Best Chicago to Madison Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Chicago to Madison and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 148 mile move from Illinois to Wisconsin go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 50 Chicago 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 606 Movers, Inc.), how much the move costs (approximately $1,500 - $4,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Chicago 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 Chicago to Madison Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 606 Movers, Inc. | 9.36 | 9.27 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| 2 | Move-tastic! | 9.35 | 9.37 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 3 | A1 Movers, Inc | 9.32 | 9.57 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 4 | Gorilla Movers Of Wisconsin Inc. | 9.30 | 9.31 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| 5 | The Go To Guys, LLC | 9.07 | 8.7 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Chicago to Madison
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 148 miles from Chicago, IL to Madison, WI will cost on average $1,907 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Chicago to Madison move is roughly $4,552. 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 | $1,286 | 300 ft³ | 4.29 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,907 | 450 ft³ | 4.24 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $3,141 | 750 ft³ | 4.19 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $4,552 | 1100 ft³ | 4.14 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $6,541 | 1600 ft³ | 4.09 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $7,268 | 1800 ft³ | 4.04 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Madison to Chicago guide.
Compare the 5 Best Chicago to Madison Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
606 Movers, Inc.
159 N Sangamon St Suite 300
Chicago, IL, 60607
About 606 Movers, Inc.
606 Movers, Inc. has been serving the Chicagoland area for over 12 years. This professional moving company offers quality, eco-friendly moving...
Services
- Residential Movers
- Commercial Movers
- Packing & Unpacking Services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3476069 / 1139300 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 4 |
| Registered Drivers | 4 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 1 (2021) |
Move-tastic!
3100 N Tripp Ave
Chicago, IL, 60641
About Move-tastic!
What happens when two passionate triathletes decide to make extra income using their physical abilities? The result is an energetic moving...
Services
- Full Moves
- Truck Loading and Unloading
- Interstate Moving Assistance
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1906350 / 675927 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 15 |
| Registered Drivers | 28 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 90,866 (2023) |
A1 Movers, Inc
315 S Harrison St
Geneva, IL, 60134
About A1 Movers, Inc
A1 Movers, Inc. is a leading moving company in the Aurora, IL area providing residential moving services. This Aurora moving company...
Services
- LOCAL MOVES
- LONG DISTANCE MOVES
- PACKING SERVICES
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3309154 / 1055273 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 2 |
| Registered Drivers | 2 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 6,800 (2024) |
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) |
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.
Chicago vs. Madison Neighborhood Comparison
Moving can be a daunting process, especially when transitioning to an unfamiliar city. To ease this transition, we've created a guide that highlights the comparison between local neighborhoods in Chicago, IL & Madison, WI , helping you find a new neighborhood that feels like home. Whether you cherish the bustling streets, the tranquil parks, or the unique dining experiences of your Chicago neighborhood, we'll help you discover a Madison area with a similar vibe.
| Chicago | Madison | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Lincoln Park | Regent | Family-friendly, vibrant local culture |
| Wicker Park | Willy Street | Eclectic and artsy atmosphere |
| Gold Coast | Shorewood Hills | Upscale, historic character |
| Loop | Downtown Madison | Bustling business and cultural hub |
| Andersonville | Atwood | Quaint and vibrant, with a strong sense of community |
| River North | Capitol | Trendy with a rich nightlife |
| Old Town | Maple Bluff | Historic with a welcoming community |
| Lakeview | Hilldale | Diverse and active, family-friendly |
| Hyde Park | Tenney-Lapham | Intellectual vibe, close to university |
| Logan Square | Monroe Street | Hip, with a cool mix of old and new |
For those captivated by the rich historical backdrop and upscale vibes of Chicago's Gold Coast, Madison's Shorewood Hills neighborhood offers a similar experience. You'll discover a blend of high-end homes and lush, scenic landscapes perfect for leisurely strolls. If the artistic and eclectic energy of Wicker Park is more your style, Willy Street in Madison will captivate you with its unique blend of shops, diverse dining options, and vibrant community events. Imagine spending your days exploring the Memorial Union Terrace by the lake in Downtown Madison, reminiscent of leisurely afternoons in Chicago's Loop, where cultural and business activities merge seamlessly. Whether it's browsing through the farmers' markets, cafe hopping on a bicycle, or enjoying live music, transitioning from Chicago to Madison means you don't have to leave the city lifestyle you love behind; you'll just be experiencing it in a new, refreshing setting.
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 Chicago to Madison
Moving from one city to another is a significant life change that deserves a thorough examination of both the challenges and benefits . This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and bad attributes of relocating from Chicago, IL to Madison, WI . By contrasting the cons of living in Chicago with the pros of moving to Madison , and vice versa, these charts will help you better understand what to expect from your relocation.
