Moving from Scottsdale to Madison?

5 Best Movers and Your Ultimate Moving Guide

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Scottsdale to Madison Movers

Moving from the sun-drenched landscapes of Scottsdale, affectionately known as "The West's Most Western Town," to the seasonal beauty of Madison, the vibrant "City of Four Lakes," can be an exhilarating chapter in your life’s journey. Each city boasts its unique charm, from the desert opulence of Scottsdale to Madison’s cozy, collegiate atmosphere, making your move not just a change of address but a significant lifestyle transition. Understanding the importance of this journey, we emphasize selecting trusted and reliable professional movers for your long distance move, ensuring that your adventure begins on the right note.

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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Madison to Scottsdale guide.

5 Best Scottsdale to Madison Movers

These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)

#1
Sterling Interstate LLC Logo
Exceptional
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based on 2,279+ data points

Location DotPhoenix, AZ
GearLocal moving services, Long-distance moving services, Packing services See More
Circle CheckAuthorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/10/2024)

Circle DotUSDOT: 3006713 Verify

About Sterling Interstate LLC

Established in 2017, Sterling Interstate opened with the intention to change the stigma around the moving industry by providing reliable, cu...Read More >>

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top 10 ranked movers in phoenix 2023 sterling interstate llc image
top 10 ranked movers in phoenix 2022 sterling interstate llc image
#2
A Smooth Move, LLC Logo
Exceptional
claimed company icon

based on 1,293+ data points

Location DotAppleton, WI
GearFull-Service Moves, Packing, Loading, Delivering, Unloading, Unpacking, Business and Residential Relocation Services See More
Circle CheckAuthorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/11/2024)

Circle DotUSDOT: 3350934 Verify

About A Smooth Move, LLC

A Smooth Move is a family-owned and operated moving company that serves Wisconsin and beyond. It’s proud of its reputation as one of the mos...Read More >>

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top 3 ranked movers in appleton 2023 a smooth move llc image
top ranked movers in appleton 2022 a smooth move llc image
#3
Madison Smooth Moves Logo
Exceptional

based on 894+ data points

Location DotMadison, WI
GearResidential Moves, Local Moves, Long-distance Moves See More
Circle CheckAuthorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/10/2024)

Circle DotUSDOT: 3350934 Verify

About Madison Smooth Moves

Founded in 2018, Madison Smooth Moves operates based on the principles of affordability, efficiency, preparation, and satisfaction. As a loc...Read More >>

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top 10 ranked movers in madison 2023 madison smooth moves image
top 10 ranked movers in madison 2022 madison smooth moves image
#4
New Beginnings Moving Solutions Logo
Exceptional

based on 991+ data points

Location DotPeoria, AZ
GearLong Distance Moves, Local Moves, Business Relocation See More
Circle CheckAuthorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/27/2022)

Circle DotUSDOT: 3656946 Verify

About New Beginnings Moving Solutions

New Beginnings Moving Solutions is a full-service moving company specializing in long-distance moves. It is locally-owned and operated and h...Read More >>

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top 10 ranked movers in surprise 2023 new beginnings moving solutions image
top 3 ranked movers in peoria 2022 new beginnings moving solutions image
#5
Creative Moving and Packing, LLC Logo
Exceptional
claimed company icon

based on 4,091+ data points

Location DotPhoenix, AZ
GearLocal Moving Services, Long-Distance Moving Services, Commercial Moving Services See More
Circle CheckAuthorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/10/2024)

Circle DotUSDOT: 1877603 Verify

About Creative Moving and Packing, LLC

Since 2008, Creative Moving and Packing has served the Phoenix, AZ, area with high-quality local and long-distance relocation services. This...Read More >>

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top 10 ranked movers in phoenix 2023 creative moving and packing llc image
top 10 ranked movers in phoenix 2022 creative moving and packing llc image

Relocating from Scottsdale to Madison Neighborhood Guide

When relocating, understanding your new city can be challenging. To ease this transition, we've created a guide that compares neighborhoods between Scottsdale, AZ & Madison, WI. This comparison will help you find areas in Madison that mirror the community vibes and amenities you cherish in Scottsdale, making your move feel like you're just shifting from one familiar neighborhood to another.

