Factors that influence moving costs from Raleigh to Madisontoggle

The cost of Raleigh movers will depend on:

  • Move size: How much you're moving directly affects the cost. A one-bedroom move from Raleigh to Madison might cost as little as $1,410, while a four-bedroom home could reach up to $7,570.
  • Time of year: Summer is considered peak moving season in Raleigh, 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 $774 to $1,807. Just keep in mind these options involve more hands-on work than hiring professionals.

What to know before moving from Raleigh to Madison

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

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

Raleigh Madison
Average rent cost $1,670 $1,600
Average home value $431,795 $367,934
Average income (per capita) $2,572 $62,919
Cost of living (single person) $6,077 $2,292
Cost of living (family of 4) $6,077 $5,457
Unemployment rate 4.3% 3.3%
Sales tax 7.25% 5.5%
State income tax 4.5% 7.65%
  • Rent prices in Madison are 4% lower than in Raleigh, which means youโ€™ll have more 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 14.8% lower than in Raleigh.
  • Income in Madison is 2,346.3% higher than in Raleigh, so you could earn more for doing the same job. 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 62.3% lower than in Raleigh. This includes routine expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transportation.
  • The cost of living for a family in Madison is 10.2% lower than in Raleigh.
  • The unemployment rate in Madison is 23.26% lower than in Raleigh.
  • Youโ€™ll spend less on retail and restaurants in Madison, since the cityโ€™s sales taxes in Madison are 24.14% lower than in Raleigh.
  • State income taxes in Madison are 70.00% higher than in Raleigh.

To put this in perspective, you would need around $1,131.48 in Madison to maintain the same standard of life that you can have with $3,000.00 in Raleigh.

How life is different in Raleigh vs. Madison

Madison Raleigh
Population 269,840 467,665
AllTransit Transportation Performance Score 6 4
Walkability score 50 31
Bike friendliness score 66 39
Crime Index 34.57 38.87
Safety Index 65.43 60.13
Air Quality Good Moderate
  • Madison's population is about 42% less than Raleigh.
  • Madison's public transportation has a score of 6 out of 10 versus Raleigh's lower score of 4.
  • Madison is more walkable than Raleigh with a score of 50 out of 100 vs Raleigh's 31 out of 100.
  • With a score of 66 out of 100, Madison is more bike-friendly than Raleigh, which has a score of 39 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 Raleigh with a score of 34.57 compared to Raleigh's 38.87. This means that Madison neighborhoods are safer than 34.57% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Raleigh neighborhoods are safer than 38.87%.
  • Madison is considered to be safer than Raleigh with a safety index of 65.43 vs Raleigh's 60.13.
  • Air quality in Madison is good, and in Raleigh it's moderate.

Other things to consider for your Raleigh 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: To keep things running smoothly, make sure you're familiar with any HOA or community moving policies before the big day.
  • Elevator reservation: Make sure to arrange elevator access in advance if your building requires reservations for moving.
  • Truck parking permits: Make sure to look into local parking regulationsโ€”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, itโ€™s not a regulated state. However, movers must comply with individual insurance, licensing, and other state laws and regulations. Ensure the company you choose is licensed to handle your move.
  • State regulator: You can verify a Wisconsin moving company\โ€™s license by visiting the state'spublic utilities commission
  • Moving permits: You wonโ€™t need a moving permit in Wisconsin, though it\โ€™s smart to double-check any local parking restrictions ahead of your move.
  • Change of address: To avoid missing any mail, we recommend submitting your USPS change of address form at least a week before your move. You can choose your official move date to make sure everything gets forwarded properly toMadison 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: Let our moving checklist guide you through the process and help ensure nothing slips through the cracks.

Where to live in Madison

Now that youโ€™ve chosen "Mad City" as your next home, here are a few of the best neighborhoods in Madison to check out.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • Fitchburg
  • Maple Bluff
  • Monona
  • Columbus
  • Lake Mills

Best neighborhoods for families

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

Things to do in Madison

Now that you've made the move to Wisconsin, itโ€™s the perfect time to explore Madison. From local hotspots to hidden gems, thereโ€™s something to enjoy for every lifestyle:

  • Arts and culture: Youโ€™ll find museums and cultural hubs throughout Madison, such as 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€” along with other locations, ideal for trails, cycling, or enjoying the fresh air.
  • Sports: Experience the energy of a live game and back 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 Raleigh to Madison?

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

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

Since spring and fall are the most popular times to move from Raleigh 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 Raleigh to Madison take?

The 951-mile journey from Raleigh, NC to Madison, WI typically takes two to seven days. Some movers in Raleigh 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