What Is Madison, WI Known For?
Madison is nestled between two lakes in south-central Wisconsin. Due to its renowned university, the city is a unique blend of political energy as the state capital and intellectual vibrancy. It boasts gorgeous lakes, bustling farmers' markets, and a bike-friendly community perfect for families and professionals.
With a diverse population of ethnic backgrounds and a thriving LGBTQ+ community, Madison leans toward a liberal ethos. A sense of social activism permeates local culture alongside a melting pot of races and minority groups.
Retirees can engage in various community centers and take strolls around the lakes. Students find the city academically enriching and socially fulfilling; for singles and couples, eclectic restaurants and an active nightlife scene are attractions. Families will appreciate the high-quality schools and parks. People of various backgrounds and beliefs can find niche communities to belong to and express themselves.
Highlights
Pros and Cons
The Pros of living in Madison, WI, include educational quality, outdoor activities, public transport, and more. While some Cons are around extreme weather, high living costs, and limited public transit.
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Safety and Crime
Madison, WI is ranked 152nd out of the top 500 most populated cities in the US for highest overall safety, is ranked 129th on safety from violent crime, and 254th on safety from property crime.
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Cost of Living
Compared to the rest of the US, the cost of living in Madison, WI is 18% lower than the national average.
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Discretionary Income
A gross annual salary of $80,000 in Madison, WI leaves $1,826 of “money in the pocket” per month on average.
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Climate and Weather
The average daily temperature in Madison, WI in January is 19°F and 75°F in July. Compared to the rest of the 333 most populated cities in the US, this city is on average -24°F cooler in January and is on average -4°F cooler in July.
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Politics and Voting
Madison, WI voted for the Democrat party in the 2020 Presidential election, with 75.5% of the votes counted going to this party.
Read more in Politics and Voting.
The assessments presented on this website, including those related to crime, safety, cost of living, and other location characteristics (e.g., states, cities, towns, villages, neighborhoods, areas, landmarks), are based on various sources and our internal research methods. These assessments are not guaranteed to be accurate or complete and should not be used as the sole basis for making any decisions.