What are the hidden costs of living in Madison?

Annual property taxes can exceed $8,000 for a median‑priced home High parking fees in the city core Higher utility rates due to heating and cooling demands in the region

What is the median home price in Madison?

The median home price in Madison is approximately $461,600.

Madison has a Walk Score of 74 out of 100. It is considered very walkable.

Madison, WI

Updated May 1, 2026 · Would You Live There?

Think twice

Verdict

$462K

Median Price

74/100

Walk Score

7/10

Schools

15 min

to Central Business District

Score Breakdown

FAffordability

15/100

D+Quietness

50/100

D+Safety

55/100

B-Schools

70/100

BWalkability

74/100

ACommute

100/100

WYLT Score61/100

Our Take

Madison’s 53703 neighborhood is a lively, walk‑friendly hub with great transit and a solid school system, but the cost of living far outpaces the median income. Renting or buying here means stretching your budget or taking on high property taxes. If you’re looking for convenience and a vibrant urban feel, it’s worth a closer look, but only if you can comfortably handle the expenses.

Map

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The Good

✓Very walkable with plenty of shops, restaurants, and cultural venues
✓Good public transit and bike infrastructure
✓High-rated schools and a strong educational presence
✓Central location gives easy access to downtown, university, and state government offices

Real Talk

!Median home price is roughly 10x median income, making home ownership challenging for most residents
!Median rent is high relative to local income, consuming a significant portion of take‑home pay
!Downtown noise, traffic congestion, and limited parking can affect quality of life
!Property taxes and utility costs are above the state average
$Annual property taxes can exceed $8,000 for a median‑priced home
$High parking fees in the city core
$Higher utility rates due to heating and cooling demands in the region

Best For

Urban professionalsStudents and young adultsCreative professionalsRetirees who want city amenities

Risk Snapshot

Flood riskLow

Violent crimeModerate

Property crimeModerate

Air qualityGood

Price volatilityModerate

Crime & Safety

Madison, WI

D+

Safety grade

Safety score55 / 100

High riskVery safe

⚠️Violent Crime

Moderate

3.9incidents / 1,000 residents / yr

0Natl avg (3.7)11+

5% higher than the national average

🔒Property Crime

Moderate

19.8incidents / 1,000 residents / yr

0Natl avg (19.5)59+

2% higher than the national average

Verify with real-time data

AreaVibes crime →City-Data stats →NeighborhoodScout →

Rates are estimated from neighborhood characteristics using national FBI baselines. Actual figures vary by block — always verify with local sources before making decisions.

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From Residents

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