Madison, WI vs Santa Rosa, CA: 103 vs 172

$1,364/mo ↓ 35%

Median Rent

$2,084/mo ↑ 53%

$76,983/yr ↓ 21%

Median Income

$97,410/yr ↑ 27%

$346,900 ↓ 49%

Home Value

$685,000 ↑ 97%

$1,476/mo ↓ 31%

Owner Costs

$2,130/mo ↑ 44%

275,568

Population

177,216

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Madison, WI and Santa Rosa, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 103 and 172 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $720/month cheaper in Madison, saving renters about $8,640/year.

Median household income is $20,427/year higher in Santa Rosa. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Madison is $346,900 compared to $685,000 in Santa Rosa.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Madison vs Santa Rosa — common questions

Is Madison or Santa Rosa cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Madison is cheaper to live in with an index of 103 compared to 172 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Madison and Santa Rosa?

Median rent in Madison is $1,364/month and in Santa Rosa it's $2,084/month — a difference of $720/month.

Which city has higher income, Madison or Santa Rosa?

Median household income is $76,983 in Madison and $97,410 in Santa Rosa. Median household income is $20,427/year higher in Santa Rosa.

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 Santa Rosa?

It depends on your priorities. Madison has a cost index of 103 with median rent of $1,364/mo, while Santa Rosa has a cost index of 172 with rent of $2,084/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

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

Madison

Santa Rosa

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

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