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($937) Cost to Move From Minneapolis, MN to Madison, WI

Easily compare and book your next move with moveBuddha
Estimated cost & time: Relocating 268 miles from Minneapolis to Madison typically costs between $308 and $4,638. The trip is expected to last from one–four days. Costs depend on factors like distance, date, home size, and your choice between DIY or professional services.
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Best movers from Minneapolis to Madison

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

Best movers by type

Professional Icon
Professional
Container Icon
Container
Rental Truck Icon
Rental Truck
Freight Icon
Labor Only

Best professional movers from Minneapolis to Madison

Opting for a full-service mover can make your interstate move from Minneapolis to Madison 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.

In Minneapolis, there are 26 interstate moving companies that can assist you. Discover our top picks that ensure a relaxed and efficient move to Madison.

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
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
North American Van Lines
checkmark 1,800 trucks
checkmark Storage available
checkmark Customized moving plans

Estimated cost to move from Minneapolis to Madison

These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 268-mile move from Minneapolis to Madison using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 07, 2025. moveBuddha’s database includes thousands of authenticated prices from movers around the country, refreshed monthly to capture seasonal swings and market movement. Your final quote can change based on volume, extra services, parking or access hurdles, fuel rates, and timing. It’s wise to request quotes from multiple providers to nail down a precise range.
Studio Icon

Studio / 1 bedroom

  • Moving Company $1,020 – $3,525
  • Moving Container $797 – $1,535
  • Rental Truck $296 – $508
Two Three Bed Icon

2-3 bedrooms

  • Moving Company $1,585 – $4,638
  • Moving Container $1,082 – $2,027
  • Rental Truck $308 – $644
Four Bed Icon

4+ bedrooms

  • Moving Company $2,097 – $5,689
  • Moving Container $1,399 – $2,536
  • Rental Truck $385 – $700
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.
Safeway Moving
Circle Pines, MN Arlington, WI
1 Bedroom (small)
Oct 23, 2025
Colonial Van Lines
New Brighton, MN McFarland, WI
1 Bedroom (small)
Oct 23, 2025
American Van Lines
Burnsville, MN Merrimac, WI
Studio apartment
Oct 22, 2025
North American Van Lines
Dellwood, MN North Freedom, WI
1 Bedroom (large)
Sep 30, 2025
BLVD Moving
St. Anthony, MN Wyocena, WI
1 Bedroom (small)
Sep 29, 2025
Allied Van Lines
Eagan, MN Rio, WI
Studio apartment
Sep 27, 2025
1-800-Pack-Rat
Center City, MN Reeseville, WI
1 Bedroom (small)
Sep 24, 2025
Mayzlin Relocation
Oakdale, MN Argyle, WI
3 Bedrooms
Sep 18, 2025
PODS
Hilltop, MN DeForest, WI
1 Bedroom (large)
Sep 18, 2025
United Van Lines
New Germany, MN Browntown, WI
4 Bedrooms
Sep 09, 2025

Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from Madison, WI to Minneapolis, MN guide.

Top-rated movers to make your Minneapolis to Madison move easy

Finding a trusted local moving company in Minneapolis that offers long-distance services to Madison can be a challenge. Good news — we’ve done the homework for you. Our team reviewed 34 top local movers in Minneapolis who handle long-distance moves, evaluating them based on pricing, service offerings, and customer satisfaction.

These are the best local movers for your long-distance move from Minneapolis to Madison.

  1. Matt’s Moving Company : 4.7 out of 5 stars
  2. Piepho Moving & Storage, Inc.: 4.64 out of 5 stars
  3. AAA Movers: 4.62 out of 5 stars
  4. The Move Crew: 4.44 out of 5 stars
  5. Ace Moving & Warehousing: 4.5 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
92.2% of all reviews were positive
6.7% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Matt’s Moving Company earns rave reviews for speed, professionalism, careful handling, and great communication. Customer feedback highlights efficient, friendly teams who make relocation stress-free and consistently deliver on promises. Out of 268 reviews, 92% are positive, a rate few competitors meet. Most praise comes from fast, careful moves and courteous service. Some clients also note excellent organizational skills and timely arrival, making them a top choice among local movers. Negative input, making up less than 7%, focuses on property damage, late crews, and unexpected costs—issues seen in the moving industry but typically resolved at Matt’s Moving. Neutral feedback, just over 1%, references broken items and high pricing for smaller moves, though most still mention professionalism. Compared to similar companies, Matt’s Moving stands out for reliability, positive energy, and an ability to exceed expectations—balanced by the need for occasional improvement in scheduling accuracy and claims handling.
Get a Quote (651) 210-8271

