Moving from Madison to Lexington?

5 Best Movers and Your Ultimate Moving Guide

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Madison to Lexington Movers

Embarking on a move from the vibrant capital city of Madison, WI to the charming horse country of Lexington, KY, is an adventure filled with new possibilities. Leaving behind the famed Badger State, with its eclectic mix of urban culture and natural beauty, for the Bluegrass State's rich history and scenic landscapes might feel bittersweet. To ensure this significant transition is smooth, securing trusted and reliable professional movers is essential; that's where we come in, ranking the best options to make your journey as stress-free as possible.

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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Lexington to Madison guide.

5 Best Madison to Lexington Movers

These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)

#1
A Smooth Move, LLC Logo
Exceptional
claimed company icon

based on 1,293+ data points

Location DotAppleton, WI
GearFull-Service Moves, Packing, Loading, Delivering, Unloading, Unpacking, Business and Residential Relocation Services See More
Circle CheckAuthorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/11/2024)

Circle DotUSDOT: 3350934 Verify

About 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 >>

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top 3 ranked movers in appleton 2023 a smooth move llc image
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#2
Madison Smooth Moves Logo
Exceptional

based on 894+ data points

Location DotMadison, WI
GearResidential Moves, Local Moves, Long-distance Moves See More
Circle CheckAuthorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/10/2024)

Circle DotUSDOT: 3350934 Verify

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 >>

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#3
Gorilla Movers Of Wisconsin Inc. Logo
Exceptional

based on 2,029+ data points

Location DotSun Prairie, WI
GearResidential moves, Commercial moves, Local/statewide moving See More
Circle CheckAuthorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/10/2024)

Circle DotUSDOT: 2627768 Verify

About Gorilla Movers Of Wisconsin Inc.

As a locally owned and operated moving company, Gorilla Movers has over 20 years of experience performing high-quality residential and comme...Read More >>

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#4
Keep On Moving Company Logo
Exceptional

based on 833+ data points

Location DotIndependence, KY
GearLocal Moving, Long Distance Moving, Delivery Services See More
Circle CheckAuthorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/11/2024)

Circle DotUSDOT: 3468627 Verify

About Keep On Moving Company

Keep On Moving Company is a family-owned and operated business serving Cincinnati and the Greater Tri-State area of KY, OH, and IN. It is de...Read More >>

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#5
From Here to There Logo
Exceptional

based on 715+ data points

Location DotLexington, KY
GearResidential Move, Long-Distance/Interstate Moves, Commercial/Office Moves See More
Circle CheckAuthorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/11/2024)

Circle DotUSDOT: 3481118 Verify

About From Here to There

From Here to There is a local moving and logistics company based in Lexington, Kentucky, established by long-time friends with extensive exp...Read More >>

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Relocating from Madison to Lexington Neighborhood Guide

Moving to a new city can be daunting. This guide helps you familiarize yourself with an unknown city by using your existing city as a baseline. We’ll compare popular neighborhoods in Madison, WI & Lexington, KY to identify the closest similar neighborhoods.

MadisonLexington
Downtown MadisonDowntown Lexington

Vibrant city center with bars and shopping

Shorewood HillsChevy Chase

Upscale and historic with strong community feel

Willy StreetNorth Limestone (NoLi)

Artsy and eclectic with numerous cafes

Maple BluffBeaumont

Affluent suburban area with beautiful homes

Hill FarmsMasterson Station

Family-friendly with plenty of parks

Monroe StreetPleasant Ridge Park

Quaint and walkable, foodie paradise

AtwoodKentucky Avenue

Trendy and diverse with lots of nightlife

RegentSouthland

Residential with local eateries and shops

WestmorlandChilesburg

Friendly and safe suburban environment

For those who enjoy the vibrant city life of Downtown Madison, you'll find a similar atmosphere in Downtown Lexington with its bustling bars and shopping areas. If you're moving from the historic elegance of Shorewood Hills, consider the Chevy Chase neighborhood, which offers a similar upscale charm. Moving from Willy Street's artsy scene to the North Limestone area will help you retain the eclectic vibe you're used to, complete with numerous cafes. Families from Hill Farms may find a new home in Masterson Station with its parks and community spaces. Lastly, if you've loved the trendy and diverse Atwood area, you'll enjoy Kentucky Avenue for its nightlife and trendy spots. Each neighborhood offers a unique slice of Lexington that mirrors what you know and love about Madison.

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Things to Do in Lexington

  • Explore Kentucky Horse Park
  • Stroll through Ashland: The Henry Clay Estate
  • Sample bourbon at Buffalo Trace Distillery
  • Attend a race at Keeneland Racetrack
  • Discover art at Lexington Art League
  • Watch a movie at Kentucky Theater
  • Enjoy live music at The Burl

Ready to start your move?

Pros and Cons of Moving from Madison to Lexington

Moving from one city to another brings its set of changes, both good and bad. This comparison aims to give an honest reflection of moving from Madison, WI to Lexington, KY , highlighting the cons and pros of such a relocation. By looking at what you might miss and what you can look forward to, you’ll be better prepared for your move.

