Moving from Madison to Richmond (2026)

Richmond has a COL index of 98 vs 97 for Madison (100 = US average). Expect to pay about 1% more for the same lifestyle.

Pay ~$67 more/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline

Key differences

COL index
9798
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,650$1,600
per month
State tax
7.7%5.8%
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,259$4,378
per month

Salary needed in Richmond to match your Madison lifestyle

Based on the 1% cost of living increase between the two cities.

Your salary in MadisonEquivalent in Richmond
$40K$40,412
$50K$50,515
$60K$60,619
$75K$75,773
$80K$80,825
$100K$101,031
$120K$121,237
$150K$151,546

Monthly budget at $75K — Madison vs Richmond

ExpenseMadisonRichmond
Monthly take-home$4,259$4,378
1BR rent$1,650$1,600
Groceries$384$369
Transport$62$70
Utilities$162$155
Internet$63$60
Left after essentials$1,938$2,124

Frequently asked questions

Is Richmond cheaper than Madison?

No. Richmond has a cost of living index of 98 vs 97 for Madison (100 = US average). That's about 1% more expensive.

How much will I save moving from Madison to Richmond?

On a $75K salary, moving from Madison to Richmond could save roughly $67/month on core expenses. That's ~$804/year.

What salary do I need in Richmond to match my Madison lifestyle?

To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Madison, you'd need roughly $75,773/year in Richmond. 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