Moving from Fresno to Madison?

5 Best Movers and Your Ultimate Moving Guide

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Fresno to Madison Movers

Moving from Fresno, the Raisin Capital of the world, to Madison, known for its vibrant arts scene and lively collegiate atmosphere, marks an exciting transition in your life. You're not just moving between cities; you're trading sunny, agricultural expanses for snow-dusted, intellectual vibrancy. In this significant leap, the importance of having trusted and reliable professional movers cannot be overstated; we at Great Guys Moving ensure you embark on this new chapter with the best support by your side.

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

5 Best Fresno to Madison Movers

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

#1
A Smooth Move, LLC Logo
Exceptional
claimed company icon

based on 1,293+ data points

Appleton, WI
Full-Service Moves, Packing, Loading, Delivering, Unloading, Unpacking, Business and Residential Relocation Services See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/11/2024)

USDOT: 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
#2
Madison Smooth Moves Logo
Exceptional

based on 894+ data points

Madison, WI
Residential Moves, Local Moves, Long-distance Moves See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/10/2024)

USDOT: 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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#3
All In A Day Moving Services Logo
Superb
claimed company icon

based on 914+ data points

Merced, CA
Local and long-distance moving, Piano moving, Packing services See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/11/2024)

USDOT: 3861667 Verify

About All In A Day Moving Services

All In A Day Moving Services promises to give you the smoothest and most stress-free moving experience. It’s a local moving company that ser...Read More >>

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top 3 ranked movers in merced 2023 all in a day moving services image
top 3 ranked movers in merced 2022 all in a day moving services image
#4
Pete's Moving Services LLC Logo
Fabulous

based on 2,685+ data points

Modesto, CA
Local Moving, Long Distance Moving, Office Moves See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/3/2024)

USDOT: 3314910 Verify

About Pete's Moving Services LLC

Founded in 2017, Pete's Moving Services LLC is a comprehensive door-to-door moving company specializing in residential, office, and commerci...Read More >>

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#5
Meathead Movers Logo
Good

based on 2,471+ data points

Fresno, CA
Local Moving, Long Distance Moving, Commercial Moving See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/10/2024)

USDOT: 921143 Verify

About Meathead Movers

Since 1997, Meathead Movers has been providing high-quality relocation services to the entire California area, including Fresno. This moving...Read More >>

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Relocating from Fresno to Madison Neighborhood Guide

Moving to a new city can be daunting, especially when you're not familiar with the local neighborhoods. To ease this transition, we’ve prepared a comparison of popular neighborhoods in Fresno, CA & Madison, WI. This guide helps you find areas in your new city that share a similar vibe with your old stomping grounds, making the settling-in process a bit more like coming home.

FresnoMadison
Tower DistrictWilly Street

vibrant, cultural hub

Woodward ParkHilldale

family-friendly with green spaces

The BluffsMaple Bluff

affluent, scenic waterfront

Van Ness ExtensionNakoma League

historic homes, prestigious

SunnysideSherman

quiet, suburban feel

Old Fig GardenUniversity Heights

historic charm, eclectic

North Growth AreaShorewood Hills

upscale, academic atmosphere

Huntington BoulevardRegent

stately homes, established

ClovisMonona

family-oriented, lakeside living

River ParkTenney-Lapham

lively, community-centric

For those who adore the cultural richness and artistic vibe of Fresno's Tower District, Willy Street in Madison will feel like a kindred spirit with its eclectic mix of shops, restaurants, and annual festivals like the Willy Street Fair. Woodward Park residents moving to Madison will find a similarly family-oriented atmosphere and ample outdoor activities in Hilldale, known for its shopping centers and proximity to the University of Wisconsin-Madison Arboretum. If the scenic, waterfront lifestyle of The Bluffs has been your haven, Madison's Maple Bluff offers an elegant transition with its picturesque lake views and high-end homes. For history enthusiasts, the move from Old Fig Garden to University Heights in Madison is seamless, where historical integrity meets modern charm, embodied by landmarks such as Camp Randall Stadium and the University of Wisconsin campus. This detailed understanding of neighborhoods bridges the gap between Fresno and Madison, ensuring you find a new home that resonates with your lifestyle and preferences.

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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 Fresno to Madison

Moving from Fresno, CA to Madison, WI presents a unique opportunity to weigh the benefits against the drawbacks in a significant lifestyle shift. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection on moving from Fresno, CA to Madison, WI , highlighting both the promising and the challenging aspects of such a relocation.