CONs
PROs
Madison, WI iconMadison, WI
  • Colder winters
  • Higher living costs
  • Less horse culture
  • Fewer bourbon tours
  • Smaller city vibe
Lexington, KY iconLexington, KY
  • Milder winters
  • Lower living costs
  • Rich horse culture
  • More bourbon tours
  • Larger city feel
Lexington, KY iconLexington, KY
  • Less water activities
  • Less bike-friendly
  • Smaller art scene
  • Less college town vibe
  • Fewer festivals
Madison, WI iconMadison, WI
  • Abundant lakes
  • Bike-friendly city
  • Richer art scene
  • Lively student life
  • More seasonal festivals

Moving from Madison, WI, to Lexington, KY, you’re transitioning from the lively, bike-friendly streets of Madison to the historic and equestrian-rich avenues of Lexington. While you might miss the vibrant student life around the University of Wisconsin-Madison, with its frequent festivals and events like the Terrace Summer Series, you'll discover Lexington's charm through its famed Kentucky Horse Park, and the myriad of bourbon tours available, such as the ones hosted by Buffalo Trace Distillery. Madison’s plentiful lakes offering year-round activities will be traded for Lexington’s rolling hills and historical sites like the Mary Todd Lincoln House, showcasing a different kind of beauty and leisure activities.

Food Scene Guide When Moving from Madison to Lexington

This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Madison, WI & Lexington, KY, underlining that food significantly contributes to the local culture and living experience of an area. This comparison aims to provide you with a clearer picture of the food scene in your new city.

MadisonLexington

Most iconic local food item

Cheese curds
Burgoo

Most popular meat dish

Bratwurst
Hot Brown

Most popular street food item

Food carts on Library Mall
Burgoo from food trucks

Most popular vegan food

Tempeh Reuben
Seitan BBQ

Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city

  • Holly Hill Inn
  • Blue Heron Steakhouse
  • Dudley's On Short

Fitness/Health Conscientiousness

8
6

Abundance of Food Trucks

7
5

Foodie Scene

8
7

Vegan Friendly

7
6

In Madison, you'll find a vibrant food scene that proudly showcases its cheese curds and bratwurst, particularly at local gatherings and farmers' markets. The city stands out for its food carts on Library Mall, a central spot for street food enthusiasts to enjoy a broad spectrum of cuisines. Madison also prides itself on being health-conscious and vegan-friendly, with several establishments like Graze offering innovative plant-based meals. Lexington, meanwhile, boasts a rich tradition of dishes like Burgoo and the Hot Brown, which can be explored in classic restaurants such as the Holly Hill Inn. The city offers a somewhat cozier food truck scene, with a special place in its heart for traditional Kentucky fare, gradually embracing more health-conscious and vegan options. Both cities offer unique culinary experiences reflective of their local culture and history.

Restaurant Guide for Moving from Madison to Lexington

Food plays a pivotal role in making a location feel like home. This restaurant comparison chart aims to ease the transition from Madison, WI to Lexington, KY, helping you discover new favorite spots akin to your cherished eateries back home.

L’EtoileDudley's on Short

Offers a fine dining experience with locally sourced ingredients.

GrazeCounty Club

Known for its farm-to-table dishes and casual, yet sophisticated environment.

A Pig In A Fur CoatLockbox

Similar focus on inventive, upscale dishes in an artsy setting.

Paisan’sJoe Bologna's Restaurant and Pizzeria

Both serve iconic Italian-American dishes in a relaxed atmosphere.

Ian's PizzaGoodfellas Pizzeria

Beloved for their massive, New York-style slices and lively ambience.

The Old FashionedHarry’s

A go-to for hearty American classics and a comprehensive bar menu.

Mickies Dairy BarStella's Kentucky Deli

Offers a comfort food menu with a local twist, akin to Mickies’ home-style offerings.

Marigold KitchenWild Eggs

Both are celebrated for their innovative breakfast and brunch menus.

Salvatore's Tomato PiesPies & Pints

Notable for their unique pizza creations and a love for local ingredients.

SardineOBC Kitchen

High quality seafood and bistro fare with a noted selection of bourbon and craft cocktails.

While making the shift from Madison's eclectic dining scene to Lexington's own rich culinary landscape, you'll discover comforting parallels. For example, the spirited ambiance and New York-style pizza at Goodfellas Pizzeria can easily remind you of the beloved pies back at Ian's Pizza in Madison. Similarly, moving from the locally sourced, fine dining experience of L’Etoile to the equally charming and intimate setting of Dudley's on Short in Lexington ensures that your palate's preferences for high-quality ingredients and exquisite meals are well catered to. These transitions not only promise a semblance of culinary continuity but also introduce you to the unique flavors and character that Lexington's vibrant food scene has to offer.

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Ready to start your move?

Real Estate Facts to Know Before Moving from Madison to Lexington

Real estate is one of the most important aspects of a move. It's essential to know how Madison, WI and Lexington, KY compare in terms of housing —from costs and architecture to walkability and the general urban lifestyle. This comparison will help you make an informed decision about your next big move.

