Let the numbers do the talking.
Brookfield, WI vs Madison, WI
Brookfield, WI vs Madison, WI: What the data shows
Brookfield, WI is in Brookfield, WI while Madison, WI is in Madison, WI — both in the same state. On home prices, Brookfield, WI is the more affordable option at $368,300 median — $93,300 less than Madison, WI's $461,600. WYLT rates Brookfield, WI as “Settle here” — an excellent place to put down roots — and Madison, WI as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing.
Brookfield, WI has the stronger safety profile of the two. Brookfield, WI has Low violent crime and Low property crime. Madison, WI has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Brookfield, WI has Low flood risk and Madison, WI has Low flood risk.
Madison, WI is the more walkable neighborhood. Brookfield, WI scores 2/100 (car-dependent) versus Madison, WI's 74/100 (very walkable). For families weighing school quality, Brookfield, WI has the higher school rating — Brookfield, WI rates 7.1/10 and Madison, WI rates 7/10.
| Category | Brookfield, WI | Madison, WI |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Settle here | Think twice |
| Median Price | $368K ✓ Lower price | $462K |
| Median Rent | $2K | $1K ✓ Lower rent |
| Median Income | $121K ✓ Higher income | $46K |
| Price Volatility | Low ✓ More stable | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 2/100 | 74/100 ✓ More walkable |
| Transit Score | 1/100 | 52/100 ✓ Better transit |
| Bike Score | 1/100 | 80/100 ✓ More bikeable |
| Commute | 30 min | 15 min ✓ Shorter commute |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | A ✓ Safer | D+ |
| Violent Crime | Low ✓ Lower risk | Moderate |
| Property Crime | Low ✓ Lower risk | Moderate |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Good | Good |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 7.1/10 ✓ Better schools | 7/10 |
| Best for | familiessuburbanitespeople who value good schools | Urban professionalsStudents and young adultsCreative professionals |
Bottom line
If you're a family with a stable income and prioritize good schools and a quiet environment, Brookfield is a clear winner. However, if you're a young professional or someone looking for a vibrant urban lifestyle, Madison's convenience and amenities make it worth considering despite the high cost of living. Ultimately, Brookfield offers more value for the money, but Madison's unique benefits may outweigh the drawbacks for the right individual.
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