Madison, WI vs Murrieta, CA: 103 vs 175

$1,364/mo ↓ 41%

Median Rent

$2,330/mo ↑ 71%

$76,983/yr ↓ 30%

Median Income

$109,780/yr ↑ 43%

$346,900 ↓ 43%

Home Value

$606,900 ↑ 75%

$1,476/mo ↓ 38%

Owner Costs

$2,380/mo ↑ 61%

275,568

Population

111,621

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Madison, WI and Murrieta, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 103 and 175 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $966/month cheaper in Madison, saving renters about $11,592/year.

Median household income is $32,797/year higher in Murrieta. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Madison is $346,900 compared to $606,900 in Murrieta.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Madison vs Murrieta — common questions

Is Madison or Murrieta cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Madison is cheaper to live in with an index of 103 compared to 175 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Madison and Murrieta?

Median rent in Madison is $1,364/month and in Murrieta it's $2,330/month — a difference of $966/month.

Which city has higher income, Madison or Murrieta?

Median household income is $76,983 in Madison and $109,780 in Murrieta. Median household income is $32,797/year higher in Murrieta.

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 Murrieta?

It depends on your priorities. Madison has a cost index of 103 with median rent of $1,364/mo, while Murrieta has a cost index of 175 with rent of $2,330/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

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

Madison

Murrieta

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

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