Renter Resources
What Renters Must Photograph Before Moving In
Your landlord just gave you the keys. You're excited to move in, but one thing that could cost you hundreds later is not documenting what's already broken.
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What to Know About
Living in Madison, WI
Madison, the capital of Wisconsin, is known for its beautiful scenery, active outdoor lifestyle, and prestigious universities. History enthusiasts can explore the Wisconsin State Capitol building or visit the Wisconsin Historical Museum to learn about the city's past. Madison is also home to the University of Wisconsin-Madison, a renowned educational institution. The local economy is diverse, combining government, education, healthcare, and technology jobs.
Take advantage of Madison's natural beauty with a hike in the Arboretum, a paddle on the serene Lake Mendota, or biking through the city's many parks and trails. Food lovers can indulge in cheese curds or craft beer at local eateries, strongly emphasizing locally sourced and sustainable food. In addition, it's the home to various significant events, such as the Farmer's Market, Wisconsin Film Festival, Art Fair on the Square, and the Great Taste of the Midwest beer festival, which highlight the city's unique culture and cuisine.
With its excellent schools, a strong sense of community, and high quality of life, Madison is consistently ranked as one of the best places to live in the United States, making it a great place to live.
Rental Market Trends
Madison, WI
As of June 2025, Madison's rental market is stable, offering a predictable rental market where most units lease within a few weeks. Madison's average rent is 25.4% ($366) higher than the Wisconsin average of $1,440 and 1.2% ($22) higher than the U.S. average of $1,784.
Average Rent
$1,806
Monthly ChangeMonth Over Month Change
0.4% ($8)
Yearly ChangeYear Over Year Change
5.2% ($89)
Avg. Days on MarketAverage Days on Market
48
| Unit Type | Average Rent | Monthly ChangeMonth Over Month Change | Yearly ChangeYear Over Year Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Bed | $1,600 | 0.4% ($6) | 2.8% ($46) |
| 2 Beds | $2,008 | 0.4% ($8) | 4.6% ($88) |
| 3 Beds | $2,555 | 0.4% ($10) | 5.6% ($152) |
Rental market trends are calculated using listing data from RentalSource.
Frequently Asked Questions
Madison Rental Market FAQs
Explore rental prices, market trends, and availability in Madison, WI.
The average rent in Madison, WI is $1,806 per month.
Homes in Madison typically rent for between $1,120 and $3,322 per month, with an average of $1,806 per month.
In Madison, the average rent for a 1-bedroom home is $1,600 per month, for a 2-bedroom home, $2,008 per month, and a 3-bedroom home is $2,555 per month.
The average rent in Madison is 1.2% ($22) higher than the national average of $1,784 per month.
The average rent in Madison has decreased by 0.4% ($8) in the last month and increased by 5.2% ($89) over the past year.
The rental market in Madison, WI, is currently stable, offering a predictable rental market where most units lease within a few weeks.
In Madison, WI, the average rental stays on the market for approximately 48 days. While most properties are rented within this timeframe, factors like seasonality, demand, and property type can affect how quickly a rental leases.
There are currently 406 rental properties available in Madison, WI.
Based on the current averages, a household would need an annual income of $80,320 to comfortably afford a 2-bedroom home in Madison.
