoline prices from the EIA; center-based infant care from Child Care Aware of America. Lower is ahead.
| Measure | MichiganMI | WisconsinWI | GapMI−WI | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap +$3,777 | +$34,427costs $40,573 | +$30,650costs $44,350 | +$3,777 | MI |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap +$4,597 | +$26,692costs $48,308 | +$22,095costs $52,904 | +$4,597 | MI |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap +$15,363 | -$5,634costs $80,634 | -$20,997costs $95,997 | +$15,363 | MI |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap +$3,852 | +$39,007costs $35,994 | +$35,155costs $39,845 | +$3,852 | MI |
Income left after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and state and local taxes for four household types earning $75,000, from the affordability engine. Negative means typical costs exceed take-home pay.
| Measure | MichiganMI | WisconsinWI | GapMI−WI | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap -$6,261 | $19,753 | $26,014 | -$6,261 | MI |
| ChildcareGap -$9,080 | $28,128 | $37,208 | -$9,080 | MI |
| UtilitiesGap +$101 | $4,618 | $4,517 | +$101 | Even |
| GroceriesGap +$191 | $10,812 | $10,621 | +$191 | Even |
| TransportationGap -$566 | $9,743 | $10,309 | -$566 | MI |
| State and local taxesGap +$252 | $7,580 | $7,328 | +$252 | Even |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Michigan or Wisconsin?
Michigan and Wisconsin collect a similar share of income in state and local taxes: 8.25% vs 8.31%. Michigan has low sales tax, with income and property taxes in the middle of the pack; Wisconsin has high income tax, high property tax, low sales tax.
| Measure | MichiganMI | WisconsinWI | GapMI−WI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -0.06 pts · US 8.74% | 8.25%#18 of 50 | 8.31%#19 of 50 | -0.06 pts | 8.74% | Even |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -1 pts · US 5.46% | 6.65%#36 of 50 | 7.65%#40 of 50 | -1 pts | 5.46% | MI |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.24 pts · US 1.02% | 1.35%#37 of 50 | 1.59%#43 of 50 | -0.24 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +0.28 pts · US 6.66% | 6%#13 of 50 | 5.72%#9 of 50 | +0.28 pts | 6.66% | Even |
Total tax burden (state and local taxes as a share of personal income) from WalletHub; top marginal income tax rate, effective property tax rate and combined state and local sales tax from the Tax Foundation. Lower is ahead.
Are homes more expensive in Michigan or Wisconsin?
Homes cost 28% more in Wisconsin: a typical home value of $266,292 in Michigan vs $339,699 in Wisconsin. Buying the typical home takes about $73,945 of income in Michigan and $95,433 in Wisconsin; the median household earns $72,389 and $77,488.
| Measure | MichiganMI | WisconsinWI | GapMI−WI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$73,407 (-22%) · US $368,697 | $266,292#12 of 50 | $339,699#25 of 50 | -$73,407-22% | $368,697 | MI |
| Home value change, one yearGap -1.1 pts · US +1.2% | +4%#7 of 50 | +5.1%#5 of 50 | -1.1 pts | +1.2% | WI |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap -$39 (-2%) · US $1,948 | $1,524#16 of 50 | $1,563#19 of 50 | -$39-2% | $1,948 | Even |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$21,488 (-23%) · US $100,006 | $73,945#12 of 50 | $95,433#25 of 50 | -$21,488-23% | $100,006 | MI |
| Home value to income ratioGap -0.7x (-16%) · US 4.6x | 3.7x#15 of 50 | 4.4x#25 of 50 | -0.7x-16% | 4.6x | MI |
Typical home value, one-year change, largest-metro rent and income needed to buy from Zillow Research (a modeled estimate, not a median). Price-to-income ratio divides that typical home value by ACS median household income. Lower is ahead.
| MI | WI | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $1,370 | $1,748 |
| Income needed vs. median | +2% | +23% |
| Five-year change | +24.1% | +31.1% |
| Market temperature | Cool | Warm |
| Largest metro | Detroit | Milwaukee |
Income needed vs. median: how far the income required to buy the typical home sits above (+) or below (−) the state's median household income. Temperature blends price cuts, days to pending and inventory against the national market (Zillow).
Do people earn more in Michigan or Wisconsin?
Wisconsin pays more: median household income $77,488 vs $72,389, with unemployment at 5.2% in Michigan and 3.2% in Wisconsin. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Michigan's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 5 after adjusting for local costs and Wisconsin's in 4.
| Measure | MichiganMI | WisconsinWI | GapMI−WI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap -$5,099 (-7%) · US $80,903 | $72,389#37 of 50 | $77,488#28 of 50 | -$5,099-7% | $80,903 | WI |
| Unemployment rateGap +2 pts · US 3.95% | 5.2%#48 of 50 | 3.2%#8 of 50 | +2 pts | 3.95% | WI |
| GDP per capitaGap -$4,489 (-8%) · US $64,333 | $55,326#40 of 50 | $59,815#30 of 50 | -$4,489-8% | $64,333 | WI |
| Real GDP growthGap +0.2 pts · US +1.91% | +1.8%#30 of 50 | +1.6%#32 of 50 | +0.2 pts | +1.91% | Even |
| Population growthGap +0.02 pts · US +0.51% | +0.28%#35 of 50 | +0.26%#36 of 50 | +0.02 pts | +0.51% | Even |
Median household income from the Census Bureau ACS; unemployment from BLS LAUS; GDP per capita and real GDP growth from the BEA; population growth from Census Bureau estimates.
Show all 20 occupations
| Occupation | MI | WI | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Family Medicine Physicians | $248,727$233,803 in Detroit | $235,570$219,080 in Madison | MI |
| Lawyers | $152,435$143,289 in Detroit | $159,830$148,642 in Milwaukee | WI |
| Accountants & Auditors | $82,872$77,900 in Detroit | $88,282$82,102 in Madison | WI |
| Construction Laborers | $48,624$45,707 in Detroit | $44,939$41,793 in Madison | MI |
| Registered Nurses | $89,989$84,590 in Detroit | $93,505$86,960 in Milwaukee | WI |
| Mental Health Counselors | $60,529$56,897 in Detroit | $57,405$53,387 in Milwaukee | MI |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $73,498$69,088 in Detroit | $70,619$65,676 in Madison | MI |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $59,364$55,802 in Detroit | $61,763$57,440 in Madison | WI |
| Electricians | $68,769$64,643 in Detroit | $66,432$61,782 in Milwaukee | MI |
| Secondary School Teachers | $73,631$69,213 in Detroit | $71,514$66,508 in Madison | Even |
| Civil Engineers | $107,310$100,871 in Detroit | $105,622$98,228 in Madison | Even |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $82,057$77,134 in Detroit | $80,384$74,757 in Madison | Even |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $73,448$69,041 in Detroit | $72,169$67,117 in Madison | Even |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $113,783$106,956 in Detroit | $112,575$104,695 in Madison | Even |
| General & Operations Managers | $107,373$100,931 in Detroit | $108,261$100,683 in Madison | Even |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $35,851$33,700 in Detroit | $36,595$34,033 in Milwaukee | Even |
| Software Developers | $143,840$135,210 in Detroit | $143,200$133,176 in Milwaukee | Even |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $51,641$48,543 in Detroit | $52,176$48,524 in Milwaukee | Even |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $60,091$56,486 in Detroit | $59,692$55,514 in Milwaukee | Even |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $61,151$57,482 in Detroit | $60,992$56,723 in Madison | Even |
BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, latest release: the median wage in each state's best-paying metro, adjusted for that metro's cost of living (BEA regional price parities). Sorted by the size of the gap.
Is Michigan safer than Wisconsin?
Wisconsin is safer: 240 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 416 in Michigan (FBI). Property crime runs 1,259 and 1,017 per 100,000.
| Measure | MichiganMI | WisconsinWI | GapMI−WI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +176 (+73%) · US 328 | 416#40 of 50 | 240#18 of 50 | +176+73% | 328 | WI |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +242 (+24%) · US 1,535 | 1,259#13 of 50 | 1,017#5 of 50 | +242+24% | 1,535 | WI |
FBI state crime estimates, offenses per 100,000 residents, latest release. Florida and North Dakota use the FBI's prior-year estimate because the latest year is based on limited data. Lower is ahead.
- Rochester Hills, MI62 violent per 100K
- New Berlin, WI47 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, Michigan or Wisconsin?
Wisconsin scores higher for education (#4 of 50 vs #44), with high school graduation rates of 81% and 90.3%. Wisconsin scores higher for health (#18 vs #27); life expectancy is 76.8 years in Michigan and 78.1 in Wisconsin.
| Measure | MichiganMI | WisconsinWI | GapMI−WI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -13 · US 273 | 270#31 of 50 | 283#2 of 50 | -13 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -5 · US 257 | 255#33 of 50 | 260#13 of 50 | -5 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap -9.3 pts · US 85.62% | 81%#45 of 50 | 90.3%#3 of 50 | -9.3 pts | 85.62% | WI |
| Life expectancyGap -1.3 yrs · US 76.9 | 76.8#29 of 50 | 78.1#16 of 50 | -1.3 yrs | 76.9 | WI |
| Adults with obesityGap -1.3 pts · US 34.03% | 36.1%#33 of 50 | 37.4%#41 of 50 | -1.3 pts | 34.03% | MI |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -0.2 pts · US 7.6% | 5.1%#8 of 50 | 5.3%#10 of 50 | -0.2 pts | 7.6% | Even |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +3 pts (+8%) · US 38.8 | 40#27 of 50 | 37#16 of 50 | +3 pts+8% | 38.8 | WI |
High school graduation rate from NCES; life expectancy from the CDC National Center for Health Statistics; median air quality index from EPA AirData (lower is cleaner).
- Farmington Hills, MIeducation score 94.2
- Brookfield, WIeducation score 98
City education scores blend graduation rate, student-teacher ratio and per-pupil spending (NCES). State education scores combine NAEP math and reading with the graduation rate; health scores combine life expectancy, adult obesity and the uninsured rate. Education: Michigan #44, Wisconsin #4. Health: Michigan #27, Wisconsin #18.
Are more people moving from Michigan to Wisconsin, or from Wisconsin to Michigan?
2,726 households moved from Michigan to Wisconsin and 2,334 moved from Wisconsin to Michigan in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 392 households for Wisconsin. Movers to Wisconsin reported an average income of $57,848; movers to Michigan reported $63,747. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 6,713 people (±1,680) moving from Michigan to Wisconsin and 5,826 (±1,911) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Bars show people (Census ACS, latest release, with 90% margins of error). IRS counts tax-filing households and reports the movers' average income; pairs outside a state's top ten origins and destinations are not published.
| Measure | MichiganMI | WisconsinWI | GapMI−WI | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +15,125 (+27%) | 71,800#20 of 50 | 56,675#24 of 50 | +15,125+27% | MI |
| Households moving outIRSGap +24,411 (+43%) | 80,570#33 of 50 | 56,159#26 of 50 | +24,411+43% | WI |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -9,286 | -8,770#42 of 50 | +516#24 of 50 | -9,286 | WI |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -1.0 | -0.9#38 of 50 | +0.1#25 of 50 | -1.0 | WI |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$1,772 (+2%) | $74,145#30 of 50 | $72,373#32 of 50 | +$1,772+2% | Even |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$3,557 (+5%) | $77,943#18 of 50 | $74,386#24 of 50 | +$3,557+5% | MI |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -1.0 | +0.2#31 of 50 | +1.2#23 of 50 | -1.0 | WI |
Each state's total inbound and outbound households and the movers' average income from IRS Statistics of Income; net domestic migration per 1,000 residents from Census Bureau population estimates. Latest releases.
Which is better for retirees, families or remote workers, Michigan or Wisconsin?
Wisconsin is the better fit for families, retirees, remote workers, young professionals, small business, and outdoor enthusiasts. Each index re-weights the same 11 category scores for one kind of household.
| Measure | MichiganMI | WisconsinWI | GapMI−WI | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap +37 places | #41score 53.5 | #4score 81.6 | +37 places | WI |
| RetireesGap +17 places | #30score 59.7 | #13score 72.5 | +17 places | WI |
| Remote WorkersGap +31 places | #43score 41.5 | #12score 59.9 | +31 places | WI |
| Young ProfessionalsGap +35 places | #47score 37.5 | #12score 63.5 | +35 places | WI |
| Small BusinessGap +34 places | #45score 36.9 | #11score 68.2 | +34 places | WI |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap +10 places | #32score 36.1 | #22score 50.4 | +10 places | WI |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesWisconsin (#4 vs #41)
- RetireesWisconsin (#13 vs #30)
- Remote WorkersWisconsin (#12 vs #43)
- Young ProfessionalsWisconsin (#12 vs #47)
- Small BusinessWisconsin (#11 vs #45)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsWisconsin (#22 vs #32)
Which cities stand out in Michigan and Wisconsin?
