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($1,170) Cost to Move From Madison, WI to Durham, NC

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Estimated cost & time: If you’re moving 934 miles from Madison to Durham, expect to pay between $686 and $6,224. The journey should take about two–seven days. Costs can vary due to distance, the date of the move, home size, and your choice between DIY and professional assistance.
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Best movers from Madison to Durham

Best overall value
Safeway Moving Logo Safeway Moving
checkmark Best overall value
checkmark Veteran owned
checkmark Portion to charity
4.9
  • checkmarkBest overall value
  • checkmarkVeteran owned
  • checkmarkPortion to charity
American Van Lines Logo American Van Lines
checkmark Certified crews
checkmark Flat-rate pricing
checkmark Family-owned
4.5
  • checkmarkCertified crews
  • checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
  • checkmarkFamily-owned
North American Van Lines Logo North American Van Lines
checkmark 1,800 trucks
checkmark Storage available
checkmark Customized moving plans
4.5
  • checkmark1,800 trucks
  • checkmarkStorage available
  • checkmarkCustomized moving plans
Allied Van Lines Logo Allied Van Lines
checkmark Specialty packing services
checkmark White-glove reputation
checkmark 80+ years’ experience
4.8
  • checkmarkSpecialty packing services
  • checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
  • checkmark80+ years’ experience
Mayzlin Relocation Logo Mayzlin Relocation
checkmark Family owned
checkmark East coast focus
checkmark Affordable pricing
4.9
  • checkmarkFamily owned
  • checkmarkEast coast focus
  • checkmarkAffordable pricing

Best movers by type

Professional Icon
Professional
Container Icon
Container
Rental Truck Icon
Rental Truck
Freight Icon
Labor Only

Best professional movers from Madison to Durham

For a stress-free interstate move from Madison to Durham, selecting a full-service mover is a wise choice. These professionals cover all aspects of the move, freeing you to focus on the excitement of your new adventure.

With 3 interstate moving companies in Madison, we’re here to highlight the best options for a seamless transition to Durham.

Safeway Moving
checkmark Best overall value
checkmark Veteran owned
checkmark Portion to charity
American Van Lines
checkmark Certified crews
checkmark Flat-rate pricing
checkmark Family-owned
Allied Van Lines
checkmark Specialty packing services
checkmark White-glove reputation
checkmark 80+ years’ experience
Mayzlin Relocation
checkmark Family owned
checkmark East coast focus
checkmark Affordable pricing
North American Van Lines
checkmark 1,800 trucks
checkmark Storage available
checkmark Customized moving plans

Estimated cost to move from Madison to Durham

These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 934-mile move from Madison to Durham using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 07, 2025. moveBuddha compiles thousands of validated rates from movers across the U.S., with monthly updates to reflect seasonality and market conditions. Your end price may shift due to load size, service add-ons, access or parking limitations, fuel costs, and your move date. We recommend obtaining several quotes to get a reliable estimate.
Studio Icon

Studio / 1 bedroom

  • Moving Company $1,910 – $4,677
  • Moving Container $1,140 – $2,094
  • Rental Truck $648 – $1,192
Two Three Bed Icon

2-3 bedrooms

  • Moving Company $2,594 – $6,224
  • Moving Container $1,438 – $2,823
  • Rental Truck $686 – $1,431
Four Bed Icon