In comparing Madison and Lexington regarding housing, you'll discover not just differences in costs, but also in the lifestyle each city promotes. Madison's higher walkability and bikeability scores reflect its compact urban layout and its emphasis on alternative transport paths, including the many bike paths that wend through the city. You might find Madison appealing if you prioritize a mix of urban and outdoor life, especially with its scenery and lakes. On the other hand, Lexington's real estate listings often highlight the presence of spacious backyards and proximity to horse farms, indicating a blend of urban living with pastoral charm. This city could be perfect if you're looking for a more relaxed pace of life, without straying too far from urban conveniences.

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Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Lexington, KY

1. Beaumont Residential Area: Known for its spacious parks and walking trails, Beaumont is ideal for pet owners, featuring several dog-friendly parks where your furry friends can roam freely.

2. Chevy Chase: This neighborhood boasts a close-knit community vibe with numerous pet-friendly cafes and shops, allowing you to bring your pets along for a day out at places like the Chevy Chase Hardware.

3. Hamburg: Offering a variety of pet services including grooming and veterinary care within the area, such as the highly recommended Banfield Pet Hospital, Hamburg is a convenient and welcoming community for pet owners.

Weather Considerations for Moving from Madison to Lexington

Moving from one city to another often involves adapting to new weather patterns. Understanding how the climate in Madison, WI compares to Lexington, KY is essential for a smooth transition. This comparison will shed light on what to expect and how to prepare for your new home’s weather.

Summer icon
82°F / 61°F

Madison, WI

85°F / 66°F

Lexington, KY

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
28°F / 13°F

Madison, WI

41°F / 26°F

Lexington, KY

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
34.4

Madison, WI

45.0

Lexington, KY

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
42

Madison, WI

13

Lexington, KY

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

While both Madison and Lexington offer four distinct seasons, moving from Madison to Lexington, you'll experience milder winters and slightly hotter summers in Lexington. Notably, Lexington receives more days of sunshine per year and nearly 11 inches more rainfall, which contributes to the higher humidity levels in summer and fall seasons. The transition involves preparing for a different set of natural disasters, with Lexington prone to thunderstorms and occasional tornadoes, contrasting with Madison's cold waves and snowstorms. Understanding these details can help you anticipate the changes in lifestyle and preparations needed for Lexington's climate.

Ready to start your move?

Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Madison to Lexington

When relocating from one city to another, analyzing the financial implications is crucial. Understanding the differences in cost of living, average income, and taxes between Madison, WI and Lexington, KY will help you make an informed decision and prepare adequately for your move.

When comparing the financial aspects of living in Madison versus Lexington, it's noteworthy that the average household income in Madison is significantly higher, which corresponds with its slightly elevated cost of living index. The state income tax in Madison varies, creating a more complex tax environment compared to Lexington's flat rate. Additionally, Madison's average property tax rate is higher, a crucial factor if you're planning to buy a home. The differences in the top industries between these cities reflect their unique economic focus, likely influencing employment opportunities related to your field. Finally, while both cities have commendable efforts towards reducing poverty and homelessness, Lexington has a higher poverty rate and a moderate level of homelessness, factors worth considering for community-driven individuals.

Political & Religious Comparison between Madison, WI and Lexington, KY

When making the move from Madison, WI, to Lexington, KY, it’s insightful to get a quick snapshot of what to expect in terms of the community you’re about to join. This comparison aims to provide you with an at-a-glance look at the political and religious makeup of the residents in Madison & Lexington , giving you a better understanding of the local culture and community vibes in both cities.

MadisonLexington

Political Make-up

Liberal-leaningModestly conservative, with liberal pockets

Local Politics

Progressive policies, strong community involvementMixed dynamic of governance, active civic engagement

Religion

Eclectic, with a strong non-religious presenceDiverse, with a historical leaning towards Christian denominations

In moving from Madison—a city known for its liberal leanings and progressive policies—to Lexington, you’re transitioning into a space with a more mixed political landscape. This doesn’t mean Lexington lacks the civic engagement and community involvement you might be used to; rather, it presents a diversified approach to local governance and social issues. Religion in Lexington, while diverse, has a deeper historical connection to Christian denominations compared to Madison's eclectic and less religiously affiliated population. Understanding these nuances can help you better acclimate to your new home’s cultural and social fabric.

Traffic and Public Transit Considerations for Moving from Madison to Lexington

As you ponder the move from Madison to Lexington, understanding the daily commute and traffic patterns between Madison & Lexington becomes essential. This comparison aims to provide you with a clearer picture of what to expect in both cities.

MadisonLexington
2221

Avg Commute Time (in minutes)

43

Traffic Congestion (out of 10)

64

Availability of Public Transit (out of 10)

Yes, with some planningPossible, but more challenging

Can you get by without car?

Madison and Lexington offer relatively similar experiences when it comes to average commute times, but you'll find notable differences in their traffic congestion levels and public transportation systems. Madison scores slightly higher in terms of public transit availability, making it feasible to live without a car if you plan accordingly. In Lexington, although slightly less congested, the public transit options are more limited, making car-dependency more common. If you're used to Madison's bus system or bike lanes, you might need to adjust your commute strategy in Lexington.

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