Madison, WI to Norfolk, VA Movers (NEW 2026 Costs)
Quick answer: Moving from Madison to Norfolk typically costs $3,000–$6,800 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home (about 1,049 miles). Use our moving cost calculator below to get an instant estimate.
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Cost to move from Madison to Norfolk
Moving from Madison, WI to Norfolk, VA typically costs $3,000–$6,800 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home.
The price ranges below are estimates for a 1,049-mile move from Madison to Norfolk, based on moveBuddha pricing data as of Mar 16, 2026. Pricing is updated monthly to reflect seasonality and market changes.
Studio / 1 bedroom
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2-3 bedrooms
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4+ bedrooms
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Recent moving quotes for similar moves
- Allied Van Lines recently quoted $3,788 for a 1 bedroom (small) using professional movers.
- AB Moving recently quoted $2,453 for a studio apartment using professional movers.
- North American Van Lines recently quoted $4,243 for a 1 bedroom (large) using professional movers.
1 Bedroom (small)
Feb 06, 2026
Studio apartment
Feb 02, 2026
1 Bedroom (large)
Jan 27, 2026
1 Bedroom (small)
Jan 24, 2026
4 Bedrooms
Jan 20, 2026
2 Bedrooms
Jan 20, 2026
Studio apartment
Jan 08, 2026
2 Bedrooms
Jan 06, 2026
2 Bedrooms
Jan 02, 2026
1 Bedroom (small)
Dec 15, 2025
Key factors that impact the cost of your Madison to Norfolk move
Your total cost will depend on:
- Home size: The number of rooms makes a big difference. Expect around $2,400 for a one-bedroom, or up to $9,300 for a four-bedroom.
- The time of year you're moving: Rates climb in summer because of peak season demand in Madison.
- DIY vs. professional: Rental trucks can range from $800 to $2,000, but require more effort than hiring movers.
Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from Norfolk, VA to Madison, WI guide.
Best Madison to Norfolk movers by type
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Local
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Labor Only
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Best professional movers from Madison to Norfolk
Opting for a full-service mover can make your interstate move from Madison to Norfolk much easier by letting professionals manage the entire process. This choice allows you to focus on what matters most instead of the logistics of moving.
Want a deeper breakdown of the top long-distance movers? See our best interstate movers guide.
- Safeway Moving: 4.9 out of 5 stars
- American Van Lines: 4.9 out of 5 stars
- Allied Van Lines: 4.2 out of 5 stars
- Mayzlin Relocation: 4.8 out of 5 stars
- North American Van Lines: 4.8 out of 5 stars
Best overall value
How we chose the best WI→VA movers
The experienced professionals at moveBuddha reviewed moving rates from 39 Wisconsin movers, pinpointing the highest-rated services by analyzing satisfaction metrics, reviews, and overall cost.
- Customer satisfaction (40%): The business consistently meets deadlines, communicates clearly with clients, and remains within the expected spending limits.
- Dispute resolution (20%): Mistakes cannot be avoided in the moving industry. We look for companies that own their mistakes and make genuine efforts to fix any issues that arise during a move.
- Industry reputation (15%): This mover maintains a strong reputation among industry peers and is active in professional associations and events.
- Online reputation (15%): A polished, accurate website and quick, respectful responses to online inquiries reflect the company’s strong digital presence.
- Service options (10%): A broad service menu matters. We value movers that cover everything from packing and storage to unique item care and speedy delivery.
Here is our full moving company rating methodology.
What to know before moving from Madison to Norfolk
Expect a bump in monthly expenses after the move - Norfolk runs about 21% higher for singles and 2% higher for families than Madison.
Singles spend around $2,769 in Norfolk versus $2,292 in Madison; families pay $5,552 compared with $5,457.
Dig into the side-by-side details here:
| Madison | Norfolk | |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1 BR rent | $1,693 | $1,875 |
| Average 3 BR rent | $3,100 | $2,492 |
| Average home value | $367,934 | $283,890 |
| Average income (per capita) | $62,919 | $63,484 |
| Cost of living (single) | $2,292 | $2,769 |
| Cost of living (family of four) | $5,457 | $5,552 |
| Unemployment rate | 3.3% | 7.3% |
| Sales tax | 5.5% | 6.0% |
| State income tax | 7.65% | 5.75% |
- When relocating from Madison to Norfolk, expect to find rent about 6% cheaper, letting you enjoy more financial freedom monthly.
- You can relax about your monthly mortgage expenses, thanks to home prices being nearly 23% more affordable in Norfolk compared to Madison.
- In terms of average income, Norfolk and Madison are closely matched, within a 5% range, keeping your financial situation largely unchanged.
- Prepare your budget for higher expenses in Norfolk, as living costs for a single person are 21% higher than in Madison. This includes essential costs such as utilities, groceries, clothing, and commuting.
- The cost of living for a family is within about 5% of the same in Norfolk and Madison, so you probably won’t see a major difference in expenses.
- Norfolk shows an unemployment rate that exceeds Madison by around 121%. This increase suggests a broader candidate selection for employers, possibly making the job market more competitive for applicants.
- Sales taxes in Norfolk are 9% more than in Madison, implying increased costs for common purchases like apparel, dining, and gadgets.
- Income taxes in Virginia are 25% below those in Wisconsin. This decrease in income tax can leave more funds at your disposal, allowing you additional financial breathing room.
