What Are the Downsides of Living in Milwaukee, WI?

I lived in Milwaukee, Wisconsin for 4 years and during my time there, I experienced a mix of both pros and cons. Here, I will share some of the downsides that stood out to me.

Pros

Lots of job opportunities Always something to do, especially during the summertime Relatively lower cost of living with reasonable median income wages Close proximity to Chicago Metropolitan feel but not a huge city Lots of diversity

Cons

Violent Crime Rates

Milwaukee has very high crime rates, which can be quite concerning. As a resident, you may feel unsafe at times, and the fear of crime might limit your activities or your choice of neighborhood.

Poor School System

The quality of the public school system in Milwaukee is questionable. This can be a serious drawback if you have children or plan to start a family, as the available educational resources might not meet your expectations.

High Property Taxes

Property taxes in Milwaukee County are significantly higher compared to the surrounding counties. This can be a heavy financial burden, especially if you own a home, and it might impact your overall quality of life.

Segregation and Social Issues

Milwaukee is quite segregated, with many communities divided based on race. There is little mixing between different racial groups, which can lead to a lack of diversity and social interaction. This segregation is evident in areas such as:

The north is predominantly African American The south is primarily Latinx The middle and central areas are predominantly White

Furthermore, the police force has a history of not adequately addressing issues related to the African American community. Police brutality against Black men, the disappearance of women and children of color, and the abuse of power by law enforcement have been widely reported and persistently ignored by local authorities.

Given these social issues, many residents of the North Side, where a large population of African Americans reside, find themselves in a disadvantaged position. The area is often left to deteriorate due to neglect and discrimination.

Human Trafficking and Major Highway Hub

Milwaukee is considered a center for human trafficking due to the convergence of major U.S. highways downtown. This adds another layer of concern and unease to the city, particularly for individuals who are vulnerable or unaware of the risks.

Political and Social Divides

While Milwaukee itself leans liberal, the surrounding cities and counties are heavily focused on Republican ideals, and some areas are ardently supportive of Donald Trump. This political divide can lead to a polarizing environment, making it challenging to find common ground or unite for community support.

Challenging Social Environment

The social environment in Milwaukee can be standoffish. Many long-term residents have minimal desire to engage with newcomers. It can be quite difficult to make new friends or forge connections outside of one's existing social circles.

Tolerable but Cold Winters

While the city offers a lot, the winters are truly brutal. Extremes in temperatures, like the record-setting minus 55 degrees, are not unusual. The wind chill can make it feel even colder. These harsh conditions can impact daily life and make it challenging to venture outside, even on less severe days.

Summary

A word of caution for those considering relocating to Milwaukee, Wisconsin: the city offers a unique blend of job opportunities, cultural diversity, and amenities, but it also faces significant challenges. While the living conditions can be manageable, the social and communal aspects may require some adjustment. It's important to weigh these pros and cons before making a decision.