2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Madison, WI vs Berkeley, CA

Change Cities
Highlights
Are people in Berkeley older or younger than people in Madison?
- The Median Age in Berkeley is 0.6 years older than in Madison.

Are housing costs cheaper in Berkeley or Madison?
- Berkeley housing costs are 291.3% more expensive than Madison housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Berkeley or Madison?
- The average commute for residents of Berkeley is 9.3 minutes longer than it is for residents of Madison.

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!

Things to do in Berkeley?
Berkeley, California is a vibrant city in the San Francisco Bay Area. It's home to many educational and cultural attractions, such as the University of California at Berkeley, the Lawrence Hall of Science, and live music venues like The Greek Theater. Recreational activities are plentiful as well; visitors can take in views of the Bay from Tilden Regional Park or enjoy a day of sun at Berkeley Marina. Shopping options range from local boutiques to some of the finest retail stores in Northern California while dining experiences could take you anywhere from gourmet restaurants to street food vendors. Whether you’re looking for a place to call home or just some entertainment, Berkeley won't disappoint!

 Madison, WIBerkeley, CAUnited States
 Population  Unlock119,607329,725,481
 Median Income$70,466  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock32.138.4
 Avg. Home Price$337,500  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock5.1%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time19.43  Unlock26.38
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

Reviews for Berkeley    14 Reviews

Have lived in Berkeley for about 35 years now. Housing/Real Estate: If you're looking to move here, $1,000,000 will get you a small cottage in the "flats". Most of  More

   |    Reply

Over 12 years ago

We have the best climate -- summers and winters are mild. Lots of  More

   |    Reply

Over 14 years ago

The 60's have left Berkeley and now it is about MONEY...and the people there have plenty of it and nice hybrid cars (looks like 2 per household) and with a great bicycle  More

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of Berkeley


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.