Best Washington to Madison Movers and Practical Moving Guide
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Moving from Washington D.C., the hub of national power and cherry blossoms, to Madison, WI, known as the vibrant heart of the Midwest, marks an exciting chapter in your life. Leaving behind the monumental backdrop of the nation's capital for Madison's lush landscapes and spirited community is not just a relocation, but a journey to new discoveries. Given the distance and complexity of moving from city to city, it's crucial to entrust this transition to reliable professional movers. We pride ourselves on connecting you with the best, vetted by an unbiased algorithm to ensure your move is seamless and stress-free.
Best Washington to Madison Moving Companies
(800) 787-5428
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Madison to Washington guide.
5 Best Washington to Madison Moving Companies
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
About Bookstore Movers
Locally owned and operated, Bookstore Movers was founded in 2005 with a dedication to customer service, personalization, and small business ...Read More >>
Services
- Local moving
- Long-distance moving
- Cross-country moving
About Mic's Moving
Mic's Moving is a locally owned and operated moving company that focuses on providing a personalized moving experience to residential and co...Read More >>
Services
- Local Move
- Long Distance Moving
- Labor Only: Loading, Unloading and In-house moves
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 Ap Pro Moving Llc
Ap Pro Moving LLC is a reliable and professional moving company based in Arlington, VA. They offer various services such as local moving, lo...Read More >>
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Packing Services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3338902 / - Active Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
| Registered Drivers | 2 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 4,000 (2021) |
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.
Washington vs. Madison Neighborhood Comparison
When contemplating a move from one city to another, familiarizing yourself with your new surroundings is key. Our guide aims to compare the local neighborhoods between Washington DC, DC & Madison, WI , helping those moving to find a slice of home in their new city. By aligning the top neighborhoods from Washington, DC, with their Madison counterparts, this comparison serves as a bridge for newcomers to transition smoothly.
| Washington | Madison | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Dupont Circle | Willy Street | Diverse, vibrant dining scene |
| Georgetown | Maple Bluff | Affluent, waterfront views |
| Capitol Hill | Tenney-Lapham | Historic homes, active community |
| Adams Morgan | Atwood | Eclectic, strong sense of community |
| Navy Yard | Schenk-Atwood | Growing, near water |
| Shaw | East Johnson | Creative, lively nightlife |
| Logan Circle | State-Langdon | Historic, close to amenities |
| Columbia Heights | Wexford Ridge | Diverse, family-friendly |
| U Street Corridor | Middleton | Vibrant, entertainment options |
| NoMa | Capitol | Emerging, modern developments |
If you enjoy the bustling vibes and historic architecture of Dupont Circle, with its plethora of dining options and cultural events, you'll be drawn to Willy Street in Madison. This neighborhood thrives with an eclectic food scene, including establishments like the Ha Long Bay, known for its Vietnamese cuisine. Meanwhile, the waterfront allure and upscale ambiance of Georgetown find a match in Maple Bluff, where residents appreciate serene lakeside views and have easy access to the Maple Bluff Country Club. For those captivated by the historic charm and vibrant community activities of Capitol Hill, Tenney-Lapham in Madison will feel like home, offering picturesque homes and a tight-knit community vibe.
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 Washington to Madison
Considering a move from Washington DC, DC to Madison, WI? This comparison aims to reveal an honest reflection of moving from Washington DC, DC to Madison, WI, by weighing both the advantages and disadvantages. Whether it's the change in climate, commute times, or cultural scenes, these charts provide a concise glance at what to expect in this significant transition.
Washington, DC- High living costs
- Heavy traffic
- High crime rates
- Humid summers
Madison, WI- More affordable housing
- Less congestion
- Lower crime rates
- Milder summers
Madison, WI- Quieter nightlife
- Less political clout
- Less diversity
- Fewer dining options
Washington, DC- Vibrant nightlife
- Political center
- Cultural diversity
- Global cuisine
When you move from Washington DC to Madison, you’ll experience a significant shift in lifestyle. Washington's abundant cultural diversity and vibrant nightlife, with venues like 9:30 Club and restaurants offering global cuisines such as Rasika, contrasts with Madison's quieter, yet richly engaging lifestyle. Madison is known for its significant outdoor appeal, like the Olbrich Botanical Gardens and Capitol Square, offering a more laid-back vibe but with fewer dining and nightlife options. Yet, the transition could be a welcome change with Madison's lower living costs, reduced crime rates, and less congestion, offering a quality of life that’s hard to beat.
