Madison, WI vs Vallejo, CA: 103 vs 155

$1,364/mo ↓ 32%

Median Rent

$2,013/mo ↑ 48%

$76,983/yr ↓ 14%

Median Income

$89,496/yr ↑ 16%

$346,900 ↓ 38%

Home Value

$557,500 ↑ 61%

$1,476/mo ↓ 28%

Owner Costs

$2,058/mo ↑ 39%

275,568

Population

124,637

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Madison, WI and Vallejo, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 103 and 155 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $649/month cheaper in Madison, saving renters about $7,788/year.

Median household income is $12,513/year higher in Vallejo. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Madison is $346,900 compared to $557,500 in Vallejo.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Madison vs Vallejo — common questions

Is Madison or Vallejo cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Madison is cheaper to live in with an index of 103 compared to 155 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Madison and Vallejo?

Median rent in Madison is $1,364/month and in Vallejo it's $2,013/month — a difference of $649/month.

Which city has higher income, Madison or Vallejo?

Median household income is $76,983 in Madison and $89,496 in Vallejo. Median household income is $12,513/year higher in Vallejo.

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 Vallejo?

It depends on your priorities. Madison has a cost index of 103 with median rent of $1,364/mo, while Vallejo has a cost index of 155 with rent of $2,013/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

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

Madison

Vallejo

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

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