Kenosha vs Milwaukee: Massage Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare massage therapist salaries between Kenosha, WI and Milwaukee, WI. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Kenosha, WI | Milwaukee, WI |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $63,705▲ | $59,748 |
| Hourly Rate | $30.63▲ | $28.72 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $36,949▲ | $21,195 |
| 25th Percentile | $49,135▲ | $35,658 |
| 75th Percentile | $81,542 | $82,311▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $98,743 | $112,498▲ |
| Total Employed | 25 | 440▲ |
Verdict
Kenosha and Milwaukee are closely matched on overall massage therapist compensation, each winning on different metrics.
The salary gap between Kenosha and Milwaukee is $3,957 (6.62%). Kenosha's median is +2.79% compared to the US national median of $61,975.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Kenosha spans $61,794,Milwaukee spans $91,303. Milwaukee has a wider pay range, suggesting more variation in pay between entry-level and experienced massage therapists.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Kenosha ($68,207 effective) pays 10.66% more than Milwaukee ($61,636 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Kenosha if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($63,705/year)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $68,207)
- ✓You prefer the Wisconsin area and lifestyle
Choose Milwaukee if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($112,498)
- ✓Larger job market (440 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Wisconsin area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, massage therapist salaries in Kenosha grew 41.0% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 41.1% growth in Milwaukee over the same period.
Kenosha, WI
$42,611 (2024) → $60,082 (2025)
Milwaukee, WI
$39,930 (2019) → $56,350 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Kenosha, WI
Milwaukee, WI
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays massage therapists more: Kenosha or Milwaukee?
What is the hourly rate difference between Kenosha and Milwaukee?
Should I relocate from Kenosha to Milwaukee as a massage therapist?
What do entry-level massage therapists earn in Kenosha vs Milwaukee?
Written by Jordan Lee, LMT
Career Analyst
Jordan Lee has 10 years of experience in massage therapy. They specialize in sports massage. They work in a wellness center.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 6.03% 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, LMT, a licensed massage therapist with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov