Best San Diego to Madison Movers and Practical Moving Guide
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Moving from the sunny shores of San Diego, CA, to the vibrant heart of Madison, WI, is an adventure filled with new beginnings and opportunities. While you’re trading in the Surf City lifestyle for the seasonal beauty and progressive charm of Mad City, both places offer unique experiences that will shape your journey. For such a significant move, selecting trusted and reliable professional movers is crucial; we at Great Guys Moving provide you with the top-ranked movers, ensuring your transition is as smooth as the Lake Mendota breeze.
Best San Diego to Madison Moving Companies
| Company Name | Rating  | BBB Rating | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| A Smooth Move, LLC | 9.59 | A+ | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| Madison Smooth Moves | 9.56 | A+ | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| The Rock Movers | 9.50 | NR | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| Coast 2 Coast Moving, Inc. | 9.47 | NR | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| Atlas Transfer & Storage Co. | 8.95 | A+ | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Madison to San Diego guide.
5 Best San Diego to Madison Moving Companies
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
This listing has been claimed by A Smooth Move, LLCAbout 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 >>
Services
- Full-Service Moves
- Packing, Loading, Delivering, Unloading, Unpacking
- Business and Residential Relocation Services
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 >>
Services
- Residential Moves
- Local Moves
- Long-distance Moves
About The Rock Movers
The Rock Movers is a San Diego County-based moving company offering professional and affordable moving services for local and long-distance ...Read More >>
Services
- Local Residential
- Furniture Moving
- Full Packing Service
About Coast 2 Coast Moving, Inc.
Coast 2 Coast Moving, Inc. is a professional moving company based in San Diego, California. Founded by Donal and Jessica O'Neill, the compan...Read More >>
Services
- Local Moves
- Long-Distance Moves
- Packing Services
About Atlas Transfer & Storage Co.
Founded in 1925, Atlas Transfer & Storage Company has been serving Southern California for over 95 years. This family-owned and operated...Read More >>
Services
- Long Distance Moving
- International Moving
- Storage Services
Dependable Rankings You Can Count On!
Our rankings are data-driven — movers cannot purchase a spot on our list. Here's why you can have confidence in our recommendations:
- No Paid Placements: Every company earns its spot through merit, not payment.
- Extensive Analysis: Evaluated over 24,000 movers across the country for our rankings.
Dependable Rankings You Can Count On!
Our rankings are data-driven — movers cannot purchase a spot on our list. Here's why you can have confidence in our recommendations:
- No Paid Placements: Every company earns its spot through merit, not payment.
- Extensive Analysis: Evaluated over 24,000 movers across the country for our rankings.
San Diego vs. Madison Neighborhood Comparison
Moving can be daunting, especially to an unfamiliar city. To ease the transition, this guide provides a comparison of the local neighborhoods between San Diego, CA & Madison, WI, aiming to match you with a new neighborhood that feels like home. By comparing the characteristics of popular neighborhoods in San Diego with those in Madison, we hope to make your move a little smoother.
| San Diego | Madison | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| La Jolla | Shorewood Hills | Upscale, lakeside living |
| Pacific Beach | Tenney-Lapham | Vibrant, youthful vibe |
| North Park | Willy Street | Eclectic, artsy community |
| Hillcrest | Atwood | LGBTQ+ friendly, vibrant nightlife |
| Ocean Beach | Maple Bluff | Relaxed, beach-town feel |
| Gaslamp Quarter | State Street | Historic, entertainment hub |
| Little Italy | Monroe Street | Charming, culinary hotspots |
| Del Mar | Nakoma League | Exclusive, serene neighborhood |
| Carmel Valley | Blackhawk | Modern, family-friendly community |
| Coronado | Middleton | Quaint, with a strong community feel |
In comparing San Diego's iconic neighborhoods with Madison's, several parallels become apparent, providing a comforting sense of familiarity for newcomers. For instance, if you're drawn to the upscale, beachside allure of La Jolla, you'll find Shorewood Hills in Madison offers a similarly luxurious lifestyle beside Lake Mendota. Lovers of Pacific Beach's lively, young atmosphere might feel right at home in Tenney-Lapham, known for its active community and vibrant nightlife. For those who appreciate the artsy, inclusive vibe of North Park, Willy Street (Williamson Street) in Madison features a richly eclectic mix of restaurants, shops, and art venues that foster a strong sense of community among its residents. Meanwhile, Gaslamp Quarter's bustling energy and historic charm are mirrored in State Street's array of entertainment options, from theaters to bars and restaurants, making it a perfect match for those seeking a dynamic urban environment. These comparisons underscore Madison's diverse neighborhoods, each offering unique qualities that can make the transition from San Diego feel less like a leap into the unknown and more like stepping into a new chapter of familiar comforts.
