Best Detroit to Madison Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Detroit to Madison and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 454 mile move from Michigan to Wisconsin go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 34 Detroit to Madison moving companies and more than 15,000 movers nationwide to provide up-to-date and data-driven information about: which moving company to hire (our top recommendation is Gorilla Movers Of Wisconsin Inc.), how much the move costs (approximately $1,500 - $5,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Detroit 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 Detroit to Madison Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Gorilla Movers Of Wisconsin Inc. | 9.30 | 9.31 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| 2 | The Go To Guys, LLC | 9.07 | 8.7 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 3 | Professional Movers.com | 8.54 | 8.07 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| 4 | Grosse Pointe Moving & Storage Inc | 8.47 | 8.22 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 5 | Balance Detroit | 8.44 | 7.79 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Detroit to Madison
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 454 miles from Detroit, MI to Madison, WI will cost on average $2,167 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Detroit to Madison move is roughly $5,188. 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 | $1,460 | 300 ft³ | 4.87 |
| 1 Bedroom | $2,167 | 450 ft³ | 4.82 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $3,575 | 750 ft³ | 4.77 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $5,188 | 1100 ft³ | 4.72 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $7,466 | 1600 ft³ | 4.67 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $8,309 | 1800 ft³ | 4.62 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Madison to Detroit guide.
Compare the 5 Best Detroit to Madison Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
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) |
Professional Movers.com
1001 Woodward Ave Suite 500
Detroit, MI, 48226
About Professional Movers.com
With three locations in Michigan, including one in Detroit, family-owned Professional Movers is an expert moving company specializing in statewide, cross-country,...
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- International Relocation
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 266582 / 178368 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 22 |
| Registered Drivers | 19 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 714,000 (2022) |
Grosse Pointe Moving & Storage Inc
11850 E Jefferson
Detroit, MI, 48214
About Grosse Pointe Moving & Storage Inc
Grosse Pointe Moving & Storage Inc is a full-service moving and storage company based in Detroit, Michigan. Founded in 1985, the...
Services
- Residential moving
- Commercial moving
- Corporate moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 279708 / 629575 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 5 |
| Registered Drivers | 6 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 28,000 (2023) |
Balance Detroit
Livonia, MI, 48150
About Balance Detroit
Located in Detroit, Balance Detroit is a reputable moving company offering a variety of services including white glove service, long-distance and...
Services
- White Glove Service
- Long Distance Moves
- Small Moves
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 4059339 / 1539936 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
| Registered Drivers | 4 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 6,000 (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.
Detroit vs. Madison Neighborhood Comparison
To help you get acquainted with a new city using what you already know, we've crafted a tool to bridge the gap. Using comparison of the local neighborhoods between Detroit, MI & Madison, WI, this guide links you to places that share similar vibes, amenities, and cultures. It's about feeling at home, even when you're somewhere new.
| Detroit | Madison | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Midtown | Willy Street | Vibrant arts and food scene |
| Corktown | Atwood | Vintage charm, diverse cuisine |
| Downtown | State Street | Urban heart, shopping & dining |
| Woodbridge | Marquette | Historic homes, community focus |
| Eastern Market | East Side Farmers’ Market | Local goods, fresh produce |
| Riverfront | James Madison Park | Lakeside views, outdoor activities |
| Brush Park | Regent | Urban renewal, historic preservation |
| Mexicantown | Greenbush | Multicultural community, vibrant food scene |
| Poletown East | Schenk-Atwood | Industrial revival, artsy |
| Indian Village | Maple Bluff | Prestigious, stately homes |
If you're moving from Detroit's bustling Midtown with its rich arts and food scene, you'll find a kindred spirit in Madison's Willy Street, known for its eclectic mix of dining and cultural offerings. Fans of Corktown's vintage charm and diverse eateries will appreciate the laid-back, yet similarly diverse atmosphere of Atwood in Madison, boasting cafes and restaurants that stand as landmarks of community and cuisine. For those drawn to the historic preservation and urban renewal efforts in Brush Park, Madison's Regent neighborhood offers a parallel experience, with a mix of modern developments among well-preserved architectural endeavors. These comparisons reveal not just the physical similarities between neighborhoods, but also the shared ethos that makes each pair a potential new home base for someone relocating from Detroit to Madison.
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 Detroit to Madison
Moving from one city to another is a significant life event that comes with both challenges and opportunities. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Detroit, MI to Madison, WI , helping you weigh your options carefully.
