Best Los Angeles to Madison Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Los Angeles to Madison and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,021 mile move from California to Wisconsin go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 50 Los Angeles 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 Best California Movers), 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 Los Angeles 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.

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Best Los Angeles to Madison Moving Companies

RankCompany NameRating QuestionAffordability IndexLicenseContact
1Best California Movers9.529.73Authorized For HHGContact
2Moving Pro, Inc.9.459.01Authorized For Property, HHGContact
3Prodigy Moving & Storage9.419.24Authorized For HHGContact
4Gorilla Movers Of Wisconsin Inc.9.309.31Authorized For Property, HHGContact
5The Go To Guys, LLC9.078.7Authorized For HHGContact
Phone (800) 787-5428

Cost to Move from Los Angeles to Madison

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,021 miles from Los Angeles, CA to Madison, WI will cost on average $3,500 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Los Angeles to Madison move is roughly $8,445. 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 SizeMoving CostVolume of Packed Items (ft³)$/ft³
Studio$2,348300 ft³7.83
1 Bedroom$3,500450 ft³7.78
2 Bedrooms$5,796750 ft³7.73
3 Bedrooms$8,4451100 ft³7.68
4 Bedrooms$12,2041600 ft³7.63
5+ Bedrooms$13,6391800 ft³7.58
*Please note: These California to Wisconsin moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from California & Wisconsin. The volume listed here represents the estimated cubic footage of your household items when packed and loaded into a moving truck. To determine the exact costs associated with your move, get a quote from a licensed CA to WI mover.
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Madison to Los Angeles guide.

Compare the 5 Best Los Angeles to Madison Movers

These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)

Best California Movers Logo

Best California Movers

Exceptional9.52/10
based on 3,003+ data points

Glendale, CA, 91206

About Best California Movers

Best California Movers is a family-owned moving company based in Southern California, with over six years of experience in the industry....

Services

  • Cheap moving services
  • Local moving services
  • Long-distance moving services

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3489907 / 1173381

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans12
Registered Drivers12
Total Annual Miles Moved157,000 (2023)
View Full Review
1
Moving Pro, Inc. Logo

Moving Pro, Inc.

Exceptional9.45/10
based on 1,438+ data points

557 Vernon Ave

Venice, CA, 90291

About Moving Pro, Inc.

Moving Pro, Inc. takes a transparent, customized, and personal approach to moving that puts its clients first. This family-owned and operated...

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Long Distance Moving
  • Car Transportation

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1864442 / 675888

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers1
Total Annual Miles Moved26,800 (2023)
View Full Review
2
Prodigy Moving & Storage Logo

Prodigy Moving & Storage

Exceptional9.41/10
based on 12,245+ data points

601 S Figueroa St

Los Angeles, CA, 90017

About Prodigy Moving & Storage

Serving the greater Los Angeles area and California, Prodigy Moving & Storage has moved residences and offices since 2003. As a...

Services

  • Local Moving Services
  • Long Distance Moving Services
  • Commercial Moving Services

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/9/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3983945 / 1492541 MC-430697

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans11
Registered Drivers14
Total Annual Miles Moved1 (2022)
View Full Review
3
Gorilla Movers Of Wisconsin Inc. Logo

Gorilla Movers Of Wisconsin Inc.

Exceptional9.30/10
based on 2,029+ data points

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

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/9/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2627768 / 1031866

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans7
Registered Drivers14
Total Annual Miles Moved173,000 (2023)
View Full Review
4
The Go To Guys, LLC Logo

The Go To Guys, LLC

Exceptional9.07/10
based on 275+ data points

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

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/11/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3760134 / 1338262

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans3
Registered Drivers3
Total Annual Miles Moved1 (2024)
View Full Review
5
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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.

Los Angeles vs. Madison Neighborhood Comparison

Are you considering a move but find yourself daunted by the unfamiliarity of a new city? Let's make the transition smoother by comparing local neighborhoods between Los Angeles, CA & Madison, WI . We'll match top neighborhoods from Los Angeles with their Madison equivalents to help you find your vibe in a new locale.

