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

Madison

Wisconsin
103
VS

Midland

Texas
99

Madison is 4% more expensive than Midland.

$1,364/mo ↓ 3%
Median Rent
$1,407/mo ↑ 3%
$76,983/yr ↓ 16%
Median Income
$91,169/yr ↑ 18%
$346,900 ↑ 16%
Home Value
$298,600 ↓ 14%
$1,476/mo ≈ Same
Owner Costs
$1,468/mo ≈ Same
275,568
Population
133,998

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
18.5%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Madison, WI and Midland, TX, the overall cost of living indices are 103 and 99 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is comparable in both cities, with less than $50/month separating them.

Median household income is $14,186/year higher in Midland. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Madison is $346,900 compared to $298,600 in Midland.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Madison vs Midland — common questions

Is Madison or Midland cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Midland is cheaper to live in with an index of 99 compared to 103 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Madison and Midland?
Median rent in Madison is $1,364/month and in Midland it's $1,407/month — a difference of $43/month.
Which city has higher income, Madison or Midland?
Median household income is $76,983 in Madison and $91,169 in Midland. Median household income is $14,186/year higher in Midland.
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 Midland?
It depends on your priorities. Madison has a cost index of 103 with median rent of $1,364/mo, while Midland has a cost index of 99 with rent of $1,407/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Madison details → View Midland details →

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