Madison, WI to Long Beach, CA Movers (NEW 2026 Costs)
Quick answer: Moving from Madison to Long Beach typically costs $3,700–$8,500 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home (about 1,979 miles). Use our moving cost calculator below to get an instant estimate.
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Cost to move from Madison to Long Beach
Moving from Madison, WI to Long Beach, CA typically costs $3,700–$8,500 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home.
The price ranges below are estimates for a 1,979-mile move from Madison to Long Beach, 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
- PODS recently quoted $3,504 for a 4 bedroom using a moving container.
- United Van Lines recently quoted $3,927 for a 1 bedroom (large) using professional movers.
- Roadway Moving recently quoted $5,474 for a 3 bedroom using professional movers.
4 Bedrooms
Feb 14, 2026
1 Bedroom (large)
Feb 03, 2026
3 Bedrooms
Feb 01, 2026
5+ Bedrooms
Jan 30, 2026
5+ Bedrooms
Jan 21, 2026
5+ Bedrooms
Jan 18, 2026
3 Bedrooms
Dec 30, 2025
5+ Bedrooms
Dec 17, 2025
2 Bedrooms
Dec 09, 2025
4 Bedrooms
Dec 03, 2025
Major factors affecting moving costs from Madison to Long Beach
Your total cost will depend on:
- Move size: The cost of your move depends on how much you’re bringing. A one-bedroom from Madison to Long Beach might be as low as $2,600, while a four-bedroom could reach $12,500.
- When you move: Moving in summer often costs more, since it’s the busiest season for movers in Madison.
- DIY moves vs. full-service help: Truck rentals cost less — around $1,300 to $3,600 — but you’ll handle all the labor vs. letting professionals do it.
Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from Long Beach, CA to Madison, WI guide.
Best Madison to Long Beach movers by type
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Local
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Labor Only
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Best professional movers from Madison to Long Beach
When it comes to handling your interstate move from Madison to Long Beach, entrusting professionals with the details is often the best decision. Full-service movers are equipped to manage everything, allowing you to concentrate on settling into your new place.
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→CA movers
moveBuddha's expert team analyzed moving rates from 39 Wisconsin movers and listed the top movers based on customer satisfaction, reviews, and cost.
- Customer satisfaction (40%): The organization reliably provides services punctually, maintains clear communication, and stays within the anticipated budget.
- Dispute resolution (20%): Since mistakes are inevitable in moving, we value movers that accept responsibility and work hard to correct issues when they occur.
- Industry reputation (15%): The organization is recognized in the industry and takes part in professional gatherings and associations.
- Online reputation (15%): The company’s reputation online is supported by a well-maintained website and prompt, professional engagement with customer questions.
- Service options (10%): We look for companies with a deep breadth of services including full packing, storage, specialty item handling, and expedited delivery.
Here is our full moving company rating methodology.
What to know before moving from Madison to Long Beach
Expect a bump in monthly expenses after the move - Long Beach runs about 17% higher for singles and 11% higher for families than Madison.
Singles spend around $2,681 in Long Beach versus $2,292 in Madison; families pay $6,051 compared with $5,457.
Dig into the side-by-side details here:
| Madison | Long Beach | |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1 BR rent | $1,693 | $2,450 |
| Average 3 BR rent | $3,100 | $3,780 |
| Average home value | $367,934 | $835,800 |
| Average income (per capita) | $62,919 | $78,995 |
| Cost of living (single) | $2,292 | $2,681 |
| Cost of living (family of four) | $5,457 | $6,051 |
| Unemployment rate | 3.3% | 5.2% |
| Sales tax | 5.5% | 10.25% |
| State income tax | 7.65% | 13.3% |
- Consider this before moving: Rent can be about 30% higher in Long Beach than in Madison, which may impact your monthly finances.
- A larger mortgage budget will be necessary since home prices are about 127% higher in Long Beach than in Madison.
- Exciting news here, the average income is about 26% higher in Long Beach than in Madison, so you should have more to save or invest each month.
- Anticipate increased living expenses in Long Beach, as the cost of living for a single person in Long Beach is 17% greater than in Madison. This covers typical expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transport.
- As you plan your move to Long Beach, consider the possibility of increased living costs. The cost of living for a family there is 11% more than it is in Madison.
- The unemployment rate in Long Beach exceeds that of Madison by about 58%, resulting in a larger pool of potential workers and thus more hiring competition.
- Sales taxes in Long Beach exceed those in Madison by 86%, which can mean paying extra for usual purchases like clothes and electronics.
- Income taxes are 74% higher in California than in Wisconsin. This means a larger portion of your earnings will go to state taxes, potentially reducing your take-home pay.
Take a detailed look at how everyday expenses stack up between Madison and Long Beach, from monthly bills to routine purchases:
| Living Expense | Madison | Long Beach |
|---|---|---|
| Basic utilities | $215.88 | $147.18 |
| Cell phone plan | $50.44 | $51.55 |
| Dozen eggs | $4.04 | $3.58 |
| Loaf of bread | $3.75 | $3.79 |
| Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) | $15.00 | $18.00 |
| Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) | $77.50 | $75.00 |
| Gym membership | $64.29 | $41.20 |
- Basic utilities tend to be more expensive in Madison than in Long Beach.
