Madison, WI vs Vancouver, WA: 103 vs 123

$1,364/mo ↓ 16%

Median Rent

$1,632/mo ↑ 20%

$76,983/yr ↓ 2%

Median Income

$78,156/yr ↑ 2%

$346,900 ↓ 21%

Home Value

$440,300 ↑ 27%

$1,476/mo ↓ 8%

Owner Costs

$1,607/mo ↑ 9%

275,568

Population

192,696

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Madison, WI and Vancouver, WA, the overall cost of living indices are 103 and 123 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $268/month cheaper in Madison, saving renters about $3,216/year.

Median household income is $1,173/year higher in Vancouver. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Madison is $346,900 compared to $440,300 in Vancouver.

Washington has no state income tax, giving Vancouver residents a significant tax advantage over Wisconsin's 7.65% rate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Madison vs Vancouver — common questions

Is Madison or Vancouver cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Madison is cheaper to live in with an index of 103 compared to 123 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Madison and Vancouver?

Median rent in Madison is $1,364/month and in Vancouver it's $1,632/month — a difference of $268/month.

Which city has higher income, Madison or Vancouver?

Median household income is $76,983 in Madison and $78,156 in Vancouver. Median household income is $1,173/year higher in Vancouver.

How do taxes compare between Wisconsin and Washington?

Wisconsin has 7.65% income tax, 5.0% sales tax, and 1.61% property tax. Washington has 0% income tax, 6.5% sales tax, and 0.92% property tax.

Should I move to Madison or Vancouver?

It depends on your priorities. Madison has a cost index of 103 with median rent of $1,364/mo, while Vancouver has a cost index of 123 with rent of $1,632/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Madison, WI vs Vancouver, WA (2026)

Madison

Vancouver

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

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