Librarian Salary in Milwaukee, Wisconsin
The median librarian salary in Milwaukee, WI is $56,295 per year, which is 8% below the national median and 0.0% above the Wisconsin state average.
Librarian Pay in Milwaukee: What to Expect (2026)
Milwaukee offers a median librarian salary of $56,295, which is $0 above the Wisconsin state average of $56,295. Compared to the national median of $61,190, Milwaukee pays below the national benchmark for this role.
Milwaukee's cost of living is 92% of the national average, meaning salary figures here closely reflect actual purchasing power. This makes direct comparisons to other cities straightforward.
The salary range for librarians in Milwaukee spans from $36,064 at the 10th percentile to $88,872 at the 90th percentile — a $52,808 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $38,640, while senior librarians with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $80,960. As a major metro area with a population of 577,222, Milwaukee typically offers more job opportunities and employer competition, which can drive salaries higher.
Librarian Salary in Milwaukee by Experience
In Milwaukee, an entry-level librarian earns around $38,640, while experienced professionals earn up to $80,960 per year. The local cost of living index is 92% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Milwaukee, WI
| Percentile | Milwaukee |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $36,064 |
| 25th Percentile | $45,080 |
| Median (50th) | $56,295 |
| 75th Percentile | $71,024 |
| 90th Percentile | $88,872 |
Librarian Salary in Other Wisconsin Cities
How to Become a Librarian in Milwaukee
Education
Most librarian positions require a master's degree. Milwaukee and the surrounding Wisconsin area have institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook
Nationally, librarian employment is projected to grow 3% over the next decade (as fast as average). Demand in Milwaukee may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Librarian Jobs in Milwaukee
Browse open librarian positions in Milwaukee, WI: