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.
What Makes Madison, WI, a Best Place to Live in 2024
Midwest magic comes to life in so many ways in Madison, WI. As one of the best places to live in the U.S., Madison is both a college town and the capital city with a strong economy and a welcoming vibe for families, young professionals and retirees. In fact, business is booming in Madison, with leading national companies such as Trek Bicycle, American Girl and John Deere having offices here. It’s also a place where entrepreneurs can find a wide support system to help them launch successful startups.
There’s a crazy-good craft beer scene, 200 miles of hiking and biking trails, stunning Frank Lloyd Wright architecture, a creative atmosphere and a second-to-none quality of life.
Madison is located on an isthmus between lakes Mendota and Monona, meaning residents can access 15,000 acres of lakes and plenty of opportunities for water recreation. In addition, Madison is a bike-friendly city and quite walkable, and the youthful buzz of college life permeates the air. Other draws to the city? The Dane County Farmers’ Market, where you can find everything from flowers to farm-fresh eggs. Take a walk on the wild side at the Henry Vilas Zoo, or stretch your legs and admire the beauty at the Olbrich Botanical Gardens. And don’t miss the delicious cheese curds!
Madison, WI Quality of Life LivScore
Madison, WI Top Categories
Health
Amenities
Economy
Madison ranks highest for health, amenities and economy.
Weather and Outdoor Activities in Madison, WI
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).
The average annual snowfall in Madison is around 43 inches, and the winter months from December to February are the snowiest.
The average annual rainfall in Madison is 36 inches, and the wettest months of the year are June and August.
Madison averages 189 sunny days a year.
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.
Things To Do in Madison, WI
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!
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
The Local and State Economy in Madison, WI
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.
In 2024, the sales tax rate in Madison is 5.5%.
Yes, Wisconsin has a state income tax.
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.
There are several major colleges and universities in Madison, Wisconsin, but the University of Wisconsin – Madison is the most notable.
Weather in Madison, WI
Average Temperatures
56 high / 37 low
Average Annual Rainfall
36 in
Average Annual Snowfall
43 in
Quick Facts about Madison, Wisconsin
- Median Home Value
- $342,009
- Median Property Tax
- $2,820
- Total Population
- 267,446
- Average Commute
- 17 min
- Median Household Income
- $79,955
- Median Monthly Rent
- $1,125
Map of Madison, WI
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