salaryAbout the sameBased 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
$1,397
$1,723
🛏️ 2-bedroom rent
$1,121
$1,628
💵 Families earn per year
$53,969
$84,177
🔑 Buying a house
$164,200
$372,900
📊 Overall prices (U.S. = 100)
95.8
97.3
🏛️ Property tax per year
$1,622
$6,541
⚡ Electric bill per month
$99
$120
👥 People living there
276,854
278,001
Commute to work
19.9 min
19.4 min
College degree
31.2%
59.9%
Own their home
43%
46%
Below poverty line
26%
16.4%
Unemployment
7.3%
2.7%
Bottom line
- Pick Buffalo for lower rent, cheaper 2-bedroom apartments, cheaper homes.
- Pick Madison for higher incomes, shorter commutes, a more educated workforce and 2 more.
Pay for the same job
| Job | Buffalo | Madison | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Server (Waiter/Waitress) | $46,580 | $30,910 | -34% in Madison |
| Firefighter | $74,470 | $56,430 | -24% in Madison |
| Operations Manager | $103,280 | $126,620 | +23% in Madison |
| Dental Hygienist | $82,470 | $100,340 | +22% in Madison |
| Plumber | $72,230 | $85,160 | +18% in Madison |
| Elementary School Teacher | $76,490 | $63,690 | -17% in Madison |
| Pharmacist | $137,900 | $158,120 | +15% in Madison |
| Nursing Assistant | $39,790 | $45,260 | +14% in Madison |
Frequently asked questions
Is Buffalo or Madison cheaper to live in?
Buffalo and Madison cost about the same once rent and everyday costs are combined.
What salary do I need in Madison to match $60,000 in Buffalo?
About $60,903 a year gives the same standard of living in Madison.
Where do people earn more, Buffalo or Madison?
The typical household earns $53,969 in Buffalo and $84,177 in Madison, 36% more in Madison.