($1,407) Movers From Salt Lake City, UT to Madison, WI

What to know before moving from Salt Lake City to Madison

Moving from Salt Lake City to Madison comes with exciting new opportunities — but also higher living costs. Since Madison is generally more expensive than Salt Lake City, it’s important to plan ahead and budget carefully for the change.

Check out how the two cities compare so you know what to expect before you relocate:

• Rent prices in Madison are 7% higher than in Salt Lake City, which means you’ll have less money in your pocket each month.
• In terms of homeownership, you’ll be able to get more for your money in Madison.
  Home prices in Madison are 33.0% lower than in Salt Lake City.
• Income in Madison is 1.7% lower than in Salt Lake City, 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.
• Be sure to budget for higher bills in Madison, since the cost of living for a single person in Madison is 5.5% higher than in Salt Lake City. This includes routine expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transportation.
• If you’re moving your family to Madison, keep in mind that your living expenses could increase. The cost of living for a family in Madison is 13.1% higher than in Salt Lake City.
• The unemployment rate in Madison is 10.00% higher than in Salt Lake City.
• You’ll spend less on retail and restaurants in Madison, since the city’s sales taxes in Madison are 29.03% lower than in Salt Lake City.
• State income taxes in Madison are 54.55% higher than in Salt Lake City.

To put this in perspective, you would need around $3,165.75 in Madison to maintain the same standard of life that you can have with $3,000.00 in Salt Lake City.

How life is different in Salt Lake City vs. Madison

• Madison's population is about 35% greater than Salt Lake City.
• Madison's public transportation has a score of 6 out of 10 versus Salt Lake City's higher score of 8.
• Madison is less walkable than Salt Lake City with a score of 50 out of 100 vs Salt Lake City's 59 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 Salt Lake City, which has a score of 74 out of 100.
• Madison and Salt Lake City have a similar crime rate.
• Madison and Salt Lake City are considered to be equally safe.
• Air quality in Madison is good, and in Salt Lake City it's good.

Other things to consider for your Salt Lake City 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: It’s a good idea to look into your HOA or community regulations before moving day arrives.
• Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator, it’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, 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: To confirm a moving company’s license in Wisconsin, visit the state's public utilities commission
• Moving permits: While Wisconsin doesn’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.

Helpful moving resources