Company Info

State license #: 374236

Years in Business: 17

DOT #: 1704106

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
91.6% of all reviews were positive
6.8% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving made easy—Piepho Moving & Storage collects high marks from customers, with 91.6% of 250 reviews praising their service. Clients consistently note professional and courteous staff, clear communication, efficiency, careful handling, and quick moving processes. Many describe stress-free moves, punctual teams, and possessions arriving in perfect condition. Compared with many moving companies, Piepho receives more compliments for staff professionalism and responsiveness. Some negative input highlights item damage, issues with communication, and lateness on deliveries as main complaints. While problems do occur, especially during rare cross-country moves or complex shipments, these are much less common than positive feedback. Overall, most customers find Piepho reliable, skilled, and worth recommending for seamless moves.
Get a Quote (651) 372-3494

Company Info

State license #: 286311

Years in Business: 73

DOT #: 286311

Alternate Names: Rochester Transfer & Storage Company

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Crane vans
  • Shipment tracking
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Safes
  • Pay by money order
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
61.3% of all reviews were positive
38.2% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving customers in the Twin Cities consistently rave about AAA Movers’ efficient, professional crews and careful handling of property—231 out of 377 feedback submissions (61%) praised these qualities. Clients commend fast-moving teams, polite and communicative staff, and reliable service. Many found booking straightforward and appreciated cost transparency when moves stayed on budget. Some even noted that their final bills came in under estimates due to speedy work—a step above many moving companies. Yet, 38% of input pointed to concerning problems. The most frequent issues involve damage to items, often with insufficient reimbursement, and costs exceeding initial quotes by substantial amounts. Poor complaint handling and slow response times are reported when problems need resolution. A noticeable number of customers experienced communication gaps after reporting losses or property damage. AAA Movers delivers reliable, courteous service at the truck, but dispute resolution leaves many dissatisfied. While positive experiences outpace negatives, those considering AAA should scrutinize contract details and expected costs to avoid surprises.
Get a Quote (612) 588-6683

Company Info

Years in Business: 36

DOT #: 1140502

Alternate Names: AAA Movers Inc of Minnesota

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
94.2% of all reviews were positive
3.7% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Top ratings and glowing feedback paint The Move Crew as a standout among moving companies. Out of 295 customer reviews analyzed, 94% expressed highly positive experiences. Reviewers frequently mention efficient service, professionalism, careful handling of belongings, smooth and quick moving processes, and clear communication. Customers highlight the movers’ punctuality, solid teamwork, and transparent rates that usually align with or come under estimates. Competitive pricing and a reputation for exceeding expectations contribute to frequent recommendations and repeat business. In comparison to many moving firms, The Move Crew consistently delivers reliable, fast, and considerate relocations—whether across town or interstate. Complaints are rare, but some users report issues with damaged furniture or property, costs higher than anticipated, and delays or lack of follow-up during claims or repairs. Neutral feedback most often points to billing minimums or subpar time management. While most customers praise speed, courtesy, and attention to detail, a small fraction urge future customers to clarify insurance claims and estimates closely. The Move Crew leads its industry in service quality, with only a handful of reported disappointments amid a vast majority of satisfied clients.
Get a Quote (612) 361-6787

Company Info

State license #: 380620

Years in Business: 10

DOT #: 2552505

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
89.5% of all reviews were positive
9.7% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Feedback about Ace Moving & Warehousing makes moving feel less daunting. With 238 total reviews, nearly 90% of customers describe positive experiences. Customers praise efficient service, professionalism, careful handling, strong communication, and quick moves. Many report that staff handle belongings with great care, and booking is straightforward. Movers are consistently described as friendly, on time, and ready to go the extra mile. Some mention competitive pricing and knowledgeable estimators, which are rare assets among movers. Negative input centers around inaccurate cost estimates, lost items, and difficulty getting timely follow-up when something goes wrong. While most customers say their valuables arrive undamaged, a few report unresolved insurance claims or poor resolution of lost or damaged property. Ace is noted for professional service and efficiency well above many competitors, but those considering complex or long-distance moves should push for clear documentation and maintain open communication during the process.
Get a Quote (763) 755-2045

Company Info

Years in Business: 17

DOT #: 125550

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Shipment tracking
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • DOD certified

How much does it cost to move from Minneapolis to Madison?

