Madison, WI vs Tempe, AZ: 103 vs 120

$1,364/mo ↓ 16%

Median Rent

$1,623/mo ↑ 19%

$76,983/yr ≈ Same

Median Income

$77,643/yr ≈ Same

$346,900 ↓ 18%

Home Value

$421,900 ↑ 22%

$1,476/mo ↓ 5%

Owner Costs

$1,554/mo ↑ 5%

275,568

Population

186,419

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Madison, WI and Tempe, AZ, the overall cost of living indices are 103 and 120 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $259/month cheaper in Madison, saving renters about $3,108/year.

Median household income is $660/year higher in Tempe. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Madison is $346,900 compared to $421,900 in Tempe.

Arizona has a lower income tax rate, making Tempe slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Madison vs Tempe — common questions

Is Madison or Tempe cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Madison is cheaper to live in with an index of 103 compared to 120 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Madison and Tempe?

Median rent in Madison is $1,364/month and in Tempe it's $1,623/month — a difference of $259/month.

Which city has higher income, Madison or Tempe?

Median household income is $76,983 in Madison and $77,643 in Tempe. Median household income is $660/year higher in Tempe.

How do taxes compare between Wisconsin and Arizona?

Wisconsin has 7.65% income tax, 5.0% sales tax, and 1.61% property tax. Arizona has 2.5% income tax, 5.6% sales tax, and 0.62% property tax.

Should I move to Madison or Tempe?

It depends on your priorities. Madison has a cost index of 103 with median rent of $1,364/mo, while Tempe has a cost index of 120 with rent of $1,623/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Madison, WI vs Tempe, AZ (2026)

Madison

Tempe

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

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