Washington vs. Madison Food Guide
This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Washington DC & Madison, showcasing the unique food culture native to each. Through this comparison, you can better understand the culinary scene in your new home city.
| Washington | Madison | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Half-Smoke | Beer Cheese Soup |
| Most popular meat dish | Fried Chicken | Bratwurst |
| Most popular street food item | Food Trucks Variety | Fried Cheese Curds |
| Most popular vegan food | Kimchi Tofu Stew | Tempeh Reuben |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
Washington DC is celebrated for its diverse and vibrant food scene, featuring iconic dishes like the Half-Smoke from Ben's Chili Bowl and a wide variety of food trucks. Madison presents a contrast with its hearty Midwestern fare, including the famous Beer Cheese Soup and Bratwurst. Notably, both cities offer a welcoming environment for vegan diners, with DC's Kimchi Tofu Stew and Madison's Tempeh Reuben highlighting the diverse vegan options available. Madison's foodie scene might be slightly less intense than DC's, but it compensates with a strong local focus, especially in neighborhoods like the Capitol Square and Willy Street, where establishments like Graze turn local ingredients into culinary masterpieces.
Washington vs. Madison Restaurant Comparison
Food plays a crucial role in making a place feel like home. Whether you're craving a high-end dining experience or a casual bite, this restaurant comparison from Washington DC to Madison will guide you towards finding your new favorite spot in your new city. Let's dive into the culinary similarities that bridge the distance between these two vibrant communities.
| Washington | Madison | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Rose's Luxury | L'Etoile | A farm-to-table ethos that mirrors Rose's creative dishes. |
| Zaytinya | A-OK Sunshine & Spirits | Innovative and eclectic Mediterranean flavors in a cozy setting. |
| Le Diplomate | Cafe Hollander | European vibes with a focus on Belgian beers and cuisine matching Le Diplomate's French flair. |
| Ben's Chili Bowl | The Old Fashioned | Iconic for its hearty, comfort food reminiscent of Ben's Chili Bowl's legendary status. |
| Fiola Mare | Tempest Oyster Bar | Both offer exceptional seafood in an upscale, waterfront-esque atmosphere. |
| Bad Saint | Ha Long Bay | Both are celebrated for their authentic, flavorful Southeast Asian dishes. |
| Jose Andres' Jaleo | Eldorado Grill | Known for its flavorful and vibrant Spanish-inspired dishes, a nod to Jaleo's specialty. |
| Little Serow | Lao Laan-Xang | Immerse yourself in intense, traditional Isaan Thai flavors similar to Little Serow's exploration of regional cuisines. |
| 2 Amys | Greenbush Bakery | For an unconventional twist, compare 2 Amys' Neapolitan pizzas with Greenbush's artisan donuts for a taste of unique, crafted flavors. |
| Blue Duck Tavern | Harvest | Both are dedicated to American cuisine with a focus on locally-sourced ingredients and a seasonal menu. |
Exploring Madison's dining scene through the lens of your Washington DC favorites offers exciting new culinary adventures without leaving the comfort of familiar tastes behind. L'Etoile and Rose's Luxury both share a commitment to high-quality, innovative dishes that emphasize seasonal and local ingredients, making them perfect for special occasions. On the more casual side, The Old Fashioned and Ben's Chili Bowl bridge the gap between comfort food and regional flair, ensuring that homesickness for your go-to spots is kept at bay. Truly, Madison offers a wealth of establishments that resonate with the spirit and flavors of Washington DC's diverse restaurant scene, inviting you to feel at home in your new city.
Ready to start your move?
Washington vs. Madison Real Estate & Living Facts
When planning a move, comparing the real estate landscape between your current city and your future home is crucial. Understanding how Washington DC and Madison stack up in terms of housing cost, architecture, and lifestyle can help you make an informed decision. This comparison will guide you through the essential aspects of real estate in both cities.
| Comparison | Washington | Madison |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Federal and Victorian | Prairie and Craftsman |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Neighborhood charm, proximity to landmarks | Lakeside views, community events |
While examining housing differences between Washington DC and Madison, note that homes in Madison are generally more affordable, both in terms of purchase price and rent. Madison's architecture leans more towards Prairie and Craftsman styles, reflecting its Midwestern setting, whereas Washington DC showcases Federal and Victorian styles, mirroring its historical significance. Despite DC having a higher urban lifestyle rating, Madison offers a unique appeal with its lakeside living and vibrant community events, making it a charming place to call home. The shift in walkability and bikeability scores also hints at Madison's growing emphasis on sustainable and active transportation options.
