Top-rated movers to make your Cincinnati to Madison move easy
Finding a trusted local moving company in Cincinnati that offers long-distance services to Madison can be a challenge. Good news — we’ve done the homework for you. Our team reviewed 12 top local movers in Cincinnati 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 Cincinnati to Madison.
- TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.62 out of 5 stars
- Leaders Moving & Storage Co.: 4.58 out of 5 stars
- Clark and Sons Moving: 4.44 out of 5 stars
- Smooth Move Relocation Services: 4.42 out of 5 stars
- Bellhop Moving: 4.34 out of 5 stars
Company Info
Years in Business: 21
DOT #: 2527384
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Pianos
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 136562
Years in Business: 30
DOT #: 1237577
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Crating
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 604361
Years in Business: 7
DOT #: 2962688
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Crating
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 00604903
Years in Business: 23
DOT #: 1878284
Alternate Names: Smooth Move Relocation Services LLC
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 2878240
Years in Business: 13
DOT #: 2878240
Alternate Names: Bellhops Moving Help
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
How much does it cost to move from Cincinnati to Madison?
In Ohio, moving services typically cost around $153 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 | $1,144 – $3,247 | $666 – $1,492 | $388 – $721 |
| 2 – 3 bedrooms | $1,981 – $5,163 | $1,136 – $2,293 | $422 – $822 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $3,149 – $7,614 | $1,538 – $2,876 | $510 – $1,008 |
Cost to hire movers from Cincinnati to Madison
If you’re packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move to Madison from Cincinnati, you can expect prices to land between $1,144 and $3,247. For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from $1,981 to $5,163 for the trip from Cincinnati to Madison. If you’re moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you’re likely looking at a price tag between $3,149 and $7,614.
Cost of moving containers from Cincinnati to Madison
Moving containers from Cincinnati to Madison will cost you $666 to $1,492 for a small move. For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $1,136 to $2,293. A four-bedroom move or bigger will cost $1,538 to $2,876. Learn more about PODS cost.
Here are the cheapest moving container companies when moving out of Ohio.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Cincinnati to Madison
Renting a moving truck from Cincinnati to Madison typically costs the least, but you’ll be responsible for both the heavy lifting and all the driving.
Expect to pay between $388 and $721 to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move, prices usually range from $422 to $822. If you’re relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you’ll likely spend anywhere from $510 to $1,008.
These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.
Key factors that impact the cost of your Cincinnati to Madison move
The cost of Cincinnati movers will depend on:
- Home size: The number of rooms makes a big difference. Expect around $1,525 for a one-bedroom, or up to $6,454 for a four-bedroom.
- The time of year you’re moving: Rates climb in summer because of peak season demand in Cincinnati.
- DIY vs. professional: Rental trucks can range from $388 to $855, but require more effort than hiring movers.
What to know before moving from Cincinnati to Madison
Many movers find Madison easier on the wallet than Cincinnati – roughly 7% less for singles and 15% less for families.
Monthly basics average $2,292 for one person in Madison versus $2,467 in Cincinnati. For a family of four, it’s $5,457 compared with $6,418.
See the cost breakdown below to pinpoint where the savings add up:
| Cincinnati | Madison | |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1 BR rent | $1,488 | $1,693 |
| Average 3 BR rent | $2,893 | $3,100 |
| Average home value | $232,735 | $367,934 |
| Average income (per capita) | $65,682 | $62,919 |
| Cost of living (single) | $2,467 | $2,292 |
| Cost of living (family of four) | $6,418 | $5,457 |
| Unemployment rate | 4.9% | 3.3% |
| Sales tax | 6.5% | 5.5% |
| State income tax | 3.5% | 7.65% |
- Planning a move to Madison? Keep in mind that rent could be approximately 10% higher than in Cincinnati, so be sure to adjust your monthly expenses accordingly.
