The best local movers for Madison to Ann Arbor moves
It’s not always easy to find a reliable local moving company in Madison that also handles long-distance moves to Ann Arbor. Luckily, we’ve done the research for you. We evaluated five local movers in Madison who offer long-distance services, looking at cost, service quality, and customer reviews.
Below are the top local moving companies for long-distance moves from Madison to Ann Arbor.
- Above Average Moving LLC: 4.48 out of 5 stars
- The Armstrong Company: 4.44 out of 5 stars
- TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.44 out of 5 stars
- Top Notch Moving and Storage: 4.3 out of 5 stars
- College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving: 4.28 out of 5 stars
Company Info
State license #: 26753
Years in Business: 9
DOT #: 2595339
Alternate Names: Above Average Moving LLC
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Crating
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
Years in Business: 39
DOT #: 1170867
Alternate Names: Armstrong Transfer & Storage Co., Inc. , Armstrong Relocation & Commercial Services , The Armstrong Company
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Art
- Antiques
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
Years in Business: 31
DOT #: 2527384
Alternate Names: Lightner & Lightner, Inc.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Pianos
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
Years in Business: 5
DOT #: 3322160
Alternate Names: TopNotchMovers LLC
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Crating
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
DOT #: 2378173
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
How much does it cost to move from Madison to Ann Arbor?
The average hourly rate for movers in Wisconsin is . Here are some general cost estimates for a full-service moving company, a moving container, or a rental truck:
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,024 – $3,113 | $656 – $1,511 | $351 – $645 |
| 2 – 3 bedrooms | $1,820 – $5,087 | $1,074 – $2,271 | $393 – $765 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $2,973 – $7,115 | $1,423 – $2,814 | $480 – $934 |
Cost to hire movers from Madison to Ann Arbor
Hiring movers for a studio apartment or one-bedroom home from Madison to Ann Arbor will cost between $1,024 and $3,113. The cost to move a two- to three-bedroom home from Madison to Madison will range from $1,820 to $5,087, and a large move from Madison to Ann Arbor will cost from $2,973 to $7,115.
Cost of moving containers from Madison to Ann Arbor
If you’re moving from Madison to Ann Arbor, expect to pay between $656 and $1,511 for a small load. For a home with two or three bedrooms, prices typically range from $1,074 up to $2,271. Larger moves of four bedrooms or more can run between $1,423 and $2,814. Check out our guide on PODS cost for more details.
Check out the most affordable moving container companies for your move from Wisconsin.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Madison to Ann Arbor
Renting a moving truck from Madison to Ann Arbor is usually your cheapest option, but keep in mind you’ll be handling all the loading, unloading, and driving yourself.
If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck, expect to spend between $351 and $645. For two to three bedrooms, rates typically fall between $393 and $765. Relocating a four-bedroom (or bigger) home? You’re likely looking at anywhere from $480 up to $934 for your rental truck.
These quotes include estimated fuel costs.
Key factors that influence moving costs from Madison to Ann Arbor
The cost of Madison movers will depend on:
- The size of your home: Smaller moves (like one-bedrooms) cost less, sometimes just $1,349, while larger moves (four-bedrooms) can hit $5,984.
- Time of year: Summer is peak moving season in Madison, which means higher prices.
- The type of mover you choose: Renting a truck ($351–$802) saves money but adds work compared to hiring pros.
What to know before moving from Madison to Ann Arbor
Overall, Madison and Ann Arbor land in a similar cost of living range, so your monthly outlay shouldn’t swing dramatically.
Singles average $2,176 in Ann Arbor and $2,292 in Madison, while families in Ann Arbor see $5,344 versus $5,457 in Ann Arbor.
Here’s how the everyday expenses compare across both cities:
| Madison | Ann Arbor | |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1 BR rent | $1,693 | $1,831 |
| Average 3 BR rent | $3,100 | $3,763 |
| Average home value | $367,934 | $474,909 |
| Average income (per capita) | $62,919 | $66,964 |
| Cost of living (single) | $2,292 | $2,176 |
| Cost of living (family of four) | $5,457 | $5,344 |
| Unemployment rate | 3.3% | 3.5% |
| Sales tax | 5.5% | 6.0% |
| State income tax | 7.65% | 4.25% |
- Rent is estimated to be 41% higher in Ann Arbor compared to Madison; it’s essential to account for this in your budget planning.
- Prepare for increased mortgage costs as home prices are roughly 29% greater in Ann Arbor than in Madison.
- Here’s some promising news: the average income is around 6% higher in Ann Arbor than in Madison, which could mean added opportunities to save or invest each month.
- The cost of living for a single person is within about 5% of the same in Ann Arbor and Madison, so you likely won’t notice a major difference.
- The cost of living for a family remains quite similar between Ann Arbor and Madison, with only a marginal difference of 5% or less, so your expenses should remain steady.
- In Ann Arbor, the unemployment rate is approximately 6% higher than in Madison, indicating a larger group of job seekers. This can lead to increased competition for positions.
- Sales taxes rise by 9% in Ann Arbor over Madison, leading to heightened expenses for everyday essentials.
- Income taxes are 44% less in Michigan than in Wisconsin. With these lower tax rates, you can enjoy more take-home pay, simplifying your financial management.
