San Diego, CA vs Madison, WI: 197 vs 103

$2,223/mo ↑ 63%

Median Rent

$1,364/mo ↓ 39%

$104,321/yr ↑ 36%

Median Income

$76,983/yr ↓ 26%

$848,500 ↑ 145%

Home Value

$346,900 ↓ 59%

$2,308/mo ↑ 56%

Owner Costs

$1,476/mo ↓ 36%

1,385,061

Population

275,568

Detailed Comparison

When comparing San Diego, CA and Madison, WI, the overall cost of living indices are 197 and 103 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $859/month cheaper in Madison, saving renters about $10,308/year.

Median household income is $27,338/year higher in San Diego. Home values also differ significantly — the median in San Diego is $848,500 compared to $346,900 in Madison.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

San Diego vs Madison — common questions

Is San Diego or Madison cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Madison is cheaper to live in with an index of 103 compared to 197 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between San Diego and Madison?

Median rent in San Diego is $2,223/month and in Madison it's $1,364/month — a difference of $859/month.

Which city has higher income, San Diego or Madison?

Median household income is $104,321 in San Diego and $76,983 in Madison. Median household income is $27,338/year higher in San Diego.

How do taxes compare between California and Wisconsin?

California has 13.3% income tax, 7.25% sales tax, and 0.71% property tax. Wisconsin has 7.65% income tax, 5.0% sales tax, and 1.61% property tax.

Should I move to San Diego or Madison?

It depends on your priorities. San Diego has a cost index of 197 with median rent of $2,223/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 Diego, CA vs Madison, WI (2026)

San Diego

Madison

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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