Madison Elevation (Highest & Lowest Points)

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Madison, the capital city of Wisconsin, lies between several lakes and features rolling terrain across glacial plains and ridges. The city’s geography — lakes, modest hills, and valleys — shapes its climate, water flow, and neighborhood character.

Average Elevation: about 873 feet (266 meters) above sea level (approximate mid-city average)
Estimated Highest Elevation: ~ 1,050 feet (320 meters) — on ridges / higher ground in some neighborhoods
Estimated Lowest Elevation: ~ 840 feet (256 meters) — along lake and river shorelines

So, now you know the approximate elevation range of Madison. And you can use geolocation-based tools to find real-time elevation data for any location — just allow your browser to access your position and get instant elevation details for free.

Madison Elevation Map (With Highest and Lowest Points)

Highest Point:

The approximate highest terrain within or near the city is around 1,050 ft (320 m) — located in elevated neighborhoods or ridgelines that lie above the central lake and valley areas.




(Tap on Pointers for more info)

Lowest Point:

The lowest terrain is along the shorelines of lakes or rivers — roughly 840 ft (256 m) above sea level, representing the valley and water-adjacent zones of Madison.

Note: The numbers above are approximate, based on general topography of the region. Elevation variation within the city is modest compared to mountainous or highly hilly areas.

Madison Map:

Elevation of Popular Areas in / near Madison:

  • Downtown / Capitol Square Area: ~ 880–900 ft (268–275 m) — central urban zone near lakes & Isthmus

  • West / Southwest Suburbs (higher ridges): ~ 1,000–1,050 ft (305–320 m) — gently elevated residential zones

  • Lake Shore & Waterfront Districts (e.g. near Lake Mendota / Lake Monona): ~ 840–860 ft (256–262 m) — low-lying, near water level

  • Northern Ridge Neighborhoods: ~ 950–1,020 ft (290–311 m) — mild hills giving sweeping views over lakes and city

Madison’s mix of lakes, gentle ridges, and valleys gives the city a rolling, pleasant terrain — not flat, but not mountainous either. This elevation variation supports scenic vistas, varied neighborhoods, and natural drainage through waterways. Even modest elevation differences contribute significantly to how residents experience the landscape.