Future Cities

Market Spotlight: Milwaukee is Happening

A new age for the Midwest’s vibrant, viable destination.

June 18, 2024

Aerial view of Milwaukee

Why Milwaukee?

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Far more than the midsized alternative to its metropolitan neighbor, Milwaukee stands alone on the strength of its natural beauty, infrastructural accessibility and commercial viability. See the following CBRE Market Spotlight on Milwaukee's arrival as a city of tomorrow.

3 Factors for Milwaukee

  1. The Good Land

    The enduring appeal of a Great Lakes gem, from its coastal majesty to its economic diversity.


    The coalescence of geographic makeup, municipal design and cultural community that forms one of the top 25 “breathtaking places and experiences” in the world
    source: National Geographic, 2023
    An economic homecoming of corporate relocations to its urban core, contributing to a top 3 ranking in post-pandemic recoveries among Midwestern downtowns
    source: School of Cities, University of Toronto
    Tentpole industries from manufacturing to healthcare powering a diverse, robust economy, with 97% employment among civilians ages 16+
    source: CBRE Fast Facts Report, 2023
    Expansive trade and transportation routes—including two international airports within 70 miles, multiple freight rail lines, Atlantic Ocean access via the St. Lawrence Seaway, and nine daily Amtrak connections to Chicago and Minneapolis

    Aerial view of Milwaukee skyline

  2. The Good Path

    The promising future of the Midwest’s live-work-play magnet.


    A fertile home for large-scale, community-centered developments, from the revived RiverWalk’s interconnection to the rejuvenated Third Ward’s 100% population increase since 2010
    source: The International Downtown Association
    Hundreds of millions invested in new and upcoming developments joining the centralized working, housing and gathering spaces thriving throughout the city

    A supercharged hospitality and events sector garnering international acclaim, including a top 3 ranking for "best cities in the U.S." to visit
    source: Condé Nast Traveler
    The backdrop for environmental advancements of the future, as 1 of 14 cities worldwide recognized by the UN's Global Compact Cities Programme for global leadership and advancement in freshwater tech and science
    source: Choose Milwaukee & Milwaukee 7
    Aerial view of Milwaukee

  3. The Good Life

    Dynamic metropolitan offerings without metropolitan costs or commutes.


    A significantly lower cost of living than other major metros, with $100K in living costs equaling $127K in Chicago, $155K in Boston and $200K in San Francisco
    source: Choose Milwaukee
    An eclectic collage of neighborhood communities, from the lively, energetic Lower East Side to historic, welcoming Walker’s Point

    A dairy land food & drink renaissance, with 19 James Beard recognized chefs and ranked #1 culinary city in the Midwest
    source: Midwest Living
    The Festival City’s year-round celebration, with cheer-worthy sports, world-renowned museums and high-end attractions

    Aerial view of Milwaukee

Why Milwaukee?

Read the Report