Michigan has 24 tracked cities and Wisconsin has 20; the largest are Detroit and Milwaukee. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | MichiganMI | WisconsinWI |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Detroit638,530 people | Milwaukee566,973 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Troyscore 69.5 | Brookfieldscore 71.8 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Rochester Hills62 violent per 100K | New Berlin47 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Battle Creekcost index 90.5 | Fond du Laccost index 91.6 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Ann Arborwalkability 13.5 of 20 | West Alliswalkability 14.6 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Lansingcounty median AQI 38 | Wausaucounty median AQI 36 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | Farmington Hills94.2% graduation rate | Brookfield98% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Rochester Hillsmedian income $120,694 | Brookfieldmedian income $129,548 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Grand Rapids+0.9% growth | Menomonee Falls+1.8% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do Michigan and Wisconsin compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Michigan carries AA credit rating and Wisconsin AA.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | MichiganMI | WisconsinWI | GapMI−WI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap 0 pts · US 29.34% | 13%#33 of 50 | 13%#31 of 50 | 0 pts | 29.34% | Even |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -14.9 (-59%) · US 29.6 | 10.5#7 of 50 | 25.4#23 of 50 | -14.9-59% | 29.6 | MI |
| Public land shareGap +7.6 pts · US 17.16% | 13.4%#18 of 50 | 5.8%#32 of 50 | +7.6 pts | 17.16% | MI |
| Mean travel time to workGap +1.6 min · US 25.2 min | 24.3 min#20 of 50 | 22.7 min#10 of 50 | +1.6 min | 25.2 min | WI |
| Commuters using public transitGap -0.4 pts · US 2.29% | 1%#28 of 50 | 1.4%#20 of 50 | -0.4 pts | 2.29% | Even |
| Workers working from homeGap -0.6 pts · US 12.28% | 11.2%#33 of 50 | 11.8%#27 of 50 | -0.6 pts | 12.28% | WI |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +0.5 pts · US 92.67% | 92.8%#27 of 50 | 92.3%#32 of 50 | +0.5 pts | 92.67% | MI |
Renewable share of electricity from the EIA; natural disaster risk from FEMA's National Risk Index; public land share from USGS PAD-US; mean travel time to work, transit and work-from-home shares from the Census Bureau ACS; households with a broadband subscription from the Census Bureau ACS.
| Measure | MichiganMI | WisconsinWI | GapMI−WI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap 0 pts · US 92.7 | 90#39 of 50 | 90#30 of 50 | 0 pts | 92.7 | Even |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +5.3 pts · US 12.39% | 13.5%#13 of 50 | 8.2%#36 of 50 | +5.3 pts | 12.39% | MI |
| Pension funded ratioGap -32 pts · US 74.3% | 68%#35 of 50 | 100%#2 of 50 | -32 pts | 74.3% | WI |
| State debt per capitaGap +$320 (+11%) · US $3,506 | $3,180#31 of 50 | $2,860#25 of 50 | +$320+11% | $3,506 | WI |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -1.5 pts · US +4.66% | +4.3%#29 of 50 | +5.8%#16 of 50 | -1.5 pts | +4.66% | WI |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Michigan AA, Wisconsin AA), rainy-day fund and budget balance as a share of spending (Pew, NASBO), pension funded ratio (Pew) and state debt per capita (Census Bureau).
Michigan vs Wisconsin: every metric side by side
Every measure behind the category scores, with each state's rank of 50 and the US figure. Michigan is ahead on 15 of 51, Wisconsin on 19, and 17 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | MichiganMI | WisconsinWI | GapMI−WI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +4,155,097 (+70%) · US 6.8 million | 10.1 million#10 of 50 | 6 million#21 of 50 | +4,155,097+70% | 6.8 million | MI |
| Median household incomeGap -$5,099 (-7%) · US $80,903 | $72,389#37 of 50 | $77,488#28 of 50 | -$5,099-7% | $80,903 | WI |
| Unemployment rateGap +2 pts · US 3.95% | 5.2%#48 of 50 | 3.2%#8 of 50 | +2 pts | 3.95% | WI |
| Population growthGap +0.02 pts · US +0.51% | +0.28%#35 of 50 | +0.26%#36 of 50 | +0.02 pts | +0.51% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap -$4,489 (-8%) · US $64,333 | $55,326#40 of 50 | $59,815#30 of 50 | -$4,489-8% | $64,333 | WI |
| Real GDP growthGap +0.2 pts · US +1.91% | +1.8%#30 of 50 | +1.6%#32 of 50 | +0.2 pts | +1.91% | Even |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +176 (+73%) · US 328 | 416#40 of 50 | 240#18 of 50 | +176+73% | 328 | WI |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +242 (+24%) · US 1,535 | 1,259#13 of 50 | 1,017#5 of 50 | +242+24% | 1,535 | WI |
| High school graduation rateGap -9.3 pts · US 85.62% | 81%#45 of 50 | 90.3%#3 of 50 | -9.3 pts | 85.62% | WI |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap -4 · US 237 | 235#34 of 50 | 239#14 of 50 | -4 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -13 · US 273 | 270#31 of 50 | 283#2 of 50 | -13 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap -6 · US 214 | 209#44 of 50 | 215#22 of 50 | -6 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -5 · US 257 | 255#33 of 50 | 260#13 of 50 | -5 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap -1.3 yrs · US 76.9 | 76.8#29 of 50 | 78.1#16 of 50 | -1.3 yrs | 76.9 | WI |
| Adults with obesityGap -1.3 pts · US 34.03% | 36.1%#33 of 50 | 37.4%#41 of 50 | -1.3 pts | 34.03% | MI |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -0.2 pts · US 7.6% | 5.1%#8 of 50 | 5.3%#10 of 50 | -0.2 pts | 7.6% | Even |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$73,407 (-22%) · US $368,697 | $266,292#12 of 50 | $339,699#25 of 50 | -$73,407-22% | $368,697 | MI |
| Home value change, one yearGap -1.1 pts · US +1.2% | +4%#7 of 50 | +5.1%#5 of 50 | -1.1 pts | +1.2% | WI |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap -$39 (-2%) · US $1,948 | $1,524#16 of 50 | $1,563#19 of 50 | -$39-2% | $1,948 | Even |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$21,488 (-23%) · US $100,006 | $73,945#12 of 50 | $95,433#25 of 50 | -$21,488-23% | $100,006 | MI |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +2.1 pts (+2%) · US 100 | 96.2#24 of 50 | 94.1#20 of 50 | +2.1 pts+2% | 100 | WI |
| Home value to income ratioGap -0.7x (-16%) · US 4.6x | 3.7x#15 of 50 | 4.4x#25 of 50 | -0.7x-16% | 4.6x | MI |
| Residential electricity priceGap +1.85¢ (+10%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 20.01¢/kWh#39 of 50 | 18.16¢/kWh#36 of 50 | +1.85¢+10% | 17.84¢/kWh | WI |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$0.18 (+2%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $10.92/Mcf#9 of 50 | $10.74/Mcf#8 of 50 | +$0.18+2% | $15.83/Mcf | Even |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.18 (-5%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.10/gal#16 of 50 | $3.28/gal#30 of 50 | -$0.18-5% | $3.32/gal | MI |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +1.7 pts (+2%) · US 100 | 96#16 of 50 | 94.3#8 of 50 | +1.7 pts+2% | 100 | Even |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$4,540 (-24%) · US $15,633 | $14,064#21 of 50 | $18,604#36 of 50 | -$4,540-24% | $15,633 | MI |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -0.06 pts · US 8.74% | 8.25%#18 of 50 | 8.31%#19 of 50 | -0.06 pts | 8.74% | Even |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -1 pts · US 5.46% | 6.65%#36 of 50 | 7.65%#40 of 50 | -1 pts | 5.46% | MI |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.24 pts · US 1.02% | 1.35%#37 of 50 | 1.59%#43 of 50 | -0.24 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +0.28 pts · US 6.66% | 6%#13 of 50 | 5.72%#9 of 50 | +0.28 pts | 6.66% | Even |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap 0 pts · US 92.7 | 90#39 of 50 | 90#30 of 50 | 0 pts | 92.7 | Even |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +5.3 pts · US 12.39% | 13.5%#13 of 50 | 8.2%#36 of 50 | +5.3 pts | 12.39% | MI |
