Best Seattle to Madison Movers and Practical Moving Guide
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Moving from the Emerald City to the City of Four Lakes is not just a relocation—it's an exhilarating new chapter in your life. You're trading Seattle's iconic Space Needle and bustling tech scene for Madison's vibrant state capitol atmosphere and idyllic lakeside living. Recognizing the significance of this long-distance move, it's crucial to secure trusted and reliable professional movers, ensuring your journey from rain to cheese is as smooth as possible.
Best Seattle to Madison Moving Companies
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Madison to Seattle guide.
5 Best Seattle 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 John Volken Academy Movers
John Volken Academy Movers is a not-for-profit moving company that helps people move across Western and Eastern Washington. This local busin...Read More >>
Services
- Local Moving
- Commercial Moving
- Residential Moving
About People Movers
People Movers is a fully licensed moving company in Bothell, WA. It has relocated hundreds of happy customers in Greater Seattle since it op...Read More >>
Services
- Local moving
- Long-distance moving
- Cross-country moving
About All Service Moving
All Service Moving is a full-service moving company that performs a wide array of relocation services in Seattle, WA, and surrounding areas....Read More >>
Services
- Residential Moving
- Commercial Moving
- 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.
Seattle vs. Madison Neighborhood Comparison
Moving to a new city can be daunting, especially when you're not familiar with the local neighborhoods. To help ease this transition, we've compiled a comparison of popular neighborhoods between Seattle, WA & Madison, WI . This chart will help you find a slice of home in your new city, showcasing the closest equivalents based on vibe, community, and amenities.
| Seattle | Madison | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Capitol Hill | Willy Street | Vibrant community, nightlife |
| Belltown | Downtown Madison | Urban living, entertainment |
| Ballard | Atwood | Artistic hub, breweries |
| Fremont | Monroe Street | Quirky shops, dining |
| Queen Anne | Maple Bluff | Upscale, scenic views |
| Greenwood | Shorewood Hills | Family-friendly, green spaces |
| West Seattle | Nakoma League | Suburban feel, community-oriented |
| South Lake Union | Capitol | Booming tech hub, lake views |
| Wallingford | Regent | Historic homes, local eateries |
| Pioneer Square | State-Langdon | Historic architecture, student life |
For those moving from Seattle, adjusting to Madison's unique neighborhoods will be an exciting adventure. If you cherished the lively atmosphere and rich nightlife of Capitol Hill, Willy Street in Madison will quickly feel like home with its eclectic mixture of bars, live music, and vibrant community events. Meanwhile, former residents of Ballard will find Atwood's artistic vibe and burgeoning brewery scene a familiar comfort. Those looking for an upscale yet serene neighborhood, akin to Queen Anne, will be drawn to the picturesque views and elegant homes of Maple Bluff. In these neighborhoods, you'll discover a blend of familiar and new experiences, from the charming historic vibes of State-Langdon to the trendy tech atmosphere of Capitol, mirroring South Lake Union's innovative spirit. Whether you're savoring a craft beer at one of Atwood's breweries or enjoying a leisurely stroll through Maple Bluff, Madison offers a rich tapestry of neighborhoods that resonate with Seattle's diverse and dynamic communities.
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 Seattle to Madison
Moving from one city to another is a major decision that can impact various aspects of your life. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Seattle, WA to Madison, WI . By examining the pros and cons, you’ll get a clearer picture of what to expect and how this move might align with your lifestyle and preferences.
Seattle, WA- Higher cost of living
- Frequent rain
- Heavy traffic
- Seismic risk
Madison, WI- More affordable housing
- More sunny days
- Less congestion
- Lower natural disaster risk
Madison, WI- Smaller tech community
- Flatter terrain
- Less diverse music scene
- More limited diversity
Seattle, WA- Vibrant tech scene
- Mountainous landscapes
- Rich music culture
- Diverse culinary options
While you may miss the breathtaking mountain views of Seattle and its buzzing tech scene, Madison offers its own unique appeal with more accessible housing prices and a bustling bike culture exemplified by places like the Capital City State Trail. Madison's food scene, while smaller, prides itself on local flavors and farm-to-table dining experiences, such as those found at Lombardino's or the iconic Dane. The reduction in traffic congestion in Madison compared to Seattle means spending less time in your car and more time enjoying local parks and lakes, like those around the UW-Madison campus. The transition might be an adjustment, but Madison's friendly communities and engaging outdoor life make it a compelling destination.
