Madison, WI vs Lowell, MA: 103 vs 119

$1,364/mo ↓ 15%

Median Rent

$1,603/mo ↑ 18%

$76,983/yr ↑ 1%

Median Income

$76,205/yr ↓ 1%

$346,900 ↓ 12%

Home Value

$395,100 ↑ 14%

$1,476/mo ↓ 12%

Owner Costs

$1,672/mo ↑ 13%

275,568

Population

114,799

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Madison, WI and Lowell, MA, the overall cost of living indices are 103 and 119 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $239/month cheaper in Madison, saving renters about $2,868/year.

Median household income is $778/year higher in Madison. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Madison is $346,900 compared to $395,100 in Lowell.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Madison vs Lowell — common questions

Is Madison or Lowell cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Madison is cheaper to live in with an index of 103 compared to 119 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Madison and Lowell?

Median rent in Madison is $1,364/month and in Lowell it's $1,603/month — a difference of $239/month.

Which city has higher income, Madison or Lowell?

Median household income is $76,983 in Madison and $76,205 in Lowell. Median household income is $778/year higher in Madison.

How do taxes compare between Wisconsin and Massachusetts?

Wisconsin has 7.65% income tax, 5.0% sales tax, and 1.61% property tax. Massachusetts has 9.0% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 1.15% property tax.

Should I move to Madison or Lowell?

It depends on your priorities. Madison has a cost index of 103 with median rent of $1,364/mo, while Lowell has a cost index of 119 with rent of $1,603/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Madison, WI vs Lowell, MA (2026)

Madison

Lowell

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

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