In Milwaukee, WI, Human Resources Specialists earn a median of $64,570 a year — about 15% below the U.S. median of $76,060. Among the 50 metros tracked here for this role, that ranks #27.
What that pay is worth in Milwaukee
Local prices run 97 on the BEA cost-of-living index (U.S. = 100), so a $70,540 salary stretches further than the sticker number — about $72,769 in national-average buying power.
Can Human Resources Specialists afford a home in Milwaukee?
A typical Milwaukee home runs about $172,000 — 2.4 times the average Human Resources Specialist salary, very affordable against the classic 3x rule of thumb. Median rent near $1,033/mo takes roughly 18% of gross pay — within the 30% comfort line.
The Human Resources Specialist pay ladder in Milwaukee
Entry-level (10th percentile) Human Resources Specialists earn about $45,650; the top 10% reach $101,990 — a $56,340 spread, moderate for this field. Most of that gap comes down to experience, employer, and how hard you negotiate.
The Human Resources Specialist job market in Milwaukee
Milwaukee employs roughly 5,260 Human Resources Specialists. It’s a sizable local market to build a career in.
Compare Milwaukee with other cities
See the full Human Resources Specialist salary by city ranking to weigh Milwaukee against the other metros on both pay and cost-adjusted value, or use the cost-of-living calculator to compare any two cities directly.
Frequently asked questions
How much do Human Resources Specialists make in Milwaukee?
The average Human Resources Specialist in Milwaukee, WI earns about $70,540 per year, 7.3% below the national average of $76,060.
What is the take-home pay for Human Resources Specialists in Milwaukee after taxes?
After federal and WI taxes, this $70,540 salary is worth about $56,059 a year - roughly $4,671 a month in take-home pay, an effective tax rate near 21%.
What do the highest-paid Human Resources Specialists earn in Milwaukee?
The top 10% of Human Resources Specialists in Milwaukee earn about $101,990 a year, versus about $45,650 for the bottom 10%.
Can Human Resources Specialists afford a home in Milwaukee?
A typical Milwaukee home runs about $172,000 - roughly 2.4x this salary, within reach by the classic 3x rule of thumb.