Detroit, MI- Higher crime rate
- Lower walkability
- Economic challenges
- Harsher winters
Madison, WI- Lower crime rate
- Higher walkability
- Stronger job market
- Milder winters
Madison, WI- Smaller music scene
- Higher living costs
- Less industrial diversity
- Fewer major sports teams
Detroit, MI- Richer music scene
- Lower living costs
- Vibrant automotive industry
- Sporting culture
While Madison, WI boasts lower crime rates and higher walkability, making areas like State Street and Capitol Square not only safer but more inviting, it's not without its downsides, such as a smaller music scene compared to Detroit’s vibrant history with Motown and current thriving music venues like The Majestic Theatre. Likewise, Madison's burgeoning job market in sectors like technology and healthcare contrasts with Detroit’s automotive dominion, providing diverse opportunities albeit with a higher cost of living. However, Madison's array of neighborhood parks and community-focused events, including those at Olbrich Botanical Gardens or during the Dane County Farmers’ Market, showcases its commitment to a quality, active lifestyle. Both cities offer unique experiences, and this move certainly presents an exciting chapter brimming with new possibilities.
Detroit vs. Madison Food Guide
Understanding the local cuisine is a crucial aspect of immersing yourself in the lifestyle of a new city. Food not only represents the culinary tastes of a region but is an integral part of its culture and community. In this move, we'll explore what makes the food scenes unique in both your current and future homes. This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Detroit & Madison, designed to give you a better idea of what culinary delights await you.
| Detroit | Madison | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Coney Dog | Cheese Curds |
| Most popular meat dish | Detroit-style Pizza | Bratwurst |
| Most popular street food item | Coney Dog | Fresh Farmers' Market Produce |
| Most popular vegan food | Seitan Kebabs | Quinoa Salad |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In Detroit, the culinary scene is robust and includes historic names like American Coney Island, known for its iconic Coney Dog, and Buddy's Pizza for the quintessential Detroit-style pizza. Moving to Madison introduces you to a paradise for cheese lovers with legendary Cheese Curds and a bustling local food scene that includes the likes of Graze and Mickies Dairy Bar. Madison’s State Street and the Capitol Square area are pivotal in the city's food scene, hosting numerous food trucks, farmers' markets, and vegan-friendly options, reflecting its health-conscious community.
Detroit vs. Madison Restaurant Comparison
Understanding the importance of local cuisine in making a new city feel like home is crucial when moving. This restaurant comparison will help you find your new favorite eateries in Madison by using Detroit as your familiar guide. Whether you're seeking high-end dining, a casual bite, or a taste of local iconic dishes, this guide has got you covered.
| Detroit | Madison | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Selden Standard | L'Etoile | Both offer farm-to-table dining experiences with seasonal menus. |
| Slows Bar BQ | Smoky Jon's #1 BBQ | Renowned for tasty BBQ and a casual, friendly atmosphere. |
| Lafayette Coney Island | Mad Dog's Eatery | Known for classic American comfort foods and a diner vibe. |
| Supino Pizzeria | Sal's Pizza | Offers authentic, handmade pizzas with a focus on quality ingredients. |
| Roast | Heritage Tavern | Excellent for those looking for upscale dining with a focus on meats and local produce. |
| Dime Store | Marigold Kitchen | Both are beloved for brunch, serving creative takes on classic breakfast and lunch fare. |
| Taqueria El Rey | BelAir Cantina | Known for flavorful tacos and a vibrant atmosphere, perfect for casual dining. |
| Iridescence | Eno Vino Downtown | Both offer a high-end dining experience with stunning views and exquisite menus. |
| SheWolf Pastificio & Bar | Osteria Papavero | Italian eateries focused on traditional dishes and quality ingredients. |
| Astoria Pastry Shop | Greenbush Bakery | Both are go-to spots for those with a sweet tooth, offering a variety of pastries and desserts. |
When the craving for authentic, fire-grilled BBQ hits, Madison's Smoky Jon's #1 BBQ is your go-to, much like Slows Bar BQ in Detroit, providing a hearty, flavorsome meal in a laid-back setting that has earned it numerous accolades over the years. For those special occasions or just an upscale night out, Madison's Heritage Tavern echoes the refined yet approachable dining experience found at Detroit's Roast, with both places emphasizing local ingredients and innovative dishes. And if it's a slice of authentic pizza you're after, Sal's Pizza in Madison offers handcrafted pizzas that remind one of the beloved pies from Supino Pizzeria in Detroit, right down to the quality of ingredients and the passion behind each pizza.
Ready to start your move?
Detroit vs. Madison Real Estate & Living Facts
When contemplating a move, understanding the real estate landscape is crucial. This comparison focuses on how Detroit, MI and Madison, WI stack up in terms of housing . It's designed to give you insights into cost , architecture , walkability , and other vital aspects, helping you make an informed decision on your next home.
| Comparison | Detroit | Madison |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Historic brick homes | Modern and lakefront designs |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Spacious lots, historic charm | Energy efficiency, proximity to water |
In comparing Detroit and Madison, the striking contrast in median home prices reflects the cities' distinct economic landscapes and living standards. While Detroit offers affordability, particularly enticing for investors or those on a budget, Madison presents a more upscale market, boasting modern amenities and a closer relationship with nature via its lakefront properties. The superior walkability and bikeability scores in Madison suggest a city designed with outdoor activities and commuting ease in mind, attributes that cater well to individuals valuing a balanced urban lifestyle. Moreover, Madison's emphasis on energy efficiency and water proximity in real estate listings highlights a community mindful of sustainability and quality of life.