ScottsdaleMadison
Old TownState Street Area

vibrant shops, dining

North ScottsdaleShorewood Hills

upscale, serene

McCormick RanchMaple Bluff

family-friendly, waterfront activities

Scottsdale RanchNakoma League

tight-knit community, greenspaces

DC RanchHill Farms

suburban feel, community-focused

GrayhawkBlackhawk

modern homes, community parks

Troon NorthBishops Bay

luxury living, golf courses

Gainey RanchWestmorland

quiet, well-established

Paradise ValleyMaple Bluff

prestigious homes, private feel

SilverleafShorewood Hills

exclusive, premier homes

If you're drawn to the lively bustle of Old Town Scottsdale with its shops, galleries, and restaurants, you'll find a similar vibe exploring the State Street Area in Madison, known for its active nightlife and eclectic shopping experiences. For those who appreciate the upscale tranquility of North Scottsdale, Shorewood Hills in Madison offers a serene living environment coupled with high-end amenities. Nature lovers who enjoy the greenbelts and lakes of McCormick Ranch will feel right at home in Maple Bluff, where access to waterfront activities and community events is plentiful. Lastly, the sense of close-knit community and luxurious living found in Scottsdale Ranch resonates well with the feel of Nakoma League, which boasts beautiful greenspaces and a strong sense of community involvement. Each Madison neighborhood provides unique attractions and lifestyle options that Scottsdale residents have come to love, from Shorewood Hills' waterfront relaxation to the vibrant, pedestrian-friendly downtown Madison.

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Things to Do in Madison

  • Explore Olbrich Botanical Gardens.
  • Discover history at Wisconsin State Capitol.
  • Enjoy a concert at Overture Center for the Arts.
  • Kayak on Lake Mendota.
  • Sample cheese at Fromagination.
  • Bike the Capital City Trail.
  • Attend a Madison Mallards game.

Ready to start your move?

Pros and Cons of Moving from Scottsdale to Madison

Moving from one city to another is a major decision, and it's crucial to weigh the good with the bad. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the strengths and challenges involved in relocating from Scottsdale, AZ to Madison, WI. The charts below will juxtapose the cons with the pros and vice versa, helping you make a well-informed decision about your move.

CONs
PROs
Scottsdale, AZ iconScottsdale, AZ
  • High summer temperatures
  • Less green space
  • Higher cost of living
  • Smaller cultural scene
  • Less water activities
Madison, WI iconMadison, WI
  • Milder summer climate
  • More lush parks
  • More affordable living
  • Richer arts culture
  • Lakes and watersports
Madison, WI iconMadison, WI
  • Longer, colder winters
  • Fewer golf options
  • More casual dining
  • Smaller boutiques
  • Less sun, more snow
Scottsdale, AZ iconScottsdale, AZ
  • Sunny weather
  • Golf courses galore
  • Upscale restaurants
  • Luxury shopping
  • Desert landscape

While Scottsdale dazzles with its upscale amenities like Troon North Golf Club and luxury shopping districts such as the Fashion Square, Madison offers its own brand of charm. The transition to Madison invites you to embrace a community-rich lifestyle, where activities like paddling on Lake Mendota or exploring the vast trails in the University of Wisconsin Arboretum become part of your everyday life. The city's vibrant arts scene is anchored by events at the Overture Center for the Arts and the eclectic offerings of State Street's shops and eateries. While you may miss Scottsdale's year-round sunshine and desert vistas, Madison's four-season climate offers a picturesque backdrop of snowy landscapes in winter and lush greenery in summer, ideal for those who appreciate seasonality in their surroundings.

Food Scene Guide When Moving from Scottsdale to Madison

This comparison of the local cuisine between Scottsdale & Madison serves as a guide. Food deeply enriches the culture and living experience of a place. By comparing these two locales, you can better grasp the culinary landscape you’re moving into.

