($1,245) Movers From California to Madison
Quick answer: The cost to move from California to Madison, WI averages from $1,366 to $7,239 depending on how much you’re moving, your move date, and whether you hire a company or do the move yourself.
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Hiring a professional California moving company will be on the more expensive side, while renting a truck or a moving container is usually cheaper but requires more work.
Moving the reverse route? We’ve got you covered with our moving from Madison, WI to California guide.
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Moving from California to Madison, WI resources
In this article, we’ll lay out everything you need to know for your upcoming move from California to Madison, WI.
But first, here are a few resources if you need immediate answers:
- Best California to Madison, WI movers: If you plan on hiring a moving company be sure to check out our list of the top movers from California to Madison, WI.
- How much will your move cost?: Want to narrow down how much your move will cost? Use our moving cost calculator to get more specific price ranges and recommendations on the best companies to use for your move.
- Consider moving containers: Need a more budget-friendly option? With these companies, you load and they drive! These are the best moving container companies.
- California to Madison, WI car shippers: Moving your car? Use an experienced company that prioritizes professionalism and cares for your vehicle.
Moving 2,094 miles is no joke. Here's what you need to know.
The best California to Madison, WI moving companies
Hiring an interstate moving company from California to Madison is a big deal.
There are more than 8,000 moving companies in the U.S. But don’t worry, you won’t have to filter through all of them. We’ve done the research for you and narrowed the list based on customer satisfaction, cost, and services.
Here are the best long-distance moving companies serving California to Madison.
- Safeway Moving: Best overall value
- Mayzlin Relocation: Best for personalized service
- BLVD Moving: Best for quick quotes
- PODS: Best nationwide coverage
- American Van Lines: Most experienced mover
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If you’re just trying to ship a few items, here our our recommended services for small moves.
What is the average cost to move from California to Madison, WI?
The table below lays out average cost ranges to move from California to Madison for different moving services depending on the size of your home.
| Size of the Move | Moving Company | Moving Container | Rental Truck |
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| Studio / 1 Bedroom | $1,245 - $4,913 | $1,190 - $2,856 | $1,213 - $2,246 |
| 2 - 3 bedrooms | $3,387 - $7,239 | $2,138 - $4,541 | $1,366 - $2,955 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $6,417 - $11,490 | $3,109 - $6,014 | $1,657 - $3,516 |
*These price ranges are a rough estimate based on 2,094 miles and historical averages. The actual size of your move, additional services required, truck parking access, market conditions, and availability can greatly affect the final cost of your move.
The cost to move from California to Madison, WI will depend on:
- Move size: The amount of items you have — as well as your home size and layout — will impact the total cost of your relocation.
- Time of year: Summer is peak moving season in California, so moving companies will likely charge more.
- DIY vs. professional mover: DIY moving services are usually cheaper but involve more work and stress compared to letting the pros handle your move.
How much does it cost to hire professional movers from California to Madison?
Hiring movers for a studio apartment or one-bedroom home from California to Madison will cost between $1,245 to $4,913. The cost to move a two- to three-bedroom home from California to Madison will range from $3,387 to $7,239, and a large move from California to Madison will cost from $6,417 to $11,490.
How much are moving containers like PODS from California to Madison?
Moving containers from California to Madison will cost you $1,190 to $2,856 for a small move. For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $2,138 to $4,541. A four-bedroom move or bigger will cost $3,109 to $6,014.
Here are the cheapest moving containers for your move to Madison.
How much is a moving truck from California to Madison?
A moving rental truck is generally the cheapest option for moving from California to Madison, but it requires you to do all of the driving and labor.
Moving a studio or one-bedroom apartment in a rental truck will cost around $1,213 to $2,246. A larger move will cost $1,366 to $2,955, and a four-bedroom or more move from California to Madison costs from $1,657 to $3,516. These estimates include the estimated fuel cost.
Here are the cheapest rental truck companies for your move from California.
Is moving from California to Madison, WI a good idea?
Cost of living: California vs Madison, WI
| California | Madison | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent cost | $1,586 | $1,600 |
| Average home value | $746,055 | $367,934 |
| Average income (per capita) | $91,905 | $62,919 |
| Unemployment rate | 5% | 3% |
| State income tax | 13% | 8% |
Madison sources: Zumper, Zillow, Numbeo
- Rent is about the same cost in Madison and California.
- Home prices are about 51% lower in Madison than in California.
- The average income is about 32% lower in Madison than in California.
- Madison has a lower unemployment rate than California by about 31%.
- Income taxes are 42% lower in Madison than in California.
How is life different in Madison from California?
| Madison | California | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 269,840 | 39,029,342 |
| Political leaning | Democratic 76-23 | Democratic 63-34 |
| Summer high | 82ºF | 87ºF |
| Winter low | 10ºF | 59ºF |
| Annual rain | 36" | 22" |
| Annual snow | 42" | 7" |
| Crime index | 34.57 | 27.88 |
Madison sources: Wikipedia, AllTransit, Walk Score, NeighborhoodScout, AirNow
- The population of Madison is approximately 99% lower than the population of California.
- In the last presidential election, Madison voted Democratic and California voted Democratic.
