Madison to Milwaukee Movers & Costs (2026)
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The cost to move from Madison to Milwaukee, WI (~80 miles) typically ranges from $106 to $4,735.
Local movers such as Above Average Moving LLC, moveBuddha's top-rated local mover for this route at 4.58 out of 5 stars across 226 verified customer reviews, bill hourly at an average of $85/hr per mover, with a typical 2–3 hour minimum and round-trip drive time added.
Use moveBuddha's cost calculator to compare specific quotes for your move.
July availability is going fast in Madison
Summer is the busiest time to move. Prices run 20–30% above the annual average and movers fill weeks in advance. Book now to secure your preferred date.
What are the best ways to move from Madison to Milwaukee?
At 80 miles, this is a local move, billed hourly by most Wisconsin companies. You don't need a national carrier to handle it, though they're an option for larger homes or complex logistics. A local or regional mover working this corridor will typically give you faster scheduling, same-day or next-day delivery, and competitive hourly pricing.
For full-service moves, we recommend Above Average Moving LLC (4.58/5) as the top local pick, followed by TWO MEN AND A TRUCK (4.44/5). Safeway Moving (4.9/5) is also available for full-service or larger-home moves.
Here's a closer look at each moving option for your 80-mile move:
| Move type | Top pick | Average cost | Best for | Potential downside |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Full-service mover | Above Average Moving LLC | $1,276–$3,986 | Movers handle loading, driving & unloading | Highest price of all options |
| Moving container | PODS | $970–$1,837 (around 30% less than full-service) | Pack & load on your own schedule | You handle all loading & unloading |
| Rental truck | Budget Truck Rental | $113–$185 (around 60% less than full-service) | Lowest upfront cost | You drive, load & unload everything yourself |
| Labor-only | TWO MEN AND A TRUCK | $85/hr | Need a loading crew & already have a truck | You arrange your own transport between cities |
Pricing data reflects moveBuddha's monthly dataset of 1,000+ live price points and 39+ Wisconsin movers reviewed.
How much does it cost to move from Madison to Milwaukee?
The cost to move from Madison to Milwaukee ranges from $106 to $4,735, according to moveBuddha's monthly pricing dataset. Pricing on this 80-mile route depends on which moving service you pick and how much you're hauling:
- Full-service movers: $674–$4,735
- Moving containers: $674–$2,049
- Rental trucks: $106–$202
What drives the cost difference?
- Full-service moves cover packing, loading, transport, and unloading end-to-end. Professional packing on its own adds $0.15–$0.21 per pound.
- Moving containers lower the price because you handle loading and unloading while the company drives the container.
- Rental trucks come in roughly 30% cheaper than full-service, but you drive 80 miles and provide all the labor.
- Running quotes through moveBuddha's cost calculator helps movers save 30% versus their first quote.
| Home size | Full-service mover | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $674–$3,225 | $674–$1,253 | $106–$162 |
| 2–3 bedrooms | $1,276–$3,986 | $970–$1,837 | $113–$185 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $1,708–$4,735 | $1,191–$2,049 | $138–$202 |
*Prices are based on moveBuddha pricing data backed by our 12 years of experience reviewing 39+ Wisconsin moving companies, and are updated as of Jul 2026. Actual costs vary based on home size, add-on services, access or parking conditions, and timing. Use a moving cost calculator and compare quotes from at least 3 movers for the most accurate number.
Learn more about the cost of Madison, WI movers.
What extra fees should you expect on a Madison to Milwaukee move?
Plan for a few extra fees on a Madison to Milwaukee move: professional packing, shuttle and access fees, and optional comprehensive contents protection plans. They aren't usually included in initial quotes, but together they can add 10%–25% on top of the base price.
Here's a breakdown of some of the most common added moving costs:
| Extra cost | Typical range | Applies to |
|---|---|---|
| Professional packing | $0.15–$0.21 per pound | Full-service movers |
| Loading labor | $85/hr per mover | Moving containers, rental trucks |
| Fuel surcharge | $100–$400, or 8–15% of transport charges | Full-service movers |
| Shuttle service | $0.08–$0.12 per pound, $200 minimum | Full-service movers |
| Access fees (stairs, elevators, long carry) | $75–$500+ | Full-service movers |
| Storage-in-transit | ~$0.50 per cubic foot ($257/month for a 1-bedroom) | Full-service movers |
| Bulky-item handling | $150–$400 per item | Full-service movers |
| Equipment rental | $50–$200 | Rental trucks |
| Added valuation coverage | 1–2% of declared value | All move types |
Source: moveBuddha pricing analysis. Bulky-item charges apply to safes, sectionals, and large appliances. Storage-in-transit assumes ~514 cubic feet for a 1-bedroom home.
