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($455) Movers From Madison to Milwaukee, WI

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Estimated cost & time: The average cost to move 79 miles from Madison to Milwaukee ranges from $968 to $2,917 for professional movers, though can be less expensive going more DIY. Expect the trip to take about one–two days. Final costs vary by distance, date, home size, and whether you go DIY or hire movers.
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Best movers from Madison to Milwaukee

Best overall value
Safeway Moving Logo Safeway Moving
checkmark Best overall value
checkmark Veteran owned
checkmark Portion to charity
4.9
  • checkmarkBest overall value
  • checkmarkVeteran owned
  • checkmarkPortion to charity
American Van Lines Logo American Van Lines
checkmark Certified crews
checkmark Flat-rate pricing
checkmark Family-owned
4.5
  • checkmarkCertified crews
  • checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
  • checkmarkFamily-owned
North American Van Lines Logo North American Van Lines
checkmark 1,800 trucks
checkmark Storage available
checkmark Customized moving plans
4.5
  • checkmark1,800 trucks
  • checkmarkStorage available
  • checkmarkCustomized moving plans
Allied Van Lines Logo Allied Van Lines
checkmark Specialty packing services
checkmark White-glove reputation
checkmark 80+ years’ experience
4.8
  • checkmarkSpecialty packing services
  • checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
  • checkmark80+ years’ experience
Mayzlin Relocation Logo Mayzlin Relocation
checkmark Family owned
checkmark East coast focus
checkmark Affordable pricing
4.9
  • checkmarkFamily owned
  • checkmarkEast coast focus
  • checkmarkAffordable pricing
Professional Icon
Professional
Container Icon
Container
Rental Truck Icon
Rental truck
Freight Icon
Labor-only
Safeway Moving
checkmark Best overall value
checkmark Veteran owned
checkmark Portion to charity
American Van Lines
checkmark Certified crews
checkmark Flat-rate pricing
checkmark Family-owned
North American Van Lines
checkmark 1,800 trucks
checkmark Storage available
checkmark Customized moving plans
Allied Van Lines
checkmark Specialty packing services
checkmark White-glove reputation
checkmark 80+ years’ experience
Mayzlin Relocation
checkmark Family owned
checkmark East coast focus
checkmark Affordable pricing

Estimated cost to move from Madison to Milwaukee

These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 79-mile move from Madison to Milwaukee, WI, using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 04, 2025. moveBuddha aggregates thousands of verified pricing data points from movers across the country and refreshes them each month to capture seasonal shifts and market changes. Your actual cost can differ based on move size, add-on services, parking or access issues, fuel prices, and timing. We recommend getting quotes from several companies to understand your true price.
Studio Icon

Studio / 1 bedroom

  • Moving Company $487 – $2,535
  • Moving Container $499 – $882
  • Rental Truck $71 – $105
Two Three Bed Icon

2-3 bedrooms

  • Moving Company $968 – $2,917
  • Moving Container $715 – $1,253
  • Rental Truck $81 – $130
Four Bed Icon

4+ bedrooms

  • Moving Company $1,382 – $3,545
  • Moving Container $833 – $1,540
  • Rental Truck $88 – $140
Recent Moving Price Estimates
The following are real, anonymized quotes requested by moveBuddha readers in the past 48 hours. Prices change with dates and availability; use these as a ballpark, not a guarantee.
American Van Lines
Dane, WI Pewaukee, WI
5+ Bedrooms
Sep 26, 2025
Allied Van Lines
Fitchburg, WI Brookfield, WI
Studio apartment
Sep 21, 2025
Mayflower Transit
Monona, WI South Milwaukee, WI
1 Bedroom (small)
Sep 15, 2025
Colonial Van Lines
Waunakee, WI Fox Point, WI
3 Bedrooms
Sep 14, 2025
1-800-Pack-Rat
Arlington, WI Shorewood, WI
1 Bedroom (small)
Sep 11, 2025
PODS
Belleville, WI Milwaukee, WI
3 Bedrooms
Aug 30, 2025
Roadway Moving
DeForest, WI North Bay, WI
3 Bedrooms
Aug 25, 2025
Budget Truck Rental
Verona, WI Franklin, WI
4 Bedrooms
Aug 17, 2025
United Van Lines
Black Earth, WI Brown Deer, WI
2 Bedrooms
Aug 05, 2025
Mayzlin Relocation
Maple Bluff, WI Cudahy, WI
1 Bedroom (small)
Jul 30, 2025

Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from Milwaukee to Madison guide.

