Cost of Living in Madison, WI

How far does a $70,000 salary go in Madison? Estimated income taxes on that gross salary total approximately $9,863 per year — combining federal taxes with Wisconsin's state income tax. Subtract rent for a 2-bedroom apartment ($1,694/month based on HUD Fair Market Rents for the Madison metro area) and the estimated annual take-home is $39,809, or roughly $3,317 per month for everything else: food, transportation, savings, and discretionary spending.

The Madison metro has a cost of living index of 95.9 according to the Bureau of Economic Analysis Regional Price Parities (national average = 100). This gives Madison a moderate affordability advantage — groceries, dining, and services tend to cost less than the U.S. average.

At a $70,000 salary, the estimated 2-bedroom rent in Madison represents approximately 29% of gross income. That approaches the 30% threshold commonly used to define affordability. A smaller unit or a higher salary would improve the picture.