Madison, Wisconsin is a vibrant city brimming with culture, opportunity, and natural beauty. Known fondly by several nicknames, including Lake City, Mad City, and Madtown, Madison is the state capital and home to the University of Wisconsin – Madison. It's famously a liberal city and a hub of innovation, education, and activism with a great environment for both young professionals and families.
With its picturesque lakes, extensive outdoor recreational activities, great opportunities for education, and a community-focused atmosphere, living in Madison Wisconsin is an experience unlike any other. Whether you're drawn to the bustling city center or the quiet neighborhoods, Madison has something to offer everyone.
Where Is Madison Wisconsin?
Madison, Wisconsin is strategically located in Dane County in the south-central part of the state. It's nestled between the picturesque four lakes in the Yahara River chain— Lake Kegonsa ("First Lake"), Lake Waubesa ("Second Lake"), Lake Monona ("Third Lake)", and Lake Mendota ("Fourth Lake"). A fifth lake, Wingra, is completely within Madison proper. These lakes around Madison Wisconsin create a stunning natural landscape and offer residents and visitors abundant recreational opportunities.
Major highways such as Interstate 39, Interstate 90, and Interstate 94 converge near Madison, providing easy access for travel and connecting the city to other significant destinations. Cities near Madison WI include Milwaukee about 80 miles to the east and Chicago about 150 miles to the southeast. There are many large suburbs of Madison WI also worth exploring. Sun Prairie, Fitchburg, DeForest, Shorewood Hills, and Verona are some of the best cities in the Madison area.
Madison WI Map
Madison Information
- County: Dane
- Area: 101.53 square miles
- Madison zip codes: 53562, 53593, 53701-53708, 53711, 53713-53719, and 53726
- Area codes: 608 and 353
- Elevation: 873 feet
- Time zone: Central Time Zone (UTC-5 and -6)
- Closest airport: Middleton Municipal Airport, 15 miles away
Madison WI Population & Demographics
The population of Madison is 269,840 according to the 2020 census, up almost 16% from 233,000 in 2010. It’s the second largest city in Wisconsin after Milwaukee and the anchor city of the Madison metropolitan area. The Greater Madison metro area is home to 680,796 people in Dane, Columbia, Green, and Iowa counties.
Madison has become dramatically more diverse over the past two decades. In 2000, the non-Hispanic white population represented 82% of Madison residents compared to 69% today. The Asian and Hispanic communities have nearly doubled. Today, the racial and ethnic composition is 69.2% White (non-Hispanic), 9.5% Asian, 8.7% Hispanic, 7.3% Black or African American, and 4.7% two or more races.
Additional Madison demographics:
- Median age: 32.2 years (state: 40.4 years)
- Senior population: 13% (state: 19%)
- Sex ratio: 50% male to 50% female
- Foreign-born population: 11% (state: 5%)
Educational attainment: 60% bachelor’s degree or higher (state: 33%)
- Homeownership rate: 46% (state: 68%)
- Median household income: $74,895 (state: $70,996)
Madison Transportation – Public Transit & Dane County Regional Airport
Living in Madison, WI offers an extensive transportation network and central location. Major highways such as Interstate 39, Interstate 90, and Interstate 94 converge near Madison, providing easy access for travel and connecting the city to other major regional destinations.
Metro Transit operates bus lines throughout the city and to some suburbs including Fitchburg, Sun Prairie, and Shorewood Hills, with numerous bus routes connecting key locations. Annual ridership is estimated at 9.5 million. The Metro bus system connects with several suburban services like the Monona Lift/Monona Express. In 2023, Metro Transit was overhauled to reduce the number of separate bus routes and increase the frequency of stops.
There are also intercity or regional bus services:
- Badger Bus connects Madison to Milwaukee
- Jefferson Lines travels to Minneapolis-St. Paul
- Greyhound Lines provides routes linking Madison with Chicago, Milwaukee, and Minneapolis-St. Paul
Madison is one of the most bicycle-friendly cities in America with extensive bicycle infrastructure and miles of bike paths and protected lanes in the city. Most Madison streets have designated bike lanes or have been designated as "bicycle boulevards." Madison residents are also served by BCycle, a public bike sharing company with locations throughout the city. You can explore bike trails in Dane County to learn how to get around the area on two wheels.
Middleton Municipal Airport, located just 15 miles from the city center, is the major airport for the metro area.
Madison Wisconsin Cost of Living
Madison is one of the most affordable large cities in the country. The Madison WI cost of living index is 107, or 7% higher than the national average. Madison residents pay 22% more for healthcare and 13% more for housing than the U.S. average, but other living expenses are below average.
According to the Family Budget Calculator from the Economic Policy Institute, the typical family of four needs to earn $91,895 per year or $7,658 per month to afford a modest lifestyle in the area. MIT’s Living Wage Calculator also provides insight into the cost of living in Madison WI. The living wage for a single adult in the Madison metro area is $21.38. For a family of four, the living wage is $40.72 with one working adult and $29.53 with two working adults.
According to Doxo, the average Madison household pays $2,405 in monthly bills, 13% higher than the national average. Here are average monthly bills you can expect:
- Mortgage: $1,760
- Rent: $1,291
- Utilities: $312
- Auto insurance: $403
Madison Housing Market | Home Prices & Average Rent in Madison WI
The Madison, Wisconsin real estate market is unique. While there are many housing options in the city, more than half of residents are renters with a low homeownership rate of 46%.
If you’re planning to buy a house after moving to Madison, WI, be prepared. The city recently had the highest increase in home prices in the country due to a housing shortage. Even though the Midwest traditionally has affordable housing, Madison has had stronger home price growth than most Midwest cities and significant population growth. To keep up with demand and the rising population, it’s estimated that Madison needs to build an extra 10,000 housing units every five years until 2050.
In 2023, the city estimated the average single-family home was worth more than $400,000, up about 13.5% year-over-year and up 27% in just two years.
The city is experiencing many high-income households moving to the area. Homes are selling for an average of 6-7% over the asking price and many potential buyers and renters are priced out of the market.
The median price of homes for sale in Madison WI is now $440,600, up 11.6% year-over-year. The median price per square foot is $241. The average home receives eight offers and sells in 36 days.As a renter, the market isn’t quite as bleak. The average rent in Madison, Wisconsin is $1,677 according to Rentcafe. In the most desirable neighborhoods, you’ll pay an average of $2,354 to rent an apartment. Most neighborhoods have average rent below $1,500.
Best Neighborhoods in Madison WI
Madison boasts more than 120 unique neighborhoods, each with its own charm and appeal. The city can be divided into several main areas. The north, south, and east sides have historically been blue collar neighborhoods while the west side is white collar and more affluent. Below are some of the best Madison neighborhoods to consider as you prepare for moving to Madison, Wisconsin.
Downtown Madison
The bustling downtown area is the heart of the city and perfect for young professionals who want to be within walking distance of work, coffee shops, nightlife, and great restaurants. State Street is Madison's pedestrian zone and top shopping destination downtown with tons of unique shops to explore. Buckingham Street and the Capitol Square are central hubs where locals gather for farmers' markets, festivals, and outdoor concerts. You'll be steps away from museums, the Overture Center for the Arts, and the stunning views of the State Capitol building.
Tenny-Lapham
Tenny-Lapham is a picturesque, historic neighborhood on the east side known for its charming, tree-lined streets and beautifully restored Victorian homes, Tenny-Lapham provides a serene yet community-focused environment with a thriving art and music scene that makes it popular with young professionals. Breese Stevens Field is a local hotspot for sports and live performances, while the Yahara River Parkway offers scenic trails ideal for walking and biking.
Dudgeon-Monroe
Situated along the southwestern shores of Lake Wingra, Dudgeon-Monroe is an idyllic west side neighborhood known for its proximity to the University of Wisconsin Arboretum and zoo. Monroe Street is the neighborhood’s main thoroughfare, lined with boutique shops, cafes, and the historic Monroe Street Library. It's an ideal location for outdoor enthusiasts, families, and retirees who crave a strong sense of community and walkability.
Maple-Prairie
Located to the southwest of downtown, Maple-Prairie is made up of the smaller communities of Maple Grove and Prairie Hills. It's known for its modern yet affordable homes and good schools, making it particularly attractive to young families.