Los AngelesMadisonHow They're Similar
Silver LakeWilly StreetArtsy, diverse community
VeniceAtwoodBohemian, vibrant nightlife
Beverly HillsMaple BluffUpscale, historic homes
HollywoodState StreetEntertainment hub, iconic landmarks
Downtown LACapitolBustling with activity, government center
Santa MonicaShorewood HillsLakeside, recreational activities
Echo ParkMonroe StreetTrendy, with a laid-back vibe
West HollywoodRegentDiverse, community-focused
Studio CityHilldaleFamily-friendly, shopping districts
MalibuSpring HarborScenic beauty, waterfront living

In exploring the neighborhoods, you'll find that Atwood's bohemian and lively atmosphere mirrors Venice with its unique blend of restaurants, such as Monty's Blue Plate Diner, and nightlife, similar to the iconic boardwalk area back in Los Angeles. Meanwhile, Madison's Maple Bluff shares the upscale charm and beautifully preserved homes reminiscent of Beverly Hills, complete with lush, manicured landscapes. On the other hand, State Street offers an entertainment scene that could rival Hollywood, bustling with theaters like Overture Center for the Arts, museums, and festive events, providing endless cultural experiences akin to those in Los Angeles. These comparisons not only highlight the architectural and aesthetic resemblances but also showcase the vibrant communities and lifestyles that make each neighborhood unique.

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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 Los Angeles to Madison

Moving from one city to another can be a daunting task, especially when considering the differences between two places as diverse as Los Angeles, CA, and Madison, WI. This guide aims to provide an honest reflection of Los Angeles to Madison relocation, highlighting both the good and the bad attributes to help you make an informed decision. Whether it's trading the bustling city life for quieter, scenic neighborhoods or adjusting to the different climate, understanding these aspects is crucial.

CONs
PROs
Los Angeles, CA iconLos Angeles, CA
  • High living costs
  • Traffic congestion
  • Hot summers
  • Less green space
  • Earthquake risk
Madison, WI iconMadison, WI
  • Lower living costs
  • Less traffic
  • Cool summers
  • More parks
  • Safe from earthquakes
Madison, WI iconMadison, WI
  • No beaches
  • Smaller food scene
  • Quieter nightlife
  • Less diversity
  • Cold winters
Los Angeles, CA iconLos Angeles, CA
  • Beach access
  • Diverse cuisine
  • Vibrant nightlife
  • Cultural diversity
  • Mild winters

Swapping the sprawling, sun-soaked streets of Los Angeles for Madison's picturesque, leafy neighborhoods offers a refreshing change of pace. Madison, home to the University of Wisconsin, boasts a bustling academic community alongside serene parklands like James Madison Park and the impressive Olbrich Botanical Gardens. Though Madison might have small food scene, it punches above its weight with places like Graft and Fromagination, offering culinary delights that rival those in larger cities. The transition from LA’s mild winters to Madison’s snowy landscape might be stark, but picturesque snow-covered sights like the iconic State Capitol building or ice skating at Tenney Park offer unique joys and a compelling reason to embrace the colder months.

Los Angeles vs. Madison Food Guide

Food is an essential part of local culture and understanding what it's like to live in an area. In this guide, we'll look at a comparison of the local cuisine between Los Angeles, CA & Madison, WI so you can be better informed about the food scene where you're moving.

Los AngelesMadison
Most iconic local food itemSushiBeer Cheese Soup
Most popular meat dishKorean BBQFried Cheese Curds
Most popular street food itemTacosBratwurst
Most popular vegan foodAcai BowlVegan Cheese Brat
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Spago
  • Guelaguetza
  • n/naka
  • Graze
  • Lombardino's
  • Lao Laan-Xang
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

Los Angeles, known for its eclectic and expansive food scene, offers a variety of food items suited for every palate, offering experiences from authentic street tacos found in neighborhoods like Echo Park, to high-end dining such as sushi at n/naka in Culver City. Madison, while cozier, boasts its own unique offerings like the beloved beer cheese soup, and a growing vegan scene, including options like vegan cheese brats that are becoming more prevalent in local farmers markets and food festivals. Restaurants like Graze not only embody the farm-to-table ethos but also highlight the region's commitment to local sourcing and culinary innovation.

