Cost of Living in Madison, WI
Cost indexes, living wages, and fair market rents — 2024 Data
Cost of Living Overview
Overall Index
132.4
100 = national avg
+32.4 vs national average
Living Wage (1 Adult)
$58,237
per year
Living Wage (Family of 4)
$137,652
per year
Cost Index by Category
Housing177.4
Food108.8
Transportation90.0
Healthcare107.1
Utilities120.8
100 = national average. Higher = more expensive.
Fair Market Rent
Source: HUD1 Bedroom
$1,482
per month
2 Bedroom
$1,694
per month
The overall cost of living index in Madison is 132.4, which is 32.4% above the national average. Housing costs are above the national average at an index of 177.4. A single adult needs to earn approximately $58,237 per year to cover basic expenses.