Best St. Paul to Madison Movers + Moving Guide
Want help with the heavy lifting?
If you're moving from St. Paul to Madison and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 267 mile move from Minnesota to Wisconsin go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 36 St. Paul 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 Metro Movers), 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 St. Paul 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 St. Paul to Madison Moving Companies
Rank | Company Name | Rating | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Metro Movers | 9.49 | 9.73 | Authorized For Property | Contact |
2 | Gorilla Movers Of Wisconsin Inc. | 9.30 | 9.31 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
3 | General Expert Moving Service LLC | 9.26 | 8.89 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
4 | Goal Line Moving | 9.25 | 9.42 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
5 | The Go To Guys, LLC | 9.07 | 8.7 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
Cost to Move from St. Paul to Madison
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 267 miles from St. Paul, MN to Madison, WI will cost on average $2,008 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom St. Paul to Madison move is roughly $4,799. 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 | $1,354 | 300 ft³ | 4.51 |
1 Bedroom | $2,008 | 450 ft³ | 4.46 |
2 Bedrooms | $3,310 | 750 ft³ | 4.41 |
3 Bedrooms | $4,799 | 1100 ft³ | 4.36 |
4 Bedrooms | $6,901 | 1600 ft³ | 4.31 |
5+ Bedrooms | $7,673 | 1800 ft³ | 4.26 |


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

Metro Movers
434 Blake Rd N
Hopkins, MN, 55343
About Metro Movers
Metro Movers, a licensed and insured transport and logistics company in Minnesota, was founded by two childhood friends with a shared...
Services
- Residential Moving
- Business Moving
- Long Distance Residential Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3742268 / 1503884 Authorized For Property Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 3 |
Registered Drivers | 3 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 16,000 (2023) |

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) |

General Expert Moving Service LLC
3804 22nd Ave S
Minneapolis, MN, 55407
About General Expert Moving Service LLC
General Expert Moving Service LLC is a family-owned moving company based in Minnesota. It started with two brothers and a pickup...
Services
- Cheap moving
- Local moving
- Long-distance moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2846187 / 1285395 Authorized For HHG Carrier/Shipper |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 5 |
Registered Drivers | 24 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 30,000 (2024) |

Goal Line Moving
Plymouth, MN
About Goal Line Moving
Located in Ham Lake, MN, Goal Line Moving is a family-owned and operated company with four years in the business and...
Services
- Local Moving
- Commercial Moving
- Packing Services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2926126 / 1088400 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 3 |
Registered Drivers | 6 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 60,000 (2024) |

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.
St. Paul vs. Madison Neighborhood Comparison
When planning a move, getting to know your new city by comparing its neighborhoods to those you're familiar with can be incredibly helpful. This guide does just that, focusing on a comparison of the local neighborhoods between St. Paul, MN & Madison, WI . By identifying similar neighborhoods between these cities, you can more easily find your new favorite spots and feel at home faster.
St. Paul | Madison | How They're Similar |
---|---|---|
Summit Hill | Maple Bluff | Affluent, historic vibes |
Highland Park | Shorewood Hills | Family-friendly, upscale |
Macalester-Groveland | Dudgeon-Monroe | Community-oriented, local shops |
Lowertown | Atwood | Artsy, vibrant community |
Grand Avenue | Williamson Street | Eclectic shops, dining |
Cathedral Hill | Tenney-Lapham | Historic, charming appeal |
Como Park | Vilas | Green spaces, family-friendly |
Dayton's Bluff | Marquette | Diverse, community spirit |
Summit-University | Regent | Educational hub, historical interest |
Merriam Park | Nakoma League | Quiet, tree-lined streets |
If you're charmed by the affluent and historic vibes of Summit Hill, you'll likely appreciate Maple Bluff's similar atmosphere, where elegant homes and manicured lawns tell stories of the past. Meanwhile, Highland Park's family-friendly and upscale environment finds its match in Shorewood Hills, well-loved for its community feel and scenic beauty. For those drawn to the artsy and vibrant community of Lowertown, the Atwood neighborhood in Madison offers a similarly creative enclave, boasting an impressive array of local shops, galleries, and eateries. Notably, Merriam Park's quiet, tree-lined streets are mirrored by Nakoma League, providing a peaceful retreat amidst city life. Each of these comparisons not only highlights the aesthetic and communal likeness but also underlines the potential for new experiences and discoveries in Madison, WI.

