Madison, WI to Minneapolis, MN Movers (NEW 2026 Costs)
Quick answer: Moving from Madison to Minneapolis typically costs $1,800–$5,200 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home (about 269 miles). Use our moving cost calculator below to get an instant estimate.
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Cost to move from Madison to Minneapolis
Moving from Madison, WI to Minneapolis, MN typically costs $1,800–$5,200 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home.
The price ranges below are estimates for a 269-mile move from Madison to Minneapolis, based on moveBuddha pricing data as of Mar 16, 2026. Pricing is updated monthly to reflect seasonality and market changes.
Studio / 1 bedroom
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2-3 bedrooms
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4+ bedrooms
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Recent moving quotes for similar moves
- Mayflower Transit recently quoted $4,500 for a 4 bedroom using professional movers.
- AB Moving recently quoted $1,599 for a studio apartment using professional movers.
- Safeway Moving recently quoted $3,264 for a 3 bedroom using professional movers.
4 Bedrooms
Jan 24, 2026
Studio apartment
Jan 14, 2026
3 Bedrooms
Jan 14, 2026
3 Bedrooms
Dec 28, 2025
3 Bedrooms
Dec 16, 2025
2 Bedrooms
Dec 13, 2025
5+ Bedrooms
Dec 06, 2025
2 Bedrooms
Dec 06, 2025
1 Bedroom (large)
Dec 05, 2025
1 Bedroom (large)
Dec 01, 2025
Key factors that impact the cost of your Madison to Minneapolis move
Your total cost will depend on:
- Home size: The number of rooms makes a big difference. Expect around $1,100 for a one-bedroom, or up to $6,500 for a four-bedroom.
- The time of year you're moving: Rates climb in summer because of peak season demand in Madison.
- DIY vs. professional: Rental trucks can range from $300 to $800, but require more effort than hiring movers.
Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from Minneapolis, MN to Madison, WI guide.
Best Madison to Minneapolis movers by type
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Labor Only
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Best professional movers from Madison to Minneapolis
Opting for a full-service mover can make your interstate move from Madison to Minneapolis much easier by letting professionals manage the entire process. This choice allows you to focus on what matters most instead of the logistics of moving.
Want a deeper breakdown of the top long-distance movers? See our best interstate movers guide.
- Safeway Moving: 4.9 out of 5 stars
- American Van Lines: 4.9 out of 5 stars
- Allied Van Lines: 4.2 out of 5 stars
- Mayzlin Relocation: 4.8 out of 5 stars
- North American Van Lines: 4.8 out of 5 stars
Best overall value
How we chose the best WI→MN movers
The experienced professionals at moveBuddha reviewed moving rates from 39 Wisconsin movers, pinpointing the highest-rated services by analyzing satisfaction metrics, reviews, and overall cost.
- Customer satisfaction (40%): The business consistently meets deadlines, communicates clearly with clients, and remains within the expected spending limits.
- Dispute resolution (20%): Mistakes cannot be avoided in the moving industry. We look for companies that own their mistakes and make genuine efforts to fix any issues that arise during a move.
- Industry reputation (15%): This mover maintains a strong reputation among industry peers and is active in professional associations and events.
- Online reputation (15%): A polished, accurate website and quick, respectful responses to online inquiries reflect the company’s strong digital presence.
- Service options (10%): A broad service menu matters. We value movers that cover everything from packing and storage to unique item care and speedy delivery.
Here is our full moving company rating methodology.
What to know before moving from Madison to Minneapolis
Expect a bump in monthly expenses after the move - Minneapolis runs about 70% higher for singles and -14% higher for families than Madison.
Singles spend around $3,900 in Minneapolis versus $2,292 in Madison; families pay $4,710 compared with $5,457.
Dig into the side-by-side details here:
| Madison | Minneapolis | |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1 BR rent | $1,693 | $1,688 |
| Average 3 BR rent | $3,100 | $2,707 |
| Average home value | $367,934 | $312,602 |
| Average income (per capita) | $62,919 | $70,099 |
| Cost of living (single) | $2,292 | $3,900 |
| Cost of living (family of four) | $5,457 | $4,710 |
| Unemployment rate | 3.3% | 4.5% |
| Sales tax | 5.5% | 9.03% |
| State income tax | 7.65% | 9.85% |
- When relocating from Madison to Minneapolis, expect to find rent about 7% cheaper, letting you enjoy more financial freedom monthly.
- You can relax about your monthly mortgage expenses, thanks to home prices being nearly 15% more affordable in Minneapolis compared to Madison.
- Exciting update: you'll see an average income that's about 11% higher in Minneapolis compared to Madison, which might allow for more savings or investments.
- Prepare your budget for higher expenses in Minneapolis, as living costs for a single person are 70% higher than in Madison. This includes essential costs such as utilities, groceries, clothing, and commuting.
- A move to Minneapolis can help cut down on a family's routine expenses, including utilities, transportation, and groceries. The cost of living for a family of four is 14% less than what it costs in Madison.
- Minneapolis shows an unemployment rate that exceeds Madison by around 36%. This increase suggests a broader candidate selection for employers, possibly making the job market more competitive for applicants.
- Sales taxes in Minneapolis are 64% more than in Madison, implying increased costs for common purchases like apparel, dining, and gadgets.
- Income taxes in Minnesota are 29% above those in Wisconsin. Consequently, more of your income may be allocated to tax payments, which could diminish your overall earnings.
