Cost of Living: Madison, WI vs Denton, TX (2026)

Madison

Wisconsin
103
VS

Denton

Texas
100

Madison is 3% more expensive than Denton.

$1,364/mo ↑ 1%
Median Rent
$1,344/mo ↓ 1%
$76,983/yr ↑ 4%
Median Income
$73,719/yr ↓ 4%
$346,900 ↑ 7%
Home Value
$325,700 ↓ 6%
$1,476/mo ↑ 1%
Owner Costs
$1,461/mo ↓ 1%
275,568
Population
146,987

Tax Comparison

7.65%
Income Tax
0%
5.0%
State Sales Tax
6.25%
1.61%
Property Tax
1.6%

Affordability

21.3%
rent-to-income
Affordability
21.9%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Madison, WI and Denton, TX, the overall cost of living indices are 103 and 100 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is comparable in both cities, with less than $50/month separating them.

Median household income is $3,264/year higher in Madison. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Madison is $346,900 compared to $325,700 in Denton.

Texas has no state income tax, giving Denton residents a significant tax advantage over Wisconsin's 7.65% rate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Madison vs Denton — common questions

Is Madison or Denton cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Denton is cheaper to live in with an index of 100 compared to 103 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Madison and Denton?
Median rent in Madison is $1,364/month and in Denton it's $1,344/month — a difference of $20/month.
Which city has higher income, Madison or Denton?
Median household income is $76,983 in Madison and $73,719 in Denton. Median household income is $3,264/year higher in Madison.
How do taxes compare between Wisconsin and Texas?
Wisconsin has 7.65% income tax, 5.0% sales tax, and 1.61% property tax. Texas has 0% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 1.6% property tax.
Should I move to Madison or Denton?
It depends on your priorities. Madison has a cost index of 103 with median rent of $1,364/mo, while Denton has a cost index of 100 with rent of $1,344/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Madison details → View Denton details →

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