Best Madison to Seattle Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Madison to Seattle and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 1,878 mile move from Wisconsin to Washington go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 44 Madison to Seattle 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 Seattle Moves & More), how much the move costs (approximately $2,500 - $8,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Madison compared to Seattle. 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 Seattle Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Seattle Moves & More | 9.54 | 9.39 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 2 | John Volken Academy Movers | 9.33 | 9.65 | 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 Seattle
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 1,878 miles from Madison, WI to Seattle, WA will cost on average $3,378 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Madison to Seattle move is roughly $8,148. 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 | $2,267 | 300 ft³ | 7.56 |
| 1 Bedroom | $3,378 | 450 ft³ | 7.51 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $5,593 | 750 ft³ | 7.46 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $8,148 | 1100 ft³ | 7.41 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $11,772 | 1600 ft³ | 7.36 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $13,153 | 1800 ft³ | 7.31 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Seattle to Madison guide.
Compare the 5 Best Madison to Seattle Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
Seattle Moves & More
4601 Shilshole Ave NW
Seattle, WA, 98107
About Seattle Moves & More
Based in Seattle, Seattle Moves & More is a licensed, insured, and premier moving company in Seattle, WA, known for its...
Services
- Residential & Commercial Moving
- Long-Distance Relocation
- Furniture Packing and Unpacking
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2962927 / 5796 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
| Registered Drivers | 5 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 31,000 (2023) |
John Volken Academy Movers
921 Central Ave N
Kent, WA, 98032
About John Volken Academy Movers
John Volken Academy Movers is a not-for-profit moving company that helps people move across Western and Eastern Washington. This local business...
Services
- Local Moving
- Commercial Moving
- Residential Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2261169 / 1666977 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 6 |
| Registered Drivers | 8 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 200 (2015) |
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. Seattle Neighborhood Comparison
Moving to a new city can be an exciting yet daunting adventure. To ease the transition, we offer a detailed comparison designed to help you familiarize yourself with an unknown city by referencing your current city's neighborhoods. This guide specifically focuses on comparing local neighborhoods between Madison, WI & Seattle, WA , offering insights into similar communities that share the vibe, amenities, and lifestyle you've come to love.
| Madison | Seattle | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Capitol Hill | Capitol Hill, Seattle | Vibrant nightlife, artist community |
| Shenk's Corners | Ballard | Historic charm, indie boutiques |
| Regent | Wallingford | Family-friendly, great schools |
| Nakoma League | Madrona | Upscale, peaceful neighborhoods |
| Maple Bluff | Magnolia | Views, affluent community |
| Marquette | Fremont | Bohemian vibe, outdoor sculptures |
| Tenney-Lapham | Queen Anne | Architectural wonders, cultural attractions |
| Bay Creek | Green Lake | Recreational activities, community feel |
| Schenk-Atwood | Columbia City | Diverse, vibrant community events |
| Dudgeon-Monroe | West Seattle | Beachfront, strong community vibe |
Moving from Tenney-Lapham's artistic environment filled with local galleries and eateries, you'll find a similar spirit in Queen Anne, home to Seattle's iconic Space Needle. This neighborhood boasts stunning views, historic architecture, and is a hotbed for cultural activities. For those who appreciate the diverse and vibrant community events of Schenk-Atwood, Columbia City in Seattle will resonate with you through its engaging neighborhood festivals and eclectic dining options ranging from casual eateries to sophisticated restaurants. Green Lake, similar to Bay Creek, offers numerous recreational opportunities with its well-loved park, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy walking, jogging, or paddleboarding amidst a lively local scene. This guide aims to ensure the neighborhoods in your new city feel just like home.
Things to Do in Seattle
Visit the Space Needle for iconic city views.- Explore Pike Place Market's unique shops.
- Relax at Green Lake Park.
- Discover art at Seattle Art Museum.
- Enjoy a ferry ride to Bainbridge Island.
- Watch a Mariners baseball game at T-Mobile Park.
- Hike in Mount Rainier National Park.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Madison to Seattle
Moving from Madison, WI to Seattle, WA is a big step, filled with both opportunities and challenges. This comparison aims to present an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of this relocation, helping you weigh your decision carefully.