ScottsdaleMadison

Most iconic local food item

Southwestern Cuisine
Beer Cheese Soup

Most popular meat dish

Carne Asada
Bratwurst

Most popular street food item

Tacos
Food Cart Hot Dogs

Most popular vegan food

Vegan Tacos
Tempeh Reuben

Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city

Fitness/Health Conscientiousness

8
7

Abundance of Food Trucks

5
7

Foodie Scene

9
8

Vegan Friendly

7
8

In transitioning from Scottsdale, AZ to Madison, WI, you'll find yourself moving from the bold flavors of Southwestern cuisine and carne asada to the comfort of beer cheese soup and bratwurst. Scottsdale's dynamic foodie scene, marked by an array of vegan options and high-end dining experiences like Virtù and Pizzeria Bianco, contrasts Madison's hearty and eclectic food scene, where local gems like Graze and Lao Laan-Xang showcase the city's diverse and vegan-friendly options. Madison's State Street and the Capitol Square are hotspots where food carts and restaurants offer a vibrant taste of local and international cuisines, reflecting Madison's welcoming, community-focused spirit.

Restaurant Guide for Moving from Scottsdale to Madison

Food is at the heart of making anywhere feel like home, and understanding the culinary scene is key to settling in. This restaurant comparison between Scottsdale and Madison is designed to help you find your new go-to spots by pointing you towards establishments similar to your favorites. Whether you're craving upscale dining or a cozy cafe, this guide aims to make Madison feel like home, one meal at a time.

Mastro's City HallL'Etoile

Upscale, fine dining with a focus on local ingredients

Fat OxForequarter

Innovative, seasonal menus showcasing local produce

The MissionA Pig in a Fur Coat

Bold flavors and a creative menu

Troon North Golf Club - Dynamite GrilleTornado Steak House

Classic steakhouse with a comfortable atmosphere

FnBGraze

Locally sourced, farm-to-table dining

ZuZu at Hotel Valley HoShort Stack Eatery

Unique breakfast and brunch options

Virtù Honest CraftHeritage Tavern

Craftsmanship and innovation in cooking

Butterfield's Pancake HouseMarigold Kitchen

Bright, bustling breakfast spot

Atlas BistroEno Vino Wine Bar & Bistro

Diverse wine selection with gourmet bites

Pizzeria BiancoSal’s Pizza

Authentic, hand-tossed New York-style pizza

Upon your move, if you find yourself missing the sophisticated ambiance and exquisite dishes of Mastro's City Hall from Scottsdale, L'Etoile in Madison will welcome you with its high-quality, locally-sourced cuisine and an equally elegant setting. Similarly, fans of the vibrant and distinctive flavors at The Mission in Scottsdale will discover a refreshing parallel at A Pig in a Fur Coat in Madison, where inventive dishes prioritize boldness and quality. For morning comforts that remind you of Butterfield's Pancake House's hearty breakfasts, Marigold Kitchen in Madison stands ready with warm plates and a sunny atmosphere, ensuring your transition is not only smooth but deliciously satisfying. And don't forget, transitioning from the acclaimed pizzas of Pizzeria Bianco, Sal’s Pizza in Madison offers an authentic slice of New York right in the heart of Wisconsin, making your new culinary explorations an adventure in themselves.

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Ready to start your move?

Real Estate Facts to Know Before Moving from Scottsdale to Madison

Real estate significantly impacts moving decisions, making it essential to understand how the housing markets in Scottsdale, AZ, and Madison, WI, compare. Evaluating aspects like cost and walkability can greatly inform your relocation choice.

While the housing markets in Scottsdale and Madison offer distinct choices in terms of affordability and style, they cater to varied lifestyles and preferences. Scottsdale's considerably higher median home price reflects its luxury homes and amenities, such as golf courses and private pools, which resonate with a desert contemporary aesthetic. In contrast, Madison's more accessible housing costs and emphasis on prairie and craftsman architectural styles appeal to those seeking a blend of urban and outdoor experiences, enhanced by its higher walkability and bikeability scores. Notably, Madison's proximity to the University of Wisconsin campus and its lakeside properties are distinctive attractions that enrich its real estate offerings.

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Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Madison, WI

1. Williamson-Marquette: This neighborhood is known for its community vibe and welcoming atmosphere, where you'll often see pets and their owners enjoying the many local parks and pet-friendly cafes.

2. Nakoma League: With its close proximity to the UW Arboretum, your pets will love the extensive trails and natural areas ideal for long walks and exploration.