Chicago, IL- Higher Crime Rates
- More Expensive Housing
- Denser Traffic
- Longer Winters
- Higher Sales Tax
Madison, WI- Lower Crime Rates
- More Affordable Housing
- Less Traffic Congestion
- Shorter, Milder Winters
- Lower Sales Tax
Madison, WI- Quieter Nightlife
- Lesser Variety
- Fewer Public Transit Options
- Fewer Cultural Sites
- Fewer Job Opportunities
Chicago, IL- Vibrant Nightlife
- Diverse Cuisine
- Extensive Public Transit
- Cultural Landmarks
- More Job Opportunities
Both Chicago and Madison offer unique living experiences, each with its set of pros and cons. Chicago's vibrant nightlife is unmatched, with places like The Violet Hour and Green Mill Cocktail Lounge providing some of the best evening entertainment. On the other hand, Madison, while having a quieter nightlife, offers a cozy scene with establishments like Der Rathskeller and the Majestic Theatre. Chicago's diverse cuisine reflects its cultural melting pot, with every neighborhood hosting myriad restaurants. Madison's cuisine, though less diverse, still boasts of key spots like Graze and Lombardino's. While Chicago offers more job opportunities due to its size, Madison's growing economy provides a less frenetic, yet abundant job market with a focus on education, technology, and healthcare sectors.
Chicago vs. Madison Food Guide
This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Chicago & Madison, showcasing how food plays a crucial role in understanding the cultural atmosphere and daily life in both cities. Whether you’re moving for work, study, or a change of scenery, being informed about the food scene in your new location can significantly enhance your settling-in experience.
| Chicago | Madison | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Deep-Dish Pizza | Cheese Curds |
| Most popular meat dish | Italian Beef Sandwich | Bratwurst |
| Most popular street food item | Chicago-style Hot Dog | Food Cart Brats |
| Most popular vegan food | Seitan | Vegan Cheese Dishes |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
When moving from Chicago to Madison, you'll experience a delightful transition in local cuisine. Chicago’s deep-dish pizza, a robust and hearty dish, contrasts with Madison’s lighter fare of cheese curds, a local favorite found in many downtown eateries and bars. Madison's emphasis on farm-to-table dining is apparent in places like Graze, where locally sourced ingredients shine. The city's strong sense of community and sustainability can be tasted through its food, particularly in the number of vegan and vegetarian options available city-wide. Whether you’re strolling through the State Street district or exploring the Capitol Square, you’re never too far from a vibrant food truck or a cozy, welcoming restaurant that embodies the spirit of Madison.
Chicago vs. Madison Restaurant Comparison
When relocating, finding a new favorite dining spot can play a crucial role in making a new city feel like home. This restaurant comparison aims to ease the transition from Chicago, IL to Madison, WI by identifying eateries in Madison that offer a similar vibe and cuisine to your beloved Chicago haunts. Discover where to continue your culinary adventures in your new hometown.
| Chicago | Madison | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Alinea | L'Etoile | Offers an exquisite fine-dining experience with creative dishes |
| Girl & The Goat | Graze | Has a lively atmosphere with inventive and eclectic American cuisine |
| Lou Malnati’s Pizzeria | Ian's Pizza | Known for its unique toppings and delicious deep-dish pizza |
| The Purple Pig | Heritage Tavern | Features sharable plates with farm-to-table ingredients, echoing The Purple Pig’s approach |
| Momotaro | Muramoto | Offers a sophisticated setting for modern Japanese dishes and sushi |
| Portillo’s | Mickies Dairy Bar | While more diner-style, it’s iconic in Madison for a quick, classic bite |
| Publican | A Pig in a Fur Coat | Known for meat-centric dishes with a cozy, intimate vibe |
| Roister | Forequarter | Similar adventurous and high-quality American cuisine in a casual setting |
| Gibsons Bar & Steakhouse | Smoky’s Club | Long-standing Madison staple known for its prime cuts and supper club atmosphere |
| Monteverde | Osteria Papavero | Offers a taste of Italy with handcrafted pastas reminiscent of Monteverde’s offerings |
Each restaurant listed above not only reflects a counterpart in terms of cuisine but also the essence that makes dining out such a memorable experience. For instance, Alinea's counterpart, L'Etoile, is celebrated for its artistic dishes and use of local produce, mirroring the high-quality, innovative experiences Alinea patrons cherish. Another example, Portillo's lovers moving to Madison will enjoy Mickies Dairy Bar's classic and comforting diner fare, capturing the essence of a quick, beloved bite. These matches ensure you won't have to compromise on culinary excellence or the ambiance you adore as you transition from Chicago to Madison. Just as Alinea has set an unparalleled standard for culinary innovation in Chicago, L'Etoile similarly stands as a beacon of creativity and local cuisine in Madison.
Ready to start your move?
