Moving from Tacoma to Madison (2026)

Madison has a COL index of 97 vs 114 for Tacoma (100 = US average). You'd pay about 15% less for the same lifestyle.

Save ~$249/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline

Key differences

COL index
11497
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,900$1,650
per month
State tax
None7.7%
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,741$4,259
per month

Salary needed in Madison to match your Tacoma lifestyle

Based on the 15% cost of living decrease between the two cities.

Your salary in TacomaEquivalent in Madison
$40K$34,035
$50K$42,544
$60K$51,053
$75K$63,816
$80K$68,070
$100K$85,088
$120K$102,105
$150K$127,632

Monthly budget at $75K — Tacoma vs Madison

ExpenseTacomaMadison
Monthly take-home$4,741$4,259
1BR rent$1,900$1,650
Groceries$399$384
Transport$90$62
Utilities$118$162
Internet$63$63
Left after essentials$2,171$1,938

Frequently asked questions

Is Madison cheaper than Tacoma?

Yes. Madison has a cost of living index of 97 vs 114 for Tacoma (100 = US average). That's about 15% cheaper.

How much will I save moving from Tacoma to Madison?

On a $75K salary, moving from Tacoma to Madison could save roughly $249/month on core expenses. That's ~$2,988/year.

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

To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Tacoma, you'd need roughly $63,816/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