See how the cost of everyday necessities and regular monthly payments differs between Madison and Norfolk:
| Living Expense | Madison | Norfolk |
|---|---|---|
| Basic utilities | $215.88 | $190.88 |
| Cell phone plan | $50.44 | $49.33 |
| Dozen eggs | $4.04 | $4.71 |
| Loaf of bread | $3.75 | $4.12 |
| Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) | $15.00 | $18.25 |
| Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) | $77.50 | $75.00 |
| Gym membership | $64.29 | $40.00 |
- Basic utilities tend to be more expensive in Madison than in Norfolk.
- Cell phone plans typically cost more in Madison than in Norfolk.
- Eggs are less expensive in Madison than in Norfolk.
- Bread costs less in Madison than in Norfolk.
- A quick meal is cheaper in Madison than in Norfolk.
- A mid-range dinner for two is pricier in Madison than in Norfolk.
- Gym memberships cost more in Madison than in Norfolk.
How life is different in Madison vs. Norfolk
| Madison | Norfolk | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 269,840 | 238,005 |
| Transportation score | 6 | 6 |
| Walkability score | 50 | 46 |
| Bike friendliness score | 66 | 47 |
| Crime index | 34.57 | 58.1 |
| Safety index | 65.43 | 41.9 |
| Air quality | Good | Good |
- Norfolk's population is about 12% less than Madison.
- Norfolk's public transportation score is within about 5% of Madison, making them very similar.
- Norfolk is less walkable than Madison with a score of 46 out of 100 vs Madison's 50 out of 100.
- Norfolk has a bike-friendliness score of 47 out of 100, which means it isn't as accessible or safe for cyclists as Madison, which has a score of 66.
- Norfolk's crime rate is higher than Madison with a score of 58.1 compared to Madison's 34.57. This means that Norfolk neighborhoods are safer than 58.1% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Madison neighborhoods are safer than 34.57%.
- Norfolk is considered to be less safe than Madison with a score of 41.9 vs Madison's 65.43.
- Air quality in Norfolk is Good, and in Madison it's Good.
Other things to consider for your Madison to Norfolk move
- HOA rules: Check ahead with any neighborhood or community rules on moving to ensure a smooth move.
- Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator, make sure to find out how to reserve it ahead of your move.
- Truck parking permits: Make sure to look into local parking regulations—some areas require permits for large moving trucks.
- State licensing: In addition to filing tariffs and complying with insurance, bond, and highway safety requirements, all intrastate moving companies in Virginia must have a certificate from the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (VaDMV). Before booking, ensure the moving company is officially licensed to handle your move.
- State regulator: Virginia’s public utilities commission provides official mover license verification.
- Moving Permits: Virginia does not require any moving permits, but it is helpful to check local parking restrictions before moving into the state. We recommend submitting your change of address form with USPS at least a week prior to your move.
- Change of address: We suggest filing your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move. You'll be able to set your official move date, helping ensure your mail is forwarded correctly to Norfolk. Start the process here.
- Moving company insurance: The amount and type of insurance movers must have depends on state regulations. In Virginia, movers commonly offer Released Value Protection at no additional cost, providing coverage at 60 cents per pound. For increased protection, consider discussing Full Value Protection options with the moving company. Alternatively, explore third-party insurance providers for personalized plans. It's essential to understand coverage limits, potential additional costs, and read reviews to make an informed decision about your moving insurance in Virginia.
- Moving checklist: Our moving checklist gives you the peace of mind that comes with being fully prepared.
Where to live in Norfolk
Planning your move to Norfolk? Take a look at our picks for the best neighborhoods to call home in Norfolk.
Best neighborhoods for singles
- East Ghent
- North Ghent
- Ghent
- Downtown
- West Ghent
- Newtown
- Edgewater-Larchmont
- West 21st Street
- Colonial Place
Best neighborhoods for families
- North Ghent
- Ghent
- Virginia Beach
- Edgewater-Larchmont
- West Ghent
- East Ghent
Things to do in Norfolk
After settling into your new Virginia home, you'll want to branch out and explore your new city. Luckily, Norfolk has lots to offer, no matter what you're interested in:
- Arts and culture: Norfolk features a variety of museums and cultural arts centers, including the Hampton Roads Naval Museum, Chrysler Museum of Art, Nauticus, and MacArthur Memorial.
- Outdoor recreation: The city's Norfolk Botanical Garden, Pagoda & Oriental Garden, Town Point Park, and Lake Drummond — along with other locations — ideal for trails, cycling, or enjoying the fresh air.
- Sports: Nothing beats the thrill of cheering on the home team at an Norfolk Tides (Baseball-International League (AAA))Norfolk Admirals (Ice hockey)Old Dominion University (Football)Old Dominion University (Basketball)Norfolk State University (Football)Norfolk State University (Basketball) game.
FAQ
When is the best time to move from Madison to Norfolk?
Planning your move from Madison to Norfolk? Aim for spring or fall when the weather is pleasant and demand is lower, helping you avoid peak-season rates in Madison.
When is the cheapest time to move from Madison to Norfolk?
Because most people are moving from Madison to Norfolk in the spring or fall, you can often catch discounts by moving in the winter. Read our guide on moving discounts to learn more.
How long does a move from Madison to Norfolk take?
The 1,049-mile journey from Madison, WI to Norfolk, VA, typically takes two to eight days. Some movers in Madison offer expedited services if you're on a tight schedule, and if you need extra time, be sure to ask about storage options in Norfolk.
Are piano and antique moving services available in Madison?
Not all movers have the resources to handle high-value or delicate items. In Madison, 3 movers can manage piano relocations. 1 movers are equipped for antique transport. By comparison, Wisconsin has 25 piano movers and 13 antique movers, while nationwide there are 2,296 and 1,463 respectively.
Always confirm the mover’s experience and packing methods for fragile or specialty items before booking.