Madison Climate & Weather
Madison experiences a humid continental climate (Köppen: Dfa), marked by cold winters and warm summers. Temperatures in the summer range from 60°F to 80°F, while winter temperatures often fall between 10°F and 30°F. The city receives an average annual rainfall of 36 inches and an average snowfall of 50 inches.
Madisonians embrace the changing seasons with a variety of activities. Winters are perfect for ice skating on the many frozen lakes and ponds, while summer offers opportunities for boating and hiking. The fall foliage draws many to the outdoors for scenic drives and hikes, and springtime gardens bloom, inviting residents to enjoy picnics and outdoor festivals.
Top Restaurants in Madison
Ready to explore the best places to eat in Madison? You’ll find great local beer and plenty of cheese-based dishes like macaroni and cheese with local aged cheddar, cheese curds, and beer cheese soup. The city offers a diverse food scene that goes beyond Wisconsin cheese and comfort food, though! Here are some of the best restaurants in Madison, WI you’ll want to check out for yourself.
This European-style café serves up Belgian beer and hearty comfort food. Try their Brew City Benedict: poached eggs, cheddar-chive biscuits, and Hollandaise sauce.
Café Hollander Hilldale, 701 Hilldale Wy, Madison, WI 53705 (608) 237-3168
This laid-back, retro tavern atmosphere offers fantastic house beers, sodas, and classic American fare.
Vintage Brewing Co. Madison, 674 S Whitney Way, Madison, WI 53711 (608) 204-2739
Enjoy a fun twist on surf ‘n’ turf: you’ll love this locally-owned and family-friendly seafood restaurant and bar with daily specials and authentic wood-fired barbecue.
North and South Seafood & Smokehouse, 6604 Mineral Point Rd, Madison, WI 53705 (608) 829-0093
Things to Do in Madison, Wisconsin
Ready to explore fun things to do in Madison, WI for adults and families? After moving to Madison, Wisconsin, you'll enjoy world-class outdoor amenities and cultural attractions.
Madison is known for its fantastic outdoor activities and beautiful parks. It has more parks and playgrounds per capita than any of the 100 largest cities in America with 280+ awesome parks within the city limits! About 13.5% of the city’s area is park space managed by the City of Madison Parks Division, which includes the public Goodman Pool, and the University of Wisconsin-Madison Arboretum.
There are always fun community events to enjoy like Ride the Drive, a landmark event with four miles of downtown streets shut down to motor vehicles so residents and visitors can walk, bike, and scooter to six popular Madison parks.
Here's a look at tons of fun things to do in Madison including popular attractions for young families, couples, and seniors plus all the amenities the city offers.
Top Madison Attractions
- Henry Vilas Zoo: A free-admission zoo featuring a variety of animals from around the world including polar bears and African lions, interactive exhibits, educational programs for all ages, and a petting zoo. It's a great spot for family outings and learning about wildlife conservation.
- Camp Randall Stadium: The historic home of the Wisconsin Badgers football team, known for its energetic game-day atmosphere and rich collegiate sports history. It's a must-visit for sports enthusiasts.
- Alliant Energy Center: A versatile venue hosting a wide range of events, including concerts by top artists, trade shows with hundreds of exhibitors, and community events that bring people together. The center also has ample parking and facilities.
- Olbrich Botanical Gardens: Beautiful gardens showcasing a diverse array of plants and flowers, including a stunning Thai Pavilion and Garden. It’s a perfect place for a peaceful stroll or a day of horticultural exploration.
- University of Wisconsin–Madison Arboretum: A large nature reserve with walking trails, diverse ecosystems, and a variety of plant and animal species. It offers a serene escape into nature and opportunities for scientific study and recreation.
- Vitense Golfland: A family-friendly entertainment center offering mini-golf with creatively themed courses, driving ranges, batting cages, and more. It’s an ideal destination for a fun day out with friends and family.
- Wisconsin State Capitol: The iconic government building with stunning architecture, including a majestic dome and intricately designed interiors. Guided tours provide insight into the state's legislative process and its history.
