2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Brainerd, MN vs Madison, WI

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Highlights
Are people in Madison older or younger than people in Brainerd?
- The Median Age in Madison is 4.5 years younger than in Brainerd.

Are housing costs cheaper in Madison or Brainerd?
- Madison housing costs are 26.5% more expensive than Brainerd housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Madison or Brainerd?
- The average commute for residents of Madison is 0.6 minutes longer than it is for residents of Brainerd.

Things to do in Brainerd?
Brainerd, MN is an inviting small city west of Minneapolis full of amazing places to explore like Brainerd International Raceway displaying its unique environment or Northland Arboretum offering fun rides and tour opportunities; they organize vivid festivals like Brainerd Jaycees Street Fest every August.

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!

 Brainerd, MNMadison, WIUnited States
 Population  Unlock265,447329,725,481
 Median Income$41,671  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock31.538.4
 Avg. Home Price$266,900  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock3.3%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time18.81  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Brainerd    5 Reviews

Research, research, research! Personal reviews don't give you the "whole" story! Whether the opinions are "glowing" or scathing do not base your opinion on them! Some  More

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No comment since you  More

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Over 14 years ago

Small town. Everyone knows everyone else's business. No work. Located in Crow Wing County and has highest unemployment rate in the state. Poor healthcare. Essentia  More

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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

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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

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Lacks balance and zero accountability.   More

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