Murfreesboro, TN vs. Madison, TN: Cost of Living Comparison (2025)
Families relocating to Tennessee can save over $300 per month on housing alone by choosing Murfreesboro over Madison. This article provides a detailed cost of living comparison between Murfreesboro and Madison, perfect for anyone deciding where to live in 2025.
Housing Costs
The median home price in Murfreesboro is nearly $100,000 less than in Madison. Typical housing costs:
| Housing Type | Murfreesboro | Madison |
|---|---|---|
| 2BR Apartment Rent | $1,250 | $1,550 |
| 3BR Home Mortgage | $1,450 | $1,800 |
🏆 Winner: Murfreesboro
Utilities and Energy Costs
Utility bills in Murfreesboro average about 10% less than in Madison:
- Murfreesboro: $180/month
- Madison: $200/month
Both cities have similar climates, so heating and cooling costs are comparable. However, Murfreesboro has lower water and sewer rates.
🏆 Winner: Murfreesboro
Groceries and Daily Expenses
Grocery costs are very similar in both cities, with Murfreesboro edging out Madison by about 3% overall. Restaurant prices are nearly identical.
🏆 Winner: Murfreesboro, but only slightly
Taxes and Fees
Property taxes are higher in Madison (0.75%) compared to Murfreesboro (0.63%). However, Madison has lower vehicle registration fees. HOA fees are similar in both cities, typically $200-400 per month.
🏆 Winner: Murfreesboro
Cost Summary
| Category | Murfreesboro | Madison |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | $1,450 | $1,800 |
| Utilities | $180 | $200 |
| Groceries | $400 | $415 |
| Transportation | $60 | $75 |
| Taxes & Fees | $350 | $425 |
| Misc | $250 | $250 |
| Estimated Monthly Total | $2,690 | $3,165 |
Lifestyle Fit
While Murfreesboro is more affordable, Madison offers a shorter average commute and more public transit options. Murfreesboro has 20% more green space than Madison, with larger parks and yards.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is Murfreesboro more affordable than Madison? Yes, living in Murfreesboro is about 15% cheaper overall compared to Madison.
- Which city has lower rent? Rent prices are roughly 20% lower in Murfreesboro. A typical 2BR apartment costs $1,250/month vs $1,550/month in Madison.
- Where is it cheaper to buy a home? Murfreesboro has significantly lower home prices. Mortgage payments on a 3BR house average $1,450/month compared to $1,800/month in Madison.
Conclusion
For most households, Murfreesboro offers a meaningfully lower cost of living than Madison – potentially saving hundreds of dollars per month. Budget-conscious families and retirees may prefer Murfreesboro, while professionals prioritizing shorter commutes might opt for Madison despite the higher costs. Compare the full cost of living breakdown for other Tennessee cities to find the ideal fit for your lifestyle and finances.