Quick answer
🟡 Yes, but tightly. A occupational therapist in Madison earns roughly $95,544/yr (~$5,311/mo take-home) and a 1BR costs $1,380/mo — that's 26% of take-home on rent. The standard is 30% or less.
WI · 2026
Can an Occupational Therapist Afford to Live in Madison?
Using local salary estimates and Madison's actual cost of living — rent, taxes, utilities, and groceries — here's the real monthly picture for an occupational therapist in Madison, WI in 2026.
Monthly Budget Breakdown
Gross monthly salary
$95,544/yr local estimate
$7,962
Taxes (federal + state + FICA)
7.65% state income tax
-$2,651
Monthly take-home
After all taxes
$5,311
1BR rent
26% of take-home
-$1,380
Utilities
Electric, gas, internet avg
-$145
Groceries
Single-person estimate
-$355
Transport
Car or transit average
-$350
Left for everything else
Dining, clothing, fun, savings
$3,081
At a 40% savings rate on discretionary income, a occupational therapist in Madison could save roughly $14,784/year after covering all essentials.
What Does 26% Rent Burden Mean?
The standard rule of thumb is to spend no more than 30% of gross income on rent. At 26% of take-home pay, a occupational therapist in Madison is near the limit. Livable, but there's little buffer for emergencies or lifestyle upgrades.
These numbers use a local salary estimate of $95,544/yr — adjusted from the national Occupational Therapist median of $96,370/yr based on Madison's cost of living index. Actual salaries vary by employer, experience, and specialization.
Best Neighborhoods in Madison for a Occupational Therapist
Based on walkability, rent levels, and quality of life — not just lowest price.
Willy Street (Williamson St)
Hippie roots, co-ops, walkable, Lake Monona, most character; 1BR $1,300–1,700
Atwood / Schenk-Atwood
Affordable, diverse, restaurants, artsy, bike-friendly; 1BR $1,100–1,500
Isthmus / Downtown
State Street pedestrian mall, Capitol Square, UW edge, very walkable; 1BR $1,400–1,900
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average salary for a Occupational Therapist in Madison?
A Occupational Therapist in Madison earns approximately $95,544 per year, based on the national BLS median of $96,370/yr adjusted for Madison's cost of living. Actual pay varies by employer, experience, and specialization.
Is Madison affordable for a occupational therapist in 2026?
Manageable. Rent takes 26% of take-home, which is right at the limit. A occupational therapist can make it work but should keep other expenses lean.
How much take-home pay does a Occupational Therapist get in Madison?
After federal taxes, 7.65% state income tax, and FICA, a Occupational Therapist earning $95,544/yr takes home roughly $5,311/month in Madison.
What is the rent-to-income ratio for a Occupational Therapist in Madison?
A 1-bedroom apartment in Madison costs a median of $1,380/month. On a Occupational Therapist salary, that's 26% of monthly take-home pay. Financial experts recommend keeping this below 30%.