Factors that influence moving costs from Billings to Madisontoggle

The cost of Billings movers will depend on:

  • Move size: How much you're moving directly affects the cost. A one-bedroom move from Billings to Madison might cost as little as $1,611, while a four-bedroom home could reach up to $9,689.
  • Time of year: Summer is considered peak moving season in Billings, which often leads to higher prices from moving companies.
  • DIY vs. full-service: Renting a truck or using a container can be more affordable, with truck rentals ranging from $813 to $2,135. Just keep in mind these options involve more hands-on work than hiring professionals.

What to know before moving from Billings to Madison

Moving from Billings to Madison comes with exciting new opportunities โ€” but also higher living costs. Since Madison is generally more expensive than Billings, itโ€™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:

Billings Madison
Average rent cost $1,300 $1,600
Average home value $381,592 $367,934
Average income (per capita) $63,515 $62,919
Cost of living (single person) $1,773 $2,292
Cost of living (family of 4) $4,536 $5,457
Unemployment rate 4.1% 3.3%
Sales tax 0.0% 5.5%
State income tax 6.75% 7.65%
  • Rent prices in Madison are 23% higher than in Billings, which means youโ€™ll have less money in your pocket each month.
  • In terms of homeownership, youโ€™ll be able to get more for your money in Madison.
    Home prices in Madison are 3.6% lower than in Billings.
  • Income is the same in Madison and Billings. 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 29.3% higher than in Billings. This includes routine expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transportation.
  • If youโ€™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 20.3% higher than in Billings.
  • The unemployment rate in Madison is 19.51% lower than in Billings.
  • Youโ€™ll spend more on retail and restaurants in Madison, since the cityโ€™s sales taxes in Madison are 5.50% higher than in Billings.
  • State income taxes in Madison are 13.33% higher than in Billings.

To put this in perspective, you would need around $3,878.17 in Madison to maintain the same standard of life that you can have with $3,000.00 in Billings.

How life is different in Billings vs. Madison

Madison Billings
Population 269,840 184,167
AllTransit Transportation Performance Score 6 3
Walkability score 50 35
Bike friendliness score 66 47
Crime Index 34.57 48.63
Safety Index 65.43 50.37
Air Quality Good Good
  • Madison's population is about 47% greater than Billings.
  • Madison's public transportation has a score of 6 out of 10 versus Billings's lower score of 3.
  • Madison is more walkable than Billings with a score of 50 out of 100 vs Billings's 35 out of 100.
  • With a score of 66 out of 100, Madison is more bike-friendly than Billings, which has a score of 47 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 Billings with a score of 34.57 compared to Billings's 48.63. This means that Madison neighborhoods are safer than 34.57% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Billings neighborhoods are safer than 48.63%.
  • Madison is considered to be safer than Billings with a safety index of 65.43 vs Billings's 50.37.
  • Air quality in Madison is good, and in Billings it's good.

Other things to consider for your Billings 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, itโ€™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\โ€™t require moving permits, but it\โ€™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. Youโ€™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.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • Shorewood Hills
  • Middleton
  • Fitchburg
  • Sun Prairie
  • 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, youโ€™ll want to branch out and explore your new city. Luckily, Madison has lots to offer, no matter what youโ€™re interested in:

  • Arts and culture: Madison is home to museums and cultural arts centers like the Chazen Museum of Art, Madison Children's Museum, Wisconsin Veterans Museum, Wisconsin Historical Museum, and University of Wisconsin Geology Museum.
  • Outdoor recreation: The cityโ€™s Olbrich Botanical Gardens, University of Wisconsin-Madison Arboretum, Lake Mendota, and Allen Centennial Gardens โ€” among other sites โ€” are great places to hike, ride bikes, or just enjoy nature.
  • Sports: Catch a live game and cheer on the home team at an Wisconsin Badgers (NCAA), Madison Mallards (Baseball), Madison Radicals (AUDL), or Madison Capitols (United States Hockey League) game.

FAQ

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

Spring and fall are the ideal times to move from Billings to Madison. Youโ€™ll benefit from more comfortable weather and avoid the higher prices that come with peak moving season in Billings.

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

Since spring and fall are the most popular times to move from Billings to Madison, moving in the winter could help you save money. Check out our guide on moving discounts for more tips.

How long does a move from Billings to Madison take?

The 1,106-mile journey from Billings, MT to Madison, WI typically takes two to eight days. Some movers in Billings 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.

Helpful moving resources