Best Madison to Irvine Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Madison to Irvine and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,037 mile move from Wisconsin to California go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 31 Madison to Irvine 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 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 Madison compared to Irvine. 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 Madison to Irvine 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 | Trek Movers | 9.20 | 9.02 | Authorized For Property | Contact |
| 4 | The Go To Guys, LLC | 9.07 | 8.7 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 5 | Top Notch Movers | 9.05 | 9 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Madison to Irvine
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,037 miles from Madison, WI to Irvine, CA will cost on average $3,513 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Madison to Irvine move is roughly $8,478. 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 | $2,357 | 300 ft³ | 7.86 |
| 1 Bedroom | $3,513 | 450 ft³ | 7.81 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $5,818 | 750 ft³ | 7.76 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $8,478 | 1100 ft³ | 7.71 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $12,252 | 1600 ft³ | 7.66 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $13,694 | 1800 ft³ | 7.61 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Irvine to Madison guide.
Compare the 5 Best Madison to Irvine 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) |
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) |
Top Notch Movers
2829 Perry St Suite 214
Madison, WI, 53713
About Top Notch Movers
Top Notch Movers may be a young business, but it’s already built an excellent reputation. It lives up well to its...
Services
- Local & Interstate Residential Moving
- Packing Services
- Junk Removal
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3322160 / 1066819 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 6 |
| Registered Drivers | 8 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 70,000 (2023) |
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.
Madison vs. Irvine Neighborhood Comparison
Moving between cities can be a daunting experience, but familiarizing yourself with new surroundings by comparing them to your old home can make the transition smoother. In this guide, we offer a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Madison, WI & Irvine, CA to help you find a new neighborhood that feels like home.
| Madison | Irvine | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| State-Langdon | UCI Area | Young, vibrant communities |
| Capitol | Woodbury | Central, community-focused |
| Willy Street | Quail Hill | Progressive, nature-infused |
| Shorewood Hills | Turtle Rock | Upscale, picturesque surroundings |
| Maple Bluff | Shady Canyon | Exclusive, serene settings |
| Nakoma League | Woodbridge | Family-friendly, water-centric |
| Regent | Northwood | Well-rounded, educational emphasis |
| Bay Creek | Westpark | Diverse, community-oriented |
| Marquette | East Irvine | Dynamic, cultural blend |
| Mansion Hill | Great Park Neighborhoods | Innovative, family-friendly |
In comparing the neighborhoods of Madison, WI, and Irvine, CA, you'll find that each area holds its unique charm yet shares something in common with your previous neighborhood. For instance, if you relished the young, academic atmosphere of State-Langdon, the UCI Area in Irvine with its vibrant student life and myriad cafes like Brü Grill & Market, will feel equally stimulating. Shorewood Hills' picturesque landscapes find their counterpart in Turtle Rock, Irvine, where trails like Turtle Rock Nature Center offer outdoor enthusiasts a scenic retreat. Marquette’s dynamic, arts-focused community is reflected in East Irvine, where cultural events and eateries such as The Kickin' Crab blend to create a lively atmosphere. Through such comparisons, transitioning from Madison to Irvine can be an exciting journey to finding your new favorite spot.
Things to Do in Irvine
Hike at Irvine Regional Park- Explore the Orange County Great Park
- Visit the Irvine Spectrum Center
- Enjoy dining at Diamond Jamboree
- Study at Irvine Public Libraries
- Attend a concert at FivePoint Amphitheatre
- Relax at Newport Beach
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Madison to Irvine
Moving from one city to another involves a myriad of considerations, from climate differences to lifestyle changes. This comparison offers an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes when relocating from Madison, WI to Irvine, CA. It is designed to help you weigh your options carefully by presenting the pros and cons through detailed charts, ensuring you make an informed decision about your move.
Madison, WI- Colder winters
- Smaller city
- Less diverse cuisine
- Less tech jobs
Irvine, CA- Milder winters
- Bigger economy
- More diverse cuisine
- More tech jobs
Irvine, CA- Higher cost of living
- Fewer green spaces
- Expensive homes
- Less seasonal change
Madison, WI- Friendly community
- Lakes and parks
- Lower living costs
- More seasonal
While Madison boasts a friendly community, ample green space with lakes and parks like Olbrich Botanical Gardens and Tenney Park, Irvine counters with its diverse and vibrant culture, broader economic opportunities, particularly in the tech sector, and a mild, appealing climate year-round. Though Irvine's cost of living and housing may be higher, as seen in neighborhoods like Woodbury and Northwood, the investment often comes with access to top-tier schools and a variety of dining options, from authentic Asian cuisine at Diamond Jamboree to innovative eateries in the Irvine Spectrum Center. Despite the presence of parks like Orange County Great Park, those moving from Madison might miss the vast natural landscapes they're used to. However, the transition to Irvine opens the door to exploring California's extensive outdoors, from beaches to mountains, enhancing the overall quality of life.
Madison vs. Irvine Food Guide
Food plays a critical role in understanding a place's culture and lifestyle. In this guide, we'll embark on a savory journey through the comparison of the local cuisine between Madison & Irvine, providing insights that will help you acclimate to your new food scene more deliciously.
| Madison | Irvine | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Wisconsin Cheese Curds | Avocado Toast |
| Most popular meat dish | Bratwurst | Carne Asada |
| Most popular street food item | Fried Cheese Curds | Taco Trucks |
| Most popular vegan food | Tempeh Reubens | Jackfruit Tacos |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In Madison, the cuisine warmly embraces its cheese-centric roots with items like Wisconsin Cheese Curds and Bratwurst, reflecting the city's German-American heritage. The lively State Street and Capitol Square area are where you'll find an abundance of these local favorites along with innovative restaurants like Graze Pub. Transitioning to Irvine, the culinary scene significantly shifts towards healthier, fresh Californian ingredients with a strong presence of vegan options such as Jackfruit Tacos. Irvine's Spectrum Center and culinary hotspots like Taco Rosa offers a cosmopolitan array of dining experiences, from upscale to street food, emphasising the city's diverse and health-conscious food culture.
Madison vs. Irvine Restaurant Comparison
Moving to a new city means finding those go-to spots that make a place feel like home. If you're transitioning from Madison, WI to Irvine, CA, this restaurant comparison is essential. Find your new favorite eateries in Irvine by using Madison as your guide. This comparison will help ease your culinary journey in your new city.
| Madison | Irvine | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| L'Etoile | Terra | intimate, farm-to-table experience |
| Graze | Farmhouse at Rogers Gardens | local, sustainable dining |
| A Pig in a Fur Coat | North Italia | artisan Italian with a modern twist |
| Salvatore's Tomato Pies | Northwood Pizza | community-loved, iconic pizza spot |
| The Old Fashioned | Haven Craft Kitchen+Bar | classic American with a nod to tradition |
| Sardine | CUCINA enoteca | chic, waterfront dining with eclectic fare |
| Forequarter | Mix Mix Kitchen Bar | award-winning, innovative small plates |
| Mickies Dairy Bar | Bruxie | unique waffle sandwiches and nostalgic diner vibes |
| La Taguara | Meizhou Dongpo | authentic, bold flavors from another part of the world |
| Lucille | Angelina's Pizzeria Napoletana | for a slice of Naples downtown |
When settling into Irvine, you'll find that places like Terra and Farmhouse at Roger's Gardens will cater to your sophisticated palate with their focus on farm-to-table dining, similar to Madison's L'Etoile and Graze. For those evenings when nothing but a comforting slice of pizza will do, Northwood Pizza stands as Irvine's answer to Madison's Salvatore's Tomato Pies, offering that community-centric, heartwarming slice. Meanwhile, if you're missing the eclectic and modern American dishes from Forequarter, Mix Mix Kitchen Bar in Irvine will satisfy that craving with its innovative approach to cuisine, showcasing the blending of cultures and flavors that is reminiscent of Madison's vibrant food scene.
Ready to start your move?
Madison vs. Irvine Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is a pivotal aspect of relocating, and understanding how housing in Madison, WI and Irvine, CA compares can significantly impact your moving decisions. This comparison aims to highlight the differences and similarities in the housing market, costs, and lifestyle between these two cities.
| Comparison | Madison | Irvine |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Prairie and Craftsman | Spanish and Modern |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Lakeside views, Proximity to the University | Parks, Family-friendly communities |
The detail in housing differences between Madison and Irvine reflects not just in numbers but lifestyle choices. Madison's emphasis on lakeside views and proximity to educational institutions like the University of Wisconsin-Madison is contrasted by Irvine's focus on parks and family-friendly communities, demonstrating each city's unique appeal. The architecture in Madison, with its Prairie and Craftsman styles, evokes a historical, cozy feeling compared to Irvine's modern and Spanish influences, which cater to a more contemporary taste. The difference in median home prices and rental costs also mirrors the contrasting living standards and economic dynamics of these cities. All these factors play a critical role in shaping your experience and decision to move.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Irvine, CA
1. Woodbridge: Known for its two large artificial lakes, numerous parks, and pet-friendly walking paths, Woodbridge offers you and your furry friends ample outdoor spaces for play and relaxation.
