Madison, WI vs Ventura, CA: 103 vs 183

$1,364/mo ↓ 35%

Median Rent

$2,101/mo ↑ 54%

$76,983/yr ↓ 23%

Median Income

$100,407/yr ↑ 30%

$346,900 ↓ 55%

Home Value

$778,700 ↑ 124%

$1,476/mo ↓ 30%

Owner Costs

$2,118/mo ↑ 43%

275,568

Population

109,900

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Madison, WI and Ventura, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 103 and 183 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $737/month cheaper in Madison, saving renters about $8,844/year.

Median household income is $23,424/year higher in Ventura. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Madison is $346,900 compared to $778,700 in Ventura.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Madison vs Ventura — common questions

Is Madison or Ventura cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Madison is cheaper to live in with an index of 103 compared to 183 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Madison and Ventura?

Median rent in Madison is $1,364/month and in Ventura it's $2,101/month — a difference of $737/month.

Which city has higher income, Madison or Ventura?

Median household income is $76,983 in Madison and $100,407 in Ventura. Median household income is $23,424/year higher in Ventura.

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 Ventura?

It depends on your priorities. Madison has a cost index of 103 with median rent of $1,364/mo, while Ventura has a cost index of 183 with rent of $2,101/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

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

Madison

Ventura

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

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