4+ bedrooms

  • Moving Company $4,145 – $7,588
  • Moving Container $1,878 – $3,703
  • Rental Truck $853 – $1,705
Recent Moving Price Estimates
The following are real, anonymized quotes requested by moveBuddha readers in the past 48 hours. Prices change with dates and availability; use these as a ballpark, not a guarantee.
BLVD Moving
Plain, WI Staley, NC
2 Bedrooms
Oct 18, 2025
United Van Lines
Randolph, WI Garner, NC
3 Bedrooms
Oct 14, 2025
Roadway Moving
Deerfield, WI Hillsborough, NC
2 Bedrooms
Oct 01, 2025
American Van Lines
Merrimac, WI Fuquay-Varina, NC
2 Bedrooms
Sep 24, 2025
PODS
Belleville, WI Chapel Hill, NC
4 Bedrooms
Sep 19, 2025
Budget Truck Rental
Arlington, WI Graham, NC
1 Bedroom (large)
Sep 16, 2025
Allied Van Lines
Marshall, WI Cary, NC
4 Bedrooms
Sep 01, 2025
1-800-Pack-Rat
Monticello, WI Alamance, NC
1 Bedroom (small)
Aug 31, 2025
Safeway Moving
Clyman, WI Burlington, NC
Studio apartment
Aug 23, 2025
North American Van Lines
McFarland, WI Goldston, NC
4 Bedrooms
Aug 02, 2025

Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from Durham, NC to Madison, WI guide.

Top-rated local movers that handle Madison to Durham moves

When planning a move from Madison to Durham, finding a local mover that also handles long-distance relocations can be tricky. We’ve taken care of the research for you — reviewing five local movers in Madison who provide long-distance services, and scoring them on price, customer reviews, and reliability.

Here are the top local moving companies to ensure a smooth transition from Madison to Durham.

  1. Above Average Moving LLC: 4.48 out of 5 stars
  2. The Armstrong Company: 4.44 out of 5 stars
  3. TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.44 out of 5 stars
  4. Top Notch Moving and Storage: 4.3 out of 5 stars
  5. College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving: 4.28 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
92.0% of all reviews were positive
6.6% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Above Average Moving LLC lives up to its name by consistently delivering efficient and professional moving experiences. Out of 226 customer reviews, an impressive 92% praised the company, citing hardworking, careful staff, smooth and fast service, and lower pricing compared to other movers. Customers repeatedly mention the team’s attention to detail and courteous attitudes. Moves frequently finish ahead of schedule, and all types of belongings—furniture, pianos, fragile items—arrive safely. On the less favorable side, a small portion of feedback noted incidents of item damage, inaccurate estimates, and slow or absent communication, especially with follow-up or during delays. Compared to typical moving companies, Above Average stands out for its friendly service and cost-effectiveness, though improving estimate accuracy and communication could strengthen their reputation further. The majority of feedback confirms a reliable, customer-focused approach that makes moving easier and less stressful for most clients.
Get a Quote (608) 556-7980

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
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
77.2% of all reviews were positive
22.8% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Armstrong Relocation stands out for its responsive, professional, and courteous staff. Customers frequently praise their careful handling of belongings, clear communication, and efficient moving process. Many mention friendly movers who are eager to help, making the experience less stressful than other moving services. Feedback often notes accurate estimates and competitive pricing, outshining many industry competitors. Negative feedback focuses on item damage during moves, dissatisfaction with claims resolutions, and occasional unprofessional interactions or lowballed estimates. Among 57 reviews analyzed, 77% are positive, with most input stressing reliability and care, while negative experiences center around damage and communication. Compared to other movers, Armstrong earns strong marks for customer service and careful handling, but could improve on damage prevention and clarity in estimates.
Get a Quote (608) 838-5940

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
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
78.0% of all reviews were positive
21.3% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Smooth moves and professional crews are frequent themes found in the 286 feedback entries for TWO MEN AND A TRUCK. Nearly 80% of input praises their efficient service, skilled and polite movers, careful handling of belongings, responsive communication, and fast-moving teams. Many note seamless scheduling, prompt arrivals, and property treated with respect. While most find the staff courteous and the process smooth, over one-fifth raise concerns, especially about damage to items, inaccurate estimates, and unexpected charges. Some reported broken furniture, billing surprises, or unresolved claims, with a few experiencing high costs or responses slower than agreed. Compared to many moving companies, TWO MEN AND A TRUCK receives above-average marks for professionalism and care, but feedback underscores the importance of vigilant inventory tracking and clear, accurate quoting before booking.
Get a Quote (608) 340-1557