2. Northwood: This neighborhood prides itself on spacious dog parks and trails, like the ones you'll find at Northwood Community Park, making it an ideal environment for pet owners seeking outdoor adventure with their pets.
3. Quail Hill: Quail Hill provides easy access to nature preserves and hiking trails suitable for all levels, including the Quail Hill Loop Trail, making it perfect for active pets and their owners who love to explore the outdoors together.
Madison vs. Irvine Weather Considerations
When planning a move, comparing the climates of your current and future homes is crucial. This guide provides an in-depth weather comparison between Madison, WI and Irvine, CA , helping you prepare for the adjustments you'll need to make.
Madison, WI
Irvine, CA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Madison, WI
Irvine, CA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Madison, WI
Irvine, CA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Madison, WI
Irvine, CA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Madison | Irvine |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Variable |
| Natural Disasters | Snowstorms, Tornadoes | Earthquakes, Wildfires |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Moving from Madison, WI to Irvine, CA, you will notice a significant shift not just in average temperatures, but in overall weather experiences. The milder, more stable climate of Irvine offers more sunny days and significantly less snowfall, making outdoor activities possible year-round. However, it's important to be prepared for Irvine's unique challenges such as earthquakes and wildfires. Additionally, while you might enjoy more sunshine, be ready to adapt to higher UV exposure and manage allergies, which can persist throughout the year in Irvine. Adjusting to these changes will help you make the most of your new environment.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Madison to Irvine
When considering a move from one city to another, it's vital to grasp how your financial situation might change. This comparison aims to clarify the differences in money and finance between Madison, WI, and Irvine, CA, providing a clear picture of what to expect in terms of living costs, taxes, and overall economic health.
| Comparison | Madison | Irvine |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $67,270 | $105,774 |
| Cost of Living Index | 95.65 | 136.4 |
| State Income Tax | 5.3 | 9.3 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 1.8 | 0.7 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 5.5 | 7.75 |
| Top 3 Industries | Education, Healthcare, Manufacturing | Technology, Education, Healthcare |
| Affluence | Moderate | High |
| Poverty | Lower | Very Low |
| Homelessness | Moderate | Low |
While Madison provides a more economical cost of living, especially notable in the housing market, Irvine offers a significantly higher average household income. The stark contrast in the Cost of Living Index reflects Irvine's pricey lifestyle, a factor augmented by higher state income and sales taxes. However, Irvine's affluence level is higher, with a lower poverty rate compared to Madison, indicating a generally wealthier population. The industries thriving in each city hint at the economic backbone; Madison's strength in education and healthcare vs. Irvine's tech-dominated scene. This diversity in economic landscapes is crucial to consider for your career and lifestyle needs.
Madison vs. Irvine Political & Religious Comparison
In this quick guide, we're providing you with a snapshot to understand the comparison of the politics between Madison & Irvine as well as the religious landscape. This comparison aims to give you a better idea of the community you're moving into or leaving behind.
| Madison | Irvine | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Liberal/Democratic | Moderate, with a mix of Democratic and Republican |
| Local Politics | Highly engaged, active in local movements | Engaged, with significant interest in development and business |
| Religion | Mix, with a notable presence of non-religious and liberal religious communities | Diverse, strong presence of Christian and Asian religious communities |
Moving from Madison to Irvine, you'll find yourself transitioning from a predominantly liberal/Democratic environment to a more politically moderate one, where both Democratic and Republican views are more balanced. Madison's locals are known for their active participation in local politics, often rallying around social issues and community movements. Conversely, Irvine's community shows its political engagement through a focus on development, business, and educational excellence. Regarding religion, Madison offers a wide array of spiritual practices with significant non-religious and liberal religious communities, illustrating the city's diverse belief systems. In contrast, Irvine reflects a broader religious diversity, including a substantial presence of Christian congregations and Asian religious practices, contributing to the city's culturally rich and varied population.
Madison vs. Irvine Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
This is a comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Madison & Irvine designed to help you better understand what your daily commute might look like after making the move. Whether you're travelling to work, heading to school, or just exploring, knowing these differences is crucial.
| Comparison | Madison | Irvine |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 21 | 25 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without a car? | Possible but challenging | Difficult |
When considering your commute from Madison to Irvine, it's important to note the subtle and not-so-subtle differences. In Irvine, expect your commute time to increase slightly due to heavier traffic congestion, primarily because of the greater reliance on car travel in Southern California. Madison, while smaller, offers a modestly better public transit system, making it somewhat easier to get by without a car compared to Irvine. In Irvine, however, you'll find the need for a car more pronounced given the lower availability and coverage of public transit. Understanding these nuances will ensure you’re better prepared for your daily travels in your new city.
Additional Resources
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