Moving from Carmel to Madison (2026)
Madison has a COL index of 97 vs 98 for Carmel (100 = US average). You'd pay about 1% less for the same lifestyle.
Key differences
Salary needed in Madison to match your Carmel lifestyle
Based on the 1% cost of living decrease between the two cities.
| Your salary in Carmel | Equivalent in Madison |
|---|---|
| $40K | $39,592 |
| $50K | $49,490 |
| $60K | $59,388 |
| $75K | $74,235 |
| $80K | $79,184 |
| $100K | $98,980 |
| $120K | $118,776 |
| $150K | $148,469 |
Monthly budget at $75K — Carmel vs Madison
| Expense | Carmel | Madison |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly take-home | $4,541 | $4,259 |
| 1BR rent | $1,450 | $1,650 |
| Groceries | $376 | $384 |
| Transport | $40 | $62 |
| Utilities | $152 | $162 |
| Internet | $62 | $63 |
| Left after essentials | $2,461 | $1,938 |
Frequently asked questions
Is Madison cheaper than Carmel?
Yes. Madison has a cost of living index of 97 vs 98 for Carmel (100 = US average). That's about 1% cheaper.
How much will I save moving from Carmel to Madison?
On a $75K salary, core expenses in Madison run about $241/month more than Carmel. Factor this into your salary negotiation when relocating.
What salary do I need in Madison to match my Carmel lifestyle?
To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Carmel, you'd need roughly $74,235/year in Madison. This is based on the overall COL index difference between the two cities.
Estimates based on Q1 2026 COL index and market data. Budget uses simplified federal/state tax rates at $75K. Zillow · BLS · Numbeo · For general guidance only