Best Philadelphia to Madison Movers and Practical Moving Guide
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Moving from the City of Brotherly Love to the heart of Dairyland promises an adventure as rich and diverse as the cultures of Philadelphia, PA, and Madison, WI themselves. Leaving behind Philly's historic landmarks and cheesesteaks for Madison's vibrant state capital vibe and renowned farmers' markets might feel bittersweet, but it's a change brimming with new possibilities. To ensure this significant transition goes smoothly, it's crucial you choose trusted and reliable professional movers, and that's where we step in, offering peace of mind on your journey to a new beginning.
Best Philadelphia to Madison Moving Companies
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Madison to Philadelphia guide.
5 Best Philadelphia 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 EverSafe Moving Co.
Founded in 2011, EverSafe Moving has built a reputation in the Greater Philadelphia area for courtesy, care, and quality due to its team of ...Read More >>
Services
- Local Movers
- Long-distance Movers
- Packing Services
About Pineapple Movers
Pineapple Movers is a Philadelphia-based moving company that specializes in relocating residences and offices of all sizes. Established in 2...Read More >>
Services
- Local moving
- Long-distance moving
- Cross-country moving
About banning moving
Banning Moving is a professional moving company focused on providing reliable and caring services for its customers. With experienced movers...Read More >>
Services
- Local moving
- Long-distance moving
- Cross-country 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.
Philadelphia vs. Madison Neighborhood Comparison
Moving to a new city can be daunting, especially when you're not familiar with the local areas. This guide is designed to help you transition smoothly by comparing Philadelphia, PA & Madison, WI neighborhoods . Whether you're seeking a bustling urban vibe or a serene residential area, this comparison will help you find a Madison neighborhood that feels like home.
| Philadelphia | Madison | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Rittenhouse Square | Capitol | Vibrant, central location |
| Fishtown | Willy Street | Artsy, with eclectic shops |
| University City | Regent | University vibe, diverse community |
| Old City | State Street | Rich in history, bustling nightlife |
| Manayunk | Schenk-Atwood | Trendy, with a strong sense of community |
| Queen Village | Nakoma | Family-friendly, quaint atmosphere |
| Northern Liberties | Marquette | Hip, with a young demographic |
| Center City | Downtown | Urban heart, retail & cultural hub |
| East Passyunk | Monroe Street | Foodie haven, boutique shopping |
| Chestnut Hill | Hilldale | Upscale, with a suburban feel |
Philadelphia and Madison offer unique neighborhoods, each with their own charm. For instance, if the eclectic vibe of Fishtown with its indie stores and vibrant murals speaks to you, Willy Street in Madison will feel like home, boasting a similar artsy atmosphere and a plethora of unique shops. Meanwhile, Rittenhouse Square's upscale, bustling city feel finds its counterpart in Madison's Capitol neighborhood, known for its lively spirit and central location. For those drawn to the historic and cultural richness of Old City in Philadelphia, State Street in Madison offers a comparable experience with its rich history, buzzing nightlife, and numerous dining options, including local favorites like The Daily Scoop. Whether you're sipping coffee at a quaint café in Queen Village or exploring the family-friendly streets of Nakoma, each city offers neighborhoods that cater to every preference, encapsulating the essence of urban living with a unique local twist.
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.
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Pros and Cons of Moving from Philadelphia to Madison
Moving from one city to another can bring about a significant change in your lifestyle. To help you weigh this transformation accurately, we've compiled a comparison that paints an honest reflection of Philadelphia, PA to Madison, WI . These charts juxtapose the challenges you might face leaving Philadelphia against the exciting new opportunities awaiting in Madison.
Philadelphia, PA- Higher Crime Rate
- Dense Traffic
- Higher Cost of Living
- Hotter Summers
Madison, WI- Lower Crime Rate
- Less Traffic
- More Affordable
- Cooler Summers
Madison, WI- Smaller Historical Footprint
- Less Diversity
- Fewer Major Teams
- Smaller City Vibe
Philadelphia, PA- Richer History
- Multicultural Vibes
- More Sports Teams
- Bigger City Feel
While the charts above outline the clear differences between moving from Philadelphia to Madison, they merely scratch the surface. For instance, Philly's rich historical sites, like Independence National Historical Park, contrast with Madison's outdoor-loving culture and attractions such as Olbrich Botanical Gardens. Madison's focus on local and sustainable living can be savored in its dining scene, with spots like Graze emphasizing farm-to-table experiences that the larger Philadelphia might offer less frequently. Likewise, Madison's bike-friendly streets and an abundance of parks and lakes present a different lifestyle pace and recreational opportunities compared to the bustling and dense urban layout of Philadelphia.