Seattle vs. Madison Food Guide
Food is an integral aspect of local culture and what it's like to live in a specific area. With this in mind, we've created a comparison to provide you with a deeper understanding of the food scene where you're moving to. This breakdown will focus on comparing the local cuisine between Seattle, WA & Madison, WI so you can be better informed and excited about your new culinary escapades.
| Seattle | Madison | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Seattle Dog | Beer Cheese Soup |
| Most popular meat dish | Salmon | Bratwurst |
| Most popular street food item | Teriyaki | Cheese Curds |
| Most popular vegan food | Tofu Banh Mi | Tempeh Reuben |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
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| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In Seattle, the bustling Pike Place Market offers an array of local seafood dishes, including the city's iconic Seattle Dog, topped with cream cheese and grilled onions, that can be found at numerous stalls and street corners. Meanwhile, Madison presents a cozy Midwestern charm with its local farmers' markets, such as the Dane County Farmers' Market, offering fresh, regional produce perfect for recreating the city's beloved Beer Cheese Soup. Digging into the dairy heartland's cuisine, you'll relish the squeaky cheese curds, a popular street food item, best enjoyed at the vibrant State Street spots. Notably, Madison's restaurant scene like Graze and Lombardino's showcase the rich culinary diversity and farm-to-table ethos that underpins the city's food philosophy.
Seattle vs. Madison Restaurant Comparison
Finding a sense of belonging in a new city often starts with discovering places that offer comforting flavors and welcoming atmospheres. This restaurant comparison aims to assist in that journey, seamlessly transitioning your culinary experiences from Seattle, WA to Madison, WI . Whether you're searching for a high-end dining experience, a casual bite, an iconic meal, or just something affordable and tasty, this comparison will guide you to your new favorite spots, using your current favorites as a reference.
| Seattle | Madison | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Canlis | L'Etoile | High-end dining with a focus on local, sustainable ingredients |
| Pike Place Chowder | Mariner's Inn | Legendary seafood with a lakeside view |
| Renee Erickson's Sea Creatures | Graze | Farm-to-table dishes in a vibrant, eclectic setting |
| The Pink Door | Harvest | Romantic Italian dining with a farm-fresh twist |
| Dick's Drive-In | Dotty Dumpling's Dowry | Classic, unfussy burgers with a local twist |
| Mamnoon | Nile | Authentic Middle Eastern flavors brought to the heart of Madison |
| Salumi | Fromagination | Artisanal cheese and charcuterie mirroring Seattle’s best |
| Matt's in the Market | Heritage Tavern | Inventive American fare with emphasis on local produce |
| Toulouse Petit Kitchen & Lounge | La Kitchenette | Cozy, French comfort food that feels like home |
| Fremont Brewing | Ale Asylum | Craft beer paradise with a wide selection of brews |
For those who cherish the art of dining, Seattle and Madison offer unique yet comparable experiences. Canlis and L'Etoile both elevate local ingredients to create stunning dishes that are as visually appealing as they are delicious, setting the tone for sophisticated dining in their respective cities. On a more casual note, comparing Dick's Drive-In to Dotty Dumpling's Dowry reveals how both cities value humble, comforting meals, ensuring that you can always find a satisfying burger without any fuss. For those who appreciate the global flavors, Mamnoon and Nile provide an authentic Middle Eastern experience that enriches the culinary tapestry of their cities. Whether it’s the crafted beer culture shared between Fremont Brewing and Ale Asylum, or the commitment to farm-to-table ethos seen between Renee Erickson's Sea Creatures and Graze, these comparisons not only highlight the culinary diversity of Madison and Seattle but also promise you'll find a new favorite no matter your mood or taste.
Ready to start your move?
Seattle vs. Madison Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate ranks highly in the decision-making process of moving. Understanding how Seattle, WA and Madison, WI compare in terms of housing can illuminate choices and guide expectations. Comparing costs, architecture, and lifestyle aspects will provide clarity on what each city has to offer.
| Comparison | Seattle | Madison |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Modern and Craftsman | Mid-Century Modern and Cape Cod |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Views of Puget Sound, Green spaces | Lake access, Proximity to University of Wisconsin |
When considering a move from Seattle to Madison, it's essential to note the significant difference in housing costs. Seattle's higher median home price reflects its booming tech industry and coastal city charm, boasting modern and Craftsman houses that often feature breathtaking views of Puget Sound. On the other hand, Madison offers a more affordable housing market, with common architectural styles like Mid-Century Modern and Cape Cod, emphasizing lake access and its vibrant university neighborhood. Madison shines in terms of bikeability, making it a haven for cyclists, whereas Seattle offers a slightly more urban lifestyle with its bustling neighborhoods and green spaces. These distinctions highlight the cities' unique offerings, catering to diverse preferences and lifestyles.
