Madison vs Bismarck for Families (2026)
A family-focused comparison of housing, income, taxes, and overall affordability in Madison, WI vs Bismarck, ND.
- 2BR rent: $1,500/mo in Bismarck vs $2,200/mo — 32% difference
- More affordable homeownership in Bismarck: $260K median vs $360K
- Higher median household income in Madison: $68K/yr vs $60K
Family cost comparison
| Metric | Madison Wisconsin | Bismarck North Dakota |
|---|---|---|
| 2BR rent/month | $2,200 | $1,500Better |
| Median home price | $360K | $260KBetter |
| Median household income | $68KBetter | $60K |
| Est. childcare/month | $1,261 | $1,131Better |
| State income tax | 7.7% | 2.5%Better |
| Sales tax (combined) | 5.4%Better | 6.8% |
Frequently asked questions
Which city is better for raising a family — Madison or Bismarck?
Based on housing costs, income, and taxes, Bismarck scores slightly better for families overall. Bismarck has lower 2-bedroom rents, Bismarck is more affordable for homebuyers, though both cities have strong family communities.
What is the average 2-bedroom rent in Madison vs Bismarck?
As of Q1 2026, median 2BR rent is $2,200/month in Madison and $1,500/month in Bismarck. Bismarck is 32% cheaper for a 2-bedroom apartment.
Can a family afford to buy a home in Madison or Bismarck?
The price-to-income ratio in Madison is 5.3× ($360K home, $68K income) vs 4.3× in Bismarck. A ratio below 3× is generally considered affordable. Bismarck is more achievable for first-time family homebuyers.
How much does childcare cost in Madison vs Bismarck?
Based on cost-of-living indices, estimated childcare (infant/toddler) runs approximately $1,261/month in Madison and $1,131/month in Bismarck. These are estimates — actual costs vary by provider and program type.
Which city has lower taxes for families?
Madison has a 7.7% state income tax rate vs Bismarck's 2.5% rate. For a dual-income family earning $120K combined, the difference can mean $312+/month in take-home.
Childcare estimates based on national average scaled by COL index. Data: Zillow, BLS, Numbeo, Tax Foundation · Q1 2026
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