Cost of Living in Madison

Madison's cost of living runs genuinely affordable on housing and rent, within South Dakota's own favorable statewide tax structure.

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Affordable housing closely aligned with the state median

Madison's cited median listing price (~$336,000, June 2026) runs closely aligned with the SD statewide median sale price (~$343,779).

A real, disclosed rent spread

Madison's median gross rent carries a real, disclosed cross-source spread of approximately $805-$1,035/month.

No state income tax, a 6.2% combined sales tax

South Dakota levies no state individual income tax; Madison's combined sales tax rate runs 6.2% (4.2% state + 2.0% municipal).

Key takeaways

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Last reviewed: 2026-08-28. Independent research; not financial, tax, or legal advice -- confirm current figures with a local professional before making a decision.