CONs
PROs
Fresno, CA iconFresno, CA
  • Higher crime rate
  • Extreme summer heat
  • Less green spaces
  • Fewer cultural events
Madison, WI iconMadison, WI
  • Lower crime rate
  • Cooler summers
  • Abundant parks
  • Vibrant arts scene
Madison, WI iconMadison, WI
  • Higher cost of living
  • Longer winters
  • Less local produce
  • Traffic congestion
Fresno, CA iconFresno, CA
  • Lower cost of living
  • More sunny days
  • Large agriculture hub
  • Easier commutes

While the transition from Fresno to Madison introduces the challenge of adapting to colder winter conditions, it also welcomes you into a city with a robust green infrastructure, like the expansive Madison Parks, and a highly-regarded cultural scene. Madison's renowned Isthmus area, for example, is a hub for both local art and culinary delights. Furthermore, while Fresno boasts a lower cost of living, Madison offers a significantly safer environment and a plethora of community engagement opportunities, contributing to a high quality of life. Neighborhoods in Madison, such as Downtown Madison and the Monona Terrace area, often host events that pull the community together, fostering a sense of belonging and inclusion.

Food Scene Guide When Moving from Fresno to Madison

This comparison of the local cuisine between Fresno & Madison aims to shed light on the distinct culinary scenes of both cities. As food is a vital aspect of local culture and daily life, understanding the variations in local cuisine can help you feel more at home in your new location.

FresnoMadison

Most iconic local food item

Tri-tip SteakCheese Curds

Most popular meat dish

Grilled Chicken TacosBratwurst

Most popular street food item

TacosFood Carts offering a Variety of Foods

Most popular vegan food

Vegan TacosVegan Cheese Pizza

Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city

  • The Annex Kitchen
  • Tacos Marquitos
  • Pismo's Coastal Grill
  • Graze
  • L'Etoile
  • The Old Fashioned

Fitness/Health Conscientiousness

78

Abundance of Food Trucks

89

Foodie Scene

79

Vegan Friendly

69

While both Fresno and Madison offer vibrant and diverse food scenes, each has its unique draws. In Fresno, the taco scene is unparalleled, reflecting the city's rich Mexican heritage. Places like Tacos Marquitos provide an authentic street food experience. Meanwhile, Madison dazzles with its array of food carts, particularly during the warmer months, showcasing an eclectic mix of cuisines. Madison's high rating in vegan-friendliness points towards a community keen on plant-based options, with establishments like Graze leading the charge. Both cities emphasize healthy living, though Madison appears to take a slight edge in health consciousness and foodie culture. Regardless of where you find yourself, both cities promise a culinary journey that's reflective of their unique cultures and traditions.

Restaurant Guide for Moving from Fresno to Madison

When relocating, finding comfort in a new city often begins with food, making the search for the perfect dining spots crucial. This restaurant comparison between Fresno and Madison aims to bridge culinary worlds, guiding you towards new favorites reminiscent of home. Let's explore how Fresno's diverse restaurant scene compares to Madison's, ensuring you can always satisfy those food cravings, no matter where you are.

The Annex KitchenGraze

farm-to-table dining with a similar commitment to fresh, local ingredients

CampagniaL'Etoile

posh ambience with exquisite local cuisine, reflecting Campagnia's upscale experience

Cracked Pepper BistroForequarter

inventive American cuisine that mirrors Cracked Pepper Bistro's creative dishes

La BoulangerieBatch Bakehouse

offering a comparable selection of fine baked goods and pastries

Lucy’s LoungeThe Old Fashioned

both provide a cozy atmosphere with a great selection of cocktails

Mediterranean GrillMed Cafe & Market

shares a passion for authentic Mediterranean flavors and dishes

Pismo’s Coastal GrillSardine

offers fresh, quality seafood in an atmosphere that echoes Pismo’s upscale casual vibe

Taco Truck ThrowdownTaqueria Guadalajara

captures the essence of a vibrant street food scene with delicious, authentic tacos

Five RestaurantEno Vino Downtown

upscale dining with a diverse menu that mirrors Five's eclectic offerings

Max’s Bistro & BarHeritage Tavern

melds fine dining with comfort food in a way that's reminiscent of Max’s

Experiencing the culinary delights of a new city is one of the true joys of moving. In Madison, Graze is not just a restaurant; it's an experience that captures the farm-to-table essence similar to The Annex Kitchen in Fresno, promising a seamless transition for your palate. Likewise, the clever and comforting concoction of flavors at Forequarter offers a Madison equivalent to the innovative American cuisine found at Fresno's Cracked Pepper Bistro, ensuring that your culinary adventures continue unabated. These establishments epitomize the idea that, while your location may change, your dining experiences can continue to be as enriching and fulfilling as ever.

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Ready to start your move?