Here’s a closer snapshot of how common everyday costs and monthly bills compare between Madison and Ann Arbor:
| Living Expense | Madison | Ann Arbor |
|---|---|---|
| Basic utilities | $215.88 | $158.05 |
| Cell phone plan | $50.44 | $48.64 |
| Dozen eggs | $4.04 | $2.70 |
| Loaf of bread | $3.75 | $3.60 |
| Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) | $15.00 | $15.00 |
| Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) | $77.50 | $75.00 |
| Gym membership | $64.29 | $44.00 |
- Basic utilities tend to be more expensive in Madison than in Ann Arbor.
- Cell phone plans typically cost more in Madison than in Ann Arbor.
- Eggs cost more in Madison than in Ann Arbor.
- Bread is more expensive in Madison than in Ann Arbor.
- The cost of a quick meal is about the same in both cities.
- A mid-range dinner for two is pricier in Madison than in Ann Arbor.
- Gym memberships cost more in Madison than in Ann Arbor.
How life is different in Madison vs. Ann Arbor
| Madison | Ann Arbor | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 269,840 | 123,851 |
| Transportation score | 6 | 7 |
| Walkability score | 50 | 52 |
| Bike friendliness score | 66 | 71 |
| Crime index | 34.57 | 31.0 |
| Safety index | 65.43 | 79.18 |
| Air quality | Good | Moderate |
- Ann Arbor’s population is about 54% less than Madison.
- Ann Arbor’s public transportation score of 7 out of 10 is higher than Madison’s score of 6.
- Ann Arbor and Madison are similarly walkable.
- With a score of 71 out of 100, Ann Arbor is more bike-friendly than Madison, which has a score of 66 out of 100. The higher a city’s score, the more suited it is to safely accommodating cyclists.
- Ann Arbor’s crime rate is lower than Madison with a score of 31.0 compared to Madison’s 34.57. This means that Ann Arbor neighborhoods are safer than 31.0% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Madison neighborhoods are safer than 34.57%.
- Ann Arbor is considered to be safer than Madison with a safety index of 79.18 vs Madison’s 65.43.
- Air quality in Ann Arbor is Moderate, and in Madison it’s Good.
Other things to consider for your Madison to Ann Arbor move
- HOA rules: Be sure to review your community or HOA guidelines before moving day to avoid any surprises or delays.
- Elevator reservation: Make sure to arrange elevator access in advance if your building requires reservations for moving.
- Truck parking permits: To avoid fines or delays, check whether a parking permit is needed for your moving truck.
- State licensing: The agency regulating local and intrastate household goods movers in Michigan is the Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC). State regulation and oversight activities include commercial vehicle registration and safety compliance, review of published tariff rates, licensing, and consumer protection efforts. Always verify licensing details before committing to a mover.
- State regulator: You can verify a Michigan moving license and its status through the state’s public utilities commission.
- Moving Permits: Michigan doesn’t require moving permits, but it’s still a good idea to check local parking rules before your move-in day.
- 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 to Ann Arbor. Start the process here.
- Moving company insurance: Every state sets its own rules for what insurance moving companies need to maintain. In Alabama, Massachusetts, and Michigan, choose the economical option of Released Value Protection, provided by movers at no extra cost. However, it offers minimal coverage at 60 cents per pound per article. For comprehensive coverage of your items’ full value, consult with your moving company for alternatives or explore third-party insurance providers.
- Moving checklist: Follow our moving checklist to keep your move organized and stress-free.
Where to live in Ann Arbor
Now that you’ve decided to make the move to Tree Town, these are the best neighborhoods to move to in Ann Arbor.
Best neighborhoods for singles
- Kerrytown
- Lower Burns Park
- Old West Side
- Northside/Lower Town
- Allen Creek/Old West Side
Best neighborhoods for families
- Burns Park
- Eberwhite
- Water Hill
- Ann Arbor Hills
- Dicken
Things to do in Ann Arbor
Once you’re settled into your new home in Michigan, it’s time to get out and discover what Ann Arbor has to offer. No matter your interests, there’s something for everyone here:
- Arts and culture: You’ll find museums and cultural hubs throughout Ann Arbor, such as the Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum, University of Michigan Museum of Art, University of Michigan Museum of Natural History, and Kelsey Museum of Archaeology.
- Outdoor recreation: The city’s Gallup Park, Hudson Mills Metropark, County Farm Park, and Buhr Park — and more — offering great opportunities to hike, bike, or relax in nature.
- Sports: Sports fans can join the excitement by supporting local favorites at an Michigan Wolverines (Big Ten) game.
FAQ
When is the best time to move from Madison to Ann Arbor?
The best time to move from Madison to Ann Arbor is during the spring or fall. These seasons offer milder weather and avoid higher moving costs during the peak moving season in Madison.
When is the cheapest time to move from Madison to Ann Arbor?
Since spring and fall are the most popular times to move from Madison to Ann Arbor, 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 Madison to Ann Arbor take?
Moving from Madison, WI to Ann Arbor, covers 394 miles and usually takes one to four days. Need to move faster? Some Madison movers offer expedited options. If you’re not ready to receive your items, look into storage solutions in Ann Arbor.
Who can move pianos or antiques in Madison?
Specialty items need extra care and the right equipment. 3 movers in Madison advertise piano moving expertise. 1 movers in Madison provide antique moving services. State totals show 25 piano movers and 13 antique movers, with nationwide availability at 2,303 and 1,466.
Book early if you need these services — demand can outpace supply during busy moving seasons.
Helpful moving resources
Madison moving services
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