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 San Diego to Madison
Moving from one city to another brings its share of changes, both good and bad. This guide aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from San Diego, CA to Madison, WI. Through comparative charts, we explore the benefits and drawbacks to help you make a more informed decision about your move.
San Diego, CA- High cost of living
- Heavy traffic
- Mild winters
- Beach access
Madison, WI- Lower living costs
- Less traffic congestion
- Snowy winters
- Lakes and parks
Madison, WI- Colder winters
- No direct beach access
- Smaller food scene
- Less outdoor diversity
San Diego, CA- Warmer winters
- Beaches
- Diverse cuisines
- Outdoor lifestyle
When moving from the sunny shores of San Diego to the charming cityscape of Madison, you'll find a significant difference in lifestyle and opportunities. San Diego's beaches, such as the iconic La Jolla Cove, offer an unparalleled coastal experience that Madison cannot match. However, Madison welcomes newcomers with its diverse array of parks like the Vintage Brewing Co. offering natural beauty and outdoor activities. Despite a smaller food scene, Madison prides itself on local gems such as Graze Pub, where the farm-to-table concept thrives. The transition may have its setbacks, such as adjusting to the colder winters and finding new favorite spots, but it also opens the door to exploring the cultural richness and close-knit community vibe of Madison.
San Diego vs. Madison Food Guide
This is a comparison of the local cuisine between San Diego & Madison because food is an integral element of local culture and reflects what it's like living in an area. By comparing the two locations, you'll be better informed about the food scene where you're moving to.
| San Diego | Madison | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Fish Tacos | Beer Cheese Soup |
| Most popular meat dish | Carne Asada | Bratwurst |
| Most popular street food item | California Burrito | Fried Cheese Curds |
| Most popular vegan food | Acai Bowl | Vegetarian Pho |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In San Diego, the bustling neighborhoods of Little Italy and Gaslamp Quarter are hotspots for food enthusiasts, where you can dive into the iconic fish tacos at myriad waterfront eateries or experience innovative cuisine at Juniper & Ivy. On the other hand, Madison offers a unique culinary experience centered around its lakeside dining and vibrant farmer's markets, exemplified by the iconic beer cheese soup and fried cheese curds found in establishments across the city, including the cozy ambiance of Graze. Madison's State Street and Capitol Square area are prime destinations for food lovers looking to explore local flavors, from artisanal pizzas at Ian's Pizza to authentic German bratwurst. These distinctions underscore the diversity and richness of the culinary landscapes in San Diego and Madison, offering newcomers a taste of local traditions and modern innovations.
San Diego vs. Madison Restaurant Comparison
Transitioning to a new city can be daunting, but discovering new favorite dining spots can help make anywhere feel like home. Through this comparison of San Diego and Madison's top dining experiences, we aim to ease your move by connecting San Diego favorites with comparable Madison eateries, ensuring a seamless culinary transition.
| San Diego | Madison | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Juniper & Ivy | L'Etoile | High-end dining with innovative dishes |
| Puesto | Canteen | Tacos with a creative twist |
| Hodad's | Dotty Dumpling's Dowry | Iconic burgers in a laid-back setting |
| Phil's BBQ | Smoky Jon's #1 BBQ | Acclaimed for smoked meats and casual vibe |
| Born & Raised | Tornado Steak House | Offers a classy steak experience |
| Kettner Exchange | Merchant | Modern American dining with a vibrant atmosphere |
| Mister A's | Eldorado Grill | Fine dining with a view and an upscale atmosphere |
| Ironside Fish & Oyster | Sardine | Fresh seafood in a chic setting |
| Las Cuatro Milpas | La Taguara | Authentic Latin American cuisine |
| Pizza Port | Ian's Pizza | Creative pizzas in a laid-back atmosphere |
Dining at L'Etoile in Madison becomes an experience reminiscent of San Diego's Juniper & Ivy, where both restaurants emphasize innovation and locally sourced ingredients. For those craving authentic and creatively presented tacos, Madison's Canteen mirrors the vibrant flavors and lively atmosphere you loved at Puesto. Meanwhile, if the casual yet iconic American dining experience of Hodad's is what you're missing, Dotty Dumpling's Dowry stands ready in Madison, serving up mouthwatering burgers that ensure a satisfyingly familiar, yet distinctly Wisconsin, bite.
Ready to start your move?
San Diego vs. Madison Real Estate & Living Facts
When planning a move, comparing real estate between your current and future homes is crucial. This comparison of San Diego, CA, and Madison, WI, focuses on housing to give you a clear idea of differences in cost, style, and lifestyle. Knowing these can greatly influence your decision and preparation for the move.
| Comparison | San Diego | Madison |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Spanish Revival | Prairie Style |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Views, Proximity to Beach | Lakeside properties, Proximity to Parks |
In analyzing the details, it becomes evident that Madison presents a more affordable living scenario with its significantly lower median home price and monthly rent compared to San Diego. The typical architecture reflects the regional histories and preferences: Spanish Revival in San Diego, with its historic mission influence, versus Prairie Style in Madison, a nod to its Midwestern roots. Furthermore, Madison boasts higher walkability and bikeability scores, conducive to a more active lifestyle and stronger community engagement. The urban lifestyle score, however, suggests San Diego offers a slightly more vibrant city life, possibly due to its larger size and coastal location. The details on real estate listings highlight the cities' natural allurements: beach proximity in San Diego versus lakeside properties in Madison, showcasing the unique landscapes each city offers.
