Madison, Madison WI — neighborhood review

Madison, WI

Madison · Dane County · WI 53703

Updated August 4, 2026 · Would You Live There?

Think twice

Verdict

$472K

Median Price

70/100

Walk Score

6.8/10

Schools

15 min

to Central Business District

Score Breakdown

FAffordability
15/100
D+Safety
55/100
C+Schools
68/100
D+Quietness
50/100
ACommute
100/100
B-Walkability
70/100
WYLT Score60/100

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.

B.

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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 qualityModerate
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

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From Residents

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