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

Change Cities
Highlights
Are people in Madison older or younger than people in Portage?
- The Median Age in Madison is 4.9 years younger than in Portage.

Are housing costs cheaper in Madison or Portage?
- Madison housing costs are 59.1% more expensive than Portage housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Madison or Portage?
- The average commute for residents of Madison is 4.2 minutes shorter than it is for residents of Portage.

Things to do in Portage?
Portage WI is placed inside western boundaries of Columbia County Wisconsin covering total surface 12 square miles being home to more than 5000 residents according to most recent 2010 US census report containing store fronts catering locals on daily basis while also providing basic leisure activities such as golf club or nearby lake access adding extra value during weekend trips .

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!

 Portage, WIMadison, WIUnited States
 Population  Unlock265,447329,725,481
 Median Income$56,303  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock31.538.4
 Avg. Home Price$212,100  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock3.3%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time23.62  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Portage    1 Reviews

Hello, We are considering re-locating to Portage from Milwaukee. We were up there last month for the biannual church service at the German Methodist church, and LOVED  More

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of Portage

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.