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.
Seattle vs. Madison Weather Considerations
When you're moving from one location to another, understanding the weather comparison between Seattle and Madison is key to adjusting smoothly. Knowing how the climate shifts will help you prepare for your new environment both in terms of wardrobe and daily life.
Seattle, WA
Madison, WI
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Seattle, WA
Madison, WI
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Seattle, WA
Madison, WI
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Seattle, WA
Madison, WI
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Seattle | Madison |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Earthquakes, Volcanoes | Snowstorms, Tornadoes |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Considering the weather differences between Seattle and Madison, you're likely to notice the more distinct seasons in Madison, with warmer summers and much colder winters compared to Seattle's milder climate. The increased number of sunny days in Madison can be a pleasant change, although the significantly higher annual snowfall means preparing for snowy winters. Additionally, while Seattle's natural disaster risks include earthquakes and volcanoes, Madison's climate poses threats in the form of snowstorms and occasional tornadoes. Adapting to these changes will ensure a smoother transition to your new home.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Seattle to Madison
Moving from one city to another greatly impacts your finances. Understanding the differences in cost of living and key financial indicators between Seattle, WA, and Madison, WI, is crucial for planning your relocation. It helps set realistic expectations and prepares you for the financial changes ahead.
| Comparison | Seattle | Madison |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $110,781 | $67,270 |
| Cost of Living Index | 121.4 | 95.65 |
| State Income Tax | 0 | up to 7.65 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.99 | 1.94 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 10.1 | 5.5 |
| Top 3 Industries | Technology, Health, Manufacturing | Education, Healthcare, Manufacturing |
| Affluence | Very High | Moderate |
| Poverty | Lower | Lower |
| Homelessness | Significant | Moderate |
When you compare Seattle to Madison, you'll notice significant differences that could impact your budgeting. Seattle's average household income is significantly higher than Madison's, but so is its cost of living index, largely due to housing costs. While Seattle benefits from having no state income tax, Madison's residents face a state income tax that can go up to 7.65%. Additionally, the average sales tax in Seattle is almost double that of Madison, which can affect your day-to-day spending. Despite these differences, both cities are hubs for education, healthcare, and manufacturing, offering diverse job opportunities. Considering these factors can help you make an informed decision about your move.
Seattle vs. Madison Political & Religious Comparison
In planning your move from Seattle, WA to Madison, WI, understanding the local culture and demographic landscape is crucial. This guide provides a quick snapshot to help you grasp the political and religious makeup of the residents in comparing Seattle & Madison, offering insight into what you might expect in your new home.
| Seattle | Madison | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Liberal | Liberal |
| Local Politics | Progressive | Progressive |
| Religion | Spiritually diverse, less religious overall | Religiously varied, with notable Christian and non-religious communities |
Both Seattle and Madison are known for their liberal and progressive political climates, which is reflected in local policies and community initiatives. Seattle's residents often rally around environmental issues and progressive social policies. Similarly, Madison is renowned for its active political engagements and advocacy for social justice. Despite these similarities, you'll find a rich tapestry of religious beliefs in both cities, though Seattle tends toward being less religious overall compared to Madison, which boasts a mix of Christian denominations alongside a strong non-religious community. Understanding these nuances can help you navigate and integrate into your new community more easily.
Seattle vs. Madison Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Seattle, WA to Madison, WI means adapting to new daily commutes and understanding the differences in traffic and transportation options. This comparison will help you grasp what to expect in both cities.
| Comparison | Seattle | Madison |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 27.7 | 18.8 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without a car? | Yes, with some challenges | Yes, but more difficult |
The table above shows some key differences between Seattle and Madison in terms of commuting and transportation. With an average commute time of 27.7 minutes, Seattle residents spend more time on the road compared to Madison's 18.8 minutes. This might be due, in part, to Seattle's higher traffic congestion. Both cities provide public transit options, but Seattle offers a more robust system, making it somewhat easier to get by without a car. However, in Madison, while public transport is available, the smaller scale of the city and its transit system can make car-less living more challenging, albeit still possible for those living and working within the urban core or close to bus lines.
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