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
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
94.9% of all reviews were positive
4.7% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Top Notch Moving and Storage earns its name with the overwhelming majority of customer feedback citing efficient service, professional and polite staff, and careful handling. Nearly 95% of 234 total reviews express strong satisfaction, highlighting friendly movers and consistent communication. Customers regularly note prompt arrivals, care for personal belongings, and an easy, stress-free process. Several customers mention moving delicate items and heavy furniture with no damage, even in challenging conditions. Friendly and approachable staff and good communication further set this company apart from competitors. A very small percentage of reviews report upset over property damage, higher-than-expected charges, or unprofessional interactions, especially during complex moves. Some customers experienced additional fees not clearly outlined or insufficient handling of claims when things went wrong. Only one neutral review described mixed staff performance during illness. Compared to typical moving companies, Top Notch stands out for service consistency and upbeat, helpful crews. Most clients enthusiastically recommend the company, with return customers making up a notable portion of input. The strong focus on efficiency, careful handling, and people skills makes Top Notch Moving and Storage a reliable choice for local and long-distance moves.
Get a Quote (608) 590-3710

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
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
89.1% of all reviews were positive
10.9% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Smooth moves and fast service set College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving apart from most competitors in the industry. Out of 248 feedback submissions, 89% praised efficient work, quick process, and professional, polite crews who communicate clearly and handle belongings with care. Customers frequently mention the stress-free, friendly experience, and many highlight the company’s promptness and attention to details others sometimes overlook. On the other hand, negative feedback makes up around 11% of input. The main complaints concern damage to belongings, late or missing arrival, and unexpected charges—especially for those comparing pricing or needing timely, careful moves. College Hunks earns high marks for execution and customer experience but should improve consistency on careful handling and accurate billing to match the leading industry performers.
Get a Quote (336) 810-1801

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 Durham?

Movers in Wisconsin charge per hour on average. Here are average prices for a full-service moving company, moving container, or truck:

Move size Moving company Moving container Rental
truck
Studio / 1 bedroom $1,170 – $4,812 $777 – $1,871 $648 – $1,157
2 – 3 bedrooms $2,594 – $6,224 $1,438 – $2,823 $686 – $1,431
4+ bedrooms $4,145 – $7,588 $1,878 – $3,703 $853 – $1,705
*The figures shown represent approximate costs for a 934-mile relocation from Madison to Durham, derived from moveBuddha pricing data current as of Nov 07, 2025. moveBuddha aggregates thousands of verified prices from moving companies across the country and updates the data each month to capture seasonal fluctuations and market dynamics. Final pricing may vary based on shipment size, optional services, parking or access challenges, fuel costs, and schedule. For accuracy, collect quotes from several movers.

Cost to hire movers from Madison to Durham

If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Madison to Durham, you can expect to spend between $1,170 and $4,812. For a two- or three-bedroom place, prices usually range from $2,594 to $6,224 on the same route. Got a larger household? Moving a four- or five-bedroom home from Madison to Durham typically runs between $4,145 and $7,588.

Cost of moving containers from Madison to Durham

When moving from Madison to Durham, for a small load, you’ll likely pay between $777 and $1,871. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, costs usually range from $1,438 to $2,823. Got a big family or a four-plus bedroom house? Expect prices ranging anywhere from $1,878 up to $3,703. For detailed pricing info, take a look at our complete PODS cost guide.

Check out the most affordable moving container companies to help with your move from Wisconsin.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Madison to Durham

Renting a moving truck in Madison is usually your cheapest option to get to Durham. Just keep in mind that you’ll handle all the lifting, packing, and driving yourself.

If you’re moving out of a studio or one-bedroom and renting a truck, plan to spend between $648 and $1,157. For two- or three-bedroom moves, prices typically land between $686 and $1,431. Dealing with a four-bedroom-plus home? Expect rental truck costs to be somewhere between $853 and $1,705.