In Minnesota, moving services typically cost around $209 per hour. Below are standard prices for hiring a full-service moving company, renting a moving container, or a truck:

Move size Moving company Moving container Rental
truck
Studio / 1 bedroom $937 – $3,010 $555 – $1,324 $290 – $533
2 – 3 bedrooms $1,585 – $4,638 $1,082 – $2,027 $308 – $644
4+ bedrooms $2,097 – $5,689 $1,399 – $2,536 $385 – $700
*These ranges provide an approximation for a 268-mile move from Minneapolis to Madison, calculated from moveBuddha’s pricing dataset as of Nov 07, 2025. moveBuddha collects thousands of verified rates from movers nationwide and refreshes the data monthly to reflect seasonal variability and market conditions. Actual charges can vary with shipment size, extra services, parking or access issues, fuel rates, and scheduling. To get a reliable estimate, request quotes from multiple movers.

Cost to hire movers from Minneapolis to Madison

If you’re packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move to Madison from Minneapolis, you can expect prices to land between $937 and $3,010. For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from $1,585 to $4,638 for the trip from Minneapolis to Madison. If you’re moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you’re likely looking at a price tag between $2,097 and $5,689.

Cost of moving containers from Minneapolis to Madison

Moving containers from Minneapolis to Madison will cost you $555 to $1,324 for a small move. For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $1,082 to $2,027. A four-bedroom move or bigger will cost $1,399 to $2,536. Learn more about PODS cost.

Here are the cheapest moving container companies when moving out of Minnesota.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Minneapolis to Madison

Renting a moving truck from Minneapolis to Madison typically costs the least, but you’ll be responsible for both the heavy lifting and all the driving.

Expect to pay between $290 and $533 to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move, prices usually range from $308 to $644. If you’re relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you’ll likely spend anywhere from $385 to $700.

These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.

Key factors that impact the cost of your Minneapolis to Madison move

The cost of Minneapolis movers will depend on:

  • Home size: The number of rooms makes a big difference. Expect around $1,245 for a one-bedroom, or up to $5,164 for a four-bedroom.
  • The time of year you’re moving: Rates climb in summer because of peak season demand in Minneapolis.
  • DIY vs. professional: Rental trucks can range from $290 to $701, but require more effort than hiring movers.

What to know before moving from Minneapolis to Madison

Expect a bump in monthly expenses after the move – Madison runs about -41% higher for singles and 16% higher for families than Minneapolis.

Singles spend around $2,292 in Minneapolis versus $3,900 in Minneapolis; families pay $5,457 compared with $4,710.

Dig into the side-by-side details here:

Minneapolis Madison
Average 1 BR rent $1,688 $1,693
Average 3 BR rent $2,707 $3,100
Average home value $312,602 $367,934
Average income (per capita) $70,099 $62,919
Cost of living (single) $3,900 $2,292
Cost of living (family of four) $4,710 $5,457
Unemployment rate 4.5% 3.3%
Sales tax 9.03% 5.5%
State income tax 9.85% 7.65%
  • Planning a move to Madison? Keep in mind that rent could be approximately 8% higher than in Minneapolis, so be sure to adjust your monthly expenses accordingly.
  • Anticipate a larger mortgage expense since home prices in Madison are about 18% higher than those in Minneapolis.
  • Reviewing your financial plan is wise before moving. The average income is nearly 10% lower in Madison compared to Minneapolis.
  • You’ll save on routine expenses like food, gas, and utilities in Madison, as the cost of living for a single person is 41% lower compared to Minneapolis.
  • If you’re moving your family to Madison, keep in mind that your living expenses could increase. The cost of living for a family in Madison is 16% higher than in Minneapolis.
  • The unemployment rate in Madison is about 27% lower than in Minneapolis. This is often a positive indicator of a robust job market and economic health, beneficial if you plan to move there.
  • Sales taxes are 39% less in Madison relative to Minneapolis. This will help shrink your living expenses, especially if you tend to buy more taxable goods.
  • Income taxes in Wisconsin are 22% below those in Minnesota. 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 Minneapolis and Madison:

Living Expense Minneapolis Madison
Basic utilities $164.65 $215.88
Cell phone plan $50.68 $50.44
Dozen eggs $4.15 $4.04
Loaf of bread $3.75 $3.75
Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) $18.00 $15.00
Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) $75.00 $77.50
Gym membership $55.00 $64.29
  • Basic utilities cost less in Minneapolis than in Madison, helping trim your monthly bills.
  • Cell phone plans typically cost more in Minneapolis than in Madison.
  • Eggs cost more in Minneapolis than in Madison.
  • Bread costs are about the same in both places.
  • A quick meal tends to cost more in Minneapolis than in Madison.
  • A mid-range dinner for two costs less in Minneapolis than in Madison.
  • Gym memberships are more affordable in Minneapolis than in Madison.