Real Estate Facts to Know Before Moving from Fresno to Madison

When planning a move, understanding the nuances between your current and future home's real estate market is crucial. Comparing Fresno, CA and Madison, WI in terms of housing costs, styles, and lifestyle can provide essential insights to guide your relocation process.

In comparing Fresno and Madison, two distinct real estate markets emerge. Fresno, with its ranch-style homes and emphasis on large yards and swimming pools, offers a different lifestyle from Madison's prairie-style homes that often tout lakeside views and energy efficiency. The differences extend beyond aesthetics to lifestyle, with Madison scoring higher in walkability and bikeability, suggesting a more urban experience. This could be appealing if you're looking for a city where you can rely less on a car. The higher median monthly rent in Madison reflects the city's demand for living spaces that cater to its vibrant, urban lifestyle, contrasting Fresno's more suburban appeal.

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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 Fresno to Madison

When planning a move from Fresno, CA to Madison, WI, understanding the weather comparison between these cities is crucial for adapting to your new home. This guide highlights key differences in climate factors such as temperature, sunshine, and precipitation, ensuring you are well-prepared for the change.

Summer icon
97°F / 66°F

Fresno, CA

82°F / 63°F

Madison, WI

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
55°F / 38°F

Fresno, CA

27°F / 13°F

Madison, WI

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
11.5

Fresno, CA

37

Madison, WI

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
0

Fresno, CA

42

Madison, WI

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

Moving from the dry heat of Fresno to Madison's distinct four-season climate requires a wardrobe adjustment, especially for winter, where temperatures often drop below freezing. The significant difference in sunshine and the presence of snow in Madison may affect your daily routines and activities. Preparing for Madison's colder climate and knowing that the city enjoys fewer days of sunshine but offers better air quality and varied seasonal experiences, from colorful autumns to snowy winters, will help smoothen your transition.

Ready to start your move?

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

When you're planning a move, it's crucial to understand how your finances will be impacted. This comparison provides insight into Fresno vs. Madison related to money and finance, helping you to prepare for the costs of living, taxation, and the economic environment you're moving into.

When comparing Fresno and Madison, it's clear that while Madison presents a higher cost of living index and property taxes, it also enjoys a higher average household income. This suggests that despite higher expenses, residents may have more financial bandwidth due to earnings. Notably, Madison benefits from a lower sales tax, which can mitigate some of the increased costs associated with its cost of living. The economic backdrop of these cities is distinctly different, with Madison having a strong presence in the Information Technology sector, which typically offers higher wages. Additionally, Madison's lower homelessness rate reflects a positively different social environment compared to Fresno, hinting at possibly more effective support systems and economic policies.

Political & Religious Comparison between Fresno, CA and Madison, WI

When planning your move from Fresno, CA, to Madison, WI, understanding the local demographic nuances is essential. This comparison of the politics between Fresno & Madison provides you with a quick snapshot of the political and religious makeup of residents in both cities, assisting in smoothing your transition.

FresnoMadison

Political Make-up

Moderately DemocraticStrongly Democratic

Local Politics

Focus on agricultural & urban issuesEnvironmental and progressive issues

Religion

Mixture of religious communities with a significant Christian populationDiverse, with lower overall religiosity compared to Fresno

In both Fresno and Madison, the local political scene reflects broader statewide trends, albeit with unique local flavors. Fresno's balance swings towards a moderate Democratic stance, influenced heavily by its agricultural backbone and urban development concerns. Conversely, Madison's political landscape leans more heavily Progressive, with a strong emphasis on environmental stewardship and progressive social policies, reflecting Wisconsin's prominent academic and liberal communities. The religious makeup in Fresno is diverse, hosting a multitude of faiths but with a noticeable Christian majority. Madison, while also diverse, tends to showcase a lower overall religiosity, which aligns with its reputation for progressive values and inclusivity. Understanding these aspects can help you better acclimate to your new home by aligning with communities that share your values.

Traffic and Public Transit Considerations for Moving from Fresno to Madison

Moving from Fresno, CA to Madison, WI offers a unique opportunity to better understand what the daily commute and traffic is like. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Fresno & Madison will help you navigate your new city seamlessly.

FresnoMadison
2219

Avg Commute Time (in minutes)

43

Traffic Congestion (out of 10)

67

Availability of Public Transit (out of 10)

ChallengingPossible

Can you get by without car?

When comparing the commute in Fresno and Madison, you'll find that Madison offers a slightly quicker average commute time and less congestion. While Fresno provides an adequate public transit system, Madison scores a bit higher, reflecting its more compact urban layout and effective bus service. Notably, living in Madison without a car is more feasible than in Fresno, thanks to its bike-friendly nature and comprehensive public transportation system. This makes Madison an attractive option for those seeking to reduce their reliance on personal vehicles.

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