Cost of Living in Madison, KS

With a cost of living index of 53, Madison, KS is one of the most affordable cities in the country. Living here is 47% cheaper than the national average and 19% below the Kansas state average of 72. Madison is a small community of 943 residents.

Housing costs are the biggest factor in Madison's cost of living. The median monthly rent is $590 (55% below the US median of $1,319), and the median home value sits at $48,600 (84% below the national median of $304,900). At current prices, the median home costs roughly 0.9x the median household income — well within traditional affordability guidelines.

The median household income in Madison is $52,750, which is 30% lower than the national median of $75,149. Residents spend roughly 13% of household income on rent. This is a comfortable ratio, well below the 30% threshold that financial experts recommend as a maximum. Lower incomes here are balanced by the significantly lower cost of living, stretching each dollar further.

Climate is another factor for anyone considering a move to Madison. The area sees an average annual temperature of 55.7°F, with summers averaging 77°F and winters around 34°F. Annual rainfall totals 34.8 inches spread over roughly 101 days.

Data sources: US Census Bureau (ACS 2023), Zillow Home Values, HUD Fair Market Rents, BEA Regional Price Parities, BLS Average Prices, and NOAA Climate Normals. Updated monthly.