Factors that influence moving costs from Nashville to Madisontoggle

The cost of Nashville movers will depend on:

  • Move size: How much you're moving directly affects the cost. A one-bedroom move from Nashville to Madison might cost as little as $1,451, while a four-bedroom home could reach up to $8,442.
  • Time of year: Summer is considered peak moving season in Nashville, 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 $569 to $1,303. Just keep in mind these options involve more hands-on work than hiring professionals.

What to know before moving from Nashville to Madison

Moving from Nashville 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 Nashville than in Madison, making the move an opportunity for many to enjoy a lower cost of living.

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

Nashville Madison
Average rent cost $1,971 $1,600
Average home value $428,678 $367,934
Average income (per capita) $79,020 $62,919
Cost of living (single person) $3,108 $2,292
Cost of living (family of 4) $8,447 $5,457
Unemployment rate 4.5% 3.3%
Sales tax 9.75% 5.5%
State income tax 0.0% 7.65%
  • Rent prices in Madison are 19% lower than in Nashville, 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 14.2% lower than in Nashville.
  • Income in Madison is 20.4% lower than in Nashville, 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 26.3% lower than in Nashville. This includes routine expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transportation.
  • The cost of living for a family in Madison is 35.4% lower than in Nashville.
  • The unemployment rate in Madison is 26.67% lower than in Nashville.
  • Youโ€™ll spend less on retail and restaurants in Madison, since the cityโ€™s sales taxes in Madison are 43.59% lower than in Nashville.
  • State income taxes in Madison are 7.65% higher than in Nashville.

To put this in perspective, you would need around $2,212.36 in Madison to maintain the same standard of life that you can have with $3,000.00 in Nashville.

How life is different in Nashville vs. Madison

Madison Nashville
Population 269,840 689,447
AllTransit Transportation Performance Score 6 4
Walkability score 50 96
Bike friendliness score 66 72
Crime Index 34.57 49.1
Safety Index 65.43 50.9
Air Quality Good Good
  • Madison's population is about 61% less than Nashville.
  • Madison's public transportation has a score of 6 out of 10 versus Nashville's lower score of 4.
  • Madison is less walkable than Nashville with a score of 50 out of 100 vs Nashville's 96 out of 100.
  • Madison has a bike-friendliness score 66 out of 100, which means it isn't as accessible to and safe for cyclists as Nashville, which has a score of 72 out of 100.
  • Madison's crime rate is lower than Nashville with a score of 34.57 compared to Nashville's 49.1. This means that Madison neighborhoods are safer than 34.57% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Nashville neighborhoods are safer than 49.1%.
  • Madison is considered to be safer than Nashville with a safety index of 65.43 vs Nashville's 50.9.
  • Air quality in Madison is good, and in Nashville it's good.

Other things to consider for your Nashville 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: Itโ€™s a good idea to look into your HOA or community regulations before moving day arrives.
  • Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator, itโ€™s a good idea to secure a reservation before your moving day.
  • Truck parking permits: To avoid fines or delays, check whether a parking permit is needed for your moving truck.
  • 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. Before booking, ensure the moving company is officially licensed to handle your move.
  • State regulator: To confirm a moving companyโ€™s license in Wisconsin, visit the state's public utilities commission
  • Moving permits: While Wisconsin doesnโ€™t mandate moving permits, checking local parking guidelines before your move-in day is still a good idea.
  • Change of address: We recommend submitting your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move to ensure your mail gets forwarded to Madison without delay. You can select your official move date when completing the form. Start the process here.
  • Moving company insurance: Every state sets its own rules for what insurance moving companies need to maintain. 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

With your sights set on "Mad City", these are some of the most popular neighborhoods to consider in Madison.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • Middleton
  • Fitchburg
  • Maple Bluff
  • Sun Prairie
  • 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 Nashville to Madison?

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

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

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

The 621-mile journey from Nashville, TN to Madison, WI typically takes one to six days. Some movers in Nashville 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