Los Angeles vs. Madison Restaurant Comparison

Moving to a new city is always an adventure, and discovering the local food scene can help make anywhere feel like home. This comparison of top restaurants in Los Angeles and Madison is designed to ease the transition by helping you find new favorite spots that echo the flavors and ambiance of beloved LA eateries. Whether you're seeking high-end dining or cozy, casual bites, this guide has got you covered.

Los AngelesMadisonWhat You'll Love
BestiaL'EtoileHigh-end dining with a focus on local, sustainable ingredients.
RepubliqueGraftModern American cuisine with a twist, similar in creativity and quality.
Roscoe's House of Chicken and WafflesShort Stack EateryKnown for their breakfast classics and soul food inspiration.
AnimalForequarterAn excellent spot for innovative dishes and a meat-centric menu.
GuisadosBelAir CantinaOffers a variety of tacos that cater to all tastes, from traditional to innovative.
Howlin' Ray'sLucilleWhile known for wood-fired pizza, their chicken wings are a must-try, echoing Howlin' Ray's focus on quality and flavor.
PerchThe Old FashionedOffers iconic views of the Capitol, much like Perch’s views of LA, with a menu steeped in local tradition.
Pizzeria MozzaSalvatore's Tomato PiesKnown for their delicious and unique pizza offerings that rival Mozza's high standards.
SpagoEno Vino DowntownOffers an upscale dining experience with a focus on wine, similar to Spago's refined atmosphere.
In-N-Out BurgerDotty Dumpling's DowryA local favorite for burgers that offer a similar cult following and beloved taste.

When the craving for comforting, familiar flavors hits in your new city, places like Short Stack Eatery in Madison will make you feel right at home with their soulful breakfast offerings, reminiscent of Roscoe's House of Chicken and Waffles in LA. Meanwhile, for those who admire the pioneering spirit of LA's culinary scene, Madison's Graft and Forequarter offer innovative and locally sourced dishes that pay homage to this ethos. Whether it's the unique pizzas at Salvatore's Tomato Pies capturing the spirit of Pizzeria Mozza, or the refined dining experience at Eno Vino Downtown mirroring that of Spago, Madison's dining scene is vibrant and diverse enough to evoke the gastronomic diversity of Los Angeles.

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Ready to start your move?

Los Angeles vs. Madison Real Estate & Living Facts

Real estate dramatically shapes the experience of relocating, making it crucial to compare properties and neighborhoods in your new city. Understand how Los Angeles, CA and Madison, WI contrast in aspects such as cost, architecture, and lifestyle to navigate your move smoothly.

ComparisonLos AngelesMadison
Typical Architecture StyleModern, SpanishPrairie, Craftsman
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingOcean views, open floor plansLake access, family-friendly

When comparing Los Angeles and Madison, the contrast in housing costs and lifestyle is pronounced. The significantly lower median home price and rent in Madison can provide financial breathing room. The city's prairie and craftsman-style homes give it a distinct architectural identity compared to Los Angeles' blend of modern and Spanish styles. Moreover, Madison scores higher in walkability and bikeability, emphasizing its commitment to accessible urban living. The emphasis in Madison real estate listings on lake access and family-friendly neighborhoods reflects its appeal to those prioritizing community and nature as part of their lifestyle.

Pet-friendly neighborhoods background image

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.

Los Angeles vs. Madison Weather Considerations

Moving from one city to another can dramatically change your day-to-day life, particularly when it comes to the weather. Understanding how the climate in Los Angeles differs from Madison can help you prepare for your move and adjust more easily to your new home. Below, we compare key weather aspects to highlight these differences.

