Madison, TN vs. Brentwood, TN: Cost of Living Comparison (2025)
Considering a move to the Nashville area in 2025? Here’s a quick cost comparison between two popular suburbs:
- 🏘️ Median home price: $350K in Madison vs $1.2M in Brentwood
- ⚡ Avg utility bill: $180/mo in Madison vs $220/mo in Brentwood
- 🛒 Grocery costs: 5% lower in Madison than Brentwood
- 🏫 Property taxes: 0.75% in Madison vs 0.85% in Brentwood
For a deeper dive into the cost of living in Madison vs Brentwood, read on. This article is perfect for families relocating, professionals choosing between job offers, or anyone comparing the real cost of these two Tennessee cities in 2025.
1. Housing Costs
Housing is often the biggest factor in cost of living. Here’s how Madison and Brentwood stack up:
| Housing Type | Madison | Brentwood |
|---|---|---|
| Median Home Price | $350,000 | $1,200,000 |
| Avg 2BR Apt Rent | $1,400 | $2,200 |
| Avg 3BR Home Rent | $2,000 | $3,500 |
🏆 Winner: Madison. Housing costs are significantly lower in Madison compared to Brentwood. A household moving from Brentwood to Madison might save over $1,000 per month on housing alone.
2. Utilities and Energy Costs
Utility bills are another key expense. In Madison, expect to pay around $180 per month for electricity, gas, water, and trash for a typical home. Costs are about 20% higher in Brentwood, averaging $220 monthly.
Both cities have relatively mild winters, but summers can be hot and humid. Most homes will use 20-30% more energy for cooling in July and August compared to spring or fall.
🏆 Winner: Madison. While utility costs are only moderately higher in Brentwood, every dollar adds up.
3. Groceries and Daily Expenses
Groceries and everyday items cost about 5% less in Madison compared to Brentwood. A gallon of milk averages $3.50 in Madison vs $3.75 in Brentwood, for example.
Eating out is also more affordable in Madison. A meal for two at a mid-range restaurant runs about $50 in Madison compared to $70 in Brentwood.
🏆 Winner: Madison, but the difference is less dramatic than housing. See monthly budget examples for Madison residents.
4. Taxes and Fees
Tennessee has no state income tax, but both cities collect property taxes. The rate is 0.75% in Madison vs 0.85% in Brentwood. For a $500K home, that’s a difference of $500 per year.
Many Brentwood neighborhoods also have HOA fees ranging from $50-300 monthly. In Madison, HOA fees are less common and typically under $100 when they do apply.
🏆 Winner: Madison. Lower property taxes and fewer HOA fees give Madison the edge.
5. Cost Summary
| Cost Category | Madison | Brentwood |
|---|---|---|
| Housing (3BR home) | $2,000 | $3,500 |
| Utilities | $180 | $220 |
| Groceries | $500 | $525 |
| Transportation | $300 | $350 |
| Taxes (0.75% vs 0.85%) | $210 | $850 |
| Misc Expenses | $400 | $500 |
| Estimated Monthly Total | $3,590 | $5,945 |
6. Lifestyle Fit
While more affordable, Madison offers a bit less space and walkability than Brentwood. Lots are smaller and sidewalks are hit or miss. But commutes into Nashville are easier.
Brentwood has larger homes on spacious lots, highly rated schools, and more of an upscale suburban feel. But that comes with a higher price tag.
Brentwood averages 2°F cooler than Madison in July, thanks to more trees and green space. But both cities are hot and humid in summer.
7. FAQ
Q: Is Madison more affordable than Brentwood?
A: Yes, the cost of living is significantly lower in Madison – especially housing.
Q: Which city has lower rent?
A: Madison. A typical 2BR apartment rents for $1,400 in Madison compared to $2,200 in Brentwood.
Q: Where is it cheaper to buy a home?
A: Madison. The median home price is $350K in Madison vs $1.2M in Brentwood as of 2025.
8. Conclusion
While both are nice Nashville suburbs, Madison is much more affordable than Brentwood. Housing costs are the biggest difference, but Madison also has an edge in utilities, groceries, and taxes.
Budget-conscious households, young families, and retirees may prefer Madison. Those prioritizing prestige, top schools, and a luxury lifestyle may favor Brentwood if they can afford the premium.
Carefully weigh the tradeoffs for your lifestyle and budget. To go deeper, read our full cost of living guide for Madison in 2025.