Madison, WI- Harsher winters
- Smaller city vibe
- Lesser job opportunities
- Limited cultural diversity
Seattle, WA- Milder climate
- Urban environment
- Booming tech industry
- Rich multiculturalism
Seattle, WA- Higher expenses
- Fast-paced lifestyle
- Lesser green space
- Heavy traffic
Madison, WI- Lower cost of living
- Friendly Midwestern charm
- Abundant natural beauty
- Less traffic congestion
When considering a move from Madison, WI to Seattle, WA, it's important to recognize the unique offerings each city brings. In Madison, you'll miss the friendly Midwestern charm and the ease of getting around with less traffic congestion. Madison's green spaces like Olbrich Botanical Gardens offer serene escapes not found in the bustling city of Seattle. However, Seattle counters with its rich tapestry of multicultural neighborhoods, such as the vibrant Capitol Hill and historic Pike Place Market. The tech boom in Seattle offers vast career opportunities, particularly for those in IT and software engineering. Despite the higher cost of living, Seattle's urban environment and cultural diversity provide a stimulating backdrop for personal and professional growth.
Madison vs. Seattle Food Guide
Food is a pivotal part of local culture and provides a flavor of what life is like in an area. In this endeavor, we will compare the local cuisine between Madison & Seattle so you can be more informed about the food scene in your new city.
| Madison | Seattle | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Cheese Curds | Pacific Northwest Salmon |
| Most popular meat dish | Bratwurst | Teriyaki |
| Most popular street food item | Food Carts | Seafood Rolls |
| Most popular vegan food | Vegetable Pasty | Vegan Pho |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
When moving from Madison to Seattle, you'll shift from a cuisine celebrated for its dairy heritage, notably cheese curds and bratwurst, to one known for its seafood, especially the Pacific Northwest Salmon. Seattle's foodie scene thrives with an emphasis on fresh, local ingredients. Areas like Capitol Hill and Pike Place Market in Seattle are havens for food lovers, offering everything from upscale dining at Canlis to casual bites at Pike Place Chowder. Not to mention, Seattle's higher vegan-friendly rating reflects its broader range of plant-based options, including the popular Vegan Pho. The presence of food trucks and health-conscious eateries is more pronounced, promising an exciting culinary exploration for newcomers.
Madison vs. Seattle Restaurant Comparison
Relocating can be a journey of myriad flavors and experiences. Particularly, when it comes to finding a new favorite dining spot, the task might seem daunting. However, this comparison guide between Madison and Seattle restaurants aims to make your culinary transition as seamless and satisfying as possible, by drawing parallels from your current hometown favorites to your next. Whether you're in search of a high-end dining experience or a casual bite, let this guide be your compass to gastronomical delight in a new city.
| Madison | Seattle | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| L'Etoile | Canlis | Iconic, exquisite dining with top-notch local ingredients |
| A Pig in a Fur Coat | Staple & Fancy | Innovative and Mediterranean-influenced dishes |
| Graze | Skillet Diner | Comfort food with a creative twist, casual ambience |
| Ian's Pizza | Serious Pie | Gourmet pizzas with unique toppings, similar urban vibe |
| Marigold Kitchen | Portage Bay Cafe | Focus on organic breakfast and brunch, health-centric |
| Sardine | The Walrus and the Carpenter | Fresh, local seafood with an elegant touch |
| Taqueria Guadalajara | La Carta de Oaxaca | Authentic Mexican fare, known for their mole dishes |
| Naples 15 | Tutta Bella Neapolitan Pizzeria | True to its roots, Neapolitan pizzas |
| The Old Fashioned | Pike Brewing Company | Great local beers with a hint of regional cuisine |
| Salvatore's Tomato Pies | Tom Douglas' Serious Pie | Another nod to Serious Pie for its inventive pizzas |
Moving from Madison to Seattle doesn't mean you have to give up on your culinary comforts. For example, if you find yourself missing the sophisticated ambiance and farm-to-table dishes of L'Etoile, Canlis stands ready in Seattle with its breathtaking views and locally sourced ingredients, delivering a dining experience that resonates with Madison's top-tier culinary offerings. On the more casual side, Ian's Pizza enthusiasts will find a kindred spirit in Serious Pie, where the focus on gourmet toppings and an inviting atmosphere echo the laid-back, food-centric vibe of Madison. Both cities treasure the connection between food, community, and local culture, ensuring that no matter where you are, you'll always find a place at the table that feels like home.
Ready to start your move?
Madison vs. Seattle Real Estate & Living Facts
When planning a move, comparing the real estate landscapes of Madison, WI, and Seattle, WA is crucial. This comparison sheds light on housing costs, styles, and livability to guide your decision-making process. Understanding these factors in detail can significantly impact your transition.
| Comparison | Madison | Seattle |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Prairie, Craftsman | Modern, Craftsman |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Lake views, Green spaces | Views of Puget Sound, Proximity to tech hubs |
Moving from Madison to Seattle means experiencing not only a significant change in housing costs but also in the lifestyle and environment you'll live in. For instance, Seattle's higher median home prices are a reflection of its vibrant urban lifestyle, scoring higher in walkability, which suits those who yearn for a bustling city feel. The typical architecture in Seattle includes modern designs not as prevalent in Madison, echoing the city's innovative spirit. Points like Madison's bike-friendly scores and Seattle's stunning Puget Sound views reflect the unique characteristics that make each city special. Considering such details can help ensure your move aligns with your lifestyle preferences and budgetary needs.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Seattle, WA
1. Ballard: With its numerous off-leash dog parks, Ballard is ideal for your furry friends to run free and socialize.
2. Green Lake: Known for the pet-friendly Green Lake Park, you and your pet will enjoy the scenic 2.8-mile trail and ample green space for play.
