San Antonio, TX vs Madison, WI: 82 vs 103

$1,258/mo ↓ 8%

Median Rent

$1,364/mo ↑ 8%

$62,917/yr ↓ 18%

Median Income

$76,983/yr ↑ 22%

$219,700 ↓ 37%

Home Value

$346,900 ↑ 58%

$1,235/mo ↓ 16%

Owner Costs

$1,476/mo ↑ 20%

1,458,954

Population

275,568

Detailed Comparison

When comparing San Antonio, TX and Madison, WI, the overall cost of living indices are 82 and 103 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $106/month cheaper in San Antonio, saving renters about $1,272/year.

Median household income is $14,066/year higher in Madison. Home values also differ significantly — the median in San Antonio is $219,700 compared to $346,900 in Madison.

Texas has no state income tax, giving San Antonio residents a significant tax advantage over Wisconsin's 7.65% rate.

Frequently Asked Questions

San Antonio vs Madison — common questions

Is San Antonio or Madison cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, San Antonio is cheaper to live in with an index of 82 compared to 103 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between San Antonio and Madison?

Median rent in San Antonio is $1,258/month and in Madison it's $1,364/month — a difference of $106/month.

Which city has higher income, San Antonio or Madison?

Median household income is $62,917 in San Antonio and $76,983 in Madison. Median household income is $14,066/year higher in Madison.

How do taxes compare between Texas and Wisconsin?

Texas has 0% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 1.6% property tax. Wisconsin has 7.65% income tax, 5.0% sales tax, and 1.61% property tax.

Should I move to San Antonio or Madison?

It depends on your priorities. San Antonio has a cost index of 82 with median rent of $1,258/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: San Antonio, TX vs Madison, WI (2026)

San Antonio

Madison

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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