Best Indianapolis to Madison Movers and Practical Moving Guide
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Embarking on a move from the bustling life of Indianapolis, known for its iconic Indy 500, to Madison, a city celebrated for its vibrant arts scene and picturesque lakes, is an adventure ripe with potential. You're not just changing your address, you're swapping the Speedway for the Capital's charm, stepping into a new chapter that promises diverse experiences in food, culture, and community. Such a significant life change highlights the importance of entrusting your journey to reliable and professional movers, ensuring your transition is as smooth as the lakes of Madison. With Great Guys Moving, we rank the best moving companies using an unbiased algorithm, offering you peace of mind that your belongings are in the best hands for this long-distance move.
Best Indianapolis to Madison Moving Companies
(800) 787-5428
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Madison to Indianapolis guide.
5 Best Indianapolis 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 Bulldogs Moving Co.
Bulldogs Moving Co., based in Lapel, Indiana, is a local moving company dedicated to providing high-quality services for residential and com...Read More >>
Services
- Full-service Moves
- Packing / Unpacking
- Loading / Unloading
About Soft Touch Moving
Soft Touch Moving has more than 20 years in the moving and relocation industry. It has consistently provided quality full-service moving, pa...Read More >>
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Commercial Moving
About You Move Me Indianapolis
You Move Me Indianapolis is a professional moving company founded in September 2012 with the goal of revolutionizing the local moving indust...Read More >>
Services
- Local Moving
- Senior Moving
- Premium 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.
Indianapolis vs. Madison Neighborhood Comparison
Moving to a new city can be a daunting task, especially when you're not familiar with the local neighborhoods. To ease this transition, we've crafted a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Indianapolis, IN & Madison, WI . Whether you're looking for bustling urban life or peaceful suburban living, this guide will help you find a Madison neighborhood that feels like home, using Indianapolis as a familiar baseline.
| Indianapolis | Madison | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Broad Ripple | Willy Street | Vibrant local arts scene |
| Meridian-Kessler | Maple Bluff | Exclusive, historic homes |
| Fountain Square | Atwood | Eclectic shops and eateries |
| Carmel | Shorewood Hills | Upscale, family-friendly |
| Fishers | Middleton | Growing with great schools |
| Zionsville | Waunakee | Quiet, community-oriented |
| Mass Ave | State Street | Busy entertainment hub |
| Irvington | Schenk-Atwood | Historic homes, local charm |
| Whitewater Valley | Blackhawk | Serene, outdoor activities |
| Lockerbie Square | Dudgeon-Monroe | Neighborhood feel, close to water |
In comparing neighborhoods like Broad Ripple and Willy Street, you'll find both areas offer a vibrant arts scene, bolstered by unique local businesses such as Bricolage in Broad Ripple and Hatch Art House in Willy Street. Similarly, the luxurious and historic ambiance of Meridian-Kessler finds its match in Maple Bluff, where the streets are lined with stately homes reminiscent of an era gone by. For a more eclectic and hip vibe, Fountain Square's blend of indie music venues, trendy eateries, and avant-garde galleries finds a parallel in Madison's Atwood neighborhood, particularly notable at places like Mother Earth. Whether you're seeking an energetic atmosphere akin to Mass Ave with its plethora of entertainment options or the serene, residential charm found in Irvington, Madison offers comparable locales that promise to make your new city feel like home.
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 Indianapolis to Madison
Moving from one city to another brings its own set of challenges and opportunities. This guide aims to provide an honest reflection of transitioning from Indianapolis, IN to Madison, WI, spotlighting both the appealing and less appealing aspects. By comparing the pros and cons, you'll get a balanced view that aids in making an informed decision on your relocation.
Indianapolis, IN- Higher crime rates
- Less bike-friendly
- Smaller tech scene
- Fewer water activities
- Less diverse cuisine
Madison, WI- Lower crime rates
- More bike-friendly
- Larger tech scene
- More water activities
- More diverse cuisine
Madison, WI- Higher cost of living
- Less affordable housing
- Smaller city
- Fewer major sports teams
- Less car-dependent
Indianapolis, IN- Lower cost of living
- More affordable housing
- Bigger city
- More major sports teams
- Better for car travel
Madison, WI, known for its combination of urban and natural attractions, offers a quality of life that's hard to match. The city's significant investment in bike infrastructure makes places like Capital City State Trail and Madison BCycle ideal for cycling enthusiasts. Comparatively, while Indianapolis has its charm, including lower living costs and more affordable housing, it doesn't match Madison's vibrant tech scene, typified by companies in the University Research Park, or the plethora of water activities available thanks to Lake Mendota and Lake Monona. Additionally, Madison's culinary scene is notably more diverse, with local favorites like L'Etoile Restaurant standing out, providing farm-to-table dining that's hard to find elsewhere.