- The average high in the summertime in Madison is 82ºF and in California, it’s 87ºF.
- During the coldest part of the year, Madison reaches the temperature of 10ºF and California gets down to 59ºF.
- You can expect about 36 inches of annual rainfall in Madison vs 22 inches of rainfall in California.
- In Madison, it snows about 42 inches annually vs 7 inches of snow in California.
- Madison has a higher crime rate than California with a crime index of 34.57 vs 27.88.
Considerations for moving to Madison, WI
- Weather: August, June and July are the most pleasant months in Madison, while January and December are the least comfortable months for any relocation activities.
- HOA rules: Check ahead with any neighborhood or community rules on moving to ensure a smooth move.
- Elevator reservation: One common and important example of something that should be handled ahead of time is reserving the building's elevator and finding out their rules for using the elevator.
- Parking permits: Some cities require parking permits for large vehicles, find out ahead of time with your new local rules.
- State licensing: Movers providing in-state relocation services in the Badger State must register with the Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT), but strictly speaking, it’s not a regulated state. However, movers must comply with individual insurance, licensing, and other state laws and regulations. Make sure the moving company you use has a license before hiring.
- State regulator: You can verify a Wisconsin moving license and its status on the state regulator's official website.
- Moving permits: Wisconsin does not require any moving permits, but it is helpful to check local parking restrictions before moving into the state.
- Change of address: We recommend submitting your change of address form with USPS at least a week prior to your move. You can set an official move date on the form and this way all of your mail will get properly forwarded to Wisconsin. Get started here.
- Mover's insurance: Every state has their own requirements when it comes to insurance. For a secure move in Wisconsin, explore movers' insurance options to safeguard your belongings. Many moving companies offer Released Value Protection at no extra cost, covering items at 60 cents per pound. Elevate your protection with discussions on Full Value Protection or explore customized plans from third-party insurance providers. Understand coverage limits, potential extra costs, and read reviews to make an informed decision on your Wisconsin state moving insurance. Ensure a smooth and protected relocation experience with the right insurance coverage.
- Moving checklist: Peace of mind is priceless. Our moving checklist will help you know you’ve got everything covered.
Looking for local California movers?
| Company | Quote | Rating | Contact |
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most popular
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Get A Quote |
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1149 Montgomery Ave, San Bruno, CA, 94066 (415) 404-7400 |
| Meathead Movers | Get A Quote |
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4744 North El Capitan Avenue, Fresno, CA, 93722 (559) 785-0316 |
| Grace Moving Company | Get A Quote |
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800 Janopaul Lane, Modesto, CA, 95351 (209) 551-7772 |
Visit our best movers in California page to see a complete list of moving companies, including hourly rates, services, and reviews.
Need a local Madison mover?
| Company | Quote | Rating | Contact |
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most popular
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3817 Kipp Street, Madison, WI, 53718 (608) 340-1557 |
| Armstrong relocation | Get A Quote |
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4505 Helgesen Dr, Madison, WI, 53718 (608) 838-5940 |
| Top Notch Moving and Storage | Get A Quote |
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905 Dempsey Rd, Madison, WI, 53716 (608) 590-3710 |
Visit our best movers in Madison page to see a complete list of moving companies, including hourly rates, services, and reviews.
What to do in Madison?
Whether you’re looking for parks, museums, sports, or even universities, you’ll be happy to find a plethora of these in Madison.
Museums in Madison
- Chazen Museum of Art
- Madison Children's Museum
- Wisconsin Veterans Museum
- Wisconsin Historical Museum
- University of Wisconsin Geology Museum
- Madison Museum of Contemporary Art
- Washburn Observatory
- Wisconsin Science Museum
- Overture Center for the Arts
Parks in Madison
- Olbrich Botanical Gardens
- University of Wisconsin-Madison Arboretum
- Lake Mendota
- Allen Centennial Gardens
- Tenney Park
- Vilas Park
- Olin-Turville Park
- Lake Monona Shoreline Run
- Warner Park
- Elver Park
- Alumni Park
- Owens Conservation Park
- Ice Age National Scenic Trail
- Lakeshore Nature Preserve at University of Wisconsin
- Brittingham Park
Sports Teams in Madison
- Wisconsin Badgers (NCAA)
- Madison Mallards (Baseball)
- Madison Radicals (AUDL)
- Madison Capitols (United States Hockey League)
- Forward Madison (USL League One)
Universities in Madison
- Herzing University
- Madison Area Technical College
- Madison Media Institute
- University of Phoenix–Madison Campus
- University of Wisconsin–Madison
FAQs
How far in advance should I book movers when moving from California to Madison?
Because of the 2094-mile move, it’s best to book your move from California to Madison as soon as you have your moving details. Ideally, you’d book your move two to three months ahead of time.
What time of year is the cheapest to move to Madison, WI?
With the summer highs of 82ºF and the winter lows of 10ºF, most people move to Madison from California during the spring and fall months. To avoid competing during those busy seasons, you could save some money by booking your move to Madison during summer or winter.
Where can I find a list of long-distance moving companies from Madison?
Check out our full breakdown of the best long-distance movers in Madison.
