Best New York City to Madison Movers and Practical Moving Guide
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Moving from the bustling streets of New York City, the Big Apple, to the serene landscapes of Madison, the City of Four Lakes, is an adventure that signals a significant life change, filled with new experiences and opportunities. While you're leaving behind NYC's iconic skyscrapers and vibrant nightlife for Madison's cozy neighborhoods and outdoor activities, it’s essential to ensure this transition goes smoothly. That’s where we come in; understanding the gravity of relocating from coast to coast, we stress the importance of choosing trusted and reliable professional movers, ensuring your journey to Madison starts on the right foot.
Best New York City to Madison Moving Companies
| Company Name | Rating  | BBB Rating | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| JP Urban Moving | 9.85 | A+ | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| Metropolis Moving | 9.72 | A+ | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| Flex Moving and Storage | 9.69 | NR | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| A Smooth Move, LLC | 9.59 | A+ | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| Madison Smooth Moves | 9.56 | A+ | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Madison to New York City guide.
5 Best New York City to Madison Moving Companies
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
About JP Urban Moving
JP Urban Moving is a small family-owned business in Brooklyn with over 15 years of experience. Its goal is always to give you the best custo...Read More >>
Services
- Local NYC Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Office Moving, Business Moving
About Metropolis Moving
Metropolis Moving is a top-rated, licensed, and insured Brooklyn mover serving the greater Tri-State area, including all of Long Island and ...Read More >>
Services
- Local moving services
- Long-distance moving services
- Commercial moving services
About Flex Moving and Storage
With its domicile in Astoria, New York, Flex Moving and Storage carries a decade long European establishment. The company's range of service...Read More >>
Services
- Local moves
- Commercial moves
- Long distance 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
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.
New York City vs. Madison Neighborhood Comparison
Planning a move can feel overwhelming, especially when you're not familiar with your new city. To ease the transition, we've created a unique guide comparing local neighborhoods between New York City, NY & Madison, WI. By comparing areas you know with those you’re about to discover, we hope to help you find a new neighborhood that feels like home.
| New York City | Madison | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Upper East Side | Maple Bluff | Historic, lakeside living |
| Greenwich Village | State Street Area | Bohemian, vibrant arts scene |
| Williamsburg | Atwood | Hipster, eclectic mix of eateries and shops |
| Soho | Willy Street | Trendy, boutique shopping |
| Financial District | Downtown Madison | Urban core, government and business hub |
| Harlem | Schenk-Atwood | Diverse, strong community vibe |
| Chelsea | Tenney-Lapham | Artistic, with a strong sense of community |
| Tribeca | Nakoma League | Upscale, quiet and residential |
| Upper West Side | Shorewood Hills | Family-friendly, near top schools |
| Midtown Manhattan | Capitol | Dynamic, heart of the city's cultural events |
Understanding the essence of a neighborhood helps in making a new city feel like home. If you're drawn to the vibrant arts scene and the bohemian spirit of Greenwich Village, you'll find a similar creative pulse in Madison’s State Street Area, known for its live music and eclectic mix of dining options like The Freedom Café. SoHo's boutique shopping and cobblestone streets find a match in Willy Street’s trendy vibe, where shops like Hatch Art House offer unique local finds. On the upper end, the tranquil, upscale ambiance of the Upper East Side is mirrored in Maple Bluff’s historic homes and lakeside views, making both neighborhoods perfect for those seeking a serene, upscale living environment. These comparisons are meant to build bridges between your past experiences and future explorations, helping you transition smoothly to life in Madison, WI.
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 New York City to Madison
Moving can be a daunting yet exciting adventure, especially when considering a significant change in scenery and pace from New York City, NY to Madison, WI. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and bad attributes of this relocation , showcasing what life is like when swapping the bustle of New York City, NY for the community-driven vibes of Madison, WI .
New York City, NY- High living costs
- Crowded
- Noisy
- Hectic lifestyle
- Limited green spaces
Madison, WI- More affordable
- Less dense
- Quieter surroundings
- Relaxed pace
- Ample parks
Madison, WI- Quieter nightlife
- Lesser variety
- More car dependency
- Less diverse
- Smaller city vibe
New York City, NY- Vibrant nightlife
- Endless dining options
- Extensive public transit
- Cultural diversity
- Iconic sights
While the thought of moving from New York City's never-sleeping, culturally rich streets to Madison's laid-back, community-focused atmosphere might seem stark, there are unique attributes to enjoy. Madison greets you with its stunning Olbrich Botanical Gardens and the bustling Dane County Farmers’ Market around the Capitol Square, offering you a closer connection to nature and local produce not as easily found in NYC's concrete jungle. Yet, New York thrives with its unparalleled selection of dining from all corners of the globe, such as the Michelin-starred Eleven Madison Park, and entertainment options that can make the quieter Madison nightlife seem tame. Reflect on what lifestyle aspects are most vital to you as you ponder this move.
