Madison vs South Milwaukee: Elementary School Teacher Salary (2026)
Compare elementary school teacher salaries between Madison, WI and South Milwaukee, WI. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Madison, WI | South Milwaukee, WI |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $64,314▲ | $58,136 |
| Hourly Rate | $30.92▲ | $27.95 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $51,843▲ | $45,176 |
| 25th Percentile | $60,467▲ | $52,779 |
| 75th Percentile | $77,856▲ | $70,260 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $101,404▲ | $90,112 |
| Total Employed | 3,530▲ | 6 |
Verdict
Madison, WI offers better overall compensation for elementary school teachers, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to South Milwaukee.
The salary gap between Madison and South Milwaukee is $6,178 (10.63%). Madison's median is -0.44% compared to the US national median of $64,597.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Madison spans $49,561,South Milwaukee spans $44,936. Madison has a wider pay range, meaning more potential for high earners but also more variation.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Madison ($66,107 effective) pays 6.21% more than South Milwaukee ($62,244 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Madison if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($64,314/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($101,404)
- ✓Larger job market (3,530 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $66,107)
- ✓You prefer the Wisconsin area and lifestyle
Choose South Milwaukee if…
- ✓You prefer the Wisconsin area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, elementary school teacher salaries in Madison grew 12.9% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 4.6% growth in South Milwaukee over the same period.
Madison, WI
$56,390 (2019) → $63,690 (2025)
South Milwaukee, WI
$55,015 (2024) → $57,572 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Madison, WI
South Milwaukee, WI
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays elementary school teachers more: Madison or South Milwaukee?
What is the hourly rate difference between Madison and South Milwaukee?
Should I relocate from Madison to South Milwaukee as a elementary school teacher?
What do entry-level elementary school teachers earn in Madison vs South Milwaukee?
Written by Jordan Lee, M.Ed.
Career Analyst
Jordan Lee has over 10 years of experience in elementary education. They focus on curriculum development and teaching methodologies. Their experience includes working in public schools.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 0.98% CAGR (derived from 6-year national BLS trends) was applied to estimate current compensation. Cost-of-living adjustments use BEA Regional Price Parity data. Actual salaries vary by employer, certifications, and experience.
Data Sources & Methodology
Source: BLS, OEWS , released .
Compiled and verified by Jordan Lee, M.Ed., a licensed elementary school teacher with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov