Madison, WI vs Palmdale, CA: 103 vs 130

$1,364/mo ↓ 21%

Median Rent

$1,736/mo ↑ 27%

$76,983/yr ↓ 5%

Median Income

$81,151/yr ↑ 5%

$346,900 ↓ 20%

Home Value

$435,300 ↑ 25%

$1,476/mo ↓ 19%

Owner Costs

$1,831/mo ↑ 24%

275,568

Population

165,487

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Madison, WI and Palmdale, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 103 and 130 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $372/month cheaper in Madison, saving renters about $4,464/year.

Median household income is $4,168/year higher in Palmdale. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Madison is $346,900 compared to $435,300 in Palmdale.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Madison vs Palmdale — common questions

Is Madison or Palmdale cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Madison is cheaper to live in with an index of 103 compared to 130 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Madison and Palmdale?

Median rent in Madison is $1,364/month and in Palmdale it's $1,736/month — a difference of $372/month.

Which city has higher income, Madison or Palmdale?

Median household income is $76,983 in Madison and $81,151 in Palmdale. Median household income is $4,168/year higher in Palmdale.

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 Palmdale?

It depends on your priorities. Madison has a cost index of 103 with median rent of $1,364/mo, while Palmdale has a cost index of 130 with rent of $1,736/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

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

Madison

Palmdale

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Affordability

Detailed Comparison

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