Tempe vs Madison for Families (2026)
A family-focused comparison of housing, income, taxes, and overall affordability in Tempe, AZ vs Madison, WI.
- 2BR rent: $2,100/mo in Tempe vs $2,200/mo — 5% difference
- More affordable homeownership in Madison: $360K median vs $430K
- Higher median household income in Madison: $68K/yr vs $68K
Family cost comparison
| Metric | Tempe Arizona | Madison Wisconsin |
|---|---|---|
| 2BR rent/month | $2,100Better | $2,200 |
| Median home price | $430K | $360KBetter |
| Median household income | $68KBetter | $68K |
| Est. childcare/month | $1,339 | $1,261Better |
| State income tax | 2.5%Better | 7.7% |
| Sales tax (combined) | 8.6% | 5.4%Better |
Frequently asked questions
Which city is better for raising a family — Tempe or Madison?
Based on housing costs, income, and taxes, Tempe scores slightly better for families overall. Tempe has lower 2-bedroom rents, Madison is more affordable for homebuyers, though both cities have strong family communities.
What is the average 2-bedroom rent in Tempe vs Madison?
As of Q1 2026, median 2BR rent is $2,100/month in Tempe and $2,200/month in Madison. Tempe is 5% cheaper for a 2-bedroom apartment.
Can a family afford to buy a home in Tempe or Madison?
The price-to-income ratio in Tempe is 6.3× ($430K home, $68K income) vs 5.3× in Madison. A ratio below 3× is generally considered affordable. Madison is more achievable for first-time family homebuyers.
How much does childcare cost in Tempe vs Madison?
Based on cost-of-living indices, estimated childcare (infant/toddler) runs approximately $1,339/month in Tempe and $1,261/month in Madison. These are estimates — actual costs vary by provider and program type.
Which city has lower taxes for families?
Tempe has a 2.5% state income tax rate vs Madison's 7.7% 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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