Moving from the star-studded streets of Los Angeles, CA, to the tranquil charm of Madison, WI, presents an adventure that's as much about discovering a new way of life as it is about changing your address. You're swapping the endless summer and celebrity sightings of the City of Angels for the laid-back vibes and natural beauty of the City of Four Lakes. Given the nearly 2,000-mile journey between these contrasting worlds, it's essential to entrust your move to professional movers who have proven, through unbiased rankings such as those by Great Guys Moving, to be reliable and top-tier in their field.
Moving from Los Angeles to Madison?
5 Best Movers and Your Ultimate Moving Guide
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Madison to Los Angeles guide.
5 Best Los Angeles to Madison Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
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 >>
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 >>
Glendale, CA | |
Cheap moving services, Local moving services, Long-distance moving services See More | |
Authorized for Interstate Moves (last checked 9/11/2024) | |
USDOT: 3489907 Verify |
About Best California Movers
Best California Movers is a family-owned moving company based in Southern California, with over six years of experience in the industry. Th...Read More >>
Los Angeles, CA | |
Local Moving Services, Long Distance Moving Services, Commercial Moving Services See More | |
Authorized for Interstate Moves (last checked 9/10/2024) | |
USDOT: 3983945 Verify |
About Prodigy Moving & Storage
Serving the greater Los Angeles area and California, Prodigy Moving & Storage has moved residences and offices since 2003. As a locally-...Read More >>
Encino, CA | |
Local Moving, Long Distance Moving, Commercial Moving See More | |
Authorized for Interstate Moves (last checked 9/11/2024) | |
USDOT: 3046389 Verify |
About Redline moving
Redline Moving is a professional moving company that specializes in providing high-quality service with a focus on customer satisfaction. Th...Read More >>
Relocating from Los Angeles to Madison Neighborhood Guide
Are you considering a move but find yourself daunted by the unfamiliarity of a new city? Let's make the transition smoother by comparing local neighborhoods between Los Angeles, CA & Madison, WI . We'll match top neighborhoods from Los Angeles with their Madison equivalents to help you find your vibe in a new locale.
Los Angeles | Madison |
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Silver LakeWilly Street Artsy, diverse community | |
VeniceAtwood Bohemian, vibrant nightlife | |
Beverly HillsMaple Bluff Upscale, historic homes | |
HollywoodState Street Entertainment hub, iconic landmarks | |
Downtown LACapitol Bustling with activity, government center | |
Santa MonicaShorewood Hills Lakeside, recreational activities | |
Echo ParkMonroe Street Trendy, with a laid-back vibe | |
West HollywoodRegent Diverse, community-focused | |
Studio CityHilldale Family-friendly, shopping districts | |
MalibuSpring Harbor Scenic beauty, waterfront living |
In exploring the neighborhoods, you'll find that Atwood's bohemian and lively atmosphere mirrors Venice with its unique blend of restaurants, such as Monty's Blue Plate Diner, and nightlife, similar to the iconic boardwalk area back in Los Angeles. Meanwhile, Madison's Maple Bluff shares the upscale charm and beautifully preserved homes reminiscent of Beverly Hills, complete with lush, manicured landscapes. On the other hand, State Street offers an entertainment scene that could rival Hollywood, bustling with theaters like Overture Center for the Arts, museums, and festive events, providing endless cultural experiences akin to those in Los Angeles. These comparisons not only highlight the architectural and aesthetic resemblances but also showcase the vibrant communities and lifestyles that make each neighborhood unique.
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 Los Angeles to Madison
Moving from one city to another can be a daunting task, especially when considering the differences between two places as diverse as Los Angeles, CA, and Madison, WI. This guide aims to provide an honest reflection of Los Angeles to Madison relocation, highlighting both the good and the bad attributes to help you make an informed decision. Whether it's trading the bustling city life for quieter, scenic neighborhoods or adjusting to the different climate, understanding these aspects is crucial.
- High living costs
- Traffic congestion
- Hot summers
- Less green space
- Earthquake risk
- Lower living costs
- Less traffic
- Cool summers
- More parks
- Safe from earthquakes
- No beaches
- Smaller food scene
- Quieter nightlife
- Less diversity
- Cold winters
- Beach access
- Diverse cuisine
- Vibrant nightlife
- Cultural diversity
- Mild winters
Swapping the sprawling, sun-soaked streets of Los Angeles for Madison's picturesque, leafy neighborhoods offers a refreshing change of pace. Madison, home to the University of Wisconsin, boasts a bustling academic community alongside serene parklands like James Madison Park and the impressive Olbrich Botanical Gardens. Though Madison might have small food scene, it punches above its weight with places like Graft and Fromagination, offering culinary delights that rival those in larger cities. The transition from LA’s mild winters to Madison’s snowy landscape might be stark, but picturesque snow-covered sights like the iconic State Capitol building or ice skating at Tenney Park offer unique joys and a compelling reason to embrace the colder months.
