2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Lincoln, NE vs Madison, WI

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Highlights
Are people in Madison older or younger than people in Lincoln?
- The Median Age in Madison is 1.5 years younger than in Lincoln.

Are housing costs cheaper in Madison or Lincoln?
- Madison housing costs are 28.1% more expensive than Lincoln housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Madison or Lincoln?
- The average commute for residents of Madison is 1.1 minutes longer than it is for residents of Lincoln.

Things to do in Lincoln?
Lincoln, Nebraska is an exciting destination for those looking for a big city feel. Here you'll find the historic Haymarket District, complete with shops, restaurants and museums. Take a walk to the University of Nebraska and explore its botanical garden, galleries and expansive library system. Visit Lincoln Children's Zoo and have a family day full of fun activities like rides, live entertainment and animal encounters. With its vibrant culture and stunning scenery, there's something special awaiting everyone in Lincoln!

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!

 Lincoln, NEMadison, WIUnited States
 Population  Unlock265,447329,725,481
 Median Income$62,566  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock31.538.4
 Avg. Home Price$263,400  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock3.3%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time18.32  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Lincoln    67 Reviews

Over 4 years ago

I've lived in Lincoln since 1965. Since the Boosalis Administration the city has been in a slow continual decline despite a growing population. Downtown Lincoln is  More

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I grew up in Lincoln. As a child I have nothing but fond memories of this city. I moved around a few times, places including Crete, and Omaha. Lincoln gives you the best  More

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Over 5 years ago

I've lived in Lincoln for 7 years and love it. Communities are safe, and if you forget to close your garage door, neighbors will call you. There are lots of trails that  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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