How life is different in Minneapolis vs. Madison

Minneapolis Madison
Population 425,115 269,840
Transportation score 8 6
Walkability score 71 50
Bike friendliness score 83 66
Crime index 56.06 34.57
Safety index 43.94 65.43
Air quality Good Good
  • Madison’s population is about 37% less than Minneapolis.
  • Madison’s public transportation score of 6 out of 10 is lower than Minneapolis’s score of 8.
  • Madison is less walkable than Minneapolis with a score of 50 out of 100 vs Minneapolis’s 71 out of 100.
  • Madison has a bike-friendliness score of 66 out of 100, which means it isn’t as accessible or safe for cyclists as Minneapolis, which has a score of 83.
  • Madison’s crime rate is lower than Minneapolis with a score of 34.57 compared to Minneapolis’s 56.06. This means that Madison neighborhoods are safer than 34.57% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Minneapolis neighborhoods are safer than 56.06%.
  • Madison is considered to be safer than Minneapolis with a safety index of 65.43 vs Minneapolis’s 43.94.
  • Air quality in Madison is Good, and in Minneapolis it’s Good.

Other things to consider for your Minneapolis to Madison 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: Movers providing in-state relocation services in the Badger State must register with the Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT), but strictly speaking, it’s not a regulated state. However, movers must comply with individual insurance, licensing, and other state laws and regulations. Before booking, ensure the moving company is officially licensed to handle your move.
  • State regulator: Wisconsin’s public utilities commission provides official mover license verification.
  • Moving Permits: Wisconsin 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 Madison. Start the process here.
  • Moving company insurance: The amount and type of insurance movers must have depends on state regulations. For a secure move in Wisconsin, explore movers’ insurance options to safeguard your belongings. Many moving companies offer Released Value Protection at no extra cost, covering items at 60 cents per pound. Elevate your protection with discussions on Full Value Protection or explore customized plans from third-party insurance providers. Understand coverage limits, potential extra costs, and read reviews to make an informed decision on your Wisconsin state moving insurance. Ensure a smooth and protected relocation experience with the right insurance coverage.
  • Moving checklist: Our moving checklist gives you the peace of mind that comes with being fully prepared.

Where to live in Madison

Planning your move to Mad City? Take a look at our picks for the best neighborhoods to call home in Madison.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • Madison
  • Shorewood Hills
  • Middleton
  • Fitchburg
  • Maple Bluff
  • Monona
  • Columbus
  • Sun Prairie
  • Lake Mills
  • Verona

Best neighborhoods for families

  • Dudgeon-Monroe
  • Hill Farms-University
  • Maple-Prairie
  • Westmorland
  • Wexford

Things to do in Madison

After settling into your new Wisconsin home, you’ll want to branch out and explore your new city. Luckily, Madison has lots to offer, no matter what you’re interested in:

  • Arts and culture: Madison features a variety of museums and cultural arts centers, including the Chazen Museum of Art, Madison Children’s Museum, Wisconsin Veterans Museum, and Wisconsin Historical Museum.
  • Outdoor recreation: The city’s Olbrich Botanical Gardens, University of Wisconsin-Madison Arboretum, Lake Mendota, and Allen Centennial Gardens — 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 Wisconsin Badgers (NCAA)Madison Mallards (Baseball)Madison Radicals (AUDL)Madison Capitols (United States Hockey League)Forward Madison (USL League One) game.

FAQ

When is the best time to move from Minneapolis to Madison?

Planning your move from Minneapolis to Madison? Aim for spring or fall when the weather is pleasant and demand is lower, helping you avoid peak-season rates in Minneapolis.

When is the cheapest time to move from Minneapolis to Madison?

Because most people are moving from Minneapolis to Madison 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 Minneapolis to Madison take?

The 268-mile journey from Minneapolis, MN to Madison, , typically takes one to four days. Some movers in Minneapolis offer expedited services if you’re on a tight schedule, and if you need extra time, be sure to ask about storage options in Madison.

Are there special savings available from movers in Minneapolis?

Several movers here offer discounted rates that can help lower your total moving costs. 3 provide savings for AAA members. 1 extend reduced rates to seniors.

These offers can vary widely, so it’s best to verify details with the mover before booking.

Are piano and antique moving services available in Minneapolis?

Not all movers have the resources to handle high-value or delicate items. In Minneapolis, 28 movers can manage piano relocations. 13 movers are equipped for antique transport. By comparison, Minnesota has 42 piano movers and 17 antique movers, while nationwide there are 2,303 and 1,466 respectively.

Always confirm the mover’s experience and packing methods for fragile or specialty items before booking.

Helpful moving resources

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