Des Moines, Iowa vs. Madison, Wisconsin

Cost of Living Comparison

The cost of living in Madison, Wisconsin is 28.8% more expensive than Des Moines, Iowa.

You would need a salary of $136,574 in Madison, Wisconsin to maintain the standard of living you have in Des Moines, Iowa.
Comparison highlights
• Overall, Madison, Wisconsin is more expensive than Des Moines, Iowa
• Median Home Cost is the biggest factor in the cost of living difference.
Median Home Cost
92% more expensive in Madison
than in Des Moines, Iowa
Des Moines, IA vs. Madison, WI
Compared to Des Moines, Madison is:
  Homeowner
      No Child Care, Taxes not Considered
  28.8% higher
      Child Care, Taxes not Considered
      Child Care, Taxes Considered
      No Child Care, Taxes Considered
  Renter
      No Child Care, Taxes not Considered
      Child Care, Taxes not Considered
      Child Care, Taxes Considered
      No Child Care, Taxes Considered
  Food
  2.0% higher
  Housing (Homeowner)
  82.4% higher
  Housing (Rent)
  Median Home Cost
  Utilities
  20.0% higher
  Commute
  14.9% higher
  Health
  9.3% lower
  Taxes
  Childcare
  Personal
  16.0% higher