Factors that influence moving costs from Plano to Madisontoggle

The cost of Plano movers will depend on:

  • Move size: How much you're moving directly affects the cost. A one-bedroom move from Plano to Madison might cost as little as $1,370, while a four-bedroom home could reach up to $8,449.
  • Time of year: Summer is considered peak moving season in Plano, 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 $759 to $1,845. Just keep in mind these options involve more hands-on work than hiring professionals.

What to know before moving from Plano to Madison

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

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

Plano Madison
Average rent cost $2,100 $1,600
Average home value $511,000 $367,934
Average income (per capita) $67,874 $62,919
Cost of living (single person) $2,506 $2,292
Cost of living (family of 4) $6,078 $5,457
Unemployment rate 5.5% 3.3%
Sales tax 8.25% 5.5%
State income tax 0.0% 7.65%
  • Rent prices in Madison are 24% lower than in Plano, 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 28.0% lower than in Plano.
  • Income in Madison is 7.3% lower than in Plano, 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 8.5% lower than in Plano. 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 Plano.
  • The unemployment rate in Madison is 40.00% lower than in Plano.
  • Youโ€™ll spend less on retail and restaurants in Madison, since the cityโ€™s sales taxes in Madison are 33.33% lower than in Plano.
  • State income taxes in Madison are 7.65% higher than in Plano.

To put this in perspective, you would need around $2,743.81 in Madison to maintain the same standard of life that you can have with $3,000.00 in Plano.

How life is different in Plano vs. Madison

Madison Plano
Population 269,840 285,494
AllTransit Transportation Performance Score 6 2
Walkability score 50 41
Bike friendliness score 66 52
Crime Index 34.57 23.02
Safety Index 65.43 76.98
Air Quality Good Good
  • Madison's population is about 5% less than Plano.
  • Madison's public transportation has a score of 6 out of 10 versus Plano's lower score of 2.
  • Madison is more walkable than Plano with a score of 50 out of 100 vs Plano's 41 out of 100.
  • With a score of 66 out of 100, Madison is more bike-friendly than Plano, which has a score of 52 out of 100. The higher a city's score, the more suited they are to safely accommodating cyclists.
  • Madison's crime rate is higher than Plano with a score of 34.57 compared to Plano's 23.02. This means that Madison neighborhoods are safer than 34.57% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Plano neighborhoods are safer than 23.02%.
  • Madison is considered to be less safe than Plano with a score of 65.43 vs Plano's 76.98.
  • Air quality in Madison is good, and in Plano it's good.

Other things to consider for your Plano 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

  • Madison
  • 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 Plano to Madison?

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

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

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

The 969-mile journey from Plano, TX to Madison, WI typically takes two to seven days. Some movers in Plano 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