Madison, Wisconsin is a vibrant and diverse city that has won the hearts of many with its stunning lakefront views and thriving food scene. But is Madison a great place to live? While the city offers ample opportunities for outdoor activities, career advancement, and a vibrant urban lifestyle, it also comes with its own set of challenges, such as limited transportation and expensive air tickets. In this Redfin article, we’ll explore the pros and cons of living in Madison to help you decide if it’s right for you.
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Basic information about Madison
| Median home sales price | $425,000 |
| average monthly rent | $1,441 |
| walk score | 50/100 |
| traffic score | 35/100 |
| bike score | 66/100 |
1. Pros: College Sports
Madison is a mecca for college sports, and the UW-Madison Badgers have a loyal fan base and rich athletic heritage. Whether it’s cheering on the football team at Camp Randall Stadium, experiencing the excitement of a basketball game at the Kohl Center, or watching at the iconic Madhouse on Madison Hockey games, the city is buzzing with excitement on game days.
2. Disadvantages: severe winter
One of the significant disadvantages of living in Madison is the harsh winter weather. From November to March, the city experiences heavy snowfall and freezing temperatures. This can make commuting difficult and make outdoor activities less enjoyable. Come winter, you need to prepare your home and yourself for the colder months.
3. Advantages: You can participate in outdoor activities
The city is surrounded by picturesque lakes and parks, providing residents and visitors with a haven for outdoor activities. Lake Mendota and Lake Monona offer boating, fishing, and kayaking opportunities, while the city’s extensive network of bike trails, including the scenic Capital State Trail, welcomes exploration and adventure.
4. Disadvantages: Limited public transportation
While Madison does have a public bus system, its Transit Score is 35, meaning Madison lacks extensive or efficient options compared to larger cities. Bus routes may be limited, especially in suburban areas, making travel difficult for residents without cars. Additionally, buses may run inconsistently, resulting in longer wait times.
5. Advantages: Strong educational institutions
Madison is home to the University of Wisconsin-Madison, one of the top public universities in the United States. The university offers a broad range of courses and has a strong research focus, attracting students and faculty from around the world. Additionally, Madison has excellent public and private schools, making Madison a well-rounded place to live.
6. Disadvantages: High cost of living
The cost of living in Madison is relatively high compared to other major Wisconsin cities such as Milwaukee. This is especially true for housing prices, with the median home sale price being $425,000. You’ll find these prices are high, especially in desirable neighborhoods near universities or downtown. Even rent is expensive, with the median rent at $1,441. Additionally, groceries, meals out and other necessities are more expensive than in smaller towns.
7. Pros: Thriving food scene
Madison, Wisconsin has a thriving food scene to suit all tastes and culinary preferences. From farm-to-table eateries like Graze that showcase local ingredients to the iconic food trucks lining the Library Mall offering a variety of delicious international flavors, the city is a foodie paradise.
8. Cons: Limited nightlife options
While Madison has great food and plenty of outdoor activities, the city’s nightlife options can sometimes feel limited compared to larger urban centers. Despite being home to charming bars and breweries like The Great Dane Pub & Brewing Co., much of the nightlife is concentrated around the University District, where venues may close early, limiting late-night entertainment options.
9. Pros: Community events and festivals
Madison hosts a variety of community events and festivals throughout the year, fostering a strong sense of community. Events like the Madison Night Market and the Isthmian Beer and Cheese Festival bring residents together to celebrate local business and culture. The city also hosts the annual Rhythm and Booms fireworks show, a highlight of the summer.
10. Disadvantages: Airport fees are expensive
In Madison, travelers often face the challenge of expensive air tickets, which makes the city less attractive to those who are budget conscious. A study of domestic airfares shows Dane County Regional Airport is the most expensive airport. For example, flights from this airport are often expensive, especially when juxtaposed with fares from nearby regional airports.
method: Median home sales price and average monthly rent data come from Redfin Information Center. Walk score, transit score, and bike score data come from walk score.
