Milwaukee vs Wausau: Elementary School Teacher Salary (2026)
Compare elementary school teacher salaries between Milwaukee, WI and Wausau, WI. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Milwaukee, WI | Wausau, WI |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $62,083▲ | $60,083 |
| Hourly Rate | $29.85▲ | $28.89 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $50,833▲ | $49,026 |
| 25th Percentile | $52,712▲ | $49,743 |
| 75th Percentile | $81,249▲ | $75,513 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $98,385▲ | $79,209 |
| Total Employed | 6,620▲ | 460 |
Verdict
Milwaukee, WI offers better overall compensation for elementary school teachers, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Wausau.
The salary gap between Milwaukee and Wausau is $2,000 (3.33%). Milwaukee's median is -3.89% 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,Wausau spans $30,183. Milwaukee has a wider pay range, meaning more potential for high earners but also more variation.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Wausau ($64,849 effective) pays 1.26% 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…
- ✓Higher median salary ($62,083/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($98,385)
- ✓Larger job market (6,620 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Wisconsin area and lifestyle
Choose Wausau if…
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $64,849)
- ✓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 9.4% growth in Wausau over the same period.
Milwaukee, WI
$59,290 (2019) → $61,480 (2025)
Wausau, WI
$54,410 (2019) → $59,500 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Milwaukee, WI
Wausau, WI
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays elementary school teachers more: Milwaukee or Wausau?
What is the hourly rate difference between Milwaukee and Wausau?
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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