Madison, WI
Population 275,568 · Wisconsin
About Madison, WI
Madison is a major city in Wisconsin with a population of 275,568 residents. The median household income is $76,983 per year, which is above the national average. The median age in Madison is 31.8 years.
Housing in Madison has a median home value of $346,900 and median monthly rent of $1,364. Of the 130,848 total housing units, renting is more common than owning, with 58,668 owner-occupied and 67,119 renter-occupied units.
The unemployment rate in Madison is 2.7% and the poverty rate is 16.2%. 59.2% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average commute time is 19.4 minutes.
How Madison Ranks in Wisconsin
Cost of Living in Madison, WI
Compared to national averages, Madison has a median household income of $76,983 (2% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $346,900, which is 42% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,364 is 17% above the US average of $1,163. Within Wisconsin, Madison's income is 6% above the state average of $72,579, and home values are 69% above the state median of $205,802.
Why Live in Madison, WI?
Madison offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $76,983, well above the national average, and a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 2.7%, and a well-educated community where 59.2% of residents hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. Additionally, the city features short commute times averaging just 19.4 minutes.
Madison has a population of 275,568 with a median age of 31.8 years. Compare Madison with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Wisconsin.
Similar Cities Near Madison
Cities in Wisconsin with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Green Bay | 106,585 | $62,546 | $191,500 | Compare |
| Kenosha | 99,147 | $68,532 | $210,500 | Compare |
| Racine | 77,155 | $55,705 | $158,100 | Compare |
| Appleton | 74,873 | $77,450 | $211,500 | Compare |
| Eau Claire | 69,274 | $65,369 | $228,000 | Compare |
| Oshkosh | 66,247 | $61,929 | $168,400 | Compare |
| Janesville | 65,813 | $71,664 | $209,700 | Compare |
| West Allis | 59,588 | $69,685 | $191,700 | Compare |
Demographics
Racial & Ethnic Composition
Economy & Education
Housing
Other Cities in Wisconsin
Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Madison
What is the population of Madison, WI?
The population of Madison, WI is 275,568 according to the latest Census data.
What is the median household income in Madison?
The median household income in Madison, WI is $76,983 per year.
What is the median home value in Madison?
The median home value in Madison, WI is $346,900.
What is the average rent in Madison?
The median monthly rent in Madison, WI is $1,364.
What is the unemployment rate in Madison?
The unemployment rate in Madison, WI is 2.7%.