Philadelphia vs. Madison Food Guide
Comparing the local cuisine between Philadelphia, PA & Madison, WI provides a flavorful lens through which to gauge what living in each area might be like. Food not only plays a pivotal role in local culture but also provides insights into the daily life and community vibe of these cities. Here's how they stack up.
| Philadelphia | Madison | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Cheesesteak | Beer Cheese Soup |
| Most popular meat dish | Ribeye Steak | Bratwurst |
| Most popular street food item | Pretzel | Fried Cheese Curds |
| Most popular vegan food | Seitan Cheesesteak | Vegan Chili |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
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| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In Philadelphia, the legendary cheesesteak is a must-try, with Pat's King of Steaks and Geno's Steaks often cited as the go-to spots. These establishments capture the city's spirit and culinary prowess. On the other hand, Madison offers a taste of the Midwest with its renowned beer cheese soup and bratwurst, best enjoyed at local favorites like Lombardini's and The Madison Blind. Both cities offer a vibrant food scene and are responsive to health trends and dietary preferences, with an increasing number of vegan and vegetarian options. Whether you're craving a hearty cheesesteak or a warm bowl of beer cheese soup, both cities welcome food lovers with open arms and diverse menus.
Philadelphia vs. Madison Restaurant Comparison
Food plays a vital role in making a place feel like home. This restaurant comparison between Philadelphia and Madison aims to help you find new favorite eats by aligning them with the ones you cherished back home. Whether you're craving high-end dining experiences, casual bites, or iconic dishes, this guide has got you covered.
| Philadelphia | Madison | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Zahav | L'Etoile | Both offer high-end dining with a focus on local ingredients and innovative dishes. |
| Reading Terminal Market | Madison's Public Market | Offers a diverse selection of food stalls, creating a hub for foodies. |
| Pat's King of Steaks | Mickies Dairy Bar | Although known for breakfast, it's iconic like Pat's, offering a vintage diner experience. |
| Vedge | Green Owl Cafe | Both are renowned for their creative vegetarian cuisine. |
| Franklin Fountain | Babcock Hall Dairy Store | An essential spot for ice cream lovers, reminiscent of Franklin's old-fashioned charm. |
| Vetri Cucina | Osteria Papavero | Both offer an exquisite Italian dining experience with a focus on authenticity and flavor. |
| La Colombe Coffee Roasters | Colectivo Coffee | Both craft high-quality, artisan coffee, making them go-tos for coffee aficionados. |
| Pizzeria Vetri | Sal's Tomato Pies | Offers artisanal pizza with a dedication to quality ingredients, echoing Vetri's excellence. |
| El Vez | Canteen | Boasts a vibrant atmosphere with a focus on inventive Mexican cuisine, mirroring El Vez. |
| Dim Sum House | Imperial Garden | Known for authentic Chinese fare and dim sum, offering a comparable culinary experience. |
Exploring Madison's culinary scene reveals parallels that comfort foodies in transition from Philadelphia. L'Etoile, as Madison's answer to Zahav, showcases seasonal ingredients through an innovative menu, ensuring a high-end dining experience that could easily become your new special occasion spot. Meanwhile, Mickies Dairy Bar, much like Pat's King of Steaks, stands as a local legend, offering hearty breakfasts that have earned an iconic status among residents. Babcock Hall Dairy Store, akin to Franklin Fountain, serves as a sweet reminder of the joys of simple, well-crafted ice cream, embodying the charm and nostalgia of old-fashioned dairy delights. This guide not just locates your new favorite restaurant but also connects the culinary dots from Philadelphia to Madison, ensuring the flavors of home are never too far away.
Ready to start your move?
Philadelphia vs. Madison Real Estate & Living Facts
When planning a move, understanding the real estate market is crucial. This comparison between Philadelphia, PA and Madison, WI focuses on key housing aspects to consider.
| Comparison | Philadelphia | Madison |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Colonial, Victorian | Modern, Craftsman |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Proximity to amenities, historic charm | Access to nature, family-friendly neighborhoods |
In comparing Philadelphia and Madison, we delve into various factors. Philadelphia's architecture, deeply rooted in colonial and Victorian styles, reflects its rich history. Contrastingly, Madison offers a more contemporary craftsman aesthetic, mirroring its modern growth and development. The urban lifestyle in Philadelphia is more prominent, with a higher walkability score, underscoring the city's dense, amenity-rich environment. Conversely, Madison prioritizes natural space and a community-centric atmosphere, evident through its higher bikeability score and focus on access to nature in real estate listings.