- Monona Terrace Community and Convention Center: A Frank Lloyd Wright-designed center with event spaces, a rooftop garden, and scenic views of Lake Monona. It hosts a variety of events, from weddings to business conferences, and offers a unique architectural experience.
Madison Entertainment & Arts
- Overture Center for the Arts: A vibrant cultural hub in the heart of Madison, featuring world-class performances, art exhibits, and community events that inspire and entertain.
- Kohl Center: The premier sports and entertainment venue at the University of Wisconsin, where you can catch thrilling Badgers games and exciting concerts.
- The Sylvee: Madison's go-to spot for live music, offering an intimate yet electrifying atmosphere with performances from top artists across all genres.
- Majestic Theatre: An iconic venue with a rich history, the Majestic Theatre hosts an eclectic mix of concerts, film screenings, and events in a beautifully restored setting.
Madison Museums
- Madison Children’s Museum: A place where imagination and creativity come alive! This interactive museum offers hands-on exhibits and activities that encourage learning through play, making it a perfect destination for families with young children.
- National Mustard Museum: A quirky and delightful experience! Discover the fascinating world of mustard with a collection of over 6,000 mustard jars, bottles, and tubes from all over the globe. Learn about the history and variety of this beloved condiment in a fun and engaging way.
- Chazen Museum of Art: An artistic treasure trove! This museum boasts an impressive collection of works ranging from ancient artifacts to contemporary masterpieces. With diverse exhibitions and educational programs, it’s a cultural gem for art enthusiasts of all ages.
- Madison Museum of Contemporary Art: A hub for modern creativity! Showcasing innovative and thought-provoking contemporary art, this museum offers a fresh perspective on today's art scene. Enjoy rotating exhibits, film screenings, and special events that celebrate contemporary artists and their work.
Madison Parks & Outdoors
- Vilas (Henry) Park: Nestled in the heart of Madison, Vilas Park offers a delightful blend of natural beauty and recreational opportunities. With its picturesque lake, lush greenery, and the beloved Vilas Zoo, it's the perfect spot for family outings, picnics, and leisurely walks.
- Olbrich Park: Located on the shores of Lake Monona, Olbrich Park is renowned for its stunning gardens and serene atmosphere. Whether you’re exploring the tropical conservatory or enjoying a peaceful lakeside stroll, this park is a true urban oasis.
- James Madison Park: A favorite among locals, James Madison Park offers sweeping views of Lake Mendota and a vibrant community vibe. Ideal for kayaking, sunbathing, or simply relaxing on the grass, this park is a hub for outdoor enthusiasts and social gatherings.
- Warner Park: Spanning a vast area in northern Madison, Warner Park is a multifaceted destination with sports facilities, scenic trails, and the famous Warner Park Beach. It’s also home to the Madison Mallards baseball team, making it a lively spot for sports fans and families alike.
Shopping in Madison
- Dane County Farmers Market: Experience the freshest local produce and handmade goods at the largest producer-only farmers market in the U.S., held right in the heart of downtown Madison on Saturday morning.
- West Towne Mall: This bustling indoor shopping center offers a wide variety of popular retail stores, eateries, and entertainment options, making it a perfect one-stop destination for all your shopping needs.
- Hilldale Shopping Center: A chic, open-air mall featuring upscale retailers, delicious dining options, and a vibrant atmosphere that invites you to shop, dine, and unwind.
- Greenway Station: Enjoy a unique shopping experience at this European-style retail complex, featuring a delightful mix of specialty stores, restaurants, and beautifully landscaped walking paths.
Sports in Madison, WI
Madison is a hub for diverse sporting events and teams. While it may be famous for its passionate supporters of the Green Bay Packers, the city also boasts a vibrant local sports scene. The Wisconsin Badgers, representing the University of Wisconsin-Madison, bring electrifying games to Camp Randall Stadium and the Kohl Center. Sports enthusiasts can also enjoy the Forward Madison FC soccer team at Breese Stevens Field. Madison's extensive parks and lakes also host numerous amateur and recreational sporting events year-round.