- Cell phone plans are cheaper in Madison than in Long Beach.
- Eggs cost more in Madison than in Long Beach.
- Bread costs less in Madison than in Long Beach.
- A quick meal is cheaper in Madison than in Long Beach.
- A mid-range dinner for two is pricier in Madison than in Long Beach.
- Gym memberships cost more in Madison than in Long Beach.
How life is different in Madison vs. Long Beach
| Madison | Long Beach | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 269,840 | 451,307 |
| Transportation score | 6 | 8 |
| Walkability score | 50 | 73 |
| Bike friendliness score | 66 | 70 |
| Crime index | 34.57 | 58.58 |
| Safety index | 65.43 | 41.42 |
| Air quality | Good | Good |
- Long Beach's population is about 67% greater than Madison.
- Long Beach's public transportation score of 8 out of 10 is higher than Madison's score of 6.
- Long Beach is more walkable than Madison with a score of 73 out of 100 vs Madison's 50 out of 100.
- With a score of 70 out of 100, Long Beach is more bike-friendly than Madison, which has a score of 66 out of 100. The higher a city's score, the more suited it is to safely accommodating cyclists.
- Long Beach's crime rate is higher than Madison with a score of 58.58 compared to Madison's 34.57. This means that Long Beach neighborhoods are safer than 58.58% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Madison neighborhoods are safer than 34.57%.
- Long Beach is considered to be less safe than Madison with a score of 41.42 vs Madison's 65.43.
- Air quality in Long Beach is Good, and in Madison it's Good.
Other things to consider for your Madison to Long Beach move
- HOA rules: To keep things running smoothly, make sure you're familiar with any HOA or community moving policies before the big day.
- Elevator reservation: If there is an elevator in your building, it's a good idea to secure a reservation before your moving day.
- Truck parking permits: Research parking requirements in your destination city to ensure your truck won’t run into restrictions.
- State licensing: When contacting a local moving company for an estimate in California, make sure each has a “T Number” issued by the California Public Utilities Commission (CAPUC). Moving companies with valid T Numbers have met state requirements for insurance, safety, and financial stability and have passed criminal clearance checks conducted by the California Department of Justice. Make sure the moving company you use has a license before hiring.
- State regulator: You can check the status of a California moving license through the state's public utilities commission.
- Moving Permits: You won't need a moving permit in California, though it's smart to double-check any local parking restrictions ahead of your move.
- Change of address: We recommend submitting your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move to ensure your mail gets forwarded to Long Beach without delay. You can select your official move date when completing the form. Start the process here.
- Moving company insurance: State laws differ on mover insurance. Opt for Released Value Protection – a cost-free choice provided by movers with minimal coverage. The liability is capped at 60 cents per pound per article. For instance, if a 50-inch TV weighing 25 pounds is lost or damaged, your reimbursement is only $15 (60 cents x 25 pounds). To ensure comprehensive coverage for your items' full value, consult with your chosen moving company or consider third-party insurance options.
- Moving checklist: Our moving checklist will help you have the peace of mind that you've got everything covered.
Where to live in Long Beach
Ready to relocate to Aquatic Capital of America? Here are some of the top neighborhoods to consider in Long Beach.
Best neighborhoods for singles
- Belmont Shore
- Recreation Park
- Carroll Park
- Alamitos Beach
- Bluff Heights
Best neighborhoods for families
- Bixby Village
- Los Altos
- Wrigley Heights
- Park Estates
- Alamitos Heights
Things to do in Long Beach
Now that you've made the move to California, it's the perfect time to explore Long Beach. From local hotspots to hidden gems, there's something to enjoy for every lifestyle:
- Arts and culture: Cultural attractions in Long Beach include museums and art centers like the The Queen Mary, Museum of Latin American Art, Rancho Los Cerritos, and Long Beach Museum of Art.
- Outdoor recreation: Outdoor lovers will appreciate Bluff Park, Rainbow Lagoon Park, Bixby Park, and El Dorado Park West, along with many other spots perfect for walking, cycling, and fresh air adventures.
- Sports: Catch a live game and cheer on the home team at an game.
FAQ
When is the best time to move from Madison to Long Beach?
Spring and fall are the ideal times to move from Madison to Long Beach. You'll benefit from more comfortable weather and avoid the higher prices that come with peak moving season in Madison.
When is the cheapest time to move from Madison to Long Beach?
With many people choosing to move from Madison to Long Beach in spring or fall, winter moves often come with better rates. Take a look at our moving discounts guide to find out how to save.
How long does a move from Madison to Long Beach take?
Covering 1,979 miles, the move from Madison, WI to Long Beach, CA typically takes five to 16 days. Some Madison movers may offer faster options, and if your timing is flexible, storage services in Long Beach can help bridge the gap.
How many movers in Madison can handle specialty items for my move to Long Beach?
Specialty moving services aren’t offered by every company. In Madison, 3 movers can handle pianos. 1 offer antique moving services. Compared to the rest of WI, there are 25 piano movers and 13 antique movers, while nationwide the numbers are 2,296 and 1,463 respectively.
If you need these services, it’s best to book early — availability can be limited, especially during peak moving months.
