Boulder vs Madison for Remote Workers (2026)
Scroll down for internet costs, SF savings estimate, and FAQ.
Remote work cost breakdown
| Metric | Boulder Colorado | Madison Wisconsin |
|---|---|---|
| Overall COL index (100 = US avg) | 132 | 97Better |
| State income tax | 4.4%Better | 7.7% |
| 1BR rent / month | $2,300 | $1,650Better |
| Internet / month | $68 | $63Better |
| Walk score (0–100) | 52 / 100 | 55 / 100Better |
| Monthly utilities | $138Better | $162 |
| Sales tax (combined) | 8% | 5.4%Better |
| Est. monthly savings vs SF | +$3,196 | +$5,000Better |
Frequently asked questions
Is Boulder or Madison better for remote workers?
For remote workers, Madison edges ahead on overall cost of living, internet costs, and taxes. The best choice depends on your priorities — cost vs walkability vs community.
How much money can I save working remotely in Boulder vs staying in San Francisco?
If you earn $120K remotely and relocate from San Francisco (COL index 194) to Boulder (COL index 132), you'd save approximately $3,196/month on equivalent purchasing power — or about $38,352/year. This doesn't account for potential salary adjustments.
What is internet service like in Boulder vs Madison?
Median monthly internet costs are $68 in Boulder and $63 in Madison. Both cities have competitive broadband options suitable for remote work, including gigabit fiber in most areas.
Can I negotiate a remote salary if I move from a high-cost city to Boulder or Madison?
Many employers now use location-based pay. Moving from a top-tier city to Madison could trigger a salary adjustment. Even at 85% of a $150K SF salary ($127.5K), the lower COL in Boulder or Madison typically means significantly higher purchasing power and take-home after local taxes.
Which city has better walkability for remote workers who don't need to commute?
Madison has a higher walk score (55 vs 52), meaning more errands, coffee shops, and restaurants are reachable on foot — a big quality-of-life factor when you're home all day. Walk scores above 70 are considered "very walkable."
$100K in Boulder has the same purchasing power as $73K in Madison
SF savings estimate based on COL index vs San Francisco (194). Actual savings depend on lifestyle and salary adjustments. Data: Zillow, BLS, Numbeo, Tax Foundation · Q1 2026