3. Queen Anne: This neighborhood is packed with pet-friendly cafes and shops, plus it offers easy access to Kinnear Park's off-leash area, making it a perfect spot for pet owners.
Madison vs. Seattle Weather Considerations
When planning your move from Madison, WI to Seattle, WA, understanding the weather differences is crucial. This comparison will help you adapt to the new climate more easily, ensuring you're well-prepared for what awaits in your new home city.
Madison, WI
Seattle, WA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Madison, WI
Seattle, WA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Madison, WI
Seattle, WA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Madison, WI
Seattle, WA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Madison | Seattle |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Tornadoes, Snowstorms | Earthquakes, Volcanoes |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
While both Madison and Seattle have comparable annual rainfall, the type and distribution of precipitation throughout the year vary significantly. You'll find Seattle's climate milder with warmer winters and cooler summers than Madison's more extreme temperatures. However, Seattle experiences more cloudy days, contributing to fewer days of sunshine. Air quality in Madison is generally better, possibly due to less congestion and varying geographical features. Understanding these differences can help you adjust to Seattle's unique weather patterns, ensuring a smoother transition.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Madison to Seattle
When planning a move from Madison, WI, to Seattle, WA, it's crucial to grasp the financial landscape you're heading into. Understanding the cost of living, average income, and tax rates in Madison and Seattle will help ensure no surprises. This comparison offers a clear snapshot of what to expect.
| Comparison | Madison | Seattle |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $67,270 | $110,781 |
| Cost of Living Index | 95.65 | 121.4 |
| State Income Tax | About 6.27% | 0% |
| Avg. Property Tax | About 1.73% | About 0.99% |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 5.5% | 10.1% |
| Top 3 Industries | Education, Healthcare, Manufacturing | Technology, Aerospace, Maritime |
| Affluence | Moderate | High |
| Poverty | Lower | Moderate |
| Homelessness | Moderate | High |
Transitioning from Madison to Seattle will present notable financial changes. The average household income in Seattle is significantly higher, reflecting and somewhat offsetting the city's higher cost of living. Yet, despite having no state income tax, Seattle's high sales tax rate and cost of living can impact daily expenses. The economic landscapes differ too, with Seattle's technology-driven market contrasting Madison's focus on education and healthcare. This transition might require budget adjustments, especially considering Seattle's higher living costs and diverse economic sector. Overall, anticipating these changes can lead to a smoother adjustment process.
Madison vs. Seattle Political & Religious Comparison
This comparison provides a quick snapshot of the political and religious makeup between Madison & Seattle, offering insights into the communities you're transitioning between. Understand the ideologies and beliefs that shape these cities.
| Madison | Seattle | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Liberal | Very Liberal |
| Local Politics | Democratic dominance | Progressive leadership |
| Religion | Mixed, with strong secular leanings | Largely secular, varied religious communities |
When moving from Madison to Seattle, you'll find both cities share liberal values, though Seattle is often perceived as more progressive, especially in local governance and social issues. Madison's political scene is led by Democrats with a focus on inclusive policies, somewhat mirroring Seattle's progressive leadership. However, Seattle stands out for its activism and environmental initiatives. Religion in both cities takes a backseat to secular life, with diverse faith communities present yet less central in daily life and city-wide decisions. This lays a foundation for rich, culturally nuanced conversations and communities in both locales.
Madison vs. Seattle Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Madison, WI to Seattle, WA offers new adventures, especially when considering this is a comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Madison & Seattle. It's essential to understand the differences in the daily commute and traffic to plan your day efficiently.
| Comparison | Madison | Seattle |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 22 | 28 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | With Difficulty | Yes |
In Madison, the average commute time is notably shorter, making daily travel slightly less burdensome than in Seattle. However, Seattle offers a more robust public transit system, ranked higher in availability, which complements its denser urban environment. This network enables residents to navigate the city more feasibly without a car, a challenging feat in Madison. While Madison experiences lighter traffic congestion, those moving to Seattle should be prepared for busier roads but can take solace in a more accessible and convenient public transportation system.
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