Chicago vs. Madison Real Estate & Living Facts
When considering a move, comparing the real estate markets of your current city to your future home is crucial. This guide focuses on real estate comparison between Chicago, IL and Madison, WI , providing insights into aspects like housing costs, architecture, and lifestyle. It'll help you understand what to expect in your new city.
| Comparison | Chicago | Madison |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Modern & Historic Mix | Prairie & Contemporary |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Proximity to Transit, Lake Views | Access to Nature, Quiet Neighborhoods |
In comparing Chicago and Madison, several key differences stand out. Chicago offers a vibrant urban lifestyle, scoring higher in urbanity than Madison, which is balanced by Madison's higher score in bikeability, reflecting its extensive network of bike paths and lanes. While Chicago boasts a mix of modern and historic architecture, Madison's housing market is characterized by Prairie and Contemporary styles, often emphasizing access to nature and quiet neighborhoods. This aligns with the cities' overall lifestyle and living environment contrasts, highlighting a trade-off between urban vibrancy and a more laid-back, nature-centric lifestyle.
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.
Chicago vs. Madison Weather Considerations
Understanding the weather differences between your current city and your new home is crucial. This comparison provides a glimpse into what you can expect when moving from Chicago, IL to Madison, WI. The charts below span various weather aspects, offering a comprehensive view of your potential new climate.
Chicago, IL
Madison, WI
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Chicago, IL
Madison, WI
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Chicago, IL
Madison, WI
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Chicago, IL
Madison, WI
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Chicago | Madison |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Moderate | Good |
| Natural Disasters | Blizzards, Floods | Blizzards, Floods |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
When making the move from Chicago to Madison, you'll find the weather to be somewhat similar, yet with its own quirks. Madison experiences colder winters, with average highs and lows that are notably chillier than Chicago's, possibly requiring an update to your winter wardrobe. Despite fewer days of sunshine, Madison often enjoys better air quality year-round, a small but significant benefit for those sensitive to urban pollution. Moreover, the slightly higher annual snowfall might increase your winter activities or necessitate more robust snow removal plans. Understanding these elements will help you adjust more smoothly to your new environment.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Chicago to Madison
Moving from one location to another introduces changes beyond just your address; it's crucial to understand the financial implications. Moving from Chicago, IL to Madison, WI can impact your wallet. This comparison outlines the differences in cost of living , taxes , and income between these two cities, aiding in your financial planning.
| Comparison | Chicago | Madison |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $66,576 | $67,270 |
| Cost of Living Index | 116.9 | 95.65 |
| State Income Tax | 4.95 flat rate | 4.00 to 7.65 (progressive) |
| Avg. Property Tax | 2.00 | 1.94 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 10.25 | 5.5 |
| Top 3 Industries | Finance, Manufacturing, Information | Education, Health Services, Information Technology |
| Affluence | Moderate | High |
| Poverty | Significant | Moderate |
| Homelessness | Significant | Moderate |
Understanding the nuances between Chicago and Madison's financial environments can help you make an informed decision about your move. For instance, while the average household income in Madison is higher, the cost of living is relatively lower than in Chicago. Additionally, Madison's progressive state income tax system might affect you differently based on your income level compared to Chicago's flat tax rate. Another critical factor to consider is the sales tax, significantly lower in Madison, potentially offering savings on daily purchases. Such comparisons illustrate how relocating can have tangible effects on your financial health and stress the importance of planning ahead.
Chicago vs. Madison Political & Religious Comparison
This guide provides a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents, offering insight into the comparison of the politics between Chicago & Madison. Understanding these aspects can help you anticipate the community vibe as you plan your move.
| Chicago | Madison | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Strongly Democratic | Very Progressive/Democratic |
| Local Politics | Focused on economic development, education | Concentrated on sustainability, social issues |
| Religion | Highly diverse, with a significant Catholic presence. See Archdiocese of Chicago | Predominantly Protestant, with notable community churches |
While both cities exhibit a strong Democratic leaning, Madison's politics tend to be more progressive, with a significant focus on sustainability and social issues such as LGBTQ+ rights and environmental conservation. In contrast, Chicago's political landscape is driven by broader economic and educational reforms, reflecting its larger size and economic diversity. The religious landscape also mirrors this diversity, with Chicago hosting a vast array of faiths and denominations. In comparison, Madison presents a more homogeneous religious makeup, with a strong Protestant foundation that reflects its smaller, but deeply engaged, community life.
Chicago vs. Madison Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
This is a comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Chicago & Madison, designed to help you better understand what the daily commute and traffic is like if you’re considering moving from Chicago, IL to Madison, WI.
| Comparison | Chicago | Madison |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 34 | 22 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without a car? | Yes | It's challenging |
In Chicago, you'll find that the availability of public transit is excellent, making it possible to navigate the city without a car. The Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) offers extensive bus and train services. However, the city does experience higher levels of traffic congestion, which can impact commute times. On the other hand, Madison offers a more relaxed commute with significantly less traffic congestion. While Madison does have public transit options through Metro Transit, they aren't as extensive as Chicago's, meaning living without a car may pose more of a challenge.
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