Milwaukee vs Waukesha: Elementary School Teacher Salary (2026)
Compare elementary school teacher salaries between Milwaukee, WI and Waukesha, WI. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Milwaukee, WI | Waukesha, WI |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $62,083 | $62,865▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $29.85 | $30.22▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $50,833▲ | $46,114 |
| 25th Percentile | $52,712 | $55,479▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $81,249▲ | $78,507 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $98,385▲ | $97,441 |
| Total Employed | 6,620▲ | 14 |
Verdict
Milwaukee and Waukesha are closely matched on overall elementary school teacher compensation, each winning on different metrics.
The salary gap between Milwaukee and Waukesha is $782 (1.26%). Waukesha's median is -2.68% compared to the US national median of $64,597.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Milwaukee spans $47,552,Waukesha spans $51,327. Waukesha has a wider pay range, suggesting more variation in pay between entry-level and experienced elementary school teachers.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Waukesha ($67,307 effective) pays 5.09% more than Milwaukee ($64,045 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Milwaukee if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($98,385)
- ✓Larger job market (6,620 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Wisconsin area and lifestyle
Choose Waukesha if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($62,865/year)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $67,307)
- ✓You prefer the Wisconsin area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, elementary school teacher salaries in Milwaukee grew 3.7% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 7.2% growth in Waukesha over the same period.
Milwaukee, WI
$59,290 (2019) → $61,480 (2025)
Waukesha, WI
$58,051 (2024) → $62,255 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Milwaukee, WI
Waukesha, WI
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays elementary school teachers more: Milwaukee or Waukesha?
What is the hourly rate difference between Milwaukee and Waukesha?
Should I relocate from Milwaukee to Waukesha as a elementary school teacher?
What do entry-level elementary school teachers earn in Milwaukee vs Waukesha?
Written by Jordan Lee, M.Ed.
Career Analyst
Jordan Lee has over 10 years of experience in elementary education. They focus on curriculum development and teaching methodologies. Their experience includes working in public schools.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 0.98% CAGR (derived from 6-year national BLS trends) was applied to estimate current compensation. Cost-of-living adjustments use BEA Regional Price Parity data. Actual salaries vary by employer, certifications, and experience.
Data Sources & Methodology
Source: BLS, OEWS , released .
Compiled and verified by Jordan Lee, M.Ed., a licensed elementary school teacher with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov