Milwaukee vs Wausau: Phlebotomist Salary (2026)
Compare phlebotomist 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 | $49,110▲ | $47,219 |
| Hourly Rate | $23.61▲ | $22.71 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $40,302▲ | $37,752 |
| 25th Percentile | $46,059▲ | $38,787 |
| 75th Percentile | $50,897▲ | $48,379 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $55,651▲ | $50,448 |
| Total Employed | 990▲ | 100 |
Verdict
Milwaukee, WI offers better overall compensation for phlebotomists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Wausau.
The salary gap between Milwaukee and Wausau is $1,891 (4.00%). Milwaukee's median is +3.91% compared to the US national median of $47,261.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Milwaukee spans $15,349,Wausau spans $12,696. 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 ($50,964 effective) pays 0.60% more than Milwaukee ($50,662 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 ($49,110/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($55,651)
- ✓Larger job market (990 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Wisconsin area and lifestyle
Choose Wausau if…
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $50,964)
- ✓You prefer the Wisconsin area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, phlebotomist salaries in Milwaukee grew 27.3% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 32.0% growth in Wausau over the same period.
Milwaukee, WI
$36,930 (2019) → $47,000 (2025)
Wausau, WI
$34,230 (2019) → $45,190 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Milwaukee, WI
Wausau, WI
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays phlebotomists more: Milwaukee or Wausau?
What is the hourly rate difference between Milwaukee and Wausau?
Should I relocate from Milwaukee to Wausau as a phlebotomist?
What do entry-level phlebotomists earn in Milwaukee vs Wausau?
Related Comparisons
Written by Aisha Patel, MLT
Career Analyst
Aisha has over 10 years of experience in clinical laboratory technology. She specializes in blood collection and processing. She works in a large urban hospital.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 4.49% 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 Aisha Patel, MLT, a licensed phlebotomist with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov