Best Madison to San Jose Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Madison to San Jose and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,143 mile move from Wisconsin to California go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 34 Madison to San Jose 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 D&L 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 Madison compared to San Jose. 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 San Jose Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | D&L Movers | 9.34 | 9.36 | Active | Contact |
| 2 | Careful Movers | 9.31 | 8.63 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 3 | Gorilla Movers Of Wisconsin Inc. | 9.30 | 9.31 | Authorized For Property, HHG | 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 San Jose
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,143 miles from Madison, WI to San Jose, CA will cost on average $3,604 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Madison to San Jose move is roughly $8,699. 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 | $2,417 | 300 ft³ | 8.06 |
| 1 Bedroom | $3,604 | 450 ft³ | 8.01 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $5,969 | 750 ft³ | 7.96 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $8,699 | 1100 ft³ | 7.91 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $12,573 | 1600 ft³ | 7.86 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $14,054 | 1800 ft³ | 7.81 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from San Jose to Madison guide.
Compare the 5 Best Madison to San Jose Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
D&L Movers
1563 Bahama Way
Campbell, CA, 95008
About D&L Movers
Founded by Drew Sanchez and Leo Cervantes, D&L Movers is a local moving company that offers full-service relocations for homes and...
Services
- Cheap moving
- Local moving
- Long-distance moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2706648 / - Active Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 3 |
| Registered Drivers | 5 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 20,000 (2017) |
Careful Movers
3641 Haven Ave C
Menlo Park, CA, 94025
About Careful Movers
With almost two decades of expertise and experience in the moving industry, Menlo Park-based Careful Movers promises stress-free, on-time, and on-budget...
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Office Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1464935 / 553377 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 14 |
| Registered Drivers | 14 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 90,000 (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) |
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. San Jose Neighborhood Comparison
Moving to a new city can be daunting, especially when you're trying to find a neighborhood that feels like home. To ease this transition, we've created a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Madison, WI & San Jose, CA . This guide will help you identify San Jose neighborhoods that share the same vibes and characteristics as your favorite spots in Madison.
| Madison | San Jose | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| State Street | Downtown San Jose | Vibrant nightlife, dining |
| Capitol | Willow Glen | Charming, historic homes |
| Willy Street (Williamson) | The Alameda | Eclectic shops, local eateries |
| Shorewood Hills | Almaden Valley | Affluent, scenic views |
| Maple Bluff | Los Gatos | Upscale, tranquil living |
| Nakoma | Evergreen | Family-friendly, great parks |
| Monroe Street | Santana Row | Chic shopping, entertainment |
| Atwood | Japantown | Unique cultural experience, markets |
| Marquette | SoFA District | Artsy, with a young vibe |
| Hilldale | Willow Glen | Family-friendly commercial hub |
For those who cherish the vibrant atmosphere of State Street in Madison, Downtown San Jose will offer a similar dynamic city life with an abundance of nightlife and fine dining options, such as the well-known Original Joe's. If you are drawn to the charm and historical ambiance of Capitol neighborhood, Willow Glen's lovely avenues lined with eclectic shops and café will feel like stepping into a familiar chapter. Williamson Street's artistic and bohemian spirit is mirrored in San Jose's The Alameda, where unique local businesses thrive, including the famous Rose's Café. Moreover, if the scenic and upscale living of Maple Bluff appeals to you, the tranquil and sophisticated atmosphere of Los Gatos, with its luxury boutiques and gourmet restaurants such as Manoir Hovey, will make you feel right at home.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Madison to San Jose
Moving from one city to another presents a unique set of challenges and rewards. To aid in your relocation decision, we provide a genuine comparison highlighting the Madison, WI to San Jose, CA transition. Our charts aim to reflect the pros and cons of making this big move, ensuring you're well-informed of both the upsides and the potential downsides.
Madison, WI- Colder winters
- Smaller tech hub
- Less diverse cuisine
- Lower average salary
- Fewer cultural venues
San Jose, CA- Warmer climate
- Larger tech industry
- More diverse dining
- Higher average income
- More cultural diversity
San Jose, CA- Higher cost of living
- Less greenery
- Urban congestion
- Less community feel
- More commercial
Madison, WI- More affordable housing
- Lush green spaces
- Smaller city charm
- Close-knit community
- Rich local culture
Moving from Madison, WI, to San Jose, CA, entails exchanging chilly winters for a sunnier climate and a tight-knit community vibe for the bustle of a major tech hub. In San Jose, you'll find a wealth of cultural diversity and dining options that far surpass Madison's offerings. From the sprawling tech campuses of Silicon Valley to the vibrant eateries in neighborhoods like Little Saigon and Japantown, you're never at a loss for new experiences. The transition might come with a higher cost of living, but the increase in salary and career opportunities in industries like technology can offset this. Moreover, the outdoor opportunities in areas such as Alum Rock Park or the proximity to the coast for weekend getaways provide a quality of life that's hard to beat. While you might miss Madison’s Olbrich Botanical Gardens or the Wisconsin State Capitol views, the chance to discover new favorites like San Jose's Guadalupe River Park and San Jose Museum of Art await.
