Best Irvine to Madison Movers + Moving Guide
Want help with the heavy lifting?
If you're moving from Irvine to Madison and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,018 mile move from California to Wisconsin go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 29 Irvine to Madison moving companies and more than 20,000 movers nationwide to provide up-to-date and data-driven information about: which moving company to hire (our top recommendation is Terry Moving & Storage), how much the move costs (approximately $2,500 - $8,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Irvine compared to Madison. With a move this big, you want big data on your side and Great Guys Moving is your trusted ally to help you sift through the noise to make informed moving decisions.

Best Irvine to Madison Moving Companies
Rank | Company Name | Rating | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Terry Moving & Storage | 9.36 | 9.2 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
2 | Gorilla Movers Of Wisconsin Inc. | 9.30 | 9.31 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
3 | NorthStar Moving Company | 9.21 | 8.97 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
4 | Trek Movers | 9.19 | 9.02 | Authorized For Property | Contact |
5 | The Go To Guys, LLC | 9.07 | 8.7 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
Cost to Move from Irvine to Madison
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,018 miles from Irvine, CA to Madison, WI will cost on average $3,497 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Irvine to Madison move is roughly $8,439. See the chart below for a detailed breakdown by type of move and home size. Pricing will vary based upon the exact locations of pickup and dropoff as well as several other factors. The most important pricing component that is often overlooked is how far away the move date is. The earlier you can reserve movers, the better your pricing and options will be.
Home Size | Moving Cost | Volume of Packed Items (ft³) | $/ft³ |
---|---|---|---|
Studio | $2,347 | 300 ft³ | 7.82 |
1 Bedroom | $3,497 | 450 ft³ | 7.77 |
2 Bedrooms | $5,791 | 750 ft³ | 7.72 |
3 Bedrooms | $8,439 | 1100 ft³ | 7.67 |
4 Bedrooms | $12,195 | 1600 ft³ | 7.62 |
5+ Bedrooms | $13,629 | 1800 ft³ | 7.57 |


Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Madison to Irvine guide.
Compare the 5 Best Irvine to Madison Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)

Terry Moving & Storage
25958 Commercentre Dr
Lake Forest, CA, 92630
About Terry Moving & Storage
Terry Moving & Storage offers full-service moves locally and throughout the 11 Western States. This Lake Forest-based business has helped thousands...
Services
- Local Move
- Interstate Move
- Packing Services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 649215 / 306297 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 11 |
Registered Drivers | 11 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 315,000 (2022) |

Gorilla Movers Of Wisconsin Inc.
310 Progress Way Suite 140
Sun Prairie, WI, 53590
About Gorilla Movers Of Wisconsin Inc.
As a locally owned and operated moving company, Gorilla Movers has over 20 years of experience performing high-quality residential and commercial...
Services
- Residential moves
- Commercial moves
- Local/statewide moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2627768 / 1031866 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 7 |
Registered Drivers | 14 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 173,000 (2023) |

NorthStar Moving Company

633 W 5th St 26th floor
Los Angeles, CA, 90071
About NorthStar Moving Company
Founded in 1994, Los Angeles-based NorthStar Moving Company treats all its customers as VIPs when helping them with local, intrastate, interstate,...
Services
- Local Moves
- Long Distance Moves
- International Moves
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1836576 / 665757 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 11 |
Registered Drivers | 10 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 220,000 (2023) |

Trek Movers
7225 Hollywood Blvd Unit 321
Los Angeles, CA, 90046
About Trek Movers
Trek Movers is a moving company based in Los Angeles, certified by the AMSA and accredited by the BBB with the...
Services
- Local Movers
- Long Distance Movers
- Office Movers
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3256910 / 1424894 Authorized For Property Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 3 |
Registered Drivers | 2 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 15,000 (2023) |

The Go To Guys, LLC
Bayside, WI, 53217
About The Go To Guys, LLC
The Go To Guys, LLC is a seasoned moving company with 30 years of experience in the industry. Based in the...
Services
- Cheap moving
- Local moving
- Long-distance moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3760134 / 1338262 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 3 |
Registered Drivers | 3 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 1 (2024) |

Dependable Rankings You Can Count On!
Our rankings are data-driven — movers cannot purchase a spot on our list. Here's why you can have confidence in our recommendations:
- No Paid Placements: Every company earns its spot through merit, not payment.
- Extensive Analysis: Evaluated over 24,000 movers across the country for our rankings.