Local moving companies in Madison

Picking one of the 37 local movers in Wisconsin for your Madison to Milwaukee relocation can take the stress out of moving. Local movers know the region well, provide tailored services, and handle everything from packing and loading to transporting your belongings so your move is quicker and smoother from start to finish.

  1. Above Average Moving LLC: 4.64 out of 5 stars
  2. The Armstrong Company: 4.38 out of 5 stars
  3. TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.38 out of 5 stars
  4. College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving: 4.26 out of 5 stars
  5. Top Notch Moving and Storage: 4.2 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
92.0% of all reviews were positive
6.6% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Above Average Moving LLC lives up to its name by consistently delivering efficient and professional moving experiences. Out of 226 customer reviews, an impressive 92% praised the company, citing hardworking, careful staff, smooth and fast service, and lower pricing compared to other movers. Customers repeatedly mention the team’s attention to detail and courteous attitudes. Moves frequently finish ahead of schedule, and all types of belongings—furniture, pianos, fragile items—arrive safely. On the less favorable side, a small portion of feedback noted incidents of item damage, inaccurate estimates, and slow or absent communication, especially with follow-up or during delays. Compared to typical moving companies, Above Average stands out for its friendly service and cost-effectiveness, though improving estimate accuracy and communication could strengthen their reputation further. The majority of feedback confirms a reliable, customer-focused approach that makes moving easier and less stressful for most clients.
Get a Quote (608) 556-7980

Company Info

State license #: 26753

Years in Business: 9

DOT #: 2595339

Alternate Names: Above Average Moving LLC

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
77.2% of all reviews were positive
22.8% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Armstrong Relocation stands out for its responsive, professional, and courteous staff. Customers frequently praise their careful handling of belongings, clear communication, and efficient moving process. Many mention friendly movers who are eager to help, making the experience less stressful than other moving services. Feedback often notes accurate estimates and competitive pricing, outshining many industry competitors. Negative feedback focuses on item damage during moves, dissatisfaction with claims resolutions, and occasional unprofessional interactions or lowballed estimates. Among 57 reviews analyzed, 77% are positive, with most input stressing reliability and care, while negative experiences center around damage and communication. Compared to other movers, Armstrong earns strong marks for customer service and careful handling, but could improve on damage prevention and clarity in estimates.
Get a Quote (608) 838-5940

Company Info

Years in Business: 39

DOT #: 1170867

Alternate Names: Armstrong Transfer & Storage Co., Inc. , Armstrong Relocation & Commercial Services , The Armstrong Company

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
78.0% of all reviews were positive
21.3% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Smooth moves and professional crews are frequent themes found in the 286 feedback entries for TWO MEN AND A TRUCK. Nearly 80% of input praises their efficient service, skilled and polite movers, careful handling of belongings, responsive communication, and fast-moving teams. Many note seamless scheduling, prompt arrivals, and property treated with respect. While most find the staff courteous and the process smooth, over one-fifth raise concerns, especially about damage to items, inaccurate estimates, and unexpected charges. Some reported broken furniture, billing surprises, or unresolved claims, with a few experiencing high costs or responses slower than agreed. Compared to many moving companies, TWO MEN AND A TRUCK receives above-average marks for professionalism and care, but feedback underscores the importance of vigilant inventory tracking and clear, accurate quoting before booking.
Get a Quote (608) 340-1557

Company Info

Years in Business: 31

DOT #: 2527384

Alternate Names: Lightner & Lightner, Inc.

