2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Madison, WI vs Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA

Change Cities
Highlights
Are people in Carmel-by-the-Sea older or younger than people in Madison?
- The Median Age in Carmel-by-the-Sea is 32.1 years older than in Madison.

Are housing costs cheaper in Carmel-by-the-Sea or Madison?
- Carmel-by-the-Sea housing costs are 467.8% more expensive than Madison housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Carmel-by-the-Sea or Madison?
- The average commute for residents of Carmel-by-the-Sea is 3.0 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 Carmel-by-the-Sea?
Living in Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA is like living in paradise. With its beautiful white sand beaches, stunning ocean views, and colorful gardens, it's easy to see why so many people are drawn to this picturesque city. Its unique shops, restaurants and galleries provide visitors with a unique shopping experience while its numerous parks and trails offer plenty of outdoor activities for all ages. The climate is mild year round, making it the perfect spot for vacationers or those looking for a permanent home. The quaint downtown area of Carmel-by-the-Sea provides a relaxed atmosphere that makes it one of the most desirable places to live on the Central Coast.

 Madison, WICarmel-by-the-Sea, CAUnited States
 Population  Unlock3,296329,725,481
 Median Income$70,466  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock63.638.4
 Avg. Home Price$337,500  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock10.4%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 Carmel-By-The-Sea    3 Reviews

Over 9 years ago

Climate, cost &  More

   |    Reply

carmel has about 60 vacation homes and a dense cottage-y downtown. basically it is a tourist trap cental business district and a bunch of vacation rental homes. the  More

   |    Reply

Over 17 years ago

Liberals have run me out of town. The political is so overwhelming I am looking to relocate. However, if you are an aging hippie with a great deal of money you will be  More

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of Carmel-By-The-Sea


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.