Dependable Rankings You Can Count On!
Our rankings are data-driven — movers cannot purchase a spot on our list. Here's why you can have confidence in our recommendations:
- No Paid Placements: Every company earns its spot through merit, not payment.
- Extensive Analysis: Evaluated over 24,000 movers across the country for our rankings.
Irvine vs. Madison Neighborhood Comparison
Moving to a new city can be daunting, especially when you have grown attached to your local neighborhood. To ease this transition, this guide provides a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Irvine, CA & Madison, WI . By leveraging your familiarity with Irvine's communities, we aim to help you find a comparable neighborhood in Madison that fits your preferences and lifestyle.
Irvine | Madison | How They're Similar |
---|---|---|
Woodbridge | Maple Bluff | Family-friendly, waterfront access |
Turtle Rock | Shorewood Hills | Affluent, academic community |
Shady Canyon | Nakoma League | Historic homes, leafy |
Quail Hill | Blackhawk | Scenic views, upscale living |
Northwood | Hill Farms | University, vibrant community life |
Woodbury | Middleton Hills | Planned community, green spaces |
University Park | Regent | Close to university, eclectic mix |
Portola Springs | Arboretum | Nature-centric, community-oriented |
Great Park Neighborhoods | Schenk-Atwood | Active, artsy community |
Westpark | Sunset Village | Quaint, with local charm |
In moving from the meticulously planned Woodbury neighborhood in Irvine, with its picturesque parks like Jeffrey Open Space Trail, to Middleton Hills in Madison, you'll find a similar sense of community and an emphasis on green spaces, such as Pheasant Branch Conservancy. For those drawn to Turtle Rock's blend of educational excellence and natural beauty, Shorewood Hills in Madison offers an equally affluent atmosphere with the added charm of historic architecture and proximity to the University of Wisconsin. Shorewood Hills also boasts unique local fixtures such as Shorewood Hills Pool and local getaways like Picnic Point, ensuring a smooth lifestyle transition while maintaining a high standard of living and community connectivity.