See how the cost of everyday necessities and regular monthly payments differs between Madison and Minneapolis:
| Living Expense | Madison | Minneapolis |
|---|---|---|
| Basic utilities | $215.88 | $164.65 |
| Cell phone plan | $50.44 | $50.68 |
| Dozen eggs | $4.04 | $4.15 |
| Loaf of bread | $3.75 | $3.75 |
| Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) | $15.00 | $18.00 |
| Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) | $77.50 | $75.00 |
| Gym membership | $64.29 | $55.00 |
- Basic utilities tend to be more expensive in Madison than in Minneapolis.
- Cell phone plans are cheaper in Madison than in Minneapolis.
- Eggs are less expensive in Madison than in Minneapolis.
- Bread costs are about the same in both places.
- A quick meal is cheaper in Madison than in Minneapolis.
- A mid-range dinner for two is pricier in Madison than in Minneapolis.
- Gym memberships cost more in Madison than in Minneapolis.
How life is different in Madison vs. Minneapolis
| Madison | Minneapolis | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 269,840 | 425,115 |
| Transportation score | 6 | 8 |
| Walkability score | 50 | 71 |
| Bike friendliness score | 66 | 83 |
| Crime index | 34.57 | 56.06 |
| Safety index | 65.43 | 43.94 |
| Air quality | Good | Good |
- Minneapolis's population is about 58% greater than Madison.
- Minneapolis's public transportation score of 8 out of 10 is higher than Madison's score of 6.
- Minneapolis is more walkable than Madison with a score of 71 out of 100 vs Madison's 50 out of 100.
- With a score of 83 out of 100, Minneapolis 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.
- Minneapolis's crime rate is higher than Madison with a score of 56.06 compared to Madison's 34.57. This means that Minneapolis neighborhoods are safer than 56.06% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Madison neighborhoods are safer than 34.57%.
- Minneapolis is considered to be less safe than Madison with a score of 43.94 vs Madison's 65.43.
- Air quality in Minneapolis is Good, and in Madison it's Good.
Other things to consider for your Madison to Minneapolis move
- HOA rules: Check ahead with any neighborhood or community rules on moving to ensure a smooth move.
- Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator, make sure to find out how to reserve it ahead of your move.
- Truck parking permits: Make sure to look into local parking regulations—some areas require permits for large moving trucks.
- State licensing: To operate legally within the state, Minnesota household goods movers must have a current permit from the Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT). Before being granted operating authority, each moving company must file a public tariff, provide proof of insurance and submit a Certificate of Compliance to MnDOT. Before booking, ensure the moving company is officially licensed to handle your move.
- State regulator: Minnesota’s public utilities commission provides official mover license verification.
- Moving Permits: Minnesota does not require any moving permits, but it is helpful to check local parking restrictions before moving into the state. We recommend submitting your change of address form with USPS at least a week prior to your move.
- Change of address: We suggest filing your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move. You'll be able to set your official move date, helping ensure your mail is forwarded correctly to Minneapolis. Start the process here.
- Moving company insurance: The amount and type of insurance movers must have depends on state regulations. In Minnesota, opt for the budget-friendly Released Value Protection provided by movers at no extra charge. While economical, it offers minimal coverage at 60 cents per pound per article. For full value coverage of your items, consult with your chosen moving company for alternatives or consider a third-party insurance provider.
- Moving checklist: Our moving checklist gives you the peace of mind that comes with being fully prepared.
Where to live in Minneapolis
Planning your move to City of Lakes? Take a look at our picks for the best neighborhoods to call home in Minneapolis.
Best neighborhoods for singles
- Linden Hills
- Loring Park
- Northeast Minneapolis
- North Loop (Warehouse District)
- Uptown
- Whittier
Best neighborhoods for families
- Diamond Lake
- Fulton
- Kenny
- Linden Hills
- Minnehaha
Things to do in Minneapolis
After settling into your new Minnesota home, you'll want to branch out and explore your new city. Luckily, Minneapolis has lots to offer, no matter what you're interested in:
- Arts and culture: Minneapolis features a variety of museums and cultural arts centers, including the Minneapolis Institute of Art, Mill City Museum, American Swedish Institute, and The Museum of Russian Art.
- Outdoor recreation: The city's Minnehaha Park, Mill Ruins Park, Loring Park, and Gold Medal Park — along with other locations — ideal for trails, cycling, or enjoying the fresh air.
- Sports: Nothing beats the thrill of cheering on the home team at an Minnesota Lynx (WNBA)Minnesota Timberwolves (NBA)Minnesota Twins (MLB)Minnesota Vikings (NFL) game.
FAQ
When is the best time to move from Madison to Minneapolis?
Planning your move from Madison to Minneapolis? Aim for spring or fall when the weather is pleasant and demand is lower, helping you avoid peak-season rates in Madison.
When is the cheapest time to move from Madison to Minneapolis?
Because most people are moving from Madison to Minneapolis in the spring or fall, you can often catch discounts by moving in the winter. Read our guide on moving discounts to learn more.
How long does a move from Madison to Minneapolis take?
The 269-mile journey from Madison, WI to Minneapolis, MN, typically takes one to four days. Some movers in Madison offer expedited services if you're on a tight schedule, and if you need extra time, be sure to ask about storage options in Minneapolis.
Are piano and antique moving services available in Madison?
Not all movers have the resources to handle high-value or delicate items. In Madison, 3 movers can manage piano relocations. 1 movers are equipped for antique transport. By comparison, Wisconsin has 25 piano movers and 13 antique movers, while nationwide there are 2,296 and 1,463 respectively.
Always confirm the mover’s experience and packing methods for fragile or specialty items before booking.