- Anticipate a larger mortgage expense since home prices in Madison are about 58% higher than those in Cincinnati.
- In terms of average income, Madison and Cincinnati are closely matched, within a 5% range, keeping your financial situation largely unchanged.
- You’ll save on routine expenses like food, gas, and utilities in Madison, as the cost of living for a single person is 7% lower compared to Cincinnati.
- A move to Madison can help cut down on a family’s routine expenses, including utilities, transportation, and groceries. The cost of living for a family of four is 15% less than what it costs in Cincinnati.
- The unemployment rate in Madison is about 33% lower than in Cincinnati. This is often a positive indicator of a robust job market and economic health, beneficial if you plan to move there.
- Sales taxes are 15% less in Madison relative to Cincinnati. This will help shrink your living expenses, especially if you tend to buy more taxable goods.
- Income taxes in Wisconsin are 119% above those in Ohio. Consequently, more of your income may be allocated to tax payments, which could diminish your overall earnings.
See how the cost of everyday necessities and regular monthly payments differs between Cincinnati and Madison:
| Living Expense | Cincinnati | Madison |
|---|---|---|
| Basic utilities | $128.95 | $215.88 |
| Cell phone plan | $56.81 | $50.44 |
| Dozen eggs | $3.26 | $4.04 |
| Loaf of bread | $3.30 | $3.75 |
| Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) | $15.00 | $15.00 |
| Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) | $60.00 | $77.50 |
| Gym membership | $30.82 | $64.29 |
- Basic utilities cost less in Cincinnati than in Madison, helping trim your monthly bills.
- Cell phone plans typically cost more in Cincinnati than in Madison.
- Eggs are less expensive in Cincinnati than in Madison.
- Bread costs less in Cincinnati than in Madison.
- The cost of a quick meal is about the same in both cities.
- A mid-range dinner for two costs less in Cincinnati than in Madison.
- Gym memberships are more affordable in Cincinnati than in Madison.
How life is different in Cincinnati vs. Madison
| Cincinnati | Madison | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 309,317 | 269,840 |
| Transportation score | 6 | 6 |
| Walkability score | 49 | 50 |
| Bike friendliness score | 36 | 66 |
| Crime index | 48.47 | 34.57 |
| Safety index | 49.53 | 65.43 |
| Air quality | Good | Good |
- Madison’s population is about 13% less than Cincinnati.
- Madison’s public transportation score is within about 5% of Cincinnati, making them very similar.
- Madison and Cincinnati are similarly walkable.
- With a score of 66 out of 100, Madison is more bike-friendly than Cincinnati, which has a score of 36 out of 100. The higher a city’s score, the more suited it is to safely accommodating cyclists.
- Madison’s crime rate is lower than Cincinnati with a score of 34.57 compared to Cincinnati’s 48.47. This means that Madison neighborhoods are safer than 34.57% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Cincinnati neighborhoods are safer than 48.47%.
- Madison is considered to be safer than Cincinnati with a safety index of 65.43 vs Cincinnati’s 49.53.
- Air quality in Madison is Good, and in Cincinnati it’s Good.
Other things to consider for your Cincinnati 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 Cincinnati to Madison?
Planning your move from Cincinnati to Madison? Aim for spring or fall when the weather is pleasant and demand is lower, helping you avoid peak-season rates in Cincinnati.
When is the cheapest time to move from Cincinnati to Madison?
Because most people are moving from Cincinnati 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 Cincinnati to Madison take?
The 445-mile journey from Cincinnati, OH to Madison, , typically takes one to four days. Some movers in Cincinnati 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 Cincinnati?
Several movers here offer discounted rates that can help lower your total moving costs. 1 have discounts for military personnel. 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 Cincinnati?
Not all movers have the resources to handle high-value or delicate items. In Cincinnati, 3 movers can manage piano relocations. By comparison, Ohio has 59 piano movers and 37 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
Cincinnati moving services
Popular Ohio routes
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