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.
Philadelphia vs. Madison Weather Considerations
When planning a move, comparing the weather conditions of your current location to your new one is crucial. This guide will help you understand how Philadelphia, PA and Madison, WI differ in terms of climate, aiding in a smoother transition.
Philadelphia, PA
Madison, WI
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Philadelphia, PA
Madison, WI
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Philadelphia, PA
Madison, WI
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Philadelphia, PA
Madison, WI
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Philadelphia | Madison |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good to Moderate | Good to Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Hurricanes, winter storms | Snowstorms, tornadoes |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
When moving from Philadelphia to Madison, you'll notice a significant difference in winter temperatures and snowfall levels. Madison experiences colder winters with more snow, ideal for winter sport enthusiasts but potentially challenging for those not used to frequent snow. Moreover, summer in Madison is slightly cooler, offering a more comfortable climate. Both cities have comparable air quality and humidity levels, but those with allergies should note that Madison has a wider range of seasonal allergies due to its diverse vegetation. Understanding these differences can help you prepare for a smooth transition to your new home in Madison.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Philadelphia to Madison
When relocating, it's vital to grasp how living expenses and financial dynamics in your new city compare to your current locale. This comparison offers insight into the financial landscape moving from Philadelphia, PA to Madison, WI , covering income, taxes, and living costs to help you plan effectively.
| Comparison | Philadelphia | Madison |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $52,899 | $67,270 |
| Cost of Living Index | 126.5 | 95.65 |
| State Income Tax | 3.07 | 4.65 (progressive) |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.99 | 1.94 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 8% | 5.5% |
| Top 3 Industries | Education, Healthcare, Manufacturing | Government, Education, Healthcare |
| Affluence | Moderate | Higher |
| Poverty | Higher | Lower |
| Homelessness | Noticeable | Less noticeable |
Relocating from Philadelphia to Madison, you'll discover differences in income levels and living expenses. The average household income in Madison is significantly higher, which corresponds with its slightly higher cost of living index. Notably, while the sales tax in Madison is notably lower than in Philadelphia, the property tax is almost double, affecting homeowners’ expenses. Madison's economy is buoyed by government, education, and healthcare sectors, suggesting stability and growth potential. Additionally, the social metrics of poverty and homelessness appear more favorable in Madison, possibly reflecting a different urban management approach or economic distribution among its residents.
Philadelphia vs. Madison Political & Religious Comparison
This quick comparison aims to provide a snapshot of the political and religious makeup of residents from Philadelphia, PA to Madison, WI . Understanding these differences will help you acclimate to your new city's cultural and societal landscape.
| Philadelphia | Madison | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Lean Democratic | Strongly Democratic |
| Local Politics | City governance with a significant focus on social issues and economic development | Progressive policies with an emphasis on environmental sustainability and social equity |
| Religion | Diverse, with a significant Christian population. Notable establishments include the Philadelphia Episcopal Cathedral. | Pluralistic, with a strong presence of secular and non-religious communities alongside various faiths. Important places like the First Unitarian Society of Madison reflect this diversity. |
As you make the transition from Philadelphia to Madison, you'll notice a shift towards more progressive politics, which is deeply integrated into the local governance and community initiatives of Madison. This city is known for its commitment to environmental sustainability and social equity, marking a contrast to Philadelphia's broader focus on social issues and economic development. Religion in Madison presents a varied landscape, with a notable presence of secular and non-religious communities that coexist with a variety of faiths, mirroring the city's inclusive and diverse ethos.
Philadelphia vs. Madison Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Philadelphia, PA to Madison, WI means adjusting to new daily commutes and understanding the differences in traffic and transportation options between the two cities. This comparison aims to help you better understand what to expect in terms of driving and using public transit in both cities.
| Comparison | Philadelphia | Madison |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 32 | 22 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Yes, with challenges | Yes, but limited |
In Philadelphia, you'll find a robust public transit system, thanks to SEPTA (Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority), which makes getting around without a car feasible, albeit with some challenges depending on your exact location and destinations. On the other hand, Madison offers a more limited public transit option through Metro Transit, making a car more necessary for daily activities outside the downtown area. Traffic congestion is significantly higher in Philadelphia, reflecting its larger population and denser urban environment. This makes the average commute time longer in Philadelphia compared to Madison, where the smaller size and population density contribute to smoother traffic flow and shorter travel times.
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