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 St. Paul to Madison
Moving between cities is a significant life event, with each location offering its own blend of benefits and drawbacks. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of moving from St. Paul, MN to Madison, WI , highlighting the considerations that might make this relocation appealing or challenging. Let's delve into the specifics to better understand what awaits you.
- Harsher winters
- Fewer bike paths
- Smaller lakes
- Limited nightlife
- Less green space
- Milder winters
- More bike paths
- Larger lakes
- Vibrant nightlife
- More green space
- Smaller cultural scene
- Competitive job market
- Similar healthcare access
- Lesser community events
- Fewer historical sights
- Lively cultural scene
- Strong job market
- Access to healthcare
- Vibrant community events
- More historical sights
When you move from St. Paul to Madison, you're trading the bustling streets and the rich history of neighborhoods like Summit-University for the tranquil life alongside Lake Mendota and Lake Monona's shimmering waters. Although St. Paul's cultural scene, with landmarks such as the Minnesota History Center and the Fitzgerald Theater, presents a vibrant backdrop, Madison counters with its own lively atmosphere, including State Street's array of shops, restaurants, like the famous The Old Fashioned, and nightlife options. You might miss the vast network of parks and recreational areas such as Como Park in St. Paul, yet Madison's extensive bike paths and more substantial green spaces, including the University of Wisconsin Arboretum, offer a refreshing outdoor lifestyle that's hard to beat. This move presents a blend of new opportunities and adjustments, reflecting a change in scenery that's both scenic and opportune.
St. Paul vs. Madison Food Guide
As food plays a crucial role in understanding local culture and lifestyle, a comparison of the local cuisine between St. Paul & Madison will provide valuable insights for those considering a move. This analysis aims to give you a taste of what culinary delights await in your new city.
St. Paul | Madison | |
---|---|---|
Most iconic local food item | Juicy Lucy | Beer Cheese Soup |
Most popular meat dish | Walleye Fish Fry | Bratwurst |
Most popular street food item | Mini Donuts | Fried Cheese Curds |
Most popular vegan food | Kimchi Tofu Stew | Vegetable Pasties |
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In St. Paul, the Juicy Lucy, a cheese-stuffed burger, is a must-try, symbolizing the city's love for hearty, comforting food. You can find this local favorite at various spots, including the renowned 5-8 Club. On the other hand, Madison is known for its Beer Cheese Soup, emblematic of Wisconsin's rich dairy and brewing cultures, best enjoyed at cozy local pubs like The Old Fashioned. Both cities offer a diverse food scene, from the street food vibe with mini donuts and fried cheese curds to health-conscious and vegan options, reflecting their inclusive and evolving culinary landscapes. Additionally, the presence of iconic restaurants and an increasing number of food trucks in each city highlight the vibrant, dynamic nature of their food scenes, catering to a wide range of tastes and dietary preferences.
St. Paul vs. Madison Restaurant Comparison
Making a new city feel like home often hinges on finding those favorite dining spots where memories are made and flavors are explored. This restaurant comparison between St. Paul and Madison aims to ease your transition by guiding you to new eateries that mirror your old haunts. Whether you're craving upscale dining or a casual bite, consider this your culinary map to feeling right at home.
St. Paul | Madison | What You'll Love |
---|---|---|
Mucci's Italian | Osteria Papavero | Traditional Italian dining experience |
The Lexington | L'Etoile | Upscale, farm-to-table dining |
Brasa Premium Rotisserie | Heritage Tavern | Focus on farm-to-table meats and sides |
Cossetta Alimentari | Greenbush Bakery | For its variety and quality in Italian cuisine and deli options |
J. Selby's | The Green Owl Café | Both are beloved for their inviting vegetarian menus |
Happy Gnome | Dexter's Pub | Known for craft beer and hearty comfort food |
Meritage | Graft | Offers a modern, chic dining experience with a focus on wine pairings |
Barrio | Canteen | Serves up vibrant, taco-focused Mexican cuisine |
Revival | A Pig in a Fur Coat | For the love of well-crafted, Southern inspired dishes |
Mickey's Diner | Mickies Dairy Bar | Both are iconic, nostalgic diners with a local following |
When in Madison, food enthusiasts can revel in experiences akin to those they cherished back in St. Paul. For instance, Osteria Papavero offers an ambiance and culinary authenticity that Mucci's Italian lovers will appreciate, with both restaurants committed to bringing the heart of Italy to your table. Meanwhile, those missing the comforting, Southern flavors of Revival can find solace in A Pig in a Fur Coat’s rich, meticulously prepared dishes. Moreover, the transition from The Lexington’s elegant dining to L'Etoile’s sumptuous farm-to-table offerings highlights Madison’s capacity to cater to the sophisticated palate. Each restaurant, in its essence, captures the spirit of its respective city, allowing you to savor the familiar in a new setting.

Ready to start your move?
St. Paul vs. Madison Real Estate & Living Facts
When planning a relocation, understanding the real estate landscape is crucial. We'll compare the housing aspects of St. Paul, MN, and Madison, WI, focusing on cost, architecture, and livability to align with your lifestyle and budget needs.
Comparison | St. Paul | Madison |
---|---|---|
Typical Architecture Style | Victorian, Craftsman | Prairie, Craftsman |
Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Proximity to parks, Historic charm | Lake access, Sustainable living |
Both St. Paul and Madison boast a rich architectural heritage with an emphasis on Craftsman style homes, yet Madison tends to have a higher price point, both in purchasing and renting. Madison's edge in bikeability and slightly higher walkability score contribute to its appeal for those prioritizing a greener, more active lifestyle. The urban lifestyle is comparably vibrant in both cities, offering a rich mix of cultural experiences and community events. Not surprisingly, Madison's real estate listings often highlight lake access and sustainability, reflecting the city's focus on ecological living, whereas St. Paul's listings tend to emphasize historic charm and proximity to urban green spaces like parks.