Indianapolis vs. Madison Food Guide
This comparison of the local cuisine between Indianapolis & Madison dives into the food scene to enrich your moving experience. Understanding the culinary culture is vital to feeling at home in your new city.
| Indianapolis | Madison | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Pork Tenderloin Sandwich | Cheese Curds |
| Most popular meat dish | Beef Brisket | Bratwurst |
| Most popular street food item | Fried Pickles | Food Cart Hot Dogs |
| Most popular vegan food | Vegan BBQ | Vegan Cheese Pizza |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
When venturing into Madison, you'll notice its vibrant food scene, marked by a strong presence of locally-sourced ingredients. Cheese curds, being Wisconsin's pride, are a must-try. You can find some of the best at The Old Fashioned, where Wisconsin’s culinary traditions are celebrated. For vegan options, Madison shows its progressive side with places like Grampa’s Pizzeria offering vegan cheese pizza that’s as flavorful as it is inventive. Meanwhile, the city's love for bratwursts manifests in spirited cookouts and can be savored at many local eateries across town, especially during football season.
Indianapolis vs. Madison Restaurant Comparison
Understanding that food plays a crucial role in making a new place feel like home, this restaurant comparison aims to ease the transition for anyone moving from Indianapolis, IN to Madison, WI, by matching up favorite eateries. Let this be your guide to discovering your next go-to restaurants.
| Indianapolis | Madison | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| St. Elmo Steak House | Tornado Room Steak House | Classic steakhouse experience with a similar historic vibe. |
| Bluebeard | Graze | Farm-to-table focus with a creative, seasonal menu. |
| Milktooth | Short Stack Eatery | Innovative breakfast & brunch menus. |
| The Eagle | The Old Fashioned | Known for hearty, classic American fare. |
| Beholder | Forequarter | Unique, adventurous dishes with local ingredients. |
| Livery | Canteen | Offers a fun, vibrant atmosphere with an inventive Latin American menu. |
| Cafe Patachou | Marigold Kitchen | Bright cafe known for breakfast and lunch with a health-conscious menu. |
| Fountain Square Brewery | Ale Asylum | Craft brewery with a diverse selection of beers and a similar industrial vibe. |
| Vida | Heritage Tavern | Upscale dining with innovative dishes that highlight local ingredients. |
| Goose the Market | Fromagination | Specializes in artisanal cheeses and charcuterie, perfect for food enthusiasts. |
Finding a local eatery that resonates with your taste can immediately make a new city feel like home. For instance, if you relish the historic ambiance and the prime cuts at St. Elmo Steak House in Indianapolis, the Tornado Room Steak House in Madison offers a comparable timeless dining experience. For those who cherish the innovative and local ingredients-driven cuisine at Beholder, Madison's Forequarter presents an adventurous menu that is sure to delight. And when it comes to casual yet delicious breakfasts, Milktooth fans will find a comforting alternative in Madison's Short Stack Eatery, where the dedication to crafting innovative breakfast dishes shines through. Each of these Madison eateries not only parallels the gastronomic essence of their Indianapolis counterparts but also adds its unique twist, ensuring that every dining experience is both familiar and new.
Ready to start your move?
Indianapolis vs. Madison Real Estate & Living Facts
When considering a move, navigating the real estate landscape is critical in making an informed decision. Understanding how Indianapolis, IN and Madison, WI compare in terms of housing costs, styles, and livability can greatly impact your choice. This comparison aims to shed light on these key aspects.
| Comparison | Indianapolis | Madison |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Ranch, Colonial | Prairie, Craftsman |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Spacious yards, private driveways | Lake access, sustainability features |
When comparing Indianapolis to Madison, the difference in median home prices reflects the higher demand and cost of living in Madison. However, the investment in Madison could afford you access to more sustainable living options and proximity to natural amenities like lakes, which are highly valued in real estate listings. Despite both cities having distinct architectural styles, Madison scores higher in terms of walkability and bikeability, promoting an urban lifestyle that leans significantly towards eco-friendliness and community engagement. Deciding on a move between these two cities might boil down to your budget and lifestyle preferences.
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.