| Pension funded ratioGap -32 pts · US 74.3% | 68%#35 of 50 | 100%#2 of 50 | -32 pts | 74.3% | WI |
| State debt per capitaGap +$320 (+11%) · US $3,506 | $3,180#31 of 50 | $2,860#25 of 50 | +$320+11% | $3,506 | WI |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -1.5 pts · US +4.66% | +4.3%#29 of 50 | +5.8%#16 of 50 | -1.5 pts | +4.66% | WI |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +3 pts (+8%) · US 38.8 | 40#27 of 50 | 37#16 of 50 | +3 pts+8% | 38.8 | WI |
| Renewable share of electricityGap 0 pts · US 29.34% | 13%#33 of 50 | 13%#31 of 50 | 0 pts | 29.34% | Even |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -14.9 (-59%) · US 29.6 | 10.5#7 of 50 | 25.4#23 of 50 | -14.9-59% | 29.6 | MI |
| Public land shareGap +7.6 pts · US 17.16% | 13.4%#18 of 50 | 5.8%#32 of 50 | +7.6 pts | 17.16% | MI |
| Mean travel time to workGap +1.6 min · US 25.2 min | 24.3 min#20 of 50 | 22.7 min#10 of 50 | +1.6 min | 25.2 min | WI |
| Commuters using public transitGap -0.4 pts · US 2.29% | 1%#28 of 50 | 1.4%#20 of 50 | -0.4 pts | 2.29% | Even |
| Workers working from homeGap -0.6 pts · US 12.28% | 11.2%#33 of 50 | 11.8%#27 of 50 | -0.6 pts | 12.28% | WI |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +0.5 pts · US 92.67% | 92.8%#27 of 50 | 92.3%#32 of 50 | +0.5 pts | 92.67% | MI |
| Households moving inIRSGap +15,125 (+27%) · US 78,682 | 71,800#20 of 50 | 56,675#24 of 50 | +15,125+27% | 78,682 | MI |
| Households moving outIRSGap +24,411 (+43%) · US 78,715 | 80,570#33 of 50 | 56,159#26 of 50 | +24,411+43% | 78,715 | WI |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -9,286 · US -33 | -8,770#42 of 50 | +516#24 of 50 | -9,286 | -33 | WI |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -1.0 · US +0.4 | -0.9#38 of 50 | +0.1#25 of 50 | -1.0 | +0.4 | WI |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$1,772 (+2%) · US $77,690 | $74,145#30 of 50 | $72,373#32 of 50 | +$1,772+2% | $77,690 | Even |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$3,557 (+5%) · US $77,024 | $77,943#18 of 50 | $74,386#24 of 50 | +$3,557+5% | $77,024 | MI |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -1.0 · US +1.1 | +0.2#31 of 50 | +1.2#23 of 50 | -1.0 | +1.1 | WI |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$15,363 · US -$11,758 | -$5,634#17 of 50 | -$20,997#32 of 50 | +$15,363 | -$11,758 | MI |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap +$3,777 · US +$31,418 | +$34,427#18 of 50 | +$30,650#26 of 50 | +$3,777 | +$31,418 | MI |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap +$3,852 · US +$35,970 | +$39,007#19 of 50 | +$35,155#26 of 50 | +$3,852 | +$35,970 | MI |
Every metric in the registry, direction-aware: ahead means better for a resident. Ranks are among the states with data. Sources are listed at the foot of the page.
Key takeaways
What the Michigan and Wisconsin numbers say when read together.
Wisconsin ranks higher overall
Wisconsin leads 8 of the 11 categories to Michigan's 1, with 2 even; Michigan is ahead on affordability. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, Michigan is ahead on 15 and Wisconsin on 19.
Wisconsin is cheaper day to day
Wisconsin's cost of living index is 94.1 against 96.2 in Michigan (US = 100). The typical home costs $266,292 in Michigan and $339,699 in Wisconsin. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$5,634 a year after typical costs in Michigan and -$20,997 in Wisconsin.
Tax burdens are close
Michigan collects 8.25% of income in state and local taxes (low sales tax, with income and property taxes in the middle of the pack); Wisconsin collects 8.31% (high income tax, high property tax, low sales tax).