New York City vs. Madison Food Guide
Understanding the local food scene is essential when relocating, as cuisine is a significant part of any area's culture. Thus, this guide offers a comparison of the local cuisine between New York City & Madison to help you get a taste of what culinary delights await in your new city.
| New York City | Madison | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Bagel with Lox | Beer Cheese Soup |
| Most popular meat dish | New York Strip Steak | Fried Cheese Curds |
| Most popular street food item | Hot Dogs | Bratwurst |
| Most popular vegan food | Seitan Pastrami Sandwich | Portobello Mushroom Burger |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
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| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
Moving from the bustling streets of New York City to Madison’s cozy avenues doesn’t mean you'll be sacrificing culinary diversity or quality. In fact, Madison surprises many with its vibrant food scene. Explore State Street for a range of eateries, from quaint cafés like Michelangelo's Coffee House to spirited pubs such as The Old Fashioned, where regional dishes shine. Discovering the comfort of a warm bowl of beer cheese soup or the crunch of perfectly fried cheese curds will help you feel right at home. Madison's adaptability in accommodating vegan diets, similarly to New York's ingenuity, ensures you'll find something delightful no matter your dietary needs.
New York City vs. Madison Restaurant Comparison
Finding comfort in a new city often begins with discovering great places to eat. This comparison chart makes it easy to transition from New York City to Madison by matching your current culinary favorites to your future go-tos . Whether you’re craving high-end dining or a casual bite, this guide will help you find Madison’s equivalents to NYC’s top spots.
| New York City | Madison | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Le Bernardin | L'Etoile | Fine dining with impeccable attention to detail and locally sourced ingredients. |
| Katz's Delicatessen | Stalzy's Deli | Offers a generous taste of traditional deli fare, echoing Katz's iconic status. |
| Shake Shack | Dotty Dumpling's Dowry | A popular burger spot with a uniquely Wisconsin vibe, echoing Shake Shack’s cult following. |
| Di Fara Pizza | Sal's Pizza | Authentic thin-crust pizzas that rival the iconic slices of Di Fara. |
| Per Se | Harvest | Offers an exquisite dining experience with a focus on seasonal fare, akin to Per Se's philosophy. |
| Joe’s Shanghai | Ichiban | Known for their outstanding dumplings and excellent Chinese cuisine, reminiscent of Joe’s Shanghai. |
| Grimaldi's Pizzeria | Greenbush Bar | The atmospheric, old-world charm provides a pizza experience similar to that at Grimaldi’s. |
| Dominique Ansel Bakery | Batch Bakehouse | Offers innovative pastries and sweets, capturing the creative spirit of Dominique Ansel. |
| Russ & Daughters | Gotham Bagels | Delivers a New York bagel experience with high-quality, fresh ingredients. |
| The Halal Guys | Madistan | Known for flavorful, generous servings of Middle Eastern food, giving a nod to The Halal Guys. |
Whether you're a fan of the sophisticated dining experience at Le Bernardin or the classic New York bagel from Russ & Daughters, you'll find Madison's culinary landscape ready to welcome you with open arms. L'Etoile offers an exceptional farm-to-table experience, echoing the elegance and attention to detail found at Per Se, while Stalzy's Deli brings the comfort and nostalgia of a traditional Jewish deli, reminiscent of Katz's Delicatessen. On a more casual note, Dotty Dumpling's Dowry pays homage to the beloved Shake Shack with its dedication to quality burgers and a lively atmosphere. Transitioning from the bustling streets of New York City to Madison's inviting community doesn't mean leaving behind your favorite flavors; it simply means discovering new favorites that speak to the rich and diverse culinary culture of your new home.
Ready to start your move?