Summer icon
84°F / 64°F

Los Angeles, CA

82°F / 62°F

Madison, WI

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
68°F / 48°F

Los Angeles, CA

27°F / 13°F

Madison, WI

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
15

Los Angeles, CA

37

Madison, WI

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
0

Los Angeles, CA

54

Madison, WI

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonLos AngelesMadison
Air QualityLowerHigher
Natural DisastersEarthquakes, WildfiresSnowstorms, Tornadoes
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

While the average summer temperatures in Los Angeles and Madison are surprisingly similar, there's a stark difference once winter arrives, with Madison experiencing chilly winters that can drop well into the teens. The number of sunny days also shifts significantly, from Los Angeles' ample 284 days to Madison's more moderate 188. This, combined with Madison's higher humidity and substantial annual snowfall, marks a considerable adjustment for anyone moving from Los Angeles. Moreover, the types of natural disasters and air quality concerns differ between the two, reflecting the diverse environments you're transitioning between. Adjusting your wardrobe and daily habits will be essential in embracing your new climate in Madison.

Ready to start your move?

Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Los Angeles to Madison

When planning a move, it's crucial to understand how financial aspects differ between your current and future home. This comparison is designed to help you gauge how relocating from Los Angeles, CA to Madison, WI will affect your wallet, focusing on income, taxes, the cost of living, and more.

ComparisonLos AngelesMadison
Avg. Household Income$70,372$67,270
Cost of Living Index136.495.65
State Income Tax1-13.34-7.65
Avg. Property Tax0.7931.94
Avg. Sales Tax9.55.5
Top 3 IndustriesEntertainment, Manufacturing, TourismEducation, Healthcare, Manufacturing
AffluenceHighly variedModerately affluent
PovertySignificantLower than national average
HomelessnessHighLower

Moving from Los Angeles to Madison brings substantial changes in the cost of living and taxes. You'll notice a significant difference in the cost of living index, with Madison being more affordable than Los Angeles. Although the average household income in Madison is slightly lower, the lower state income tax rate and significantly lower cost of living may stretch your dollar further. Additionally, while property taxes are higher in Madison, this is balanced by a lower sales tax and a more affordable housing market. Overall, transitioning from Los Angeles' highly varied affluence and significant issues with poverty and homelessness to Madison's more stable economic environment could offer a more balanced lifestyle.

Los Angeles vs. Madison Political & Religious Comparison

This brief comparison aims to provide a quick glance at the comparison of the politics between Los Angeles & Madison , focusing on the political and religious landscape of both cities. Understanding these differences can help you transition smoothly to your new environment.

Los AngelesMadison
Political Make-upLiberal/DemocraticLiberal/Democratic
Local PoliticsStrong emphasis on social issues and environmental policiesProgressive local governance with a focus on public services and sustainability
ReligionDiverse, with significant Catholic and Protestant communities alongside other faithsPluralistic, with a strong presence of Christian denominations and active interfaith communities

While both Los Angeles and Madison share a liberal political landscape, the fabric of their communities shows varied hues. Los Angeles presents a mosaic of cultures, reflecting in its diverse religious congregations and the significant attention it dedicates to social and environmental issues. Madison, while also liberal, often showcases a more consolidated approach to progressivism, particularly in its local governance, where public services and sustainability are at the forefront. The presence of active interfaith communities in Madison further underlines the city’s commitment to pluralism and inclusivity. Such insights could be pivotal in easing your adaptation to the civic and cultural climate of Madison.

Los Angeles vs. Madison Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Considering a move from Los Angeles, CA to Madison, WI? A key aspect of adapting to your new life will be understanding the differences in traffic and transportation options between Los Angeles & Madison. This comparison is designed to help you better grasp what your daily commute and traffic life could look like.

ComparisonLos AngelesMadison
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)3019
Traffic Congestion 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦
Availability of Public Transit 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇
Can you get by without a car?ChallengingEasier

In Los Angeles, the blend of lengthy commutes and high levels of congestion reflects the city's expansive nature and reliance on automobiles. While public transit exists, such as LA Metro, covering vast distances effectively means owning a car is almost a necessity. In contrast, Madison offers a more compact urban experience, with shorter average commute times and significantly less congestion. Public transit is available, though Madison's smaller size and efficient layout make getting around by bike or on foot feasible for many. Madison's approachability without a car highlights a stark difference from the Los Angeles reliance on personal vehicles for daily commutes.

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