Things to Do in Madison
- Explore Olbrich Botanical Gardens.
- Discover history at Wisconsin State Capitol.
- Enjoy a concert at Overture Center for the Arts.
- Kayak on Lake Mendota.
- Sample cheese at Fromagination.
- Bike the Capital City Trail.
- Attend a Madison Mallards game.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Irvine to Madison
Moving from one city to another offers a blend of challenges and opportunities. This comparison aims to give a candid look at the transition from Irvine, CA to Madison, WI , highlighting the cons compared to the pros and the pros compared to the cons of such a relocation. It's designed to help you weigh the differences between these two unique cities, ensuring you're well-informed before making such a significant move.
- High cost of living
- Heavy traffic
- Limited seasons
- Less public transport options
- More affordable housing
- Less congestion
- Distinct seasons
- More robust public transit
- Colder climate
- Further from major cities
- Smaller culinary scene
- Lack of ocean proximity
- Milder winters
- Proximity to LA
- Diverse cuisine options
- Abundant beaches
Moving from Irvine, CA to Madison, WI brings with it a host of changes. Irvine's proximity to Los Angeles provides easy access to a sprawling metropolis full of diverse cuisine options, with notable establishments like Providence and Nobu, alongside beautiful beaches like Laguna Beach. On the other hand, Madison offers a respite from the bustle with its serene neighborhoods and thriving local scenes, such as the popular Dane County Farmers' Market and the engaging community atmosphere of the Olbrich Botanical Gardens. While you might miss Irvine's milder winters and close access to the Pacific Ocean, you'll likely find Madison's distinctive seasons and vibrant city life, dotted with lakes and parks like James Madison Park, a refreshing change.
Irvine vs. Madison Food Guide
This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Irvine & Madison to highlight how food reflects local culture and what living in each area can be like. Understanding the differences in food scene can help you feel more at home in your new city.
Irvine | Madison | |
---|---|---|
Most iconic local food item | Fish Tacos | Cheese Curds |
Most popular meat dish | Korean BBQ | Bratwurst |
Most popular street food item | Taco Truck Tacos | Fried Cheese Curds |
Most popular vegan food | Avocado Toast | Vegetarian Pasty |
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
When exploring the vibrant food scenes of Irvine and Madison, you'll discover a diverse range of dishes that reflect the unique cultural landscape of each city. In Irvine, neighborhoods like Diamond Jamboree are known for their eclectic mix of Asian cuisines, from the Taiwanese delights at Din Tai Fung to the Korean fusion at BCD Tofu House. Meanwhile, Madison's State Street and Capitol Square showcase the city's love for locally-sourced, hearty foods – the fried cheese curds at The Old Fashioned or vegetarian options at Graze are not to be missed. Both cities offer a blend of health-conscious and indulgent options, catering to foodies and fitness enthusiasts alike.
Irvine vs. Madison Restaurant Comparison
Settling into a new city is a journey of discovery, especially when it comes to finding your go-to dining spots. Food plays a pivotal role in making a place feel like home. This guide facilitates a smooth culinary transition by comparing the top restaurants in Irvine to their Madison equivalents , helping you find your new favorite eateries.
Irvine | Madison | What You'll Love |
---|---|---|
HiroNori Craft Ramen | Strings Ramen | Flavorful, authentic ramen with a similar dedication to craft |
North Italia | Osteria Papavero | Offers a taste of Italy with hand-crafted pasta dishes |
Din Tai Fung | Muramoto Downtown | Known for exquisite dumplings and Asian fusion dishes |
Burnt Crumbs | Graze | Focuses on innovative sandwiches and locally sourced ingredients |
Kabuki Japanese Restaurant | Takara 88 | Offers a range of Japanese cuisine, including sushi and bento boxes |
The Stand | The Tipsy Cow | Great burgers and a robust selection of beers on tap |
Tender Greens | Forage Kitchen | Features hearty salads and bowls with an emphasis on fresh, local produce |
Portola Coffee Roasters | Colectivo Coffee | Renowned for its high-quality coffee and comfortable atmosphere |
Hello Kitty Grand Cafe | Lazy Janes Cafe & Bakery | Unique, quirky atmosphere with exceptional baked goods |
Square One Pizza Cafe | Salvatore's Tomato Pies | Known for creative and delicious pizza options |
Among the noteworthy comparisons, HiroNori Craft Ramen and Strings Ramen shine as beacons for ramen enthusiasts. Both establishments are celebrated for their dedication to crafting authentic and flavorful ramen dishes that are sure to satisfy your cravings. On the Italian dining scene, North Italia's cozy and contemporary approach finds its match in Madison's Osteria Papavero, where the emphasis on hand-crafted pasta dishes creates a similarly inviting ambiance. Meanwhile, fans of innovative and locally sourced ingredients will find a relocation from Burnt Crumbs to Graze an effortless transition, with both eateries boasting a creative approach to casual dining. Each of these pairings underscores a shared commitment to quality and atmosphere, ensuring you can relish in familiar dining experiences as you make Madison your new home.

Ready to start your move?
Irvine vs. Madison Real Estate & Living Facts
When planning your move, understanding the real estate climate is crucial. This comparison sheds light on the differences between Irvine, CA and Madison, WI, focusing on various housing aspects such as cost, architecture, and lifestyle. Knowing these details will streamline your transition, ensuring you find a home that suits your needs and preferences in your new city.
Comparison | Irvine | Madison |
---|---|---|
Typical Architecture Style | Modern and Spanish | Prairie and Craftsman |
Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Community pools, green spaces | Lake views, proximity to parks |
When comparing Irvine and Madison, one immediately notices the stark difference in housing costs—with Irvine’s median home price significantly higher than Madison’s. This disparity extends to rental prices as well. The architectural styles reflect the regional influences, with Irvine showcasing modern and Spanish influences, while Madison boasts Prairie and Craftsman styles, echoing its Midwestern roots. Madison scores higher in walkability and bikeability, making it a more accessible city for non-motorists. These differences highlight the diverse lifestyles between the two cities, with Irvine offering a more upscale, suburban environment and Madison providing a blend of urban accessibility and natural beauty, as seen in its listings that often highlight lake views and park proximity.