Food Scene Guide When Moving from Los Angeles to Madison
Food is an essential part of local culture and understanding what it's like to live in an area. In this guide, we'll look at a comparison of the local cuisine between Los Angeles, CA & Madison, WI so you can be better informed about the food scene where you're moving.
Los Angeles | Madison |
---|---|
Most iconic local food item SushiBeer Cheese Soup | |
Most popular meat dish Korean BBQFried Cheese Curds | |
Most popular street food item TacosBratwurst | |
Most popular vegan food Acai BowlVegan Cheese Brat | |
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
| |
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness 97 | |
Abundance of Food Trucks 106 | |
Foodie Scene 108 | |
Vegan Friendly 107 |
Los Angeles, known for its eclectic and expansive food scene, offers a variety of food items suited for every palate, offering experiences from authentic street tacos found in neighborhoods like Echo Park, to high-end dining such as sushi at n/naka in Culver City. Madison, while cozier, boasts its own unique offerings like the beloved beer cheese soup, and a growing vegan scene, including options like vegan cheese brats that are becoming more prevalent in local farmers markets and food festivals. Restaurants like Graze not only embody the farm-to-table ethos but also highlight the region's commitment to local sourcing and culinary innovation.
Restaurant Guide for Moving from Los Angeles to Madison
Moving to a new city is always an adventure, and discovering the local food scene can help make anywhere feel like home. This comparison of top restaurants in Los Angeles and Madison is designed to ease the transition by helping you find new favorite spots that echo the flavors and ambiance of beloved LA eateries. Whether you're seeking high-end dining or cozy, casual bites, this guide has got you covered.
BestiaL'Etoile High-end dining with a focus on local, sustainable ingredients. |
RepubliqueGraft Modern American cuisine with a twist, similar in creativity and quality. |
Roscoe's House of Chicken and WafflesShort Stack Eatery Known for their breakfast classics and soul food inspiration. |
AnimalForequarter An excellent spot for innovative dishes and a meat-centric menu. |
GuisadosBelAir Cantina Offers a variety of tacos that cater to all tastes, from traditional to innovative. |
Howlin' Ray'sLucille While known for wood-fired pizza, their chicken wings are a must-try, echoing Howlin' Ray's focus on quality and flavor. |
PerchThe Old Fashioned Offers iconic views of the Capitol, much like Perch’s views of LA, with a menu steeped in local tradition. |
Pizzeria MozzaSalvatore's Tomato Pies Known for their delicious and unique pizza offerings that rival Mozza's high standards. |
SpagoEno Vino Downtown Offers an upscale dining experience with a focus on wine, similar to Spago's refined atmosphere. |
In-N-Out BurgerDotty Dumpling's Dowry A local favorite for burgers that offer a similar cult following and beloved taste. |
When the craving for comforting, familiar flavors hits in your new city, places like Short Stack Eatery in Madison will make you feel right at home with their soulful breakfast offerings, reminiscent of Roscoe's House of Chicken and Waffles in LA. Meanwhile, for those who admire the pioneering spirit of LA's culinary scene, Madison's Graft and Forequarter offer innovative and locally sourced dishes that pay homage to this ethos. Whether it's the unique pizzas at Salvatore's Tomato Pies capturing the spirit of Pizzeria Mozza, or the refined dining experience at Eno Vino Downtown mirroring that of Spago, Madison's dining scene is vibrant and diverse enough to evoke the gastronomic diversity of Los Angeles.
Ready to start your move?
Real Estate Facts to Know Before Moving from Los Angeles to Madison
Real estate dramatically shapes the experience of relocating, making it crucial to compare properties and neighborhoods in your new city. Understand how Los Angeles, CA and Madison, WI contrast in aspects such as cost, architecture, and lifestyle to navigate your move smoothly.
