Madison, WI to Albany, NY Movers (NEW 2026 Costs)
Quick answer: Moving from Madison to Albany typically costs $2,800–$7,000 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home (about 971 miles). Use our moving cost calculator below to get an instant estimate.
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Cost to move from Madison to Albany
Moving from Madison, WI to Albany, NY typically costs $2,800–$7,000 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home.
The price ranges below are estimates for a 971-mile move from Madison to Albany, 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
- Roadway Moving recently quoted $3,171 for a 1 bedroom (large) using professional movers.
- BLVD Moving recently quoted $3,127 for a 1 bedroom (small) using professional movers.
- Joyce Van Lines recently quoted $2,484 for a studio apartment using professional movers.
1 Bedroom (large)
Feb 12, 2026
1 Bedroom (small)
Feb 08, 2026
Studio apartment
Jan 28, 2026
5+ Bedrooms
Jan 22, 2026
3 Bedrooms
Jan 11, 2026
5+ Bedrooms
Dec 28, 2025
1 Bedroom (large)
Dec 26, 2025
5+ Bedrooms
Dec 26, 2025
1 Bedroom (small)
Dec 16, 2025
1 Bedroom (small)
Dec 06, 2025
Key factors that impact the cost of your Madison to Albany move
Your total cost will depend on:
- Home size: The number of rooms makes a big difference. Expect around $2,400 for a one-bedroom, or up to $9,500 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 $800 to $1,900, but require more effort than hiring movers.
Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from Albany, NY to Madison, WI guide.
Best Madison to Albany movers by type
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Local
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Labor Only
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Best professional movers from Madison to Albany
Opting for a full-service mover can make your interstate move from Madison to Albany 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→NY 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 Albany
Many movers find Albany easier on the wallet than Madison - roughly 21% less for singles and 23% less for families.
Monthly basics average $1,801 for one person in Albany versus $2,292 in Madison. For a family of four, it's $4,205 compared with $5,457.
See the cost breakdown below to pinpoint where the savings add up:
| Madison | Albany | |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1 BR rent | $1,693 | $1,426 |
| Average 3 BR rent | $3,100 | $2,900 |
| Average home value | $367,934 | $281,584 |
| Average income (per capita) | $62,919 | $66,546 |
| Cost of living (single) | $2,292 | $1,801 |
| Cost of living (family of four) | $5,457 | $4,205 |
| Unemployment rate | 3.3% | 7.1% |
| Sales tax | 5.5% | 8.0% |
| State income tax | 7.65% | 10.9% |
- When relocating from Madison to Albany, expect to find rent about 9% cheaper, letting you enjoy more financial freedom monthly.
- You can relax about your monthly mortgage expenses, thanks to home prices being nearly 23% more affordable in Albany compared to Madison.
- Exciting update: you'll see an average income that's about 6% higher in Albany compared to Madison, which might allow for more savings or investments.
- You'll save on routine expenses like food, gas, and utilities in Albany, as the cost of living for a single person is 21% lower compared to Madison.
- A move to Albany 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 23% less than what it costs in Madison.
- Albany shows an unemployment rate that exceeds Madison by around 115%. This increase suggests a broader candidate selection for employers, possibly making the job market more competitive for applicants.
- Sales taxes in Albany are 45% more than in Madison, implying increased costs for common purchases like apparel, dining, and gadgets.
- Income taxes in New York are 42% 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 Albany:
| Living Expense | Madison | Albany |
|---|---|---|
| Basic utilities | $215.88 | $203.15 |
| Cell phone plan | $50.44 | $57.53 |
| Dozen eggs | $4.04 | $4.71 |
| Loaf of bread | $3.75 | $3.93 |
| Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) | $15.00 | $19.00 |
| Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) | $77.50 | $79.50 |
| Gym membership | $64.29 | $31.25 |
- Basic utilities tend to be more expensive in Madison than in Albany.
- Cell phone plans are cheaper in Madison than in Albany.
- Eggs are less expensive in Madison than in Albany.
- Bread costs less in Madison than in Albany.
- A quick meal is cheaper in Madison than in Albany.
- A mid-range dinner for two costs less in Madison than in Albany.
- Gym memberships cost more in Madison than in Albany.
How life is different in Madison vs. Albany
| Madison | Albany | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 269,840 | 99,224 |
| Transportation score | 6 | 8 |
| Walkability score | 50 | 65 |
| Bike friendliness score | 66 | 55 |
| Crime index | 34.57 | 10.0 |
| Safety index | 65.43 | 49.65 |
| Air quality | Good | Good |
- Albany's population is about 63% less than Madison.
- Albany's public transportation score of 8 out of 10 is higher than Madison's score of 6.
- Albany is more walkable than Madison with a score of 65 out of 100 vs Madison's 50 out of 100.
- Albany has a bike-friendliness score of 55 out of 100, which means it isn't as accessible or safe for cyclists as Madison, which has a score of 66.
- Albany's crime rate is lower than Madison with a score of 10.0 compared to Madison's 34.57. This means that Albany neighborhoods are safer than 10.0% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Madison neighborhoods are safer than 34.57%.
- Albany is considered to be less safe than Madison with a score of 49.65 vs Madison's 65.43.
- Air quality in Albany is Good, and in Madison it's Good.
Other things to consider for your Madison to Albany 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: New York requires moving companies to have a license and obtain a New York Department of Transportation (NYDOT) number. A NYDOT license ensures your mover is in compliance with the state's safety, insurance, and operational regulations. Before booking, ensure the moving company is officially licensed to handle your move.
- State regulator: New York’s public utilities commission provides official mover license verification.
- Moving Permits: New York 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 Albany. Start the process here.
- Moving company insurance: The amount and type of insurance movers must have depends on state regulations. Choose Released Value Protection for no-cost, minimal coverage from movers. They're responsible for a maximum of 60 cents per pound per article. For comprehensive coverage, discuss alternatives with your moving company 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 Albany
Planning your move to Smallbany? Take a look at our picks for the best neighborhoods to call home in Albany.
Best neighborhoods for singles
- Center Square
- Hudson Park
- Park South
- Washington Park
- Mansion
- Downtown
- Historic Pastures
- Sheridan Hollow
- Melrose
- North Albany/Shaker Park
Best neighborhoods for families
- Center Square
- Helderberg
- Melrose
- Park South
- Hudson Park
- New Scotland/Woodlawn
- Northside
- Union Street
- Buckingham Pond/Crestwood
Things to do in Albany
After settling into your new New York home, you'll want to branch out and explore your new city. Luckily, Albany has lots to offer, no matter what you're interested in:
- Arts and culture: Albany features a variety of museums and cultural arts centers, including the New York State Museum, USS Slater DE-766, Albany Institute of History & Art, and The Irish American Heritage Museum.
- Outdoor recreation: The city's Washington Park and Albany Pine Bush Preserve — 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 Albany Great Danes (America East)Saint Rose Golden Knights (NE-10) game.
FAQ
When is the best time to move from Madison to Albany?
Planning your move from Madison to Albany? 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 Albany?
Because most people are moving from Madison to Albany 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 Albany take?
The 971-mile journey from Madison, WI to Albany, NY, typically takes two to seven 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 Albany.
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.