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.
St. Paul vs. Madison Weather Considerations
Moving from one place to another often includes adjusting to new weather patterns. Understanding the weather differences between St. Paul, MN, and Madison, WI, is crucial for a smooth transition. This comparison aims to highlight the weather variations and how they could affect your lifestyle in St. Paul versus Madison .
St. Paul, MN
Madison, WI
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
St. Paul, MN
Madison, WI
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
St. Paul, MN
Madison, WI
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
St. Paul, MN
Madison, WI
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Comparison | St. Paul | Madison |
---|---|---|
Air Quality | Good | Good to Moderate |
Natural Disasters | Blizzards, Tornadoes | Blizzards, Tornadoes |
Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
While the overall climate in St. Paul, MN, and Madison, WI, shares several similarities, such as typical Midwestern winters with ample snow and chilly temperatures, there are subtle differences worth noting. For instance, St. Paul experiences slightly colder winters with more snowfall, compared to Madison. This may affect your winter outdoor activities and the necessity for winter gear. The number of sunny days differs slightly, with St. Paul enjoying a few more sunshine-filled days annually. Additionally, the slight variations in annual rainfall and humidity levels could influence your daily comfort and the enjoyment of outdoor activities. Considering these weather differences is key to adapting and planning for your new home.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from St. Paul to Madison
When considering a move from St. Paul, MN to Madison, WI, it's essential to compare the financial aspects to get a holistic view of how your expenses and income might change. Understanding the differences in cost of living, taxes, and job markets between these two cities can significantly impact your decision and adjustment process.
Comparison | St. Paul | Madison |
---|---|---|
Avg. Household Income | $66,098 | $67,270 |
Cost of Living Index | 110 | 95.65 |
State Income Tax | 7.05 | 6.27 |
Avg. Property Tax | 1.28 | 1.94 |
Avg. Sales Tax | 7.45 | 5.5 |
Top 3 Industries | Healthcare, Education, Manufacturing | Government, Education, Healthcare |
Affluence | Moderate | High |
Poverty | Low | Lower |
Homelessness | Moderate | Low |
Moving from St. Paul to Madison, you'll find that the average household income is slightly lower in Madison, however, the city boasts a higher affluence level and a lower rate of poverty, suggesting a more evenly distributed wealth among its residents. Although the cost of living index is higher in Madison, the state income tax is somewhat lower, which might offset some of the increased daily expenses. The significant difference in average property tax rates, with Madison being higher, is something to consider if you plan to buy property. Additionally, Madison's economy is heavily supported by government, education, and healthcare sectors, offering a stable job market for professionals in these fields.
St. Paul vs. Madison Political & Religious Comparison
When preparing for your move from St. Paul, MN, to Madison, WI, understanding the local culture is crucial. This guide provides a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents, featuring a comparison of the politics between St. Paul & Madison . Get insights into what you might expect in your new city.
St. Paul | Madison | |
---|---|---|
Political Make-up | Liberal/Democratic | Liberal/Democratic |
Local Politics | Active participation in local governance | High civic engagement and progressive policies |
Religion | Christianity dominant, with diverse religious communities | Plurality of beliefs, strong secular and liberal religious communities |
Both St. Paul and Madison share a liberal, Democratic political alignment, which is reflected in their governance and community values. However, Madison stands out for its particularly high civic engagement and progressive stance on various policies, making it an active hub for political movements and dialogues. While Christianity is the dominant religion in St. Paul, with establishments like the Cathedral of Saint Paul as a testament, Madison's landscape is more varied in terms of beliefs, with liberal religious communities and secularism playing a significant role as well. Understanding these dynamics will help you feel right at home in Madison's richly diverse and politically active environment.
St. Paul vs. Madison Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
This section offers a comparison of the traffic and transportation options between St. Paul & Madison, to help you better understand what the daily commute and traffic are like should you move from one city to the other.
Comparison | St. Paul | Madison |
---|---|---|
Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 24 | 19 |
Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
Can you get by without car? | Possible, but challenging | More feasible |
While both cities offer robust public transit systems, life in Madison may present fewer challenges for those looking to live without a personal vehicle. The average commute time in Madison is notably shorter than in St. Paul, potentially offering you more leisure or productivity time. Moreover, despite Madison having a slightly lower score in public transit availability, its more compact urban layout makes it more conducive to biking and walking. Regardless, in both cities, planning and patience are key to navigating your daily route efficiently.



Additional Resources
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