Moving from Madison to Durham?

5 Best Movers and Your Ultimate Moving Guide

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Madison to Durham Movers

Moving from the brisk, cheese-loving vibes of Madison, WI, to the warm, eclectic energy of Durham, NC, marks an exciting chapter in your life. You're swapping the Badger State's hearty Midwest charm for the Bull City's vibrant culture and burgeoning tech hub. To ensure this significant leap goes smoothly, it's crucial to partner with trusted and reliable professional movers. At Great Guys Moving, we pride ourselves on connecting you with the best, using an unbiased algorithm to cut through the claims and find the movers who truly make the grade.

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

5 Best Madison to Durham 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

Appleton, WI
Full-Service Moves, Packing, Loading, Delivering, Unloading, Unpacking, Business and Residential Relocation Services See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/11/2024)

USDOT: 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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#2
Madison Smooth Moves Logo
Exceptional

based on 894+ data points

Madison, WI
Residential Moves, Local Moves, Long-distance Moves See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/10/2024)

USDOT: 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
Raleigh Moving Company Logo
Exceptional

based on 954+ data points

Raleigh, NC
Free estimates, Full Value Protection (FVP), Fully licensed and insured See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/14/2021)

USDOT: 3344628 Verify

About Raleigh Moving Company

Raleigh Moving Company is a locally owned and operated moving company offering residential and commercial services for local and long-distan...Read More >>

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#4
Athens Moving Experts Logo
Exceptional
claimed company icon

based on 4,516+ data points

Raleigh, NC
Local Moving Services, Long Distance Moving Services, Commercial Moving Services See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/10/2024)

USDOT: 3205320 Verify

About Athens Moving Experts

Since 2015, Athens Moving Experts has helped Raleigh, Chapel Hill, Holly Springs, and communities across North Carolina with their residenti...Read More >>

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#5
Gorilla Movers Of Wisconsin Inc. Logo
Exceptional

based on 2,029+ data points

Sun Prairie, WI
Residential moves, Commercial moves, Local/statewide moving See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/10/2024)

USDOT: 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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Relocating from Madison to Durham Neighborhood Guide

Moving can be a daunting process, especially when you're navigating the unknown terrain of a new city. To ease the transition, consider this guide as your roadmap to comparing local neighborhoods between Madison, WI & Durham, NC . By pinpointing the similarities between neighborhoods in your current and future cities, you'll feel right at home in no time.

MadisonDurham
State StreetDowntown Durham

Vibrant urban center

Wil-MarOld West Durham

Historic with a strong community vibe

CapitolTrinity Park

Historic homes and park access

MarquetteWatts-Hillandale

Family-friendly with parks

NakomaForest Hills

Lush landscapes, historic homes

Maple BluffHope Valley

Upscale, golf-course community

Shorewood HillsBrightleaf

Exclusive, leafy neighborhood

Tenney-LaphamNinth Street

Eclectic and walkable

AtwoodGeer Street

Bohemian with a young vibe

Monroe StreetSouthpoint

Shopping and dining hub

Exploring the matching neighborhoods further, you'd find the State Street area of Madison, known for its dynamic atmosphere, faithfully reflected in Downtown Durham's bustling streets where local businesses, like Ponysaurus Brewing Co., thrive. Meanwhile, Madison’s Nakoma with its sprawling, historic homes finds a southern counterpart in Durham's Forest Hills, where the greenery of Forest Hills Park invites residents for leisurely strolls. Over in the Watts-Hillandale of Durham, similar to Marquette in Madison, you'd discover family-friendly spaces coupled with community-oriented eateries such as Monuts Donuts, making the transition between these cities not just about finding a new home, but discovering new favorite spots that make a neighborhood truly feel like yours.

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Pros and Cons of Moving from Madison to Durham

Moving from one city to another presents both challenges and opportunities. In understanding your relocation from Madison, WI to Durham, NC, we’ve created comparison charts to lay out an honest reflection of the pros and cons. This approach aims to provide a clearer picture of what you’re leaving behind and what awaits you in your new city, helping you to make a well-informed decision about your move.

CONs
PROs
Madison, WI iconMadison, WI
  • Colder winters
  • Smaller city
  • Less cultural diversity
  • Higher living costs
Durham, NC iconDurham, NC
  • Milder winters
  • Larger city vibes
  • More cultural diversity
  • Lower living costs
Durham, NC iconDurham, NC
  • Fewer bike lanes
  • Different education system
  • Less water access
  • Fewer local markets
Madison, WI iconMadison, WI
  • Strong bike culture
  • Quality education
  • Abundant lakes
  • Lively local markets

When considering your move from Madison to Durham, it's worthwhile to delve deeper into what makes each city unique. For instance, Madison’s renowned Dane County Farmers' Market offers an array of local produce that’s hard to find elsewhere, while Durham counters with its own vibrant food scene, including the famous Durham Performing Arts Center and Durham Bulls Athletic Park, providing entertainment and leisure opportunities that Madison lacks. On the other hand, Madison’s extensive network of bike lanes and paths like those in the Capital City Trail offer an unbeatable experience for cycling enthusiasts. Weighing these factors against your personal values and lifestyle will guide you in making a decision that best suits your needs and preferences.

Food Scene Guide When Moving from Madison to Durham

Food deeply reflects the character of a place, shaping the local culture and lifestyle. In this guide, we'll embark on a culinary comparison to help you better understand what awaits your palette when moving. This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Madison & Durham, providing insight into each city's unique gastronomy. Whether you're a food enthusiast or just curious about your new home's dining scene, this comparison will serve as your flavor-filled roadmap.

