Factors that influence moving costs from Philadelphia to Madison
What to know before moving from Philadelphia to Madison
Moving from Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia than in Madison, making the move an opportunity for many to enjoy a lower cost of living.
Check out how Philadelphia compares to Madison so you know what to expect before you relocate:
Philadelphia | Madison | |
---|---|---|
Average rent cost | $1,695 | $1,600 |
Average home value | $216,914 | $367,934 |
Average income (per capita) | $70,746 | $62,919 |
Cost of living (single person) | $2,541 | $2,292 |
Cost of living (family of 4) | $6,190 | $5,457 |
Unemployment rate | 10.6% | 3.3% |
Sales tax | 8.0% | 5.5% |
State income tax | 3.07% | 7.65% |
- Rent prices in Madison are 6% lower than in Philadelphia, which means youโll have more money in your pocket each month.
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In terms of homeownership, youโll be able to get more for your money in Philadelphia.
Home prices in Madison are 69.6% higher than in Philadelphia. - Income in Madison is 11.1% lower than in Philadelphia, 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.
- The cost of living for a single person in Madison is 9.8% lower than in Philadelphia. This includes routine expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transportation.
- The cost of living for a family in Madison is 11.8% lower than in Philadelphia.
- The unemployment rate in Madison is 68.87% lower than in Philadelphia.
- Youโll spend less on retail and restaurants in Madison, since the cityโs sales taxes in Madison are 31.25% lower than in Philadelphia.
- State income taxes in Madison are 149.19% higher than in Philadelphia.
To put this in perspective, you would need around $2,706.02 in Madison to maintain the same standard of life that you can have with $3,000.00 in Philadelphia.
How life is different in Philadelphia vs. Madison
Madison | Philadelphia | |
---|---|---|
Population | 269,840 | 1,603,797 |
AllTransit Transportation Performance Score | 6 | 9 |
Walkability score | 50 | 75 |
Bike friendliness score | 66 | 67 |
Crime Index | 34.57 | 66.09 |
Safety Index | 65.43 | 33.91 |
Air Quality | Good | Good |
- Madison's population is about 83% less than Philadelphia.
- Madison's public transportation has a score of 6 out of 10 versus Philadelphia's higher score of 9.
- Madison is less walkable than Philadelphia with a score of 50 out of 100 vs Philadelphia's 75 out of 100.
- Both Madison and Philadelphia have the same bike-friendliness score of 67 out of 100, meaning Madison is about as safe for cyclists as Philadelphia. Typically, cities that have scores of 20 or higher are seen as reasonably safe, though the higher the score, the more safely accessible a city is for bicycling.
- Madison's crime rate is lower than Philadelphia with a score of 34.57 compared to Philadelphia's 66.09. This means that Madison neighborhoods are safer than 34.57% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Philadelphia neighborhoods are safer than 66.09%.
- Madison is considered to be safer than Philadelphia with a safety index of 65.43 vs Philadelphia's 33.91.
- Air quality in Madison is good, and in Philadelphia it's good.
Other things to consider for your Philadelphia 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 regulationsโsome 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, itโs 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\โs license by visiting the state'spublic utilities commission
- Moving permits: You wonโt need a moving permit in Wisconsin, though it\โs 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 youโve chosen "Mad City" as your next home, here are a few of the best neighborhoods in Madison to check out.
Best neighborhoods for singles
- Madison
- Fitchburg
- Monona
- Columbus
- Verona
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, itโs the perfect time to explore Madison. From local hotspots to hidden gems, thereโs something to enjoy for every lifestyle:
- Arts and culture: Youโll 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 cityโs 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 Philadelphia to Madison?
Spring and fall are the ideal times to move from Philadelphia to Madison. Youโll benefit from more comfortable weather and avoid the higher prices that come with peak moving season in Philadelphia.
When is the cheapest time to move from Philadelphia to Madison?
Since spring and fall are the most popular times to move from Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia to Madison take?
The 905-mile journey from Philadelphia, PA to Madison, WI typically takes two to seven days. Some movers in Philadelphia 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.