Madison, WV vs Marlinton, WV

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Marlinton is 19.8% cheaper than Madison. With a cost index of 60 vs 72, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Marlinton to Madison should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Madison is $1,015/month compared to $703/month in Marlinton — a 44% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Marlinton is more affordable at $90,500 median vs $127,200.

Median household income in Madison is $57,073 compared to $42,386 in Marlinton (+34.7%). While Madison is more expensive, its higher salaries more than compensate — residents there may actually end up with more disposable income. Looking at affordability, residents of Madison spend roughly 21.3% of their income on rent, more than the 19.9% in Marlinton.

Climate-wise, Madison is notably warmer with an average of 56.2°F compared to 51.7°F in Marlinton. Marlinton receives more rainfall at 47.2" per year compared to 46.2" in Madison.