When comparing Los Angeles and Madison, the contrast in housing costs and lifestyle is pronounced. The significantly lower median home price and rent in Madison can provide financial breathing room. The city's prairie and craftsman-style homes give it a distinct architectural identity compared to Los Angeles' blend of modern and Spanish styles. Moreover, Madison scores higher in walkability and bikeability, emphasizing its commitment to accessible urban living. The emphasis in Madison real estate listings on lake access and family-friendly neighborhoods reflects its appeal to those prioritizing community and nature as part of their lifestyle.
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 Los Angeles to Madison
Moving from one city to another can dramatically change your day-to-day life, particularly when it comes to the weather. Understanding how the climate in Los Angeles differs from Madison can help you prepare for your move and adjust more easily to your new home. Below, we compare key weather aspects to highlight these differences.
Los Angeles, CA
Madison, WI
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Los Angeles, CA
Madison, WI
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Los Angeles, CA
Madison, WI
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Los Angeles, CA
Madison, WI
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
While the average summer temperatures in Los Angeles and Madison are surprisingly similar, there's a stark difference once winter arrives, with Madison experiencing chilly winters that can drop well into the teens. The number of sunny days also shifts significantly, from Los Angeles' ample 284 days to Madison's more moderate 188. This, combined with Madison's higher humidity and substantial annual snowfall, marks a considerable adjustment for anyone moving from Los Angeles. Moreover, the types of natural disasters and air quality concerns differ between the two, reflecting the diverse environments you're transitioning between. Adjusting your wardrobe and daily habits will be essential in embracing your new climate in Madison.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Los Angeles to Madison
When planning a move, it's crucial to understand how financial aspects differ between your current and future home. This comparison is designed to help you gauge how relocating from Los Angeles, CA to Madison, WI will affect your wallet, focusing on income, taxes, the cost of living, and more.
Moving from Los Angeles to Madison brings substantial changes in the cost of living and taxes. You'll notice a significant difference in the cost of living index, with Madison being more affordable than Los Angeles. Although the average household income in Madison is slightly lower, the lower state income tax rate and significantly lower cost of living may stretch your dollar further. Additionally, while property taxes are higher in Madison, this is balanced by a lower sales tax and a more affordable housing market. Overall, transitioning from Los Angeles' highly varied affluence and significant issues with poverty and homelessness to Madison's more stable economic environment could offer a more balanced lifestyle.
Political & Religious Comparison between Los Angeles, CA and Madison, WI
This brief comparison aims to provide a quick glance at the comparison of the politics between Los Angeles & Madison , focusing on the political and religious landscape of both cities. Understanding these differences can help you transition smoothly to your new environment.
Los Angeles | Madison |
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Political Make-up Liberal/DemocraticLiberal/Democratic | |
Local Politics Strong emphasis on social issues and environmental policiesProgressive local governance with a focus on public services and sustainability | |
Religion Diverse, with significant Catholic and Protestant communities alongside other faithsPluralistic, with a strong presence of Christian denominations and active interfaith communities |
While both Los Angeles and Madison share a liberal political landscape, the fabric of their communities shows varied hues. Los Angeles presents a mosaic of cultures, reflecting in its diverse religious congregations and the significant attention it dedicates to social and environmental issues. Madison, while also liberal, often showcases a more consolidated approach to progressivism, particularly in its local governance, where public services and sustainability are at the forefront. The presence of active interfaith communities in Madison further underlines the city’s commitment to pluralism and inclusivity. Such insights could be pivotal in easing your adaptation to the civic and cultural climate of Madison.
Traffic and Public Transit Considerations for Moving from Los Angeles to Madison
Considering a move from Los Angeles, CA to Madison, WI? A key aspect of adapting to your new life will be understanding the differences in traffic and transportation options between Los Angeles & Madison. This comparison is designed to help you better grasp what your daily commute and traffic life could look like.
Los Angeles | Madison |
---|---|
3019 Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | |
93 Traffic Congestion (out of 10) | |
65 Availability of Public Transit (out of 10) | |
ChallengingEasier Can you get by without a car? |
In Los Angeles, the blend of lengthy commutes and high levels of congestion reflects the city's expansive nature and reliance on automobiles. While public transit exists, such as LA Metro, covering vast distances effectively means owning a car is almost a necessity. In contrast, Madison offers a more compact urban experience, with shorter average commute times and significantly less congestion. Public transit is available, though Madison's smaller size and efficient layout make getting around by bike or on foot feasible for many. Madison's approachability without a car highlights a stark difference from the Los Angeles reliance on personal vehicles for daily commutes.
Popular Los Angeles, CA to Wisconsin Moving Routes
Popular Moving Routes