Kenosha vs Milwaukee: Athletic Trainer Salary (2026)
Compare athletic trainer 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 | $60,595 | $63,448▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $29.13 | $30.50▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $44,607 | $48,967▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $55,094▲ | $49,553 |
| 75th Percentile | $71,439▲ | $71,211 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $87,710▲ | $81,151 |
| Total Employed | 25 | 150▲ |
Verdict
Milwaukee, WI offers better overall compensation for athletic trainers, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Kenosha.
The salary gap between Kenosha and Milwaukee is $2,853 (4.71%). Milwaukee's median is -3.01% compared to the US national median of $65,415.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Kenosha spans $43,103,Milwaukee spans $32,184. Kenosha 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, Milwaukee ($65,453 effective) pays 0.89% more than Kenosha ($64,877 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Kenosha if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($87,710)
- ✓You prefer the Wisconsin area and lifestyle
Choose Milwaukee if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($63,448/year)
- ✓Larger job market (150 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $65,453)
- ✓You prefer the Wisconsin area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, athletic trainer salaries in Kenosha grew 15.8% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 16.3% growth in Milwaukee over the same period.
Kenosha, WI
$50,022 (2024) → $57,914 (2025)
Milwaukee, WI
$52,150 (2019) → $60,640 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Kenosha, WI
Milwaukee, WI
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays athletic trainers more: Kenosha or Milwaukee?
What is the hourly rate difference between Kenosha and Milwaukee?
Should I relocate from Kenosha to Milwaukee as a athletic trainer?
What do entry-level athletic trainers earn in Kenosha vs Milwaukee?
Written by Jordan Lee, MS, ATC
Career Analyst
Jordan Lee has over 10 years of experience in athletic training. She specializes in injury prevention and rehabilitation. She has worked at several high schools and collegiate athletic programs.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 4.63% 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, MS, ATC, a licensed athletic trainer with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov