Madison is 11% cheaperBased on official 2024 price levels from the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis.
I need in Madison to live the same way.
🏠 Rent per month
$2,666
$1,723
🛏️ 2-bedroom rent
$2,805
$1,628
💵 Families earn per year
$153,270
$84,177
🔑 Buying a house
$895,000
$372,900
📊 Overall prices (U.S. = 100)
108.9
97.3
🏛️ Property tax per year
$8,153
$6,541
⚡ Electric bill per month
$101
$120
👥 People living there
236,254
278,001
Commute to work
26.2 min
19.4 min
College degree
77.1%
59.9%
Own their home
41.3%
46%
Below poverty line
7.4%
16.4%
Unemployment
3.3%
2.7%
Bottom line
- Pick Arlington for higher incomes, a more educated workforce, less poverty.
- Pick Madison for lower rent, cheaper 2-bedroom apartments, cheaper homes and 2 more.
Pay for the same job
| Job | Arlington | Madison | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lawyer | $195,190 | $124,130 | -36% in Madison |
| Server (Waiter/Waitress) | $46,040 | $30,910 | -33% in Madison |
| Market Research Analyst | $87,160 | $67,990 | -22% in Madison |
| Computer Systems Analyst | $127,040 | $100,550 | -21% in Madison |
| Accountant | $102,140 | $81,130 | -21% in Madison |
| Elementary School Teacher | $79,470 | $63,690 | -20% in Madison |
| Operations Manager | $156,460 | $126,620 | -19% in Madison |
| Plumber | $71,860 | $85,160 | +19% in Madison |
Frequently asked questions
Is Arlington or Madison cheaper to live in?
Madison is about 11% cheaper overall. Rent is $1,723 a month there versus $2,666 in Arlington.
What salary do I need in Madison to match $60,000 in Arlington?
About $53,610 a year gives the same standard of living in Madison.
Where do people earn more, Arlington or Madison?
The typical household earns $153,270 in Arlington and $84,177 in Madison, 82% more in Arlington.