Best movers from Madison to Milwaukee
At 80 miles, this route is well within the range of local and regional Wisconsin movers. For most home sizes, a local mover bills hourly and can deliver same-day or next-day, without the long-haul logistics overhead of a national carrier. Above Average Moving LLC leads moveBuddha's local rankings at 4.58 out of 5 stars across 226 verified customer reviews.
Best local & regional movers for this route
Local movers operating within Wisconsin specialize in intrastate logistics, Wisconsin regulations, and same-day or next-day delivery windows that national van lines can't always match. At 80 miles, they are often priced the same as or cheaper than national operators, and scheduling flexibility is significantly better.
moveBuddha scored 5 Madison movers drawing on 1,051 verified customer reviews. Rankings factor in BBB rating, customer satisfaction, and proximity to this route.
rating
- Above Average Moving LLC at 4.58 out of 5 stars across 226 verified reviews. 92.0% of customers rate them positively.
- TWO MEN AND A TRUCK at 4.44 out of 5 stars across 286 verified reviews. 78.0% of customers rate them positively.
- The Armstrong Company at 4.38 out of 5 stars across 57 verified reviews. 77.2% of customers rate them positively.
- Top Notch Moving and Storage at 4.34 out of 5 stars across 234 verified reviews. 94.9% of customers rate them positively.
- College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving at 4.2 out of 5 stars across 248 verified reviews. 89.1% of customers rate them positively.
National carriers also available for this route
Safeway Moving (4.9/5) is moveBuddha's best overall value pick among national full-service carriers. National movers offer binding estimates, comprehensive coverage options, and established claims processes, worth considering for 4+ bedroom moves or high-value shipments.
moveBuddha's top national full-service movers:
- Safeway Moving (4.9 out of 5 stars), moveBuddha's best overall value pick.
- American Van Lines (4.9 out of 5 stars), moveBuddha's most experienced pick.
- North American Van Lines (4.8 out of 5 stars), moveBuddha's best customized plans pick.
- Allied Van Lines (4.2 out of 5 stars), moveBuddha's best coverage pick.
- Mayzlin Relocation (4.8 out of 5 stars), moveBuddha's best customer service pick.
More popular routes from Madison, WI
Madison residents also frequently move to these destinations. Compare pricing and top-rated movers for each route below.
More Wisconsin moving resources
What to know about moving from Madison to Milwaukee
Intrastate move: what that means for you
Because Madison and Milwaukee are both in Wisconsin, this is an intrastate move, regulated by Wisconsin law, not federal DOT rules that govern interstate (state-to-state) moves. Wisconsin movers handling intrastate jobs must hold a valid Wisconsin intrastate operating authority in addition to any USDOT number. When comparing quotes, confirm each mover is licensed for intrastate work in Wisconsin, not just for crossing state lines. A carrier with a USDOT number but no Wisconsin intrastate authority cannot legally haul your belongings on this route.
Delivery timing on this route
At 80 miles, most Madison-to-Milwaukee moves complete in 1–2 days from pickup to drop-off. Full-service movers working this corridor frequently offer same-day delivery for smaller homes, and next-day delivery is standard for most 2–3 bedroom jobs. If you need a guaranteed delivery date, get it in writing before signing. Intrastate movers can commit to tighter windows than long-haul interstate carriers who work on spread delivery dates. Packing a 2–3 bedroom home takes 4–8 hours on top of transit time, so factor that into your move-day schedule.
Building and access requirements
High-rise apartments and managed communities in Madison and Milwaukee commonly require a certificate of insurance (COI) from your moving company before granting elevator or loading dock access. Request the COI from your mover at least 1 week before moving day and forward it to your building manager. Confirm elevator reservation windows, parking permits for moving trucks, and any building-specific moving hours at both the origin and destination. Showing up without a COI or outside the permitted window can result in same-day delay fees of $150–$400 or rescheduling.
Wisconsin summer heat and fragile items
Summer moves in Wisconsin expose belongings to temperatures that can exceed 120°F inside a closed truck. Electronics, candles, vinyl records, wine, wood furniture, and musical instruments are all vulnerable. If your move falls between June and August, discuss heat-sensitive items with your mover before loading day. Request an early-morning start. Trucks loaded by 8 a.m. avoid peak afternoon heat during transit. Climate-controlled storage at the destination is worth the added cost for items that can't tolerate extreme heat during an overnight hold.
