Madison, WI vs Kent, WA: 103 vs 145

$1,364/mo ↓ 26%

Median Rent

$1,833/mo ↑ 34%

$76,983/yr ↓ 15%

Median Income

$90,416/yr ↑ 17%

$346,900 ↓ 35%

Home Value

$537,500 ↑ 55%

$1,476/mo ↓ 23%

Owner Costs

$1,915/mo ↑ 30%

275,568

Population

135,015

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Madison, WI and Kent, WA, the overall cost of living indices are 103 and 145 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $469/month cheaper in Madison, saving renters about $5,628/year.

Median household income is $13,433/year higher in Kent. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Madison is $346,900 compared to $537,500 in Kent.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Madison vs Kent — common questions

Is Madison or Kent cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Madison is cheaper to live in with an index of 103 compared to 145 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Madison and Kent?

Median rent in Madison is $1,364/month and in Kent it's $1,833/month — a difference of $469/month.

Which city has higher income, Madison or Kent?

Median household income is $76,983 in Madison and $90,416 in Kent. Median household income is $13,433/year higher in Kent.

How do taxes compare between Wisconsin and Washington?

Wisconsin has 7.65% income tax, 5.0% sales tax, and 1.61% property tax. Washington has 0% income tax, 6.5% sales tax, and 0.92% property tax.

Should I move to Madison or Kent?

It depends on your priorities. Madison has a cost index of 103 with median rent of $1,364/mo, while Kent has a cost index of 145 with rent of $1,833/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Madison, WI vs Kent, WA (2026)

Madison

Kent

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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