($1,200) Movers From Grand Rapids, MI to Madison, WI

What to know before moving from Grand Rapids to Madison

Moving from Grand Rapids to Madison means adjusting to a different pace of life — and a different price tag. On average, it costs significantly more to live in Grand Rapids than in Madison, making the move an opportunity for many to enjoy a lower cost of living.

Check out how Grand Rapids compares to Madison so you know what to expect before you relocate:

• Rent prices in Madison are 4% lower than in Grand Rapids, 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 Grand Rapids.
  Home prices in Madison are 12.1% higher than in Grand Rapids.
• Income is the same in Madison and Grand Rapids. The top employers in Madison include Datex Ohmeda, American Family Insurance, and Fairway Independent Mortgage.
• The cost of living for a single person in Madison is 57.0% lower than in Grand Rapids. This includes routine expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transportation.
• The cost of living for a family in Madison is 23.8% lower than in Grand Rapids.
• The unemployment rate in Madison is 23.26% lower than in Grand Rapids.
• You’ll spend less on retail and restaurants in Madison, since the city’s sales taxes in Madison are 8.33% lower than in Grand Rapids.
• State income taxes in Madison are 80.00% higher than in Grand Rapids.

To put this in perspective, you would need around $1,289.33 in Madison to maintain the same standard of life that you can have with $3,000.00 in Grand Rapids.

How life is different in Grand Rapids vs. Madison

• Madison's population is about 36% greater than Grand Rapids.
• Madison's public transportation has a similar score to Grand Rapids.
• Madison is less walkable than Grand Rapids with a score of 50 out of 100 vs Grand Rapids's 56 out of 100.
• With a score of 66 out of 100, Madison is more bike-friendly than Grand Rapids, which has a score of 52 out of 100. The higher a city's score, the more suited they are to safely accommodating cyclists.
• Madison's crime rate is lower than Grand Rapids with a score of 34.57 compared to Grand Rapids's 44.23. This means that Madison neighborhoods are safer than 34.57% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Grand Rapids neighborhoods are safer than 44.23%.
• Madison is considered to be safer than Grand Rapids with a safety index of 65.43 vs Grand Rapids's 55.77.
• Air quality in Madison is good, and in Grand Rapids it's good.

Other things to consider for your Grand Rapids 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