New York City vs. Madison Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is a pivotal component of relocating. Understanding how housing options differ between New York City, NY, and Madison, WI, can dramatically affect your moving decisions. This comparison aims to highlight key aspects such as cost, architecture, and lifestyle to assist you in making an informed choice.
| Comparison | New York City | Madison |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Art Deco, Modern, Pre-war | Prairie, Craftsman, Contemporary |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Close to subway, rooftop access, luxury finishes | Lake access, spacious yards, proximity to parks |
When comparing New York City and Madison, you'll find significant differences in the housing market. New York City's real estate listings often highlight amenities like close subway access and rooftop views, indicative of the city's dense urban environment and high-rise living. In contrast, Madison listings prioritize natural features and space, such as lake access and large yards, reflecting the city's more relaxed and spacious living environment. Additionally, the median home price and rent in Madison are substantially lower than in New York City, offering a more affordable living situation without sacrificing the urban lifestyle, although at a different scale of urbanity.
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.
New York City vs. Madison Weather Considerations
When planning a move from one location to another, understanding the weather variations you will encounter is essential. This comparison aims to highlight the key weather differences between New York City and Madison, helping you prepare for your new environment.
New York City, NY
Madison, WI
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
New York City, NY
Madison, WI
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
New York City, NY
Madison, WI
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
New York City, NY
Madison, WI
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | New York City | Madison |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Moderate | Good |
| Natural Disasters | Hurricanes, Nor'easters | Thunderstorms, Winter Storms |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Madison experiences colder winters with more snowfall than New York City, making winter sports more accessible but also demanding a sturdier winter wardrobe. Summers in Madison are slightly cooler and less humid, which can be a relief during heat waves. However, you might find Madison's fewer sunny days and higher humidity in winter to be a significant change. The air quality in Madison is generally better, which could be a breath of fresh air if you're coming from New York's bustling urban environment. Understanding these differences can help you better prepare for your move, ensuring a smoother transition to your new home.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from New York City to Madison
Moving between cities can significantly impact your finances. It's crucial to understand how the cost of living, taxes, and income in New York City compare to those in Madison. This comparison will help you adjust your budget and expectations before the move.
| Comparison | New York City | Madison |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $67,997 | $67,270 |
| Cost of Living Index | 185.8 | 95.65 |
| State Income Tax | 4.0% - 10.9% | 4.0% - 7.65% |
| Avg. Property Tax | ~0.88% | ~1.68% |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 8.88% | 5.5% |
| Top 3 Industries | Finance, Media, Technology | Education, Health Services, Manufacturing |
| Affluence | High | Moderate |
| Poverty | High | Low |
| Homelessness | Significant | Moderate |
While the average household income is slightly lower in Madison than in New York City, the cost of living in Madison is also significantly lower. This disparity means that, relatively speaking, your money can stretch further in Madison. However, it's worth noting that Madison has a higher average property tax rate. The top industries also differ between the two cities, which could impact your career trajectory depending on your field. Sales tax is significantly lower in Madison, which is another financial advantage to consider. Despite these differences, both cities offer unique opportunities and challenges that are worth considering before making the move.
New York City vs. Madison Political & Religious Comparison
This comparison provides a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents from New York City to Madison. It aims to help understand the community landscape you're moving into, comparing the differences and similarities.
| New York City | Madison | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Liberal/Democratic | Liberal/Democratic |
| Local Politics | Democratic stronghold with diverse representation | Progressive with a focus on social and environmental issues |
| Religion | Diverse religious landscape with significant Jewish and Christian communities | Plurality of religious beliefs but with a larger secular population |
While both New York City and Madison have a liberal political leaning, Madison's local politics tend to focus more on progressive values, particularly concerning social justice and environmental sustainability. The religious landscape in New York City is highly diverse, reflecting its vast population from around the globe, with significant Christian and Jewish communities. In contrast, Madison hosts a plurality of religious beliefs but is known for having a relatively large secular or non-religious population. Understanding these nuances can help you adapt more easily to your new home.
New York City vs. Madison Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
The purpose of this comparison is to better understand what the daily commute and traffic is like between New York City & Madison . This will provide a clear picture of how daily transportation differs significantly in these two cities, helping you plan your move efficiently.
| Comparison | New York City | Madison |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 41 | 22 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Yes | No |
The average commute time in New York City is nearly double that of Madison, reflecting the larger metropolitan's dense population and vast geography. The divergence in traffic congestion scores also suggests that driving in Madison is likely to be less stressful, with fewer delays compared to the bustling streets of New York. While New York City boasts a robust public transit system, making it feasible to live without a car, Madison's more limited public transit options mean that owning a car is almost a necessity for commuting and accessing essential services efficiently. This comparison highlights the fundamental lifestyle adjustments one might need to consider when moving from a city that never sleeps to a more laid-back, spacious environment.
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