Madison vs. San Jose Food Guide
Understanding the local cuisine is a crucial aspect of immersing in the local culture. To help you better anticipate the culinary journey awaiting in your new city, we present a comparison of the local cuisine between Madison & San Jose . This insight will enrich your relocation experience, offering a taste of what to expect from each unique food scene.
| Madison | San Jose | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Cheese Curds | Pho |
| Most popular meat dish | Bratwurst | Carne Asada |
| Most popular street food item | Fried Cheese Curds | Tacos |
| Most popular vegan food | Vegan Cheese Plate | Vegan Pho |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In Madison, cheese plays a pivotal role in local culinary preferences, with cheese curds standing out as a city favorite found at various restaurants and street food stalls. Meanwhile, San Jose's diverse culinary landscape offers a striking contrast with its rich Vietnamese influence, most notably seen in its famous Pho. Neighborhoods such as Little Saigon in San Jose are bustling with authentic Vietnamese eateries like Pho Ha Noi, making it a go-to spot for food enthusiasts. Both cities offer vibrant food scenes, but San Jose, in particular, is acclaimed for its food truck culture, making dining experiences diverse and accessible.
Madison vs. San Jose Restaurant Comparison
Moving to a new city can be both exciting and daunting. To help ease the transition, we've compared the top dining spots in Madison, WI with the best their San Jose, CA counterparts have to offer. This restaurant comparison will help someone moving from Madison to San Jose find new favorite eateries, turning unfamiliar streets into home.
| Madison | San Jose | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| L'Etoile | Le Papillon | Both offer exquisite fine dining with a focus on local, seasonal ingredients. |
| Grampa's Pizzeria | Pizza Bocca Lupo | Authentic wood-fired Neapolitan pizzas that bring a slice of Italy to both cities. |
| The Old Fashioned | Orchestria Palm Court | Iconic eateries providing a nostalgic dining experience with a focus on American classics. |
| Graze | Vegefarm | Both focus on farm-to-table dining experiences, though Vegefarm leans into vegetarian options. |
| Mickies Dairy Bar | Bill's Cafe | A hearty breakfast experience that makes you feel right at home with a side of local flavor. |
| La Taguara | Luna Mexican Kitchen | Authentic flavors and a cozy atmosphere make both spots perfect for a casual, flavorful meal. |
| Sal's Tomato Pies | Bibo’s Ny Pizza | Both are beloved for their unique take on traditional pizza, making them local favorites. |
| A Pig In a Fur Coat | Back A Yard | While offering different cuisines, both are known for rich flavors and a casual but refined dining experience. |
| Forequarter | Adega | Both are known for their innovative dishes and emphasis on quality ingredients, offering a modern dining experience. |
| Estrellón | Mezcal | Both blend traditional and contemporary approaches to their respective cuisines, providing a unique dining experience. |
When hunting for places that capture the essence of your old haunts, consider giving Le Papillon a visit for an evening of fine dining that rivals Madison's L'Etoile, or enjoy a slice of nostalgia at Pizza Bocca Lupo, reminiscent of the cozy, dimly lit corners of Grampa's Pizzeria. If it's a taste of home you're missing, the sunny, welcoming patio of Luna Mexican Kitchen serves up heartfelt, authentic meals just as La Taguara does. For those lazy weekend mornings, Bill's Cafe offers a brunch spread that can easily compete with the comfort and simplicity of a meal at Mickies Dairy Bar. Each San Jose eatery brings a piece of Madison’s food scene to your new locale, offering both familiarity and new flavors to explore.
Ready to start your move?
Madison vs. San Jose Real Estate & Living Facts
When planning a move, understanding the real estate market in your new city is crucial. This comparison of Madison, WI, and San Jose, CA, conducts a deep dive into housing aspects such as cost and lifestyle, providing a comprehensive guide for potential movers.
| Comparison | Madison | San Jose |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Mid-Century Modern | Spanish Colonial |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Lake Views, Proximity to Parks | Tech Amenities, Proximity to Silicon Valley |
Moving from Madison to San Jose introduces drastic changes in housing costs and style. In Madison, mid-century modern homes dominate, reflecting a blend of historic charm and modernity, often highlighted by lake views and green spaces in real estate listings. On the other hand, San Jose's Spanish Colonial architecture nods to its rich cultural heritage, with listings frequently boasting tech amenities and proximity to Silicon Valley as significant draws. Despite San Jose's higher cost of living, its urban lifestyle score surpasses Madison's, offering a more vibrant city life with a slightly better walkability rating, a factor to consider for those valuing pedestrian-friendly environments.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in San Jose, CA
1. Willow Glen: Known for its quaint, tree-lined streets, you'll find plenty of pet-friendly restaurants and a welcoming atmosphere at Willow Glen's downtown area, perfect for leisurely walks with your furry friends.
