($1,270) Movers From Ann Arbor, MI to Madison, WI

What to know before moving from Ann Arbor to Madison

Moving from Ann Arbor to Madison comes with exciting new opportunities — but also higher living costs. Since Madison is generally more expensive than Ann Arbor, it’s important to plan ahead and budget carefully for the change.

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

• Rent prices in Madison are 29% lower than in Ann Arbor, which means you’ll have more money in your pocket each month.
• In terms of homeownership, you’ll be able to get more for your money in Madison.
  Home prices in Madison are 22.5% lower than in Ann Arbor.
• Income in Madison is 6.0% lower than in Ann Arbor, so you could earn less for doing the same job. The top employers in Madison include Datex Ohmeda, American Family Insurance, and Fairway Independent Mortgage.
• Be sure to budget for higher bills in Madison, since the cost of living for a single person in Madison is 5.3% higher than in Ann Arbor. This includes routine expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transportation.
• 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 2.1% higher than in Ann Arbor.
• The unemployment rate in Madison is 5.71% lower than in Ann Arbor.
• You’ll spend less on retail and restaurants in Madison, since the city’s sales taxes in Madison are 8.33% lower than in Ann Arbor.
• State income taxes in Madison are 80.00% higher than in Ann Arbor.

To put this in perspective, you would need around $3,159.93 in Madison to maintain the same standard of life that you can have with $3,000.00 in Ann Arbor.

How life is different in Ann Arbor vs. Madison

• Madison's population is about 118% greater than Ann Arbor.
• Madison's public transportation has a score of 6 out of 10 versus Ann Arbor's higher score of 7.
• Madison and Ann Arbor are similarily walkable.
• Madison has a bike-friendliness score 66 out of 100, which means it isn't as accessible to and safe for cyclists as Ann Arbor, which has a score of 71 out of 100.
• Madison and Ann Arbor have a similar crime rate.
• Madison is considered to be less safe than Ann Arbor with a score of 65.43 vs Ann Arbor's 79.18.
• Air quality in Madison is good, and in Ann Arbor it's moderate.

Other things to consider for your Ann Arbor vs. Madison move

• Weather: August, June and July are the most pleasant months in Madison, while January and December are the least comfortable months for any relocation activities.
• HOA rules: Be sure to review your community or HOA guidelines before moving day to avoid any surprises or delays.
• Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator, make sure to find out how to reserve it ahead of your move.
• Truck parking permits: Many cities require special permits for parking large moving trucks. Check in advance to see if one is needed for your move.
• 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.Double-check that the moving company is properly licensed before you hire them.
• State regulator: You can check the status of a Wisconsin moving license through the state's public utilities commission.
• Moving permits: Wisconsin doesn\’t require moving permits, but it\’s still a good idea to check local parking rules before your move-in day.
• 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: Each state has its own requirements for the level of insurance moving companies must carry.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: Use our moving checklist to stay on top of every detail and reduce last-minute stress.

Where to live in Madison

Ready to relocate to "Mad City"? Here are some of the top neighborhoods to consider in Madison.

Helpful moving resources