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Madison, WI
1. Williamson-Marquette: This neighborhood is known for its community vibe and welcoming atmosphere, where you'll often see pets and their owners enjoying the many local parks and pet-friendly cafes.
2. Nakoma League: With its close proximity to the UW Arboretum, your pets will love the extensive trails and natural areas ideal for long walks and exploration.
3. Shorewood Hills: This area boasts ample green spaces and a pet-friendly attitude, with easy access to the Shorewood Hills Pool for summer dog swims and several off-leash parks nearby.
Irvine vs. Madison Weather Considerations
When relocating from one city to another, it's vital to understand how the weather in Irvine, CA and Madison, WI may differ from what you're accustomed to. This comparison will guide you through seasonal highs and lows, sunshine days, and more, ensuring you're well-prepared for your move.
Irvine, CA
Madison, WI
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Irvine, CA
Madison, WI
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Irvine, CA
Madison, WI
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Irvine, CA
Madison, WI
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Comparison | Irvine | Madison |
---|---|---|
Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
Natural Disasters | Wildfires, Earthquakes | Snowstorms, Tornadoes |
Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Relocating from Irvine to Madison means preparing for colder winters and embracing snow, given Madison experiences an average of 50 inches of snow annually compared to Irvine's virtually none. The summer temperatures in both cities are fairly similar, but winters in Madison are significantly colder with highs often only reaching the 20s. Additionally, Madison has nearly 100 fewer sunny days per year than Irvine, influencing activities and potentially even mood. Understanding these climate differences will help ensure a smoother transition as you settle into your new home.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Irvine to Madison
When contemplating a move from one city to another, it's crucial to understand how your finances will be impacted. This comparison aims to illuminate the differences in cost of living, taxation, and economy between Irvine, CA, and Madison, WI, helping you make an informed decision regarding your relocation.
Comparison | Irvine | Madison |
---|---|---|
Avg. Household Income | $105,774 | $67,270 |
Cost of Living Index | 136.4 | 95.65 |
State Income Tax | 13.3 (max) | 7.65 (max) |
Avg. Property Tax | 0.7 | 1.94 |
Avg. Sales Tax | 7.75 | 5.5 |
Top 3 Industries | Technology, Education, Health Services | Education, Health Services, Manufacturing |
Affluence | High | Moderate |
Poverty | Low | Moderate |
Homelessness | Noticeable | Lower |
Moving from Irvine to Madison could significantly affect your financial situation. While the average household income in Irvine is substantially higher, your dollars might stretch further in Madison due to its lower cost of living index. Madison's lower maximum state income tax could also leave more money in your pocket, despite its higher property tax rates compared to Irvine. Additionally, the shift in dominant industries might impact your career prospects. Understanding these financial nuances will help you navigate your transition more smoothly.
Irvine vs. Madison Political & Religious Comparison
In this section, we provide a comparison of the politics and religious makeup between Irvine & Madison, offering a quick, at-a-glance snapshot to help you understand the community you're moving into. This comparative analysis aims to highlight the differences and similarities in the political leanings and religious affiliations of the residents in each city.
Irvine | Madison | |
---|---|---|
Political Make-up | Lean Democratic | Strongly Democratic |
Local Politics | Centrist, with progressive tendencies | Progressive, liberal policies prevalent |
Religion | Diverse, with Christian and non-Christian communities | Pluralistic, but with a strong presence of Christian churches |
While both Irvine and Madison lean Democratic, Madison exhibits a significantly more progressive stance on local politics and is known for its liberal policies. In Irvine, you'll find a more centrist approach, although there are progressive tendencies among the population. Regarding religion, both cities boast diverse religious communities. However, in Madison, there's a notable presence of Christian churches despite the pluralistic nature of the city's religious landscape. This diversity in both cities offers an eclectic array of community activities, cultural festivals, and places of worship that enrich the social fabric of each area. Understanding these dynamics can help you anticipate the social and cultural environment of your new home.
Irvine vs. Madison Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Irvine, CA to Madison, WI means adapting to new daily commutes and understanding the differences in traffic and transportation options. This comparison aims to give you a clearer picture of what to expect in both cities, helping you navigate your move more smoothly.
Comparison | Irvine | Madison |
---|---|---|
Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 25 | 19 |
Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
Can you get by without car? | Challenging | Easier |
In Irvine, the average commute time is slightly longer, and the city experiences higher traffic congestion compared to Madison. This could be because Irvine is part of the larger Los Angeles Metro area, which is known for its busy roads. Although public transportation exists, it's not as developed or relied upon as in some cities, so having a car is almost essential. Madison, on the other hand, provides a more relaxed commuting experience with less congestion. The city's public transit system is slightly better rated, making it easier for residents to get around without a personal vehicle. This can be particularly appealing for those looking to reduce their carbon footprint or save on transportation costs.



Additional Resources
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