Best Portland to Madison Movers and Practical Moving Guide
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Moving from the tree-lined streets of Portland, the City of Roses, to the vibrant energy of Madison, the City of Four Lakes, marks an exciting transition in your life. You're leaving behind Portland's famed food carts and lush parks for Madison's bustling farmers' markets and engaging cultural scene. Recognizing the distance and logistics involved in such a move, it's crucial to trust this journey to professional movers who have been rigorously evaluated by us at Great Guys Moving, ensuring your transition is as smooth and reliable as the services we heartily recommend.
Best Portland 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 |
| Northwest Grace Moving | 9.30 | A+ | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| All Service Moving | 9.27 | A+ | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| You Move Me Portland | 9.27 | NR | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Madison to Portland guide.
5 Best Portland 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 Northwest Grace Moving
Founded in 2008, Northwest Grace Moving is a fully licensed, bonded, and insured Oregon moving company that serves the entire Portland Metro...Read More >>
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Senior Moving
This listing has been claimed by All Service MovingAbout All Service Moving
Based in Portland, OR, Willamette Valley Moving has provided moving services in Oregon, Washington, and Idaho for over 18 years. By using a ...Read More >>
Services
- Residential Moving
- Commercial Moving
- Long Distance Moving
About You Move Me Portland
You Move Me Portland is the mover your neighbors trust and recommend. In terms of reliability, customer service, and professionalism, this l...Read More >>
Services
- Local moving services
- Long-distance moving services
- Packing 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.
Portland vs. Madison Neighborhood Comparison
Moving to a new city can feel like stepping into another world. To ease the transition, we've created a guide that will compare the local neighborhoods between Portland, OR & Madison, WI . This comparison aims to help you familiarize yourself with Madison by using your knowledge of Portland's vibrant neighborhoods as a baseline, finding you a new home that mirrors the comforts of your old one.
| Portland | Madison | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Pearl District | State-Langdon | Vibrant, youthful atmosphere |
| Alberta Arts District | Willy Street | Artsy, eclectic vibe |
| Nob Hill | Regent | Historic charm, close to amenities |
| Ladd's Addition | Marquette | Quaint, tree-lined streets |
| Mississippi Avenue | Atwood Avenue | Trendy, with a rich community feel |
| Hawthorne | Schenk-Atwood | Boisterous, with diverse attractions |
| Sellwood-Moreland | Maple Bluff | Family-friendly, with a suburban feel |
| Eastmoreland | Nakoma League | Upscale, serene setting |
| Forest Park | Arbor Hills | Nature-filled, expansive green spaces |
| Buckman | Tenney-Lapham | Eclectic, vibrant community scene |
If you adore the eclectic and artistic flair of the Alberta Arts District, with its myriad galleries, like the Guardino Gallery, and unique eateries, such as the Tin Shed Garden Café, then Willy Street in Madison will resonate with you. Here, similar cultural delights await at places like the Weary Traveler and Hatch Art House. On the other hand, if your weekends in Portland were spent exploring the vast, verdant expanses of Forest Park, you'll find a similar refuge in Madison's Arbor Hills. This area boasts an array of natural trails and parks, including the expansive and cherished Turville Point Conservation Park, offering a peaceful escape within the city limits. Marquette, with its scenic, tree-bordered roads reminiscent of Ladd's Addition's rose gardens and meticulously planned streets, brings a slice of Portland's esteemed neighborhood charm to Madison, highlighted by community gems like the Olbrich Botanical Gardens. Each of these Madison neighborhoods brings a slice of Portland's spirit, easing the transition and helping you find a new place to call 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 Portland to Madison
Moving from Portland, OR to Madison, WI offers a unique chance to weigh the benefits against the drawbacks. This guide aims to provide an honest reflection on what awaits you in both cities. Through our charts, we will illuminate the shifting scales of lifestyle and opportunities, ensuring you make an informed decision tailored to your needs.
