Population: 269,840 | Midwest region | 42% below national average for homeowners insurance
Madison is a large city with a population of 269,840 in the Midwest region. Insurance costs here are shaped by a combination of Wisconsin's regulatory environment, local risk factors, and the city's specific demographic profile.
One of Madison's advantages is its below-average homeowners insurance costs. At $1,508/yr, residents pay 42% less than the national average. Over a 30-year mortgage, that adds up to approximately $32,760 in savings — a meaningful financial benefit that makes homeownership more affordable in this market.
Severe weather — particularly tornado — is the primary driver of elevated insurance costs in Madison. The region experiences multiple severe weather events annually, generating billions in insured losses. Impact-resistant roofing (Class 4) is one of the most effective investments homeowners can make, potentially reducing premiums by 10-30%.
Madison's crime index of 28/100 is moderate — neither a significant penalty nor a notable benefit for insurance pricing. Standard security measures and a claims-free history are the most effective ways to keep premiums in check.
The total annual insurance budget for a Madison homeowner with a car is approximately $3,256/yr ($271/mo). This is well below the national combined average of $5,097/yr — a meaningful cost-of-living advantage for Madison residents that is often overlooked in relocation analyses. Bundling homeowners and auto with the same carrier typically saves 15-20%, which could mean $554 in annual savings.
Data sources: Insurance cost estimates derived from NAIC reports, Insurance.com, Bankrate, and Insurify (2025-2026). City risk factors from FEMA, FBI UCR, and state insurance department filings. Figures represent average annual premiums for standard coverage and may vary based on individual factors.
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