This content was generated using artificial intelligence based on publicly available information. It is provided for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, tax, immigration, or professional advice. Information may be incomplete or outdated. Always verify with official sources before making decisions.
Data Source: Safety, crime, and quality metrics are sourced from Numbeo, a crowd-sourced global database of reported data.
All scores are relative comparisons on a 0-100 scale, where 50 = global average. Higher scores mean better than average, lower scores mean worse than average.
Madison offers a balanced, high-quality lifestyle centered around a sophisticated academic and biotech culture. It is an ideal destination for professionals seeking a stable, intellectually stimulating environment with a strong sense of community. You will find reliable healthcare and a safe, navigable urban layout that feels manageable rather than overwhelming.
While the city excels in livability, the pace is decidedly slower than major coastal hubs, and you may find the public transit options less comprehensive than in larger metropolitan areas. It is a practical choice for those prioritizing a steady quality of life and a connection to nature, provided you are comfortable with a more mid-sized, seasonal rhythm.
Madison has a humid continental climate (Köppen Dfa) with large seasonal temperature swings, warm summers, and cold, snowy winters. Long-term climate normals show an annual average temperature of about 47°F (8.3°C), with summer highs in the upper 20s °C and winter lows well below freezing. Precipitation is moderate through the year, with roughly 34.4 inches annually and snowfall contributing significantly in winter.
Summer Average
27°C
Winter Average
-5°C
Climate Type
Humid Continental
Rainy Days
110
Sunny Days
190
Humidity
68%
Spring
March - May
5-18°C
Spring is variable, with cool early-season conditions warming steadily into late May. Rain increases as the season progresses, and occasional late frosts can still occur.
Moderate rainfall
Summer
June - August
18-28°C
Summer is warm and often humid, with the highest chance of precipitation during thunderstorms. Days are generally pleasant to hot, and heat waves can push temperatures into the low 30s °C.
Moderate rainfall
Autumn
September - November
4-18°C
Autumn cools quickly, especially after October, with crisp days and increasingly frequent frost by late season. Rainfall remains moderate, and the first snowflakes can arrive in November.
Moderate rainfall
Winter
December - February
-12-0°C
Winter is cold and snowy, with prolonged below-freezing temperatures and periodic wind chills that make conditions feel even colder. Snow is a regular feature, and lake-effect and storm systems can bring significant accumulations.
Low rainfall
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Air Quality
Madison
Advantages
Madison
Excellent university system
Abundant parks and nature
Strong tech job market
Vibrant cultural institutions
Progressive community values
Beautiful lakes and outdoors
Disadvantages
Madison
Harsh winters and snow
Limited coworking spaces
Expensive housing market
Car-dependent infrastructure
Safety & Security in Madison
Overall Safety Score
Includes resilience and environmental factors
Good
67
/100
United States Avg
59
North America Avg
57
Worldwide Avg
57
Crime & Safety Metrics
Thermometer compares Madison to United States averages using different marker styles.Compare:
