Policy Analyst Jobs in Milwaukee, WI

Milwaukee, Wisconsin$68,150 USD/yearFull-time
Updated: April 2026Expert reviewed|Data sourced from BLS, Glassdoor, and industry reports

About Policy Analyst Jobs in Milwaukee

Looking for a Policy Analyst job in Milwaukee? You're in the right place. This guide covers everything you need to know about working as a Policy Analyst in Milwaukee, WI.

We'll show you what you can expect to earn. We'll also share which companies are hiring. Plus, you'll learn about the cost of living and how to get started in your job search.

Milwaukee has a strong job market for Policy Analysts. Many employers are actively looking for talent. Read on to learn how to land your next role.

Policy Analyst Salary in Milwaukee

Entry Level
$43,945
Median
$68,150
Senior Level
$97,290

Policy Analyst salaries in Milwaukee are in line with national averages, offering competitive compensation for the region.

Purchasing power in Milwaukee is comparable to the national average, with salaries appropriately scaled to local costs.

Required Skills

Policy ResearchData AnalysisWritingStakeholder EngagementCritical Thinking

Policy Analyst Job Market in Milwaukee

Milwaukee, WI is a major regional employment hub for Policy Analyst professionals. As a mid-sized metro with 577K residents, Milwaukee balances career opportunities with quality of life. While Manufacturing leads the local economy, there's growing demand for Policy Analyst roles across various sectors. The market for Policy Analyst positions remains stable, with opportunities in both established companies and growing organizations.

Top Companies Hiring Policy Analysts in Milwaukee

City of MilwaukeeMCTSWe EnergiesMilwaukee Public Schools

Major employers hiring Policy Analysts in Milwaukee include City of Milwaukee, MCTS, We Energies, Milwaukee Public Schools. Many companies offer competitive benefits including comprehensive healthcare, and professional development opportunities.

Cost of Living for Policy Analysts in Milwaukee

Living in Milwaukee as a Policy Analyst means navigating a cost of living that's close to the national average. Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment is approximately $1,200/month (33% below the national average). At median Policy Analyst salary, housing is quite affordable at 21% of gross income, leaving room for savings and lifestyle spending. Suburban apartments average $950/month, offering significant savings with slightly longer commutes.

94
Cost Index (100=avg)
$1.2K
Avg Rent/Month
Growing
Tech Hub
Tier 2
Market Size

Commuting as a Policy Analyst in Milwaukee

Milwaukee Limited public transit options; car recommended for most commutes. The average commute time is 25 minutes. Research employer-specific shuttle services. Consider living close to your workplace. Since transit options are limited, consider living close to your workplace or negotiating flexible hours to avoid peak traffic.

Best neighborhoods for Policy Analysts in Milwaukee: Downtown (Central business district with tech companies); Tech Park/Campus (Suburban office park developments). Downtown is particularly popular among Policy Analyst professionals due to proximity to major employers and urban amenities.

Tax Considerations in Wisconsin

Wisconsin has relatively high state income taxes. A Policy Analyst earning $68,150 might pay approximately $5,452 in state income tax. However, Wisconsin's strong job market and quality of life often offset the higher tax burden.

Career Outlook for Policy Analysts

The job outlook for Policy Analysts in Milwaukee is stable. While not experiencing rapid growth, the field maintains steady demand with consistent opportunities for qualified professionals. Milwaukee's growing economy creates new positions regularly, often with less competition than coastal tech hubs. In-demand skills include Policy Research, Data Analysis, Writing, Stakeholder Engagement.

Relocating to Milwaukee

Milwaukee's affordable cost of living means your Policy Analyst salary will stretch further than in major coastal cities. Many professionals relocate here for better quality of life. Wisconsin has higher state income taxes. Factor this into salary negotiations, as gross salary comparisons can be misleading.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average Policy Analyst salary in Milwaukee, WI?

The average Policy Analyst salary in Milwaukee, WI is $68,150 per year. Entry-level Policy Analysts typically start around $43,945, while experienced professionals can earn $97,290 or more. The national average for Policy Analyst roles is $72,500.

How many Policy Analyst jobs are available in Milwaukee?

Milwaukee has a strong job market with regular openings for Policy Analyst professionals. Major employers hiring Policy Analysts include City of Milwaukee, MCTS, We Energies, Milwaukee Public Schools. The Manufacturing and Healthcare sectors drive much of the demand in this market.

Is Milwaukee a good city for Policy Analysts?

Milwaukee is an very good choice for Policy Analysts. As a major metro area, it offers abundant opportunities and competitive salaries. The affordable cost of living means salaries go further than in more expensive markets. The city's manufacturing industry creates strong demand for government & public sector professionals.

What skills are most in-demand for Policy Analysts in Milwaukee?

Top skills for Policy Analysts in Milwaukee include Policy Research, Data Analysis, Writing, Stakeholder Engagement, Critical Thinking. Employers value both technical expertise and soft skills like communication and teamwork.

What is the cost of living for Policy Analysts in Milwaukee?

Milwaukee's cost of living is near the national average (94% of baseline). Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment is approximately $1,200/month. Purchasing power in Milwaukee is comparable to the national average, with salaries appropriately scaled to local costs.

How is the commute for Policy Analysts in Milwaukee?

Milwaukee Limited public transit options; car recommended for most commutes. The average commute is 25 minutes. Research employer-specific shuttle services.

More Government & Public Sector Jobs in Milwaukee

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