Best San Francisco to Madison Movers and Practical Moving Guide
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Moving from the bustling tech hub of San Francisco to the serene lakeside vibes of Madison is an adventure filled with promise and change. You're trading in the Golden Gate for the State Capitol, sourdough for cheese curds, in a move that ties two distinct slices of American life. For a journey of this scope, it's essential to lean on trusted, reliable professional movers. At Great Guys Moving, we ensure your treasured belongings are in the best hands, turning this ambitious transition into a smooth, stress-free experience.
Best San Francisco to Madison Moving Companies
| Company Name | Rating  | BBB Rating | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| OCD Moving Services LLC | 9.66 | A+ | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| Bay - L.A. Express Moving | 9.32 | D | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| Careful Movers | 9.31 | A+ | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| Gorilla Movers Of Wisconsin Inc. | 9.30 | A+ | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| The Go To Guys, LLC | 9.07 | A+ | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Madison to San Francisco guide.
5 Best San Francisco to Madison Moving Companies
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
About OCD Moving Services LLC
For over five years, OCD Moving Services LLC has been providing Oakland and the Bay Area with residential and commercial relocation services...Read More >>
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Commercial Moving
About Bay - L.A. Express Moving
Bay-L.A. Express Moving is a professional moving company that serves Los Angeles, San Francisco, and the entire Bay Area. Specializing in mo...Read More >>
Services
- Long-distance moving
- Small relocation
- Full packing services
About Careful Movers
With almost two decades of expertise and experience in the moving industry, Menlo Park-based Careful Movers promises stress-free, on-time, a...Read More >>
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Office Moving
About Gorilla Movers Of Wisconsin Inc.
As a locally owned and operated moving company, Gorilla Movers has over 20 years of experience performing high-quality residential and comme...Read More >>
Services
- Residential moves
- Commercial moves
- Local/statewide moving
About The Go To Guys, LLC
The Go To Guys, LLC is a seasoned moving company with 30 years of experience in the industry. Based in the United States, the firm is well-e...Read More >>
Services
- Cheap moving
- Local moving
- Long-distance moving
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 Francisco vs. Madison Neighborhood Comparison
Moving can be daunting, especially to an unfamiliar city. To ease this transition, we've created a guide comparing neighborhoods in San Francisco, CA & Madison, WI . This comparison will help you find Madison neighborhoods with a vibe similar to your favorite San Francisco spots, making the unknown feel like home.
| San Francisco | Madison | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Mission District | Willy Street | Vibrant, diverse community |
| Haight-Ashbury | Atwood | Bohemian, rich in arts |
| SOMA (South of Market) | Downtown Madison | Urban, with tech hubs |
| Nob Hill | Maple Bluff | Affluent, historic charm |
| North Beach | Tenney-Lapham | Eclectic food scene, close-knit |
| Pacific Heights | Shorewood Hills | Upscale, scenic views |
| Castro | State-Langdon | Lively, LGBTQ+-friendly |
| Marina District | Monona Bay | Waterfront activities, community-oriented |
| Richmond District | Nakoma League | Family-friendly, tranquil |
| Sunset District | Hill Farms | Residential, peaceful |
Moving from the Mission District to Willy Street, you'll discover a similar sense of community and diversity. Willy Street is known for its vibrant local businesses, just like the Mission's bustling 24th Street. If you're a fan of the Haight-Ashbury's bohemian vibes, you'll feel at home in Atwood, Madison's hub for artists and musicians, where venues like the Barrymore Theatre highlight the local culture. For those appreciating the upscale elegance and scenic views of Pacific Heights, Shorewood Hills offers a comparable setting in Madison, where Lake Mendota provides a picturesque backdrop for the neighborhood's luxurious homes. This comparison offers a starting point for making your new city feel familiar while exploring what makes 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 San Francisco to Madison
Moving from San Francisco, CA to Madison, WI requires a balanced understanding of both cities. This comparison aims to highlight the differences to help you make an informed decision . By examining the pros and cons of each location, we'll delve into what you can gain and what you might miss in this transition.
San Francisco, CA- High living costs
- Dense population
- Frequent fog
- Less green space
Madison, WI- More affordable housing
- Smaller community feel
- Four distinct seasons
- Abundant parks and lakes
Madison, WI- Smaller cultural scene
- Fewer tech opportunities
- Lesser-known attractions
- Quieter nightlife
San Francisco, CA- Cultural diversity
- Tech job hub
- Iconic landmarks
- Vibrant nightlife
Despite the higher cost of living and denser population in San Francisco, CA, it boasts a vibrant cultural scene with landmarks like the Golden Gate Bridge and diverse neighborhoods such as the Mission District, known for its eclectic mix of restaurants like La Taqueria. On the other hand, Madison, WI, while offering a more affordable living situation and a closer-knit community feel, boasts its own local gems. The Olbrich Botanical Gardens and the bustling State Street area provide unique experiences, with eateries such as Graze offering a taste of the city's food scene. Madison's emphasis on parks and outdoor activities, including those around Lake Mendota, mirrors a different pace of life where the seasons play a more integral role in the city's charm.
San Francisco vs. Madison Food Guide
Comparing the local cuisine between San Francisco, CA & Madison, WI is essential for understanding the cultural fabric of each city. Food not only reflects the local heritage but also how you'll experience living there. This side-by-side comparison will help you grasp the culinary diversity awaiting you.
| San Francisco | Madison | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Sourdough Bread | Beer Cheese Soup |
| Most popular meat dish | Mission Burrito | Bratwurst |
| Most popular street food item | Food Trucks | Fried Cheese Curds |
| Most popular vegan food | Vegan Ramen | Vegan Cheese Options |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
When moving from San Francisco with its extensive vegan options and a thriving food truck culture to Madison, you'll discover a city proud of its dairy heritage, notably in its beer cheese soup and fried cheese curds. Madison's food scene, while smaller, is dynamic and increasingly diverse. Locals flock to Lombardino's for Italian and Graze for farm-to-table experiences. Both cities boast a strong commitment to quality food experiences, but each has its unique flair; San Francisco's focus leans towards international and vegan cuisine, while Madison embraces local, home-grown goodness. Exploring neighborhoods like Madison's Capitol Square or San Francisco's Mission District unveils each city's culinary treasures.
San Francisco vs. Madison Restaurant Comparison
Discovering your next favorite meal makes a new city feel like home. This comparison is designed to ease the transition by matching top San Francisco restaurants to their Madison counterparts, ensuring your culinary journey continues seamlessly .
| San Francisco | Madison | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Zuni Café | L'Etoile | Farm-to-table dining, mirroring Zuni's commitment to fresh, local ingredients. |
| Tartine Bakery | Madison Sourdough | Artisan breads and pastries that rival Tartine's famed offerings. |
| Nopa | Graze | A pub-style eatery with a farm-to-table ethos similar to Nopa’s. |
| La Taqueria | Taqueria Guadalajara | Authentic Mexican flavors that remind you of Mission District's best. |
| Gary Danko | Eno Vino Downtown | Upscale dining with an impressive wine list, evocative of Gary Danko's sophistication. |
| The Slanted Door | Ha Long Bay | Vietnamese cuisine that captures the essence of The Slanted Door’s innovative dishes. |
| Bi-Rite Creamery | Babcock Hall Dairy Store | Premium local ice cream that stands up to Bi-Rite's legendary scoops. |
| Mission Chinese Food | Umami Ramen & Dumpling Bar | Adventurous Asian flavors that compete with Mission's creative dishes. |
| Swan Oyster Depot | Sardine | Fresh seafood and a cozy atmosphere reminiscent of Swan Oyster's charm. |
| Delfina | Osteria Papavero | Italian cuisine with the heart and soul of Delfina's kitchen. |
As you explore Madison, you'll find that L'Etoile and Madison Sourdough set the bar high for local cuisine, mirroring the quality you loved at Zuni Café and Tartine Bakery. Osteria Papavero brings a slice of Italy to the Midwest, echoing Delfina's beloved Italian dishes with their authentic, carefully prepared meals. Whether you're in the mood for the familiar warmth of artisan bread, the vibrant flavors of Vietnamese food at Ha Long Bay, or the sophisticated dining experience offered by Eno Vino Downtown, Madison's culinary scene won't disappoint. Each restaurant has been chosen not just for their similarity in cuisine but for the atmosphere and experience they offer, making your transition as smooth as possible.
Ready to start your move?
San Francisco vs. Madison Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is a crucial component in the transition from one city to another. Understanding how San Francisco and Madison compare in terms of housing costs, architecture, walkability, and more is vital for making an informed decision. This guide lays out these comparisons clearly for you.
| Comparison | San Francisco | Madison |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Victorian, Modern | Prairie Style, Modern |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Bay views, rooftop decks | Lakeside views, spacious yards |
San Francisco and Madison offer distinct living experiences shaped by varying housing markets and cityscapes. The median home price in San Francisco is notably higher than in Madison, reflecting the dense, urban lifestyle and the premium for bay views and Victorian architecture. On the other hand, Madison, with its emphasis on lakeside views and spacious yards, presents a more laid-back and affordable housing option. Walkability in San Francisco is higher, making it easier to navigate the city without a car, whereas Madison scores higher in bikeability, reflecting its commitment to bike-friendly infrastructure. These contrasts underscore the importance of personal priorities in deciding where to make your next home.
