What is the weather like in Madison?

Madison has warm summers and cold, snowy winters, which means outdoors-loving residents can paddle on Lake Mendota in the warm months and snowshoe on it when winter blows into town. The average highs and lows are 78°F and 57°F (summer) and 30°F and 11°F (winter).

Does Madison get a lot of snow?

The average annual snowfall in Madison is around 43 inches, and the winter months from December to February are the snowiest.

Does Madison get a lot of rain?

The average annual rainfall in Madison is 36 inches, and the wettest months of the year are June and August.

How many sunny days does Madison get?

Madison averages 189 sunny days a year.

What are some things to do outside in Madison?

Just 25 miles outside Madison, Blue Mound State Park has trails for hiking, biking and cross-country skiing. It also has a 1,950-square-foot pool and outdoor-themed splash pad (think trees that spray water). But what really makes this place special are the bike-in campsites and an accessible cabin for those with disabilities.

What is something free to do in Madison?

A spirit of volunteerism keeps many Madison amenities free and open to the public. For example, spend time perusing the Chazen Museum of Art , a free museum on the UW campus that houses 23,000 works of art from ancient Greece to 18th-century Japan and modern Africa. The list of free things to do in Madison is extensive!

What are some fun things to do with kids in Madison?

Make repeat visits to the Madison Children's Museum , which has a kid-approved playground and interesting exhibits, like an Urb Garden , where children can learn how worms turn food waste into compost.

What is the best open secret about Madison?

Madison has more bikes than cars and is the unofficial bike capital of the Midwest, so it's no surprise that Madison is one of the most bike-friendly cities in the country.

Where do locals shop in Madison?

State Street is a bustling pedestrian mall stretching from Capitol Square to the University of Wisconsin-Madison campus. It's lined with a good variety of shops, from clothing and accessories to bookstores and gift shops. The mix of local and national retailers makes this a popular destination for Madison locals and visitors alike.

Where is a fun place for dinner in Madison?

One favorite dinner spot in Madison is The Old Fashioned , near Capitol Square. This popular restaurant celebrates Wisconsin's supper club tradition with a menu featuring classic comfort foods, local specialties and an extensive selection of Wisconsin beers.

Where is the best place for live music or performing arts in Madison?

The Majestic Theatre , located on King Street near Capitol Square, is one of Madison's best places for live music and performing arts. This historic venue, which opened in 1906, seats 600 and has a reputation for hosting a diverse range of events throughout the year.

Where is the best happy hour in Madison?

Slurp $2 oysters and enjoy other seafood snacks at Tempest Oyster Bar . The best table in the house is a booth that looks like it's part of a fan shell.

What are the three largest industries in Madison?

Madison’s diverse economy is made up of several industries, including technology, advanced manufacturing and health care. University of Wisconsin – Madison, Epic Systems and American Family Insurance are among the largest employers in the city.

What is the sales tax rate in Madison?

In 2024, the sales tax rate in Madison is 5.5%.

Does Wisconsin have a state income tax?

Yes, Wisconsin has a state income tax.

Who are the major health care providers in Madison?

Madison residents are in excellent health thanks to various providers, including UW Health and UnityPoint Health. UW Health University Hospital is nationally ranked in four adult and one pediatric specialty, rated high performing in five adult specialties and rated high performing in 18 procedures and conditions.

What colleges and universities are in Madison?

There are several major colleges and universities in Madison, Wisconsin, but the University of Wisconsin – Madison is the most notable.

Madison, WI Ranks Among the Best Places to Live in the U.S. 2023

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Madison, WI

Why You’ll Love Living in Madison, Wisconsin

The Madison, Wisconsin, region is serving up the works. Not only is it a national powerhouse for the food and beverage industry (Frito-Lay and Hormel are just two major food producers in the area), but it is also home to a world-renowned research university, the University of Wisconsin-Madison. And if that’s not already impressive, a number of global companies, including American Family Insurance, Epic, Land’s End and American Girl have operations in the region. Add to that a low cost of living, fun festivals, the arts and a plethora of cuisine options, and you’ve got something special. Madison’s natural beauty is another highlight, and its wealth of parks, trails and lakeshores are a dream for outdoor enthusiasts and active members of the community.

Thinking of moving to Madison, WI? Keep scrolling to find all the details about living in Madison, including quick facts such as the population, median home value and property taxes. Plus, learn more about the cost of living and quality of life in Madison, from the economy and job opportunities to weather, outdoor activities and things to do, including local restaurants and points of interest.

Madison, WI is one of Livability’s Top 100 best cities in America, scoring high marks for its transportation, economy and amenities. Read more about why Madison is a good place to live.