Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
34% cheaper
Madison is 34% more affordable than San Diego. A $75,000 salary in San Diego is equivalent to $49,688 in Madison.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: Wisconsin salaries · California salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Madison has a housing index of 115 while San Diego sits at 248 (national average = 100). The median home in Madison costs $340,000 compared to $800,000 in San Diego, a difference of $460,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,400 in Madison versus $2,500 in San Diego.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: Madison scores 101 while San Diego scores 107.
Healthcare costs in Madison (105) are lower than San Diego (107). Both are close to the national average.
Median household income in Madison is $67,565 compared to $79,646 in San Diego. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Madison.
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