2. Cambrian Park: Boasting a serene suburban vibe, Cambrian Park is home to several parks, including the dog-friendly Butcher Dog Park, where your pets can play off-leash in a safe, enclosed environment.
3. Downtown San Jose: If you're looking for a more urban experience, Downtown San Jose offers many pet-friendly living spaces and amenities, alongside dog-friendly dining options like Original Joe’s, making it an ideal place for pet owners who love city living.
Madison vs. San Jose Weather Considerations
Moving between cities means adapting to new environments, especially the weather. This comparison aims to highlight how living in San Jose, CA will differ from your experience in Madison, WI , in terms of weather . Understanding these differences will help you prepare for your new home.
Madison, WI
San Jose, CA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Madison, WI
San Jose, CA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Madison, WI
San Jose, CA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Madison, WI
San Jose, CA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Madison | San Jose |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Snowstorms, Tornadoes | Earthquakes |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Moving from Madison to San Jose, you'll experience a significant decrease in winter temperatures and see an increase in yearly days of sunshine. Not only will this change improve winter conditions, but it also promotes an active outdoor lifestyle year-round. While both cities have their seasonal allergies, San Jose's drier climate might relieve some of the symptoms experienced in Madison's more humid conditions. Adjusting to San Jose also means preparing for different natural disaster risks, with earthquakes being more common than Madison's snowstorms and tornadoes.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Madison to San Jose
When planning a move from one city to another, understanding the financial landscape is crucial for setting expectations and budgeting effectively. This comparison aims to highlight the money and finance differences between Madison, WI, and San Jose, CA , providing valuable insights for anyone looking to relocate.
| Comparison | Madison | San Jose |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $67,270 | $126,377 |
| Cost of Living Index | 95.65 | 156.1 |
| State Income Tax | Up to 7.65% | Up to 13.3% |
| Avg. Property Tax | 1.94% | 0.79% |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 5.5% | 9.25% |
| Top 3 Industries | Education, Healthcare, Manufacturing | Technology, Manufacturing, Retail |
| Affluence | Comfortable | Very affluent |
| Poverty | Moderate | Low |
| Homelessness | Moderate | High |
While Madison offers a comfortable living environment with moderate affluence and poverty levels, San Jose emerges as a significantly more affluent area, reflecting in its higher average household income. However, this affluence comes at a cost, evidenced by San Jose's substantial cost of living index, which more than doubles Madison's. Despite lower property taxes, the overall financial burden, including state and sales tax rates, is heavier in San Jose. Additionally, San Jose's vibrant technology-centric economy contrasts with Madison's strong education and healthcare sectors, indicating varied job opportunities depending on your industry.
Madison vs. San Jose Political & Religious Comparison
The transition from Madison, WI to San Jose, CA involves more than just a change in geography. This comparison provides a quick glance at the political and religious makeup between Madison & San Jose , offering insights into the demographic and cultural shifts you might experience. Understanding these differences is essential for a smoother relocation.
| Madison | San Jose | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Liberal/Democratic | Liberal/Democratic |
| Local Politics | Progressive policies, active local government | Progressive with a focus on tech and innovation |
| Religion | Largely secular with a mix of Christian denominations | Diverse religious landscape, strong presence of Catholicism, Buddhism, Hinduism |
While both cities lean liberal/Democratic in their political orientation, the nuances of local politics might surprise you. Madison's political scene is known for its progressive policies and an active local government that prioritizes inclusivity and environmental sustainability. On the other hand, San Jose, situated in the heart of Silicon Valley, integrates technology and innovation into its governance, reflecting its position as a global tech hub. Religion in Madison is comparatively homogenous, with Christianity being predominant. However, your move to San Jose introduces you to a more diverse religious landscape, mirroring the city's multicultural population. This rich tapestry of cultures fosters various religious and spiritual communities, including a significant presence of Catholic, Buddhist, and Hindu practitioners, among others.
Madison vs. San Jose Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Madison, WI to San Jose, CA? This guide will help you better understand the comparison between the traffic and transportation options between Madison & San Jose, preparing you for what daily commutes might look like in your new city. Here, you'll find a straightforward comparison to adjust your expectations and plan ahead.
| Comparison | Madison | San Jose |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 22 | 30 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Possible, but challenging | Yes, with planning |
In comparing Madison and San Jose, it's clear that each city offers a distinct commuting experience. Madison typically enjoys shorter commute times and less traffic congestion, making daily travel relatively easier. However, the city's public transit system, while present, might not be as expansive or convenient as what you'll find in San Jose. Conversely, San Jose, with its higher traffic congestion reflecting its status as a major tech hub, still scores better in terms of public transit availability. This might be due to the more extensive network of buses, light rail, and other options facilitated by the Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority. So, while you might face longer commutes in San Jose, the city's public transit system provides viable alternatives to driving.
Additional Resources
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