Madison, WI vs Dayton, OH: 103 vs 50

$1,364/mo ↑ 58%

Median Rent

$866/mo ↓ 37%

$76,983/yr ↑ 77%

Median Income

$43,454/yr ↓ 44%

$346,900 ↑ 272%

Home Value

$93,200 ↓ 73%

$1,476/mo ↑ 77%

Owner Costs

$833/mo ↓ 44%

275,568

Population

136,741

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Madison, WI and Dayton, OH, the overall cost of living indices are 103 and 50 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $498/month cheaper in Dayton, saving renters about $5,976/year.

Median household income is $33,529/year higher in Madison. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Madison is $346,900 compared to $93,200 in Dayton.

Ohio has a lower income tax rate, making Dayton slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Madison vs Dayton — common questions

Is Madison or Dayton cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Dayton is cheaper to live in with an index of 50 compared to 103 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Madison and Dayton?

Median rent in Madison is $1,364/month and in Dayton it's $866/month — a difference of $498/month.

Which city has higher income, Madison or Dayton?

Median household income is $76,983 in Madison and $43,454 in Dayton. Median household income is $33,529/year higher in Madison.

How do taxes compare between Wisconsin and Ohio?

Wisconsin has 7.65% income tax, 5.0% sales tax, and 1.61% property tax. Ohio has 3.5% income tax, 5.75% sales tax, and 1.53% property tax.

Should I move to Madison or Dayton?

It depends on your priorities. Madison has a cost index of 103 with median rent of $1,364/mo, while Dayton has a cost index of 50 with rent of $866/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Madison, WI vs Dayton, OH (2026)

Madison

Dayton

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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