Madison, WI vs Downey, CA: 103 vs 169

$1,364/mo ↓ 28%

Median Rent

$1,892/mo ↑ 39%

$76,983/yr ↓ 12%

Median Income

$87,400/yr ↑ 14%

$346,900 ↓ 52%

Home Value

$728,500 ↑ 110%

$1,476/mo ↓ 26%

Owner Costs

$1,997/mo ↑ 35%

275,568

Population

111,793

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Madison, WI and Downey, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 103 and 169 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $528/month cheaper in Madison, saving renters about $6,336/year.

Median household income is $10,417/year higher in Downey. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Madison is $346,900 compared to $728,500 in Downey.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Madison vs Downey — common questions

Is Madison or Downey 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 Madison and Downey?

Median rent in Madison is $1,364/month and in Downey it's $1,892/month — a difference of $528/month.

Which city has higher income, Madison or Downey?

Median household income is $76,983 in Madison and $87,400 in Downey. Median household income is $10,417/year higher in Downey.

How do taxes compare between Wisconsin and California?

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

Should I move to Madison or Downey?

It depends on your priorities. Madison has a cost index of 103 with median rent of $1,364/mo, while Downey has a cost index of 169 with rent of $1,892/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

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

Madison

Downey

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

More Comparisons