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.
Washington vs. Madison Weather Considerations
When planning a move from one city to another, understanding the weather differences is crucial for a smooth transition. This comparison focuses on the climate variations between Washington DC and Madison, helping you anticipate changes and prepare adequately.
Washington, DC
Madison, WI
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Washington, DC
Madison, WI
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Washington, DC
Madison, WI
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Washington, DC
Madison, WI
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Washington | Madison |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Moderate | Good |
| Natural Disasters | Hurricanes, Heatwaves | Snowstorms, Cold Waves |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
While both cities have their charms, weather-wise, you'll find distinct differences. Madison experiences colder winters with a significant increase in snowfall compared to Washington DC, requiring winter gear and possibly snow tires. Summers in Madison are milder, which might be a relief from the hot and humid summers in DC. Also, despite Madison's higher average humidity, many find its air quality to be generally better, contributing to a comfortable living experience. Notably, Madison's lower UV index and different allergen profiles might also affect your daily comfort and health. These considerations are essential for adapting to your new home.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Washington to Madison
If you're moving from one location to another, it's important to understand how the cost of living and finance factors comparing Washington DC and Madison will impact your wallet. Here's a clear breakdown to help you gauge what to expect in your new city.
| Comparison | Washington | Madison |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $90,088 | $67,270 |
| Cost of Living Index | 140.1 | 95.65 |
| State Income Tax | 4.0 to 8.95 | 4.0 to 7.65 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.56 | 1.94 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 6.0 | 5.5 |
| Top 3 Industries | Government, Professional Services, Education | Education, Health Services, Manufacturing |
| Affluence | High | Moderate |
| Poverty | Moderate | Low |
| Homelessness | Significant | Moderate |
When you move from Washington DC to Madison, you'll notice a significant change in the cost of living index, reflecting Madison's more affordable lifestyle. Despite a lower average household income in Madison, your dollars stretch further due to lower living expenses. However, be prepared for Madison's higher property tax rates, though offset somewhat by a slightly lower state income tax rate. Industry opportunities also shift, with Madison offering strengths in education, health services, and manufacturing compared to DC's government and professional services-oriented economy. This transition may influence your employment prospects and standard of living.
Washington vs. Madison Political & Religious Comparison
When considering a move from Washington DC to Madison, WI, it's essential to understand the local atmosphere you're moving into. This quick comparison focuses on the political and religious makeup between Washington DC & Madison, providing a snapshot of what to expect in your new home.
| Washington | Madison | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Heavily Democratic | Mostly Democratic |
| Local Politics | Progressive policies, high engagement | Progressive, with a focus on local initiatives |
| Religion | Diverse, with no single dominance | Pluralistic but less diverse than DC |
Both Washington DC and Madison share a progressive political ethos, but the scale and nature of their engagement diverge. In Washington DC, you're part of national policy debates, a hub of significant political movements. Madison, while still progressive, channels its energies into vibrant local initiatives, reflecting its strong community spirit. The religious landscape in Madison is less diverse than in DC, but it fosters an inclusive environment where various beliefs coexist harmoniously. This brief overview hints at the broader cultural shift you'll experience, blending the familiar with the novel in enriching ways.
Washington vs. Madison Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Washington DC to Madison, WI, involves adjusting to new dynamics in traffic and transportation options. This comparison will help you better understand what the daily commute and traffic is like in both cities, aiding in a smoother transition.
| Comparison | Washington | Madison |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 34.4 | 22.1 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Yes | Yes, but less convenient |
In Washington DC, the dense urban environment contributes to a higher average commute time and notable traffic congestion, although the city compensates with excellent public transportation options, like the WMATA services that cover the metro and bus routes. The compact layout of Madison allows for shorter commutes and significantly less congestion. However, Madison's public transit, governed by Madison Metro, while reliable, doesn't offer the same coverage and frequency as its Washington DC counterpart, making a car more necessary for certain areas and activities outside the city center.
