Long Beach, CA vs Madison, WI: 169 vs 103

$1,803/mo ↑ 32%

Median Rent

$1,364/mo ↓ 24%

$83,969/yr ↑ 9%

Median Income

$76,983/yr ↓ 8%

$762,200 ↑ 120%

Home Value

$346,900 ↓ 54%

$1,890/mo ↑ 28%

Owner Costs

$1,476/mo ↓ 22%

458,491

Population

275,568

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Long Beach, CA and Madison, WI, the overall cost of living indices are 169 and 103 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $439/month cheaper in Madison, saving renters about $5,268/year.

Median household income is $6,986/year higher in Long Beach. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Long Beach is $762,200 compared to $346,900 in Madison.

Wisconsin has a lower income tax rate, making Madison slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Long Beach vs Madison — common questions

Is Long Beach or Madison cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Madison is cheaper to live in with an index of 103 compared to 169 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Long Beach and Madison?

Median rent in Long Beach is $1,803/month and in Madison it's $1,364/month — a difference of $439/month.

Which city has higher income, Long Beach or Madison?

Median household income is $83,969 in Long Beach and $76,983 in Madison. Median household income is $6,986/year higher in Long Beach.

How do taxes compare between California and Wisconsin?

California has 13.3% income tax, 7.25% sales tax, and 0.71% property tax. Wisconsin has 7.65% income tax, 5.0% sales tax, and 1.61% property tax.

Should I move to Long Beach or Madison?

It depends on your priorities. Long Beach has a cost index of 169 with median rent of $1,803/mo, while Madison has a cost index of 103 with rent of $1,364/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Long Beach, CA vs Madison, WI (2026)

Long Beach

Madison

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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