2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Appleton, WI vs Madison, WI

Change Cities
Highlights
Are people in Madison older or younger than people in Appleton?
- The Median Age in Madison is 5.0 years younger than in Appleton.

Are housing costs cheaper in Madison or Appleton?
- Madison housing costs are 51.5% more expensive than Appleton housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Madison or Appleton?
- The average commute for residents of Madison is 1.2 minutes longer than it is for residents of Appleton.

Things to do in Appleton?
Appleton, Wisconsin is a vibrant city located in the Northeastern region of the United States. Home to attractions such as History Museum at the Castle and Hearthstone Historic House Museum, visitors can explore outdoor activities and historical sites when visiting Appleton. There are also plenty of museums, galleries, and performance venues such as the Fox Cities Performing Arts Center and Heid Music Hall. For entertainment, visitors can explore boutique shops and restaurants along with movie theaters and live music clubs. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an exciting night out, Appleton has something for everyone!

Things to do in Madison?
Madison, Wisconsin is a vibrant city with a unique mix of culture and history. Take a stroll through State Street and explore the city's many art galleries, bookstores and some of the best restaurants in the Midwest. Visit University of Wisconsin-Madison for some stunning architecture and inspiring scientific research, or take in an outdoor concert at Breese Stevens Field. With its beautiful lakeshore backdrop, lively farmers markets, and incredible cultural events,Madison is an ideal place to live and visit!

 Appleton, WIMadison, WIUnited States
 Population  Unlock265,447329,725,481
 Median Income$68,364  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock31.538.4
 Avg. Home Price$222,800  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock3.3%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time18.26  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Appleton    23 Reviews

Just to clarify my earlier review, the people are generally unfriendly, except the overweight women( 90% of women here) are friendly. Tailgatings on 1-41 an 441 is very  More

   |    Reply

Over 7 years ago

Women here are very heavy. People are rude here, will cut you off in public and not say a word. People at the gym walk in and do not even look at you, even though you  More

   |    Reply

Over 8 years ago

Something is happening in Appleton. The place used to be called the shopping capital of Wisco. But, slowly this rather commercial-sounding moniker is being replaced by  More

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of Appleton

Reviews for Madison    78 Reviews

Unfortunately, a number of these reviews are politically based. Madison remains the only shining star in Wisconsin’s economy. The economy is broadly based, with  More

   |    Reply

Have been living in Madison for almost 3 years. It’s very safe, ppl generally friendly and for a town of its size it has fair number of good restaurants and interesting  More

   |    Reply

Lacks balance and zero accountability.   More

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of Madison


Premium Subscription
Includes Cost of Living compares for child care, utilities, transportation, health, taxes, housing for home owners vs renters, weather, insurance premiums and so much more.


The premier source for comprehensive city data for over 30 years.

© Best Places. All rights reserved.