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Pianos
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
89.1% of all reviews were positive
10.9% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Smooth moves and fast service set College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving apart from most competitors in the industry. Out of 248 feedback submissions, 89% praised efficient work, quick process, and professional, polite crews who communicate clearly and handle belongings with care. Customers frequently mention the stress-free, friendly experience, and many highlight the company’s promptness and attention to details others sometimes overlook. On the other hand, negative feedback makes up around 11% of input. The main complaints concern damage to belongings, late or missing arrival, and unexpected charges—especially for those comparing pricing or needing timely, careful moves. College Hunks earns high marks for execution and customer experience but should improve consistency on careful handling and accurate billing to match the leading industry performers.
Get a Quote (336) 810-1801

Company Info

DOT #: 2378173

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
94.9% of all reviews were positive
4.7% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Top Notch Moving and Storage earns its name with the overwhelming majority of customer feedback citing efficient service, professional and polite staff, and careful handling. Nearly 95% of 234 total reviews express strong satisfaction, highlighting friendly movers and consistent communication. Customers regularly note prompt arrivals, care for personal belongings, and an easy, stress-free process. Several customers mention moving delicate items and heavy furniture with no damage, even in challenging conditions. Friendly and approachable staff and good communication further set this company apart from competitors. A very small percentage of reviews report upset over property damage, higher-than-expected charges, or unprofessional interactions, especially during complex moves. Some customers experienced additional fees not clearly outlined or insufficient handling of claims when things went wrong. Only one neutral review described mixed staff performance during illness. Compared to typical moving companies, Top Notch stands out for service consistency and upbeat, helpful crews. Most clients enthusiastically recommend the company, with return customers making up a notable portion of input. The strong focus on efficiency, careful handling, and people skills makes Top Notch Moving and Storage a reliable choice for local and long-distance moves.
Get a Quote (608) 590-3710

Company Info

Years in Business: 5

DOT #: 3322160

Alternate Names: TopNotchMovers LLC

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card

Cost to move from Madison to Milwaukee

The table below shows average moving costs from Madison to Milwaukee. We’ve categorized pricing by home size and type of service for easy side-by-side comparison.

Move size Moving company Moving container Rental
truck
Studio / 1 bedroom $455 – $2,011 $349 – $869 $71 – $113
2 – 3 bedrooms $968 – $2,917 $715 – $1,253 $81 – $130
4+ bedrooms $1,382 – $3,545 $833 – $1,540 $88 – $140
*The prices shown are rough estimates for a 79-mile move from Madison to Milwaukee, informed by moveBuddha pricing data as of Nov 04, 2025. moveBuddha collects thousands of verified price points nationwide and updates the dataset monthly to mirror seasonal changes and market trends. Your final cost can change due to move size, add-ons, parking/access limitations, fuel rates, and schedule. We suggest comparing several mover quotes for the most accurate pricing.

Cost to hire movers from Madison to Milwaukee

Hiring movers for a studio or one-bedroom home from Madison to Milwaukee typically runs between $455 and $2,011. A two- to three-bedroom move from Madison to Milwaukee usually ranges from $968 to $2,917, while a larger move from Madison to Milwaukee often costs $1,382 to $3,545.

Cost of moving containers from Madison to Milwaukee

For moves from Madison to Milwaukee using moving containers, a small move usually costs $349–$869. Two- to three-bedroom moves often fall between $715 and $1,253. Larger (four-bedroom+) moves typically range from $833 to $1,540. Learn more about PODS cost.

Check out the most affordable moving container companies for your move in Wisconsin.

Cost of renting a moving truck from Madison to Milwaukee

Opting for a rental truck from Madison to Milwaukee typically saves the most money, but you’ll need to handle both the driving and the loading/unloading.

Moving a studio or one-bedroom apartment in a rental truck will cost around $71 to $113. A two to three-bedroom move will cost $81 to $130, and moving a home with four or more bedrooms from Madison to Milwaukee costs around $88 to $140.

These quotes include the estimated fuel cost.

Considerations when moving from Madison to Milwaukee

Cost of living: Madison vs. Milwaukee

The cost of living in Madison vs. Milwaukee isn’t just about housing costs. We’ll lay out everything that matters, including rent, home prices, average income, everyday spending, and local job trends, so you can easily see how life in Milwaukee compares to what you’re used to in Madison.

Check out how the two cities compare so you know what to expect before you relocate:

Madison Milwaukee
Average rent cost $1,600 $1,250
Average home cost $367,934 $200,685
Average income (per capita) $62,919 $49,733
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%
  • Rent in Milwaukee is about 22% cheaper than in Madison. That means you’ll probably free up more of your budget for savings, fun, or other expenses.
  • Home prices in Milwaukee are 45% lower than in Madison. That means you’ll have an easier time buying a home, locking in an affordable mortgage, and still having money left over for what matters most to you.
  • Income in Milwaukee is 21% lower than in Madison, which might mean you’ll need to watch your budget, especially if your income doesn’t keep pace with the cost of living.
  • The cost of living for a single person in Milwaukee is 12% lower than in Madison, meaning you’ll likely have more financial flexibility, allowing for increased savings, spending, or investment opportunities.
  • Good news, living costs are 9% lower in Milwaukee than in Madison. That means your money goes further, giving you more room in your budget and a chance to boost your quality of life after the move.
  • The unemployment rate in Milwaukee is 124% higher than in Madison. This could make finding work more challenging and potentially affect job security, especially if you’re moving without a job lined up.
  • With sales taxes 11% lower in Milwaukee than Madison, everyday expenses like meals, clothing, and electronics could be easier on your wallet.

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

Before you move, check out how life in Milwaukee measures up to Madison. You can easily compare the weather, cost of living, politics, safety, and population side by side. This comparison 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 has a population roughly 114% higher than Madison. Relocating to a bigger city brings more people, possibilities, cultural experiences, and higher costs and a faster paced lifestyle. Whether that energizes or exhausts you all comes down to what you’re looking for.
  • During the last presidential election, both Madison and Milwaukee supported the Democratic candidate.
  • You’ll find that both Milwaukee and Madison have similar summer temperatures, so expect the same warm weather you’re used to, without changing your routine.
  • In the coldest months, you’ll find similar low temperatures in both Madison and Milwaukee—with winter lows around 10°F and 14°F.
  • Both Madison and Milwaukee see similar yearly rainfall—Madison averages 36 inches, while Milwaukee gets 35 inches.
  • Snowfall totals are similar in Madison and Milwaukee, averaging 42 and 45 inches each year.
  • Milwaukee shows a higher crime rate than Madison, with index scores of 66.76 compared to 34.57.

Things to do in Milwaukee

Whether you prefer to be in the great outdoors, soak up some culture, or catch a live game, Madison has plenty to offer:

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

FAQ

How much does it cost to hire a professional moving company from Madison to Milwaukee?

Shipping furniture from Madison to Milwaukee with a moving company typically costs between $455 and $2,011. If you’re relocating a two- or three-bedroom home, expect to pay anywhere from $968 to $2,917. For a four-bedroom home or larger, prices generally fall between $1,382 and $3,545 for that same route.

How much are moving container companies from Madison to Milwaukee?

If you’re planning a move from Madison to Milwaukee and thinking about using moving containers, here’s a quick look at typical costs: For a studio or one-bedroom, prices usually fall between $349 and $869. For a two- or three-bedroom home, expect to pay from $715 to $1,253. Have an even larger house? Moves for four- or five-bedroom homes typically range from $833 to $1,540.

How much is a moving truck from Madison to Milwaukee?

If you’re looking to save money, renting a moving truck is often the most budget-friendly choice. Keep in mind, though— you’ll need to handle both the driving and the heavy lifting yourself. To keep things transparent, we’ve factored estimated fuel costs into our pricing so you know exactly what to expect.

If you’re renting a truck for a studio or one-bedroom move, expect to pay between $71 and $113. Moving a larger apartment? Costs typically fall between $81 and $130. For four-bedroom homes or bigger going from Madison to Milwaukee, truck rentals usually range from $88 up to $140.

How far in advance should I book Madison-to-Milwaukee movers?

To make your move from Madison to Milwaukee as stress-free as possible, lock in your movers at least two months before your big day. If you’re planning a summer move, aim for three months ahead, because spots fill up fast! Booking early not only boosts your chances of getting the date you want, but you might also score a better deal since many companies offer early-bird discounts for customers who plan ahead.

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 is outside of the moving industry’s peak season (May–September), which means demand — and therefore pricing — will typically be lower. A majority of U.S. moves happen between May and August, so staying outside the busy summer months will help you save money.

Learn more about your move to Milwaukee

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