These cost ranges already include estimated fuel costs.

Factors that impact moving costs from Madison to Durham

The cost of Madison movers will depend on:

  • The size of your move: Costs rise with more belongings. A small one-bedroom move can start at $2,248, but larger homes can run up to $6,734.
  • Seasonal timing: Demand peaks in summer — expect premium rates during moving season in Madison.
  • Whether you hire pros or do it yourself: Choosing DIY with a truck ($648–$1,547) is cheaper, though tougher, than using movers.

What to know before moving from Madison to Durham

Expect a bump in monthly expenses after the move – Durham runs about 22% higher for singles and 9% higher for families than Madison.

Singles spend around $2,803 in Madison versus $2,292 in Madison; families pay $5,945 compared with $5,457.

Dig into the side-by-side details here:

Madison Durham
Average 1 BR rent $1,693 $1,875
Average 3 BR rent $3,100 $2,573
Average home value $367,934 $391,719
Average income (per capita) $62,919 $69,117
Cost of living (single) $2,292 $2,803
Cost of living (family of four) $5,457 $5,945
Unemployment rate 3.3% 4.1%
Sales tax 5.5% 7.5%
State income tax 7.65% 4.5%
  • As you consider relocating to Durham, note that rent can be roughly 6% more expensive than it is in Madison; adjust your financial plans to accommodate this change.
  • Be sure to budget for a higher monthly mortgage payment, as home prices are about 6% higher in Durham than in Madison.
  • Great news! You’ll find the average income is about 10% higher in Durham compared to Madison, giving you some extra room for savings or investments.
  • Plan for higher expenses in Durham, since the cost of living for a single person is 22% more than in Madison. This encompasses usual costs like utilities, groceries, apparel, and transit.
  • If your journey leads to Durham, be prepared for higher living expenditures. The cost of living for a family in Durham is 9% more than it is in Madison.
  • The unemployment rate in Durham is 24% higher compared to Madison, translating to more job seekers for available positions, which might elevate competition.
  • Sales taxes are 36% higher in Durham than in Madison. This means you’ll likely pay more out-of-pocket for everyday purchases on taxable goods like clothing, electronics, dining out, and household items.
  • Income taxes are 41% lower in North Carolina compared to Wisconsin. With these reduced income tax rates, your paycheck will reflect more of your earnings, allowing you greater freedom in managing your finances.

The breakdown below shows how typical living costs and monthly expenses line up when comparing Madison with Durham:

Living Expense Madison Durham
Basic utilities $215.88 $148.21
Cell phone plan $50.44 $51.67
Dozen eggs $4.04 $4.53
Loaf of bread $3.75 $3.66
Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) $15.00 $15.00
Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) $77.50 $70.00
Gym membership $64.29 $40.00
  • Basic utilities tend to be more expensive in Madison than in Durham.
  • Cell phone plans are cheaper in Madison than in Durham.
  • Eggs are less expensive in Madison than in Durham.
  • Bread is more expensive in Madison than in Durham.
  • 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 Durham.
  • Gym memberships cost more in Madison than in Durham.

How life is different in Madison vs. Durham

Madison Durham
Population 269,840 283,506
Transportation score 6 4
Walkability score 50 30
Bike friendliness score 66 38
Crime index 34.57 54.72
Safety index 65.43 45.28
Air quality Good Good
  • Durham’s population is within about 5% of Madison, so they’re very similar in size.
  • Durham’s public transportation score of 4 out of 10 is lower than Madison’s score of 6.
  • Durham is less walkable than Madison with a score of 30 out of 100 vs Madison’s 50 out of 100.
  • Durham has a bike-friendliness score of 38 out of 100, which means it isn’t as accessible or safe for cyclists as Madison, which has a score of 66.
  • Durham’s crime rate is higher than Madison with a score of 54.72 compared to Madison’s 34.57. This means that Durham neighborhoods are safer than 54.72% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Madison neighborhoods are safer than 34.57%.
  • Durham is considered to be less safe than Madison with a score of 45.28 vs Madison’s 65.43.
  • Air quality in Durham is Good, and in Madison it’s Good.