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.
San Diego vs. Madison Weather Considerations
When planning your move from San Diego, CA to Madison, WI, understanding how the weather contrasts is crucial. The climate you're accustomed to in San Diego differs significantly from what you'll experience in Madison. This comparison aims to prepare you for the weather changes ahead.
San Diego, CA
Madison, WI
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
San Diego, CA
Madison, WI
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
San Diego, CA
Madison, WI
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
San Diego, CA
Madison, WI
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | San Diego | Madison |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate to Good |
| Natural Disasters | Earthquakes, Wildfires | Snowstorms, Tornadoes |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Moving from the mild, coastal climate of San Diego to the four distinct seasons in Madison may require some adaptation, particularly in terms of winter gear and home heating solutions. The notable difference in winter temperatures and the frequency of snowfall in Madison compared to the almost non-existent snow in San Diego means preparing for activities like snow removal. Additionally, while San Diego enjoys more days of sunshine, Madison's summers are pleasantly warm, albeit with more humidity and rainfall. Understanding these weather patterns can help you make a smoother transition to your new home in Madison.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from San Diego to Madison
When moving from San Diego, CA to Madison, WI, understanding the financial landscape is crucial. Whether it's income, cost of living, or taxes, knowing these differences can help you prepare for your new life. This comparison serves as a guide to assist you in gauging the financial adjustments that may be required.
| Comparison | San Diego | Madison |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $93,042 | $67,270 |
| Cost of Living Index | 132.3 | 95.65 |
| State Income Tax | 1 - 13.3 | 3.54 - 7.65 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.77 | 1.94 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 7.75 | 5.5 |
| Top 3 Industries | Military, International Trade, Research | Healthcare, Education, Manufacturing |
| Affluence | Moderately affluent | Comfortably middle-class |
| Poverty | Noticeable | Moderate |
| Homelessness | High | Lower than national average |
The shift from San Diego to Madison will present a noticeable change in your financial landscape. The cost of living in Madison is substantially lower, with an index of 108.7 compared to San Diego's more affluent 160.1. However, bear in mind, the average household income is also lower in Madison. While you may find more affordable living costs, this could be balanced against a slightly reduced household income. State income and sales tax rates are also lower in Madison, potentially leaving more money in your pocket. Furthermore, the industries thriving in each city suggest diverse job markets, with Madison leaning heavily on healthcare and education. This diversity could impact your career prospects and financial planning.
San Diego vs. Madison Political & Religious Comparison
When planning your move from San Diego, CA to Madison, WI, it’s helpful to understand the communities you'll be transitioning between. This quick glance aims to provide insights into the political and religious makeup of the residents in San Diego & Madison , offering a primer on what to expect in your new locale.
| San Diego | Madison | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Lean Democratic | Strongly Democratic |
| Local Politics | Moderately Progressive | Very Progressive |
| Religion | Diverse; includes Christianity, Judaism, Islam, Buddhism | Pluralistic, with a strong presence of Christianity and a growing non-religious community |
The contrast in the political landscapes between San Diego and Madison is significant. San Diego leans Democratic, but Madison is known for its strong democratic allegiance, reflecting a community that is very progressive politically. This can be seen in local policies and the general civic environment. While both cities enjoy a rich diversity of religious beliefs, Madison stands out for its pluralistic attitude towards religion, alongside a noticeable growth in its non-religious or secular community. This difference in the makeup of religious and political ideologies may influence your social and community interactions, making Madison an interesting new chapter in your life.
San Diego vs. Madison Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from San Diego, CA to Madison, WI, requires adjusting to new daily routines, prominently your commute. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between San Diego & Madison aims to better understand what the daily commute and traffic is like, easing your transition.
| Comparison | San Diego | Madison |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 25 | 19 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Possible but challenging | Easier, especially in downtown |
Although San Diego and Madison offer unique living experiences, the difference in commuting patterns is significant. In San Diego, the average commute time is longer, largely due to its extensive urban sprawl and higher traffic congestion. Public transit exists, but depending on your location and destination, a car might be necessary for the most efficient travel. Madison, by contrast, sports lower traffic congestion levels and a somewhat more reliable public transit system. This, combined with its smaller size, makes living without a car more feasible, particularly if you're located in or near downtown. Understanding these differences can help you plan your daily routines and settle into your new city more smoothly.
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