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.
Detroit vs. Madison Weather Considerations
Moving from one location to another requires a careful evaluation of many factors, among which weather plays a pivotal role. Understanding how the climate shifts from Detroit to Madison will help you adjust better and plan accordingly for your relocation.
Detroit, MI
Madison, WI
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Detroit, MI
Madison, WI
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Detroit, MI
Madison, WI
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Detroit, MI
Madison, WI
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Detroit | Madison |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good to Moderate | Good to Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Snowstorms, Tornadoes | Snowstorms, Tornadoes |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
When moving from Detroit to Madison, it's evident that weather conditions will not drastically change, making the transition easier for you. However, you'll experience slightly colder winters in Madison, with more days of snowfall annually compared to Detroit. This could mean a slight adjustment in your winter gear and preparedness for snow-related activities or maintenance. The air quality and levels of sunshine are quite comparable, ensuring that Madison offers a comfortable environment similar to what you're accustomed to in Detroit. Notably, Madison receives a bit more annual rainfall, which could influence your outdoor plans or gardening activities differently than in Detroit.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Detroit to Madison
When considering a move from one city to another, it's crucial to dive into the financial aspects that will affect your day-to-day life. Comparing the cost of living, tax rates, and average income between Detroit, MI and Madison, WI can give you a clearer picture of what to expect. This comparison aims to provide insights into your potential financial outlook.
| Comparison | Detroit | Madison |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $36,140 | $67,270 |
| Cost of Living Index | 99.4 | 95.65 |
| State Income Tax | 4.25 | 6.27 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 3.1 | 1.8 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 6 | 5.5 |
| Top 3 Industries | Automotive, Technology, Healthcare | Education, Healthcare, Information Technology |
| Affluence | Lower | Higher |
| Poverty | Higher | Lower |
| Homelessness | Significant | Moderate |
The financial landscapes of Detroit and Madison substantially differ, reflecting their economic environments and living conditions. With an average household income substantially higher in Madison, it's indicative of a wealthier local economy, albeit accompanied by a higher cost of living index and state income tax rate. This discrepancy may be attributed to Madison's booming industries in education, healthcare, and IT which offer higher-paying job opportunities compared to Detroit's focus on automotive and technology sectors. Furthermore, the lower property and sales tax rates in Madison can partially offset the higher cost of living, making it vital to consider your employment prospects and lifestyle expectations when making such a significant move.
Detroit vs. Madison Political & Religious Comparison
When planning your move from Detroit, MI to Madison, WI, it's vital to understand the communities you'll be joining. This quick guide provides an at-a-glance snapshot comparing the politics and religions between Detroit & Madison, helping you acclimate to your new home more seamlessly.
| Detroit | Madison | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Democratic | Democratic |
| Local Politics | Focus on economic revitalization, public safety | Progressive policies on environment, social issues |
| Religion | Diverse, with Christianity being predominant | Diverse, with less emphasis on religious affiliation |
In both Detroit and Madison, Democratic values largely shape the political landscape, drawing in individuals who favor progressive viewpoints. Detroit puts a strong emphasis on economic revitalization and public safety in its local politics, reflecting its history and ongoing efforts to rebound and thrive. Conversely, Madison is well-known for its progressive stance on environmental sustainability and social issues, mirroring the city’s vibrant, diverse community and its residents' priorities. Religion plays a role in the cultural fabric of both cities. However, Madison is noted for its diverse viewpoints and less emphasis on religious affiliation, aligning with its inclusive approach to community engagement.
Detroit vs. Madison Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Understanding the differences in traffic and transportation options between Detroit & Madison will greatly assist in adapting to your new life. This comparison aims to shed light on what you can expect from daily commutes and traffic conditions in both cities.
| Comparison | Detroit | Madison |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 26 | 19 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Challenging | Easier |
When moving from Detroit to Madison, you'll find that your daily commute is likely to be shorter and less congested in Madison. While Detroit has its share of traffic, Madison generally experiences lighter congestion, making for a smoother and quicker commute. Public transportation is slightly more accessible in Madison, offering a bit more flexibility for those looking to reduce their reliance on a car. Despite this, living in both cities without a car poses its challenges, though it's somewhat easier in Madison thanks to its compact urban layout and better integration of public transit options.
Additional Resources
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