Portland, OR- Higher cost of living
- More rainfall
- Less snow
- Traffic congestion
Madison, WI- More affordable housing
- More sunny days
- Classic winter scenes
- Less traffic
Madison, WI- Smaller music scene
- Less green spaces
- More car-dependent
- Fewer dining options
Portland, OR- Vibrant cultural scene
- Rich in nature
- Robust public transit
- Foodie's paradise
While Portland is known for its vibrant cultural scene and an abundance of green spaces like the iconic Washington Park, Madison provides a different charm with its classic winter landscapes and a more laid-back lifestyle. Lovers of the outdoors will appreciate Madison's scenic parks and lakes, offering ample recreation opportunities despite having fewer green spaces than Portland. Madison might have a smaller music scene, but areas like the Capitol Square make up with bustling farmers' markets and unique local dining experiences, such as the renowned Graze. Moving here, you'll find the less congested roads a breath of fresh air, though it's worth noting you might become more car-dependent. This relocation offers more than just a change of scenery but a chance to redefine your lifestyle, blending Madison's tranquil ambiance with its vibrant community.
Portland vs. Madison Food Guide
This comparison of the local cuisine between Portland & Madison highlights the vital role food plays in understanding and enjoying local culture. As you prepare to move, take a glimpse into what culinary delights await you in your new city.
| Portland | Madison | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Dungeness Crab | Cheese Curds |
| Most popular meat dish | Pork Belly | Bratwurst |
| Most popular street food item | Food Carts | Farmers' Market Items |
| Most popular vegan food | Tempeh Reuben | Vegetable Pasties |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In Portland, the food scene is diverse and innovative, with an emphasis on fresh, local ingredients like the Dungeness Crab, which can be found in many coastal restaurants. The city is also famous for its food carts, offering a variety of cuisines in areas like Hawthorne and the Pearl District. On the other hand, Madison boasts an impressive array of dairy products, especially cheese curds, celebrated at eateries across the city and at iconic locations like the Dane County Farmers' Market. Both cities cater to a range of dietary preferences, making them exciting places for food enthusiasts to explore.
Portland vs. Madison Restaurant Comparison
Finding comfort in a new city often starts with discovering your go-to spots for food. This guide compares top Portland eateries to similar gems in Madison, assisting you in finding your next favorite restaurant. Using Portland's favorite eats as a guide to uncover Madison's comparable culinary delights streamlines your transition from Portland, OR to Madison, WI.
| Portland | Madison | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Le Pigeon | L'Etoile | Both offer innovative, chef-driven menus in intimate settings. |
| Pok Pok | Ha Long Bay | Known for authentic, bold Southeast Asian flavors. |
| Screen Door | Pig in a Fur Coat | Comfort food with a gourmet twist connects these two. |
| Toro Bravo | A Pig in a Fur Coat | European-inspired dishes with a local twist. |
| Tusk | Graft | Both cherish seasonal, farm-to-table philosophies. |
| Ken's Artisan Pizza | Salvatore's Tomato Pies | Artisanal pizza joints with a commitment to quality ingredients. |
| Voodoo Doughnut | Bassett Street Brunch Club | Iconic doughnuts meet inventive breakfast dishes. |
| Apizza Scholls | Greenbush Bar | Authentic pies rooted in tradition. |
| Salt & Straw | Michael's Frozen Custard | Inventive flavors that capture local taste and innovation. |
| Nong's Khao Man Gai | Lao Laan-Xang | Authentically replicating the depth of Asian street food flavors. |
When the craving for authentic Southeast Asian cuisine hits, Madison's Ha Long Bay is your go-to, mirroring Pok Pok's bold flavors right in the heart of Portland. Gourmet doughnut lovers will find solace in Bassett Street Brunch Club’s playful and inventive offerings, reminiscent of Voodoo Doughnut's eclectic charm. Meanwhile, for those who appreciate artisan pizza, Salvatore's Tomato Pies in Madison offers a comparable dedication to quality and creativity as Portland's beloved Ken's Artisan Pizza. These comparisons not only highlight the culinary diversity found in both cities but also assure that you won't miss out on the flavors of home.
Ready to start your move?
Portland vs. Madison Real Estate & Living Facts
Understanding the real estate landscapes of Portland, OR and Madison, WI is crucial when planning a move. This comparison sheds light on housing costs, style, and lifestyle to ensure you make an informed decision.
| Comparison | Portland | Madison |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Craftsman | Prairie |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Eco-friendly, Open floor plans | Lakeside views, Proximity to University |
Portland's real estate market is known for its higher home prices and rent, reflecting its urban sprawl and demand. The prevalent Craftsman-style homes complement its lush, green environment. Though it offers a relatively high urban lifestyle score, Madison counters with its unique Prairie-style homes, often emphasizing sustainability and community living. Notably, Madison boasts a slightly higher bikeability score, encouraging a bike-friendly culture thanks to its well-developed lanes and trails. The presence of the University of Wisconsin in Madison also influences the real estate listings, with many emphasizing proximity to the campus and lakeside views, enhancing the city’s appeal to both families and professionals.
