Factors influencing moving costs from Madison to Baton Rouge
What to know before moving from Madison to Baton Rouge
Moving from Madison to Baton Rouge means adjusting to a different pace of life โ and a different price tag. On average, it costs significantly more to live in Madison than in Baton Rouge, making the move an opportunity for many to enjoy a lower cost of living.
Check out how Madison compares to Baton Rouge so you know what to expect before you relocate:
Madison | Baton Rouge | |
---|---|---|
Average rent cost | $1,600 | $1,250 |
Average home value | $367,934 | $213,584 |
Average income (per capita) | $62,919 | $60,369 |
Cost of living (single person) | $2,292 | $1,638 |
Cost of living (family of 4) | $5,457 | $3,941 |
Unemployment rate | 3.3% | 7.5% |
Sales tax | 5.5% | 9.5% |
State income tax | 7.65% | 4.25% |
- Rent prices in Baton Rouge are 22% lower than in Madison, which means youโll have more money in your pocket each month.
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In terms of homeownership, youโll be able to get more for your money in Baton Rouge.
Home prices in Baton Rouge are 42.0% lower than in Madison. - Income in Baton Rouge is 4.1% lower than in Madison, so you could earn less for doing the same job. The top employers in Baton Rouge include Amedisys, LA State University Continuing, and CB&I Government Solutions.
- The cost of living for a single person in Baton Rouge is 28.5% lower than in Madison. This includes routine expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transportation.
- The cost of living for a family in Baton Rouge is 27.8% lower than in Madison.
- The unemployment rate in Baton Rouge is 127.27% higher than in Madison.
- Youโll spend more on retail and restaurants in Baton Rouge, since the cityโs sales taxes in Baton Rouge are 72.73% higher than in Madison.
- One perk of moving to Baton Rouge is paying less in state income taxes, which are 44.44% lower than in Madison.
To put this in perspective, you would need around $2,143.98 in Baton Rouge to maintain the same standard of life that you can have with $3,000.00 in Madison.
How life is different in Madison vs. Baton Rouge
Baton Rouge | Madison | |
---|---|---|
Population | 222,191 | 269,840 |
AllTransit Transportation Performance Score | 4 | 6 |
Walkability score | 39 | 50 |
Bike friendliness score | 44 | 66 |
Crime Index | 2.0 | 34.57 |
Safety Index | 30.74 | 65.43 |
Air Quality | Good | Good |
- Baton Rouge's population is about 18% less than Madison.
- Baton Rouge's public transportation has a score of 4 out of 10 versus Madison's higher score of 6.
- Baton Rouge is less walkable than Madison with a score of 39 out of 100 vs Madison's 50 out of 100.
- Baton Rouge has a bike-friendliness score 44 out of 100, which means it isn't as accessible to and safe for cyclists as Madison, which has a score of 66 out of 100.
- Baton Rouge's crime rate is lower than Madison with a score of 2.0 compared to Madison's 34.57. This means that Baton Rouge neighborhoods are safer than 2.0% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Madison neighborhoods are safer than 34.57%.
- Baton Rouge is considered to be less safe than Madison with a score of 30.74 vs Madison's 65.43.
- Air quality in Baton Rouge is good, and in Madison it's good.
Other things to consider for your Madison vs. Baton Rouge move
- Weather: Best months to plan a move to Baton rouge are April, October and November as these are these month have more favorable weather, while July and August are the least comfortable months which can cause discomfort during a move.
- HOA rules: Itโs a good idea to look into your HOA or community regulations before moving day arrives.
- Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator, itโs a good idea to secure a reservation before your moving day.
- Truck parking permits: To avoid fines or delays, check whether a parking permit is needed for your moving truck.
- State licensing: If youโre using a legitimate moving company to relocate from one home or apartment within the state to another, look for a company regulated by the Louisiana Public Service Commission (LPSC). During the pre-move screening process, families on the move should verify that prospective movers are registered and in good standing with the LPSC. In cases of substandard service, inflated costs, and unlicensed movers operating illegally, consumers may file a complaint, after which the commission will initiate an investigation. Before booking, ensure the moving company is officially licensed to handle your move.
- State regulator: To confirm a moving companyโs license in Louisiana, visit the state's public utilities commission
- Moving permits: While Louisiana doesnโt mandate moving permits, checking local parking guidelines before your move-in day is still a good idea.
- Change of address: We recommend submitting your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move to ensure your mail gets forwarded to Baton Rouge without delay. You can select your official move date when completing the form. Start the process here.
- Moving company insurance: Every state sets its own rules for what insurance moving companies need to maintain. Choose Released Value Protection for free coverage at 60 cents per pound from movers. For full-value protection, explore alternative options with your chosen moving company or consider a third-party insurance provider.
- Moving checklist: Our moving checklist gives you the peace of mind that comes with being fully prepared.
Where to live in Baton Rouge
With your sights set on "Red Stick", these are some of the most popular neighborhoods to consider in Baton Rouge.
Best neighborhoods for singles
- Downtown
- Highlands/Perkins
- South Baton Rouge
- Airline/Jefferson
- Broadmoor/Sherwood Forest
Best neighborhoods for families
- Prairieville
- Zachary
- Baker/Zachary
- AddisVillage St. George
- Brusly
Things to do in Baton Rouge
Once youโre settled into your new home in Louisiana, itโs time to get out and discover what Baton Rouge has to offer. No matter your interests, thereโs something for everyone here:
- Arts and culture: Baton Rouge features a variety of museums and cultural arts centers, including the LSU Rural Life Museum, Capitol Park Museum - Louisiana State Museum, Knock Knock Children's Museum, Louisiana Art & Science Museum, and Burden Museum & Gardens.
- Outdoor recreation: The cityโs Mike the Tiger's Habitat, Baton Rouge Zoo, Bluebonnet Swamp Nature Center, and Riverfront Plaza โ among other spots โ perfect for hiking, biking, or simply soaking up the outdoors.
- Sports: Grab a seat and root for the home team during an LSU Tigers (SEC) and Southern Jaguars (SWAC) game.
FAQ
When is the best time to move from Madison to Baton Rouge?
The best time to move from Madison to Baton Rouge is during the spring or fall. These seasons offer milder weather and avoid higher moving costs during the peak moving season in Madison.
When is the cheapest time to move from Madison to Baton Rouge?
Because most people are moving from Madison to Baton Rouge in the spring or fall, you can often catch discounts by moving in the winter. Read our guide on moving discounts to learn more.
How long does a move from Madison to Baton Rouge take?
The 1,023-mile move from Madison, WI, to Baton Rouge, LA, takes two to eight days. Some Madison movers may offer expedited moving if you need it faster. If you need more time, ask your mover about storage options in Baton Rouge.