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 Francisco vs. Madison Weather Considerations
When preparing to relocate, understanding the climate differences between your current and future homes is crucial. This comparison will highlight how the weather in San Francisco, CA, and Madison, WI differ significantly, helping you adjust to new seasonal expectations and lifestyle changes.
San Francisco, CA
Madison, WI
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
San Francisco, CA
Madison, WI
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
San Francisco, CA
Madison, WI
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
San Francisco, CA
Madison, WI
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | San Francisco | Madison |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Good to Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Earthquakes, Wildfires | Snowstorms, Tornadoes |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Moving from the coastal breezes of San Francisco to Madison's continental climate offers a stark contrast in weather experiences. In Madison, prepare for hot summers and cold, snowy winters—quite different from San Francisco’s milder conditions. Notably, Madison experiences fewer sunny days annually and sees significant snowfall, may require adjustments in your wardrobe and daily life during winter months. Additionally, while both cities enjoy good air quality overall, Madison's more varied temperature range can affect seasonal allergies differently, with a broader range of allergens over the seasons.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from San Francisco to Madison
When planning a move, understanding the financial implications between San Francisco and Madison is crucial. This comparison will highlight key money and finance aspects to help you gauge what lifestyle changes you might expect. From the cost of living to income levels, see how these cities compare on important financial metrics.
| Comparison | San Francisco | Madison |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $121,826 | $67,270 |
| Cost of Living Index | 164 | 95.65 |
| State Income Tax | 13.3 | 7.65 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.6 | 1.94 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 8.5 | 5.5 |
| Top 3 Industries | Technology, Finance, Tourism | Education, Healthcare, Manufacturing |
| Affluence | High | Moderate |
| Poverty | Moderate | Low |
| Homelessness | High | Low |
Moving from San Francisco to Madison, you'll likely notice a significant difference in the cost of living and the average household income. While San Francisco boasts a higher average income, the cost of living is also dramatically higher, especially in terms of housing and daily expenses. Madison offers a more balanced economic environment, with a lower cost of living that makes the city more accessible for a variety of income levels. Additionally, the difference in the primary industries between the two cities indicates a shift in employment opportunities, with Madison focusing more on education, healthcare, and manufacturing. This shift could influence your career path and financial planning.
San Francisco vs. Madison Political & Religious Comparison
As you prepare to move from San Francisco, CA to Madison, WI, it's essential to understand the communities you’re transitioning between. This guide provides a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of residents, highlighting the distinctive characteristics that define each city's inhabitants. Let’s explore how the vibrant, diverse backgrounds of San Francisco and Madison shape each city’s unique cultural landscape.
| San Francisco | Madison | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Heavily Democratic | Largely Democratic |
| Local Politics | Progressive policies, focus on inclusivity | Progressive, with strong community engagement |
| Religion | Diverse religious communities, including Zen Center | Diverse, with significant Unitarian presence |
Your move from San Francisco to Madison transitions you between two cities with a strong Democratic leaning, yet each with its own local political nuances. San Francisco is known for its progressive policies and emphasis on inclusivity, benefiting from the rich diversity within its populace. This diversity extends into the religious sphere, where communities range from Buddhist to Christian and beyond, each contributing to the city's vibrant cultural fabric. Similarly, Madison boasts a politically active community with a significant focus on progressive values, complemented by a varied religious landscape. This blend of politics and religion in both cities fosters a unique environment where different beliefs and ideologies coexist, shaping the societal and cultural norms that you'll experience in your new home.
San Francisco vs. Madison Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from San Francisco, CA, to Madison, WI, requires understanding the daily commute and traffic differences. This comparison of traffic and transportation options between San Francisco & Madison will help you navigate your new city better.
| Comparison | San Francisco | Madison |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 34 | 22 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without a car? | Yes, easily | Yes, with some planning |
San Francisco and Madison offer distinct commuting experiences, integral to understanding day-to-day life changes you might encounter. With San Francisco's high traffic congestion, the efficient public transit system becomes a lifesaver for many, allowing residents to easily forgo car ownership. On the flip side, Madison's lower traffic congestion scores point to a smoother driving experience, though reliance on a car might increase due to its public transit system’s lesser reach in comparison. This contextual dive gives you a better sense of how daily routines might shift, especially when planning around public transit availability and traffic patterns.
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