Pre-move checklist for a Madison to Milwaukee move:
- Verify your mover holds Wisconsin intrastate operating authority (not just a USDOT number).
- Request a COI from your mover at least 7 days before moving day for both buildings.
- Confirm elevator and loading dock reservations at origin and destination.
- Ask for a guaranteed delivery date in writing. Intrastate carriers can commit to same or next day.
- For summer moves, schedule an early-morning start and flag heat-sensitive items in advance.
- Compare at least 3 quotes using moveBuddha's cost calculator. Movers who use it save an average of 30% versus their first quote.
Moving the reverse route? We've got you covered with our Milwaukee to Madison guide.
How does Milwaukee compare to Madison?
Cost of living: Madison vs. Milwaukee
The cost of living in Madison vs. Milwaukee is more than just housing costs. Rent, home prices, average income, everyday spending, and local job trends all shape your budget. The comparison below shows how life in Milwaukee measures up against Madison.
Check out how the 2 cities compare so you know what to expect before you relocate:
| Madison | Milwaukee | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent cost | $1,600 | $1,250 |
| Average home cost | $346,854 | $171,025 |
| Average income (per capita) | $76,983 | $51,888 |
| Cost of living (single person) | $2,292 | $2,022 |
| Cost of living (family of 4) | $5,457 | $4,963 |
| Unemployment rate | 3.3% | 7.4% |
| Average sales tax | 5.5% | 4.9% |
Cost-of-living data for Madison and Milwaukee comes from moveBuddha's city dataset, updated July 2026 across 39+ Wisconsin cities and metros. Methodology details are available in our moving cost methodology.
- Rent in Milwaukee runs 22% cheaper than Madison. Consider upgrading to a larger unit or banking the savings.
- Home prices in Milwaukee are 51% lower than Madison. Most buyers translate the gap into bigger square footage or a faster path to ownership.
- Average income in Milwaukee is 33% lower than Madison. Watch your real take-home, since lower salaries don't always pair with lower expenses.
- Cost of living for one person in Milwaukee is 12% lower than Madison. The savings typically free up 12% of monthly take-home for savings or discretionary spending.
- Living expenses for a family of 4 in Milwaukee are 9% lower than Madison. The gap is meaningful enough to fund a meaningful lifestyle upgrade post-move.
- Unemployment in Milwaukee runs 124% higher than Madison. Lock in a role before relocating, especially if you depend on a single income.
- Sales taxes in Milwaukee are 11% lower than Madison. Households spending more on taxable categories see the most direct benefit.
If you typically live on $3,000 a month in Madison, you'll need about $2,640 to enjoy a similar lifestyle in Milwaukee.
How life is different in Madison vs. Milwaukee
A look at how life in Milwaukee measures up to Madison covers weather, cost of living, politics, safety, and population. The comparison below makes it easier to tell which city better fits your lifestyle and needs.
| Madison | Milwaukee | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 269,840 | 577,222 |
| Political leaning | Democratic 76-23 | Democratic 51-46 |
| Summer high | 82ºF | 83ºF |
| Winter low | 10ºF | 14ºF |
| Annual rain | 36" | 35" |
| Annual snow | 42" | 45" |
| Crime index | 34.57 | 66.76 |
- Milwaukee is roughly 114% larger in size than Madison. Bigger metros support more industry diversity and entertainment options, with the tradeoff of higher housing prices and longer commutes.
- During the last presidential election, both Madison and Milwaukee supported the Democratic candidate.
- Summer highs in Milwaukee (83°F) match Madison (82°F). No wardrobe or cooling-cost adjustment required.
- Winter lows are comparable in Madison (10°F) and Milwaukee (14°F). Heating loads stay level.
- Annual rainfall matches across Madison (36 inches) and Milwaukee (35 inches). Existing rain habits and gear carry over.
- Annual snowfall in Madison (42 inches) and Milwaukee (45 inches) is nearly identical. Snow-related expenses stay flat.
- Crime index in Milwaukee (66.76) is higher than Madison (34.57). Factor home security, insurance, and neighborhood vetting into the relocation budget.
Things to do in Milwaukee
Adventure, cultural attractions, live sports, and college campuses define Milwaukee's lifestyle profile. The categories below highlight where to start.
