Omaha, NE vs Madison, WI: 80 vs 103

$1,150/mo ↓ 16%

Median Rent

$1,364/mo ↑ 19%

$72,708/yr ↓ 6%

Median Income

$76,983/yr ↑ 6%

$230,100 ↓ 34%

Home Value

$346,900 ↑ 51%

$1,249/mo ↓ 15%

Owner Costs

$1,476/mo ↑ 18%

488,197

Population

275,568

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Omaha, NE and Madison, WI, the overall cost of living indices are 80 and 103 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $214/month cheaper in Omaha, saving renters about $2,568/year.

Median household income is $4,275/year higher in Madison. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Omaha is $230,100 compared to $346,900 in Madison.

Nebraska has a lower income tax rate, making Omaha slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Omaha vs Madison — common questions

Is Omaha or Madison cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Omaha is cheaper to live in with an index of 80 compared to 103 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Omaha and Madison?

Median rent in Omaha is $1,150/month and in Madison it's $1,364/month — a difference of $214/month.

Which city has higher income, Omaha or Madison?

Median household income is $72,708 in Omaha and $76,983 in Madison. Median household income is $4,275/year higher in Madison.

How do taxes compare between Nebraska and Wisconsin?

Nebraska has 6.64% income tax, 5.5% sales tax, and 1.73% property tax. Wisconsin has 7.65% income tax, 5.0% sales tax, and 1.61% property tax.

Should I move to Omaha or Madison?

It depends on your priorities. Omaha has a cost index of 80 with median rent of $1,150/mo, while Madison has a cost index of 103 with rent of $1,364/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Omaha, NE vs Madison, WI (2026)

Omaha

Madison

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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