Indianapolis vs. Madison Weather Considerations
If you're contemplating a move from Indianapolis, IN to Madison, WI, understanding the climate differences is crucial. Weather can significantly impact your daily life, so comparing the meteorological conditions of your current city with those of your future home is essential. This comparison will provide a clear perspective on what to expect weather-wise, helping you prepare for your relocation.
Indianapolis, IN
Madison, WI
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Indianapolis, IN
Madison, WI
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Indianapolis, IN
Madison, WI
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Indianapolis, IN
Madison, WI
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Indianapolis | Madison |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Tornadoes, Floods | Snowstorms, Cold Waves |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
When moving from Indianapolis to Madison, you'll find a few key differences in weather patterns that may influence your lifestyle. While both cities enjoy a similar range of temperatures in the summer, the winter in Madison is colder, with average lows dipping below those in Indianapolis. Furthermore, the significant difference in annual snowfall, with Madison experiencing over twice as much as Indianapolis, means that winter activities and snow removal will be a more considerable aspect of life in Madison. The relatively similar sunshine days and humidity levels mean certain aspects of your daily routine might remain unchanged. However, preparing for Madison's colder winters and embracing snow sports or activities can make your transition smoother and more enjoyable.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Indianapolis to Madison
Moving from one city to another means adjusting to new financial realities. Understanding the comparison of cost of living and income between Indianapolis and Madison is essential for a smooth transition. This overview offers insight into what your finances might look like in your new city.
| Comparison | Indianapolis | Madison |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $58,479 | $67,270 |
| Cost of Living Index | 87.2 | 95.65 |
| State Income Tax | 3.23 | 5.3 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.87 | 1.94 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 7 | 5.5 |
| Top 3 Industries | Manufacturing, Health Care, Retail | Education, Health Services, Manufacturing |
| Affluence | Moderate | High |
| Poverty | Notable | Lower |
| Homelessness | Concerning | Moderate |
While Indianapolis enjoys a lower cost of living index and property tax rates, Madison offers higher average household incomes, which may offset the increased living expenses and higher state income tax. The difference in sales tax—higher in Indianapolis but with a more lenient property tax rate—highlights the different approaches each city takes towards taxation. Further, the main industries shaping each city's economy hint at varied job markets, possibly influencing your employment opportunities post-move. Understanding these nuances ensures you make financially informed decisions as you transition to your new home.
Indianapolis vs. Madison Political & Religious Comparison
This comparison of the politics between Indianapolis & Madison provides a quick snapshot, at a glance, of the political and religious makeup of the residents in each city, helping you understand the local culture you’re moving into.
| Indianapolis | Madison | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Leans Democratic | Strongly Democratic |
| Local Politics | Moderate, with a mix of both conservative and liberal policies | Very Liberal, progressive policies prevalent |
| Religion | Mix of religious and secular, with a strong presence of Christian churches | More secular, with a diverse range of religious beliefs and practices |
Understanding the political and religious landscape of your new city can greatly impact the ease with which you transition into the community. Indianapolis generally leans Democratic but has a relatively moderate local government that applies a mix of conservative and liberal policies. This creates a balanced environment where a wide range of political beliefs can coexist. On the contrary, Madison is well-known for its strong Democratic leanings with very progressive local policies. This city's vibrant political activism reflects in its governance, making it a haven for individuals with liberal views. The religious environment in Indianapolis has a notable presence of Christian communities, offering a diverse mix of faith-based activities and institutions. Madison, while possessing religious diversity, tends to be more secular, catering to a wide spectrum of beliefs and practices that reflect its inclusive and progressive values. This comparison highlights the fundamental differences in the cultural and sociopolitical fabric of each city, aiding in your acclimatization process.
Indianapolis vs. Madison Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Indianapolis, IN to Madison, WI? This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between the two will help you understand what your daily commute might look like. From average commute times to the availability of public transit, get an insight into how your day-to-day travel might change.
| Comparison | Indianapolis | Madison |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 25 | 22 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Challenging | Feasible |
In Indianapolis, you might find yourself more dependent on a car, with public transit options being less robust compared to Madison. Despite Madison being smaller in size, the city offers more efficient public transportation, courtesy of services like Madison Metro Transit, making it more feasible to get by without a car. Additionally, Madison's lower traffic congestion ratings reflect a smoother commuting experience, potentially reducing the time spent in traffic. These factors combined make Madison an appealing city for those looking to minimize their reliance on personal vehicles.
