Mt Juliet, TN vs. Madison, TN: Cost of Living Comparison (2025)
Considering a move to the Nashville area? This article pits Mt Juliet vs Madison in a cost of living face-off. Perfect for families relocating, professionals choosing between job offers, or anyone comparing the real cost of living in these two Tennessee cities in 2025.
Housing Costs: Mt Juliet vs Madison
Housing is often the biggest factor in cost of living. Here’s how typical rents and home prices compare:
| Housing Type | Mt Juliet | Madison |
|---|---|---|
| 2BR Apartment (Monthly Rent) | $1,400 | $1,250 |
| 3BR House (Median Price) | $450,000 | $375,000 |
🏆 Winner: Madison. Renting an apartment or buying a home tends to be more affordable in Madison compared to Mt Juliet.
Utilities and Energy Costs
Expect monthly utility bills around $180 in Mt Juliet vs $200 in Madison, assuming similar usage. Air conditioning drives summer electric bills up in both cities, but Mt Juliet’s milder weather gives it a slight edge.
🏆 Winner: Mt Juliet
Groceries and Daily Expenses
Groceries, dining out, and everyday purchases cost about the same in Mt Juliet and Madison. Budget around $350-400 per person monthly for food and incidentals in either city.
🏆 Winner: Tie
Taxes and Fees
Property taxes are 25% lower in Mt Juliet vs Madison, with rates around 0.5% and 0.7% respectively. Mt Juliet also has slightly lower sales tax. In Madison, some HOA fees can top $300/month, while they average closer to $200/month in Mt Juliet neighborhoods.
🏆 Winner: Mt Juliet
Cost of Living in Mt Juliet vs Madison: Summary
| Category | Mt Juliet | Madison |
|---|---|---|
| Housing (3BR) | $2,250 | $1,875 |
| Utilities | $180 | $200 |
| Groceries (2 people) | $700 | $700 |
| Transportation | $250 | $200 |
| Taxes & Fees | $600 | $800 |
| Misc | $500 | $500 |
| Estimated Monthly Total | $4,480 in Mt Juliet | $4,275 in Madison |
Note: Figures are estimates based on a gross monthly income, pre-tax. See a detailed breakdown of monthly costs in Mt Juliet.
Lifestyle Fit: Mt Juliet or Madison?
Cost is just one factor when choosing where to live. Also consider:
- Space: Lots tend to be larger in Mt Juliet, great for families who want room to spread out.
- Walkability: Madison offers a more walkable downtown area and closer proximity to Nashville.
- Climate: Mt Juliet is a few degrees cooler than Madison, with less humidity in summer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Mt Juliet more affordable than Madison?
Overall, the cost of living is fairly similar, with Madison having a slight edge. Housing and taxes tend to be cheaper in Madison, while Mt Juliet has lower utilities. See a full cost of living overview for Mt Juliet.
Which city has lower rent?
Renting an apartment is typically more affordable in Madison. A 2-bedroom averages $1,250/month vs $1,400/month in Mt Juliet.
Where is it cheaper to buy a home?
Madison has lower median home prices, with a typical 3-bedroom house costing around $375,000 compared to $450,000 in Mt Juliet. However, lot sizes are often smaller in Madison.
The Bottom Line
While Madison comes out slightly ahead on overall affordability, the cost of living difference between these two Nashville suburbs is minimal. Families craving space may prefer Mt Juliet, while those wanting a shorter commute and city access often opt for Madison.
Ultimately, both Mt Juliet and Madison offer a relatively affordable lifestyle with plenty of amenities – the best choice depends on your family’s needs and preferences. Be sure to compare cost of living figures for other area cities before making your decision.