Madison, WI vs Racine, WI
Side-by-side rent vs. buy comparison using 2026 market data — home prices, rents, price-to-rent ratios, and more.
Head-to-Head Comparison
| Metric | Madison, WI | Racine, WI | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median Home Price | $445K | $220K | Racine — More Affordable |
| Average Rent | $2,781/mo | $1,375/mo | Racine — Lower Rent |
| Price-to-Rent Ratio | 13.3× | 13.3× | — |
| Median List Price | $400K | $200K | Racine — Lower List Price |
| Price per Sq Ft | $243/sqft | $160/sqft | Racine — Lower Cost/SqFt |
| Days on Market | 54 days | 36 days | Madison — Hotter Market |
Market Context
Navigating the housing market in Madison, Wisconsin, presents a unique set of considerations for prospective homeowners and renters alike. The city, nestled in Dane County, has seen its median home prices hover around the $420,000 to $440,000 range recently, reflecting a market that has experienced steady growth with some fluctuations. While not as volatile as some larger metropolitan areas, Madison's market remains competitive, particularly in desirable neighborhoods like Monroe Street, Atwood, or the vibrant Williamson-Marquette area. This sustained demand, fueled by a strong job market anchored by major employers such as the University of Wisconsin-Madison, Epic Systems, and American Family Insurance, contributes to the city's relatively high entry point for homeownership.
Full Madison analysis →Frequently Asked Questions
Madison has a median home price of $445K and average rent of $2,781/mo, while Racine has a median home price of $220K and average rent of $1,375/mo.
Madison has a price-to-rent ratio of 13.3×. This suggests buying may be more cost-effective long-term.
Racine has a price-to-rent ratio of 13.3×. This suggests buying may be more cost-effective long-term.