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.
Portland vs. Madison Weather Considerations
When considering a move from Portland, OR to Madison, WI, understanding how the weather compares is essential for a smooth transition. From average temperatures and sunshine to Portland and Madison's unique climate hazards, this comparison will help you adjust your expectations and prepare for your new environment.
Portland, OR
Madison, WI
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Portland, OR
Madison, WI
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Portland, OR
Madison, WI
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Portland, OR
Madison, WI
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Portland | Madison |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Earthquakes, floods | Blizzards, tornados |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
One of the most significant differences you'll encounter when moving from Portland to Madison is the winter climate. While Portland experiences mild winters, Madison's winters are harsh, with average lows plummeting to 13°F and annual snowfall reaching 53 inches. This dramatic change means that winter gear and preparedness for snow are much more crucial in Madison. Additionally, Madison enjoys more sunny days per year than Portland, which could be a welcome change for those seeking more clear skies. On the other hand, those moving from Portland are likely to find Madison's summers quite familiar in terms of temperature, albeit with a bit more humidity.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Portland to Madison
When considering a move from one city to another, it's crucial to compare the financial implications of each location. Understanding how the cost of living, taxes, and income in Portland compare to those in Madison can help you make a more informed decision about your relocation.
| Comparison | Portland | Madison |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $79,057 | $67,270 |
| Cost of Living Index | 111.3 | 95.65 |
| State Income Tax | 9.9 | 7.65 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.91 | 1.94 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 0 | 5 |
| Top 3 Industries | Technology, Manufacturing, Healthcare | Education, Healthcare, Manufacturing |
| Affluence | Moderate | Comparatively moderate |
| Poverty | Moderate | Lower |
| Homelessness | High | Comparatively low |
While Portland boasts a higher average household income compared to Madison, it's important to note the difference in cost of living and taxes. Madison's lower state income tax and cost of living index mean your dollar can stretch further, despite the higher average property tax rate. However, no sales tax in Portland could be a plus for those who spend more on goods and services. Additionally, while both cities enjoy a diverse economy, the slight differences in their top industries could influence job opportunities based on your professional background.
Portland vs. Madison Political & Religious Comparison
Moving from one city to another brings not just a change in scenery but often a shift in the community pulse. This quick comparison is aimed to provide a snapshot of the political and religious makeup between Portland & Madison, offering insights into the potential cultural atmosphere awaiting you.
| Portland | Madison | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Liberal/Progressive | Liberal/Progressive |
| Local Politics | High engagement in local issues, strong support for social justice initiatives | Actively engaged community, progressive local government policies |
| Religion | Mix, with a notable number of non-religious individuals | Mix, with a significant presence of non-religious residents |
Both Portland and Madison are known for their liberal and progressive political climate, which is reflected not just in voting patterns but also in local governance and community initiatives. This similarity suggests that you may find a similar ethos and set of values in Madison as you experienced in Portland, easing the cultural transition. The engagement in local politics and social issues is robust in both cities, indicating active communities that encourage participation and dialogue. Regarding religion, both cities report a significant portion of their populations identifying as non-religious, a factor that contributes to the diverse spiritual and cultural landscape you'll encounter. Keep in mind that while the overall political and religious climates are similar, the specifics of local issues and initiatives may differ, offering new opportunities for engagement and integration.
Portland vs. Madison Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Portland, OR, to Madison, WI, will present changes in your daily commute and traffic experiences. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Portland & Madison is designed to help you better understand what your daily commutes might look like in these two cities.
| Comparison | Portland | Madison |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 26 | 22 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Yes, with some planning | Somewhat, but less convenient than Portland |
In Portland, your commute is likely to be a bit longer and more congested compared to Madison. However, the Rose City offers a more comprehensive public transit system, thanks to its expansive network of buses, light rail, and streetcars. This makes living without a car more manageable in Portland if you do some planning. On the other hand, Madison, while being a bike-friendly city with its numerous bike paths and lanes, somewhat lags behind in public transit. You might find it a bit less convenient to rely solely on public transport or bikes in Madison, making a car a more necessary part of daily life. Both cities offer unique commuting experiences, but your lifestyle and preferences will ultimately dictate which city better suits your transportation needs.
