Jefferson, WI vs Middleton, WI

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Jefferson is 26.3% cheaper than Middleton. With a cost index of 83 vs 112, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Jefferson to Middleton should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Jefferson is $1,041/month compared to $1,357/month in Middleton — a 23% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Jefferson is more affordable at $222,100 median vs $457,400.

Median household income in Jefferson is $77,095 compared to $85,526 in Middleton (-9.9%). Middleton does offer higher incomes, but the salary premium barely offsets the higher cost of living, leaving residents with a tighter budget. Looking at affordability, residents of Jefferson spend roughly 16.2% of their income on rent, less than the 19% in Middleton.