Wisconsin pays more and is safer
Median household income is $72,389 in Michigan and $77,488 in Wisconsin, with unemployment at 5.2% and 3.2%. Violent crime runs 416 per 100,000 residents in Michigan and 240 in Wisconsin.
Moves between the two run about even
6,713 people moved from Michigan to Wisconsin and 5,826 the other way, a gap inside the survey's margin of error.
Wisconsin fits families and retirees better
For families, Michigan ranks #41 of 50 and Wisconsin #4; for retirees, Michigan ranks #30 and Wisconsin #13.
Michigan vs Wisconsin: frequently asked questions
Is Michigan or Wisconsin better to live in?
Michigan ranks #45 of 50 overall and Wisconsin #11 as of the latest release. Wisconsin is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 94.1 vs 96.2), collects a similar share of income in taxes, and has a 42% lower violent crime rate. Wisconsin scores higher overall, leading 8 of 11 categories to 1.
Is Michigan cheaper than Wisconsin?
Wisconsin is cheaper than Michigan: cost of living index 94.1 vs 96.2 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 would have -$5,634 left after typical housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes in Michigan, and -$20,997 in Wisconsin. The typical home value is $266,292 in Michigan and $339,699 in Wisconsin.
Which has lower taxes, Michigan or Wisconsin?
Michigan and Wisconsin have similar tax burdens: 8.25% vs 8.31% of income in state and local taxes. Michigan's top income tax rate is 6.65%, its effective property tax rate 1.35% and its combined sales tax 6%; Wisconsin's are 7.65%, 1.59% and 5.72%.
Is Michigan safer than Wisconsin?
Wisconsin is safer: 240 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 416 in Michigan, per the FBI. Michigan ranks #40 of 50 for violent crime and Wisconsin #18. Property crime is 1,259 per 100,000 in Michigan and 1,017 in Wisconsin. The safest tracked cities are Rochester Hills, MI, and New Berlin, WI.
Are homes more expensive in Michigan or Wisconsin?
Homes are 28% more expensive in Wisconsin: the typical home value is $266,292 in Michigan and $339,699 in Wisconsin. Buying the typical home takes about $73,945 of household income in Michigan and $95,433 in Wisconsin, against median incomes of $72,389 and $77,488.
Do people earn more in Michigan or Wisconsin?
Wisconsin pays more: median household income is $77,488 vs $72,389 in Michigan, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 5.2% in Michigan and 3.2% in Wisconsin. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Michigan's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 5 after adjusting for local costs and Wisconsin's in 4, with 11 even.
Are more people moving from Michigan to Wisconsin or from Wisconsin to Michigan?
2,726 households moved from Michigan to Wisconsin and 2,334 moved from Wisconsin to Michigan in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 392 households for Wisconsin. Movers to Wisconsin reported an average income of $57,848; movers to Michigan reported $63,747. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 6,713 people (±1,680) moving from Michigan to Wisconsin and 5,826 (±1,911) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Which is better for retirees, Michigan or Wisconsin?
Wisconsin is the better fit for retirees: #13 of 50 on the retiree index vs #30 for Michigan. Michigan has low sales tax, with income and property taxes in the middle of the pack; Wisconsin has high income tax, high property tax, low sales tax. A retiree couple on $75,000 would have +$39,007 left after typical costs in Michigan and +$35,155 in Wisconsin.
Which is better for families, Michigan or Wisconsin?
Wisconsin is the better fit for families: #4 of 50 on the families index vs #41 for Michigan. Center-based infant care costs $14,064 a year in Michigan and $18,604 in Wisconsin. High school graduation rates are 81% and 90.3%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$5,634 after typical costs in Michigan and -$20,997 in Wisconsin.
Is Wisconsin better than Michigan?
Yes: Wisconsin ranks higher than Michigan overall, #11 of 50 vs #45, with a composite score of 70.6 to 42.7. Wisconsin leads 8 of 11 categories and Michigan leads 1, including affordability. Which is better for you depends on how you weigh cost, safety, schools, taxes and pay.
Compare a different pair
Swap either state, or jump to the matchups people open alongside Michigan vs Wisconsin.
Why this pair is featured: bordering states, major moving corridor (2,726 households moved in the busier direction in the latest IRS release).