3. Shorewood Hills: This area boasts ample green spaces and a pet-friendly attitude, with easy access to the Shorewood Hills Pool for summer dog swims and several off-leash parks nearby.

Weather Considerations for Moving from Scottsdale to Madison

Moving from one city to another significantly alters your daily life, especially when adapting to new weather conditions. By comparing the climates of Scottsdale, AZ, and Madison, WI, you'll better understand how to prepare for your relocation. This comparison highlights key differences to help you adjust to your new environment seamlessly.

Summer icon
104°F / 81°F

Scottsdale, AZ

82°F / 62°F

Madison, WI

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
68°F / 45°F

Scottsdale, AZ

27°F / 13°F

Madison, WI

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
9.2"

Scottsdale, AZ

37"

Madison, WI

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
0"

Scottsdale, AZ

42"

Madison, WI

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

When moving from Scottsdale to Madison, you'll experience a stark contrast in both temperature and precipitation. The hot, arid climate of Scottsdale, with its abundant sunshine and low humidity, differs greatly from Madison's colder, more humid conditions and significantly higher annual snowfall. Madison's winters are notably long and cold, requiring proper wardrobe and home heating solutions. Meanwhile, Madison's summer, while milder, offers a welcome respite with its lush greenery and outdoor activities facilitated by the additional rainfall, something Scottsdale residents might find pleasantly different.

Ready to start your move?

Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Scottsdale to Madison

When planning a move, understanding how the cost of living and financial landscape will change is crucial. This comparison between Scottsdale, AZ, and Madison, WI, highlights key financial differences to prepare for your relocation.

While moving from Scottsdale to Madison, you'll encounter a significant difference in the cost of living, with Scottsdale being notably more expensive. However, this is balanced by a higher average household income in Scottsdale. The state income tax in Madison is higher, which could affect your take-home pay. Additionally, the average property tax rate in Madison is significantly higher than in Scottsdale, impacting homeowners. On the flip side, Madison boasts a lower sales tax. This financial contrast underscores the importance of preparing and budgeting for different economic conditions post-move.

Political & Religious Comparison between Scottsdale, AZ and Madison, WI

When planning your move from Scottsdale, AZ to Madison, WI, it's important to get a vivid picture of the new community you'll be joining. This comparison focuses on providing you with a snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents between Scottsdale & Madison . You'll gain insights into each city’s political climate, local politics nuances, and the religious landscape, helping you understand how well you'll fit into your new home.

ScottsdaleMadison

Political Make-up

Lean ConservativeLean Liberal

Local Politics

Business-oriented, Development-focusedProgressive, Environmentally focused

Religion

More religiously diverse, with a strong Christian communityLargely secular, with vibrant interfaith initiatives

Scottsdale is known for its business-oriented mindset and a local government that supports development. Though it leans conservative politically, the city boasts a religiously diverse population with a strong Christian presence. Moving to Madison, you'll find yourself in a more progressive environment. The city's local politics often prioritize environmental issues and social justice, reflecting its more liberal-leaning residents. Madison is also recognized for its secular nature, yet it embraces religious diversity through varied interfaith initiatives. Navigating these differences, you'll experience a dynamic shift in both the political and religious landscape as you transition from Scottsdale to Madison.

Traffic and Public Transit Considerations for Moving from Scottsdale to Madison

Moving from Scottsdale, AZ to Madison, WI is a big change, especially when it comes to daily commuting. This comparison aims to help you better understand the traffic and transportation options between the two, ensuring a smoother transition in your daily travels.

ScottsdaleMadison
2520

Avg Commute Time (in minutes)

64

Traffic Congestion (out of 10)

37

Availability of Public Transit (out of 10)

NoYes

Can you get by without car?

When moving from Scottsdale to Madison, you'll find a notable difference in how you might plan your day-to-day travel. Scottsdale, with its sprawling layout, leans heavily on personal vehicles as the main mode of transport. Public transit options are limited, reflected in its lower availability score. In contrast, Madison offers a more robust public transit system, making it easier to get around without a car, as echoed in its higher public transit score. Additionally, Madison experiences less traffic congestion, which could contribute to a more pleasant commuting experience. Embracing the local transportation options in Madison could not only reduce your carbon footprint but could also introduce new routines in your daily life.

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