Other things to consider for your Madison to Durham move

  • HOA rules: It’s a good idea to look into your HOA or community regulations before moving day arrives.
  • Elevator reservation: Reserve elevator access early if your building requires it, to avoid delays on moving day.
  • Truck parking permits: Some cities require parking permits for large vehicles and moving trucks. Find out if you need any parking permits ahead of time.
  • State licensing: For-profit household goods carriers in the state fall under the jurisdiction of the North Carolina Utilities Commission, Transportation Division. All legitimate movers should have a “C Number” issued by the commission, signifying that they’ve met minimum insurance requirements and adhere to the provisions outlined in the state’s Maximum Rate Tariff (MRT). Double-check that the moving company is properly licensed before you hire them.
  • State regulator: You can verify a North Carolina moving company’s license by visiting the state’s public utilities commission.
  • Moving Permits: While North Carolina doesn’t mandate moving permits, checking local parking guidelines before your move-in day is still a good idea.
  • Change of address: File your USPS change of address about a week before moving so mail reaches Durham smoothly. Start the process here.
  • Moving company insurance: Every state requires moving companies to carry different levels of insurance. Choose Released Value Protection for no-cost, minimal coverage from movers, with responsibility limited to 60 cents per pound per article. For comprehensive coverage, explore alternatives with your chosen moving company or consider a third-party insurance provider.
  • Moving checklist: Use our moving checklist to stay on top of every detail and reduce last-minute stress.

Where to live in Durham

Now that you’ve chosen City of The Viper as your next home, here are a few of the best neighborhoods in Durham to check out.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • Golden Belt
  • Warehouse District
  • City Center
  • Research Triangle Park
  • Central Park
  • Chapel Hill
  • Northgate Park

Best neighborhoods for families

  • Treyburn
  • American Village/Arrowhead
  • Willowhaven
  • Fieldstone by the Eno
  • Hope Valley Farms

Things to do in Durham

After getting comfortable in your new North Carolina home, it’s time to see what Durham is all about. Whether you’re into food, art, nature, or nightlife — there’s plenty to check out:

  • Arts and culture: From historic museums to vibrant art centers, Durham offers cultural landmarks like the Museum of Life + Science, Nasher Museum of Art at Duke University, Museum of Durham History, and V & E Simonetti Historic Tuba Collection.
  • Outdoor recreation: The city’s West Point on the Eno, RollingView Falls Lake State Park, Durham Central Park, and Historic Durham Athletic Park — among other sites — are great places to hike, ride bikes, or just enjoy nature.
  • Sports: Grab a seat and root for the home team during an Duke University (ACC)Durham Bulls (Triple-A East baseball) game.

FAQ

When is the best time to move from Madison to Durham?

The most budget-friendly and comfortable times to move from Madison to Durham are in the spring or fall, when the weather is mild and moving rates in Madison are lower.

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

Because spring and fall moves from Madison to Durham are so common, winter can be a great time to move if you’re looking for lower prices. Read our moving discounts guide to see how.

How long does a move from Madison to Durham take?

A move of 934 miles from Madison, WI to Durham, generally takes two to seven days. Movers in Madison sometimes provide expedited service, while storage in Durham is a good fallback if you need extra time.

Which movers in Madison offer piano or antique moving?

Some moving jobs call for extra care and expertise. 3 movers in Madison have the skills and equipment for piano transport. 1 specialize in safely moving antiques. Across WI, there are 25 piano movers and 13 antique movers, while nationwide the numbers reach 2,303 and 1,466.

Because not every mover offers these services, ask about specialty experience and insurance coverage when you request quotes.

Helpful moving resources

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