Madison, TN vs. Antioch, TN: Cost of Living Comparison (2025)
Considering a move to the Nashville area? This article provides a detailed cost of living comparison between the suburbs of Madison and Antioch. It’s perfect for families relocating, professionals choosing between job offers, or anyone comparing the real costs of living in Madison vs Antioch in 2025. All income figures are expressed in gross monthly income (pre-tax).
1. Housing Costs
Housing is often the biggest factor in cost of living. Here’s how typical rent and mortgage payments compare in Madison and Antioch:
| Housing Type | Madison | Antioch |
|---|---|---|
| 2BR Apartment (Rent) | $1,350 | $1,500 |
| 3BR House (Mortgage) | $1,800 | $2,100 |
🏆 Winner: Madison. Housing costs an estimated 10-15% less in Madison compared to similar homes in Antioch.
2. Utilities and Energy Costs
Utility bills are fairly comparable between the two cities. Expect to pay around $200-250 per month for electricity, water, gas, and waste. Both have similar climates, so heating and cooling needs are about equal.
🏆 Winner: Tie. No major difference in utility costs.
3. Groceries and Daily Expenses
Grocery prices and everyday purchases like gas and dining out are nearly identical in Madison and Antioch. Budget around $400-500 per person for monthly groceries and household items.
🏆 Winner: Tie. Grocery and daily costs are very similar.
4. Taxes and Fees
Property taxes are slightly lower in Madison, averaging 0.7% vs 0.8% in Antioch. City service fees and typical HOA dues are comparable. In Madison, some HOAs include extras like landscaping and trash pickup.
🏆 Winner: Madison. Lower property taxes give it a slight edge.
5. Cost Summary
| Category | Madison | Antioch |
|---|---|---|
| Housing (3BR) | $1,800 | $2,100 |
| Utilities | $225 | $225 |
| Groceries (2 people) | $800 | $800 |
| Transportation | $300 | $250 |
| Taxes and Fees | $400 | $450 |
| Misc Expenses | $500 | $500 |
| Estimated Monthly Total | $4,025 | $4,325 |
6. Lifestyle Fit
While costs are important, also consider the lifestyle tradeoffs between Madison and Antioch:
- Madison offers a quieter, small-town feel with more space between homes
- Antioch has better access to public transit and a shorter average commute to downtown Nashville
- Both have similar climates, with hot summers and mild winters
7. FAQ
Q: Is Madison more affordable than Antioch?
A: Yes, the cost of living is about 5-10% lower in Madison, mainly due to cheaper housing.
Q: Which city has lower rent?
A: Rents are typically 10-15% lower in Madison for comparable apartments.
Q: Where is it cheaper to buy a home?
A: Madison has lower home prices and slightly lower property taxes, making it more affordable for buyers.
8. Conclusion
Overall, Madison offers a lower cost of living than Antioch, primarily due to more affordable housing. A household moving from Antioch to Madison might save $300-400 per month on housing alone. However, Antioch’s closer proximity to Nashville and public transit may be worth the premium for some.
Consider building a monthly budget for Madison or reviewing a full cost of living guide for Madison in 2025 to further inform your decision. Ultimately, the right choice depends on your household’s priorities and lifestyle.