Museums in Milwaukee
- Harley-Davidson Museum
- Milwaukee Art Museum
- Milwaukee Public Museum
- Discovery World
- Chudnow Museum of Yesteryear
Parks in Milwaukee
- Henry Maier Festival Park
- Mitchell Park Horticultural Conservatory (The Domes)
- Veteran's Park
- Lake Park
- The Swing Park
Sports teams in Milwaukee
- Milwaukee Bucks (NBA)
- Milwaukee Brewers (MLB)
- Marquette Golden Eagles (NCAA)
- Milwaukee Admirals (AHL)
Universities in Milwaukee
- Marquette University
- Milwaukee School of Engineering
- Wisconsin Lutheran College
- Mount Mary University
- Alverno College
Final verdict: best movers from Madison to Milwaukee
Safeway Moving is moveBuddha's top recommendation for full-service moves from Madison to Milwaukee, earning 4.9 out of 5 stars as our best overall value pick. With 14 years in business and statewide Wisconsin service, it's the strongest choice for larger homes, complex logistics, or moves that benefit from full packing and loading service. For smaller homes and apartment moves, Above Average Moving LLC (4.58 out of 5 stars) is the top local pick, with 92.0% positive reviews across 226 verified customer reviews.
For shoppers prioritizing cost, a moving container or rental truck cuts the price by roughly 30% versus a full-service move. Total costs on this route range from $106–$4,735 depending on service type and home size. All recommendations reflect moveBuddha's analysis of 39+ Wisconsin movers, our monthly pricing dataset of 1,000+ live price points, and 12 years of moving industry research.
FAQs about moving from Madison to Milwaukee
How much does it cost to hire a professional moving company from Madison to Milwaukee?
A full-service move from Madison to Milwaukee typically costs $617–$2,848 for a few items or a small bedroom. For a 2–3 bedroom home, expect to pay $1,276–$3,986. For a 4-bedroom home or larger, prices fall between $1,708 and $4,735 on the same route.
How much are moving container companies from Madison to Milwaukee?
Moving containers from Madison to Milwaukee break down by home size. For a studio or 1-bedroom, prices fall between $501 and $1,231. For 2–3 bedroom homes, expect $970–$1,837. For 4–5 bedroom homes, expect $1,191–$2,049.
How much is a moving truck from Madison to Milwaukee?
A rental moving truck from Madison to Milwaukee costs $101–$162 for a studio or 1-bedroom move. A 2–3 bedroom move costs $113–$185. A 4-bedroom or larger move costs $138–$202.
Rental trucks are the most budget-friendly choice for movers willing to handle the driving and heavy lifting. Estimated fuel costs are factored into the pricing above.
How far in advance should I book Madison-to-Milwaukee movers?
Lock in your movers for a Madison to Milwaukee move at least 2 months before your big day. For a summer move, aim for 3 months ahead, since spots fill up fast. Early booking boosts your chances of getting the date you want, and many companies offer early-bird discounts for customers who plan ahead. As an intrastate Wisconsin move, same-day or next-day delivery is typically available once your booking is confirmed.
What time of year is the cheapest to move to Milwaukee?
The cheapest time of year to move to Milwaukee is between early October and late April. This period falls outside the moving industry's peak season (May through September), which means demand and pricing both run lower. Most U.S. moves happen between May and August, so staying outside the busy summer months saves money.
Is moving from Madison to Milwaukee considered a long-distance move?
A move from Madison to Milwaukee is classified as an intrastate move. Both cities are in Wisconsin, so Wisconsin law governs the job rather than federal DOT rules that apply to interstate (state-to-state) moves. Whether a mover labels it "long-distance" depends on their internal pricing structure. Most full-service movers price intrastate moves over 50 miles based on weight and mileage rather than hourly rates, similar to how interstate pricing works. At 80 miles, expect distance-based pricing from most full-service movers on this route. Confirm your mover holds a valid Wisconsin intrastate operating authority (not just a USDOT number) before signing a contract.
How long does a move from Madison to Milwaukee take?
Most moves from Madison to Milwaukee take 1–2 days from pickup to delivery, based on moveBuddha's route data. The driving distance is 80 miles. For intrastate moves at this distance, same-day or next-day delivery is common when the mover has confirmed availability. Add 4–8 hours for professional packing of a 2–3 bedroom home before the truck departs, and factor in any elevator reservation windows or building access restrictions at the destination. Getting your delivery date in writing before signing gives you a binding commitment. Intrastate movers can offer tighter guarantees than long-haul interstate carriers.