Madison WI Crime Rate
Madison is a safe place to live with low crime for a large city. It’s also safer than most other cities of similar size. The Madison crime rate is 2,697 total crimes per 100,000 residents with 301 violent crimes and 2,396 property crimes per 100,000. That’s 16% above the national crime rate but with 19% less violent crime than the national average.
The Madison homicide rate in 2022 was just 2.2 murders per 100,000, almost one-third the national average of 6.3.
The Wisconsin crime rate is 1,682 total crimes per 100,000 with 297 violent crimes per 100,000. Compared to the crime rate in WI, Madison has 60% more crime overall but almost the same level of violent offenses. When you compare Madison vs Milwaukee, you’ll find living in Madison is much safer. The Milwaukee crime rate is 46% higher than Madison with 5x the violent crime and a murder rate of 38.1 homicides per 100,000.
Economy & Jobs in Madison WI
Madison, Wisconsin, has a diverse and robust economy with major sectors such as healthcare, education, biotechnology, government, and IT. The surrounding metro area has many opportunities in food and precision manufacturing and agribusiness. Job opportunities range from academic roles at the University of Wisconsin-Madison to positions in innovative tech startups. It’s no surprise that UW Madison is the city’s largest employer considering the region’s highly educated population: 48% of residents over 25 have a bachelor’s degree or higher! The presence of state government offices also contributes significantly to the job market.
Madison enjoys a relatively low unemployment rate of 2.5% compared to the national average of 3.7%.
Largest Employers in Madison WI:
- University of Wisconsin-Madison
- University of Wisconsin Hospitals and Clinics (UW Health)
- State of Wisconsin
- Epic Systems Corporation (careers)
- American Family Insurance
- Lands’ End
- Mercy Health System
- Colony Brands
- John Deere & Co
The average hourly wage in Madison is $31.74, slightly higher than the U.S. average of $31.48. The average weekly wage for the Madison area is $1,391 compared to the U.S. average of $1,435. In Dane County, the average weekly wage is $1,440 according to the BLS.
Ready to explore career opportunities before relocating to Madison? You can start your search with Madison WI jobs on Indeed and City of Madison jobs.
Healthcare in Madison, Wisconsin
Madison, Wisconsin, is renowned for its high-quality healthcare facilities and services. UW Health University Hospital of University of Wisconsin Hospitals and Clinics is a top-ranked institution nationally and the best hospital in Wisconsin 13 years running. Another key facility, SSM Health St. Mary's Hospital, is praised for its comprehensive medical services and compassionate care.
Madison has received numerous accolades for its healthcare system, including recognition in U.S. News & World Report's Best Hospitals list. The city’s healthcare infrastructure ensures residents have access to excellent medical services and specialized treatments.
Schools in Madison, WI
While living in Madison, your family will be served by the Madison Metropolitan School District (MMSD) which has about 26,000 students in 52 schools. The district serves the City of Madison as well as Fitchburg, Maple Bluff, Shorewood Hills, Burke, and Blooming Grove.
There are four high schools serving the city:
- West High School
- Memorial High School
- East High School
- Lafollette High School
Families can choose from several highly rated private schools:
- St. Ambrose Academy – Catholic school for grades 6-12
- Hickory Hill Academy – K-8 school
- Edgewood High School – Catholic college preparatory school
- Madison Country Day School – PK-12 with no religious affiliation
- Abundant Life Christian School – One of the largest non-sectarian private schools in the area
Madison is a college city with a huge post-secondary student population of around 65,000 – that's nearly one out of every four people living in Madison, Wisconsin! It's home to the University of Wisconsin - Madison or UW Madison, the state's largest and first public university established when Wisconsin achieved statehood in 1848. It's also home to Madison Area Technical College (MATC), the private Edgewood College, and Herzing University-Madison.
Madison Utilities & DMV Change of Address
The City of Madison provides water, sewer, and trash collection services. Call (608) 266-4641 to start water services through the Water Utility department. You can find your trash and recycling collection days from the Streets & Recycling department. Madison Gas and Electric (MGE) is the electricity and natural gas provider for Madison, WI. You can start MGE service online.
Are you ready to make this great city your home? Straightline Moving is ready to deliver the stress-free moving experience you deserve. Call the best movers in Madison today at (815) 708-7875 to get started with a free quote!