MadisonDurham

Most iconic local food item

Cheese CurdsPulled Pork BBQ

Most popular meat dish

BratwurstBBQ Ribs

Most popular street food item

Fried Cheese CurdsFish Tacos

Most popular vegan food

Tofu ScrambleBBQ Jackfruit

Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city

    1. L'Etoile
    2. Graze Pub
    3. The Old Fashioned

Fitness/Health Conscientiousness

87

Abundance of Food Trucks

78

Foodie Scene

89

Vegan Friendly

78

Moving from Madison to Durham, you're transitioning from a place renowned for its dairy delicacies, particularly cheese curds and bratwursts, to one celebrated for its meats, especially pulled pork BBQ and BBQ ribs. In Durham, you can explore vibrant neighborhoods like Brightleaf and American Tobacco District, known for their dynamic food scenes, including renowned establishments like Saltbox Seafood Joint for fresh catches and Bull City Burger and Brewery for craft beers and burgers. Madison's emphasis on fresh, local ingredients is mirrored in Durham's food scene, with an increased focus on Southern cuisine and innovative vegan dishes like BBQ Jackfruit, offering a delightful exploration of flavors for every palate.

Restaurant Guide for Moving from Madison to Durham

Relocating can be a monumental task, but finding those special spots to eat can quickly make a new city feel like home. This restaurant comparison between Madison, WI, and Durham, NC , is designed to guide you in discovering your next favorite dining destinations by leveraging your current culinary loves. Whether you crave high-end dining experiences or cherish cozy, casual spots, this guide will ease your transition.

L’EtoileParizade

Upscale dining with a focus on meticulous presentation and a Mediterranean flair

GrazeBull City Burger and Brewery

Farm-to-table dining with a focus on locally sourced ingredients

Mickies Dairy BarElmo's Diner

A classic diner experience known for hearty breakfast and comfort food

ForequarterMateo Bar de Tapas

Small plates and a cozy atmosphere that echoes Forequarter’s inventive menu

A Pig In A Fur CoatNanaSteak

A modern steakhouse with a unique twist on classics and an intimate atmosphere

AlimentariGocciolina

Authentic Italian dining with an emphasis on quality ingredients and rustic dishes

Sal's Tomato PiesPizzeria Toro

Wood-fired pizzas with creative toppings and a casual, urban vibe

NostranoMothers & Sons Trattoria

A homage to Italian cuisine with a fresh, modern approach

SardinePlates Neighborhood Kitchen

European-inspired dishes with a Southern twist in a relaxed setting

Lombardino'sIl Palio

Classic Italian in a sophisticated setting; perfect for a special night out

In exploring these culinary parallels, you'll uncover that Madison's cherished L’Etoile, with its exquisite farm-to-table approach, aligns closely with Parizade's commitment to fine dining and Mediterranean influences in Durham. Fans of the iconic Mickies Dairy Bar will find comfort in the familiar diner-style atmosphere and hearty breakfast offerings at Elmo's Diner. Meanwhile, Sardine’s admirers will appreciate the fusion of European dishes with Southern flair found at Plates Neighborhood Kitchen. Each of these Durham restaurants captures the spirit and flavor of your Madison favorites, ensuring a smooth culinary transition to your new home.

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Real Estate Facts to Know Before Moving from Madison to Durham

When planning a move, it's crucial to compare the real estate aspects of Madison, WI, and Durham, NC, understanding the difference in living standards, costs, and what each city has to offer. This comparison aims to help you make an informed decision about your next home.

Both Madison and Durham offer unique living experiences. In Madison, you’ll notice a higher median home price and rent, yet the city compensates with better bikeability and access to outdoor activities, like trails and lake views highly mentioned in listings. Durham, while slightly more affordable, boasts a rich history with its Colonial Revival and Craftsman houses, and proximity to Research Triangle Park is a significant draw for professionals. The urban lifestyle score is higher in Durham, reflecting its dynamic city life and cultural scene. Choosing between the two will depend on your priorities: whether outdoor access and bike-friendly routes take precedence or a bustling urban environment with a touch of historical charm.

Weather Considerations for Moving from Madison to Durham

When planning a move from Madison, WI to Durham, NC, understanding the weather differences becomes key to adapt smoothly. By comparing Madison's climate with Durham's, you'll gain insights into what weather changes to expect and how they might affect your daily life and activities.

Summer icon
82/60

Madison, WI

89/68

Durham, NC

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
27/11

Madison, WI

50/30

Durham, NC

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
34

Madison, WI

41

Durham, NC

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
42

Madison, WI

4

Durham, NC

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

While both cities experience a continental climate, Madison's winters are significantly colder with more snowfall, whereas Durham enjoys milder winters and hotter summers. The increased number of sunny days in Durham can be a delight for those moving from Madison, offering more opportunities for outdoor activities year-round. However, it's crucial to prepare for Durham's higher summer temperatures and the potential for hurricanes, contrasting Madison's predominant snowstorms. Adjusting to these differences will be key to embracing your new home in Durham.

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

When contemplating a move from Madison, WI to Durham, NC, it's critical to grasp the financial implications that accompany such a transition. Understanding how the cost of living, taxes, and income in Madison compare with those in Durham can significantly impact your decision and preparation for moving.

The financial landscape of Madison and Durham presents a mix of contrasts and similarities that are key for potential movers to understand. Madison boasts a higher average household income and a higher cost of living, reflecting its moderately affluent status. The gap in property tax rates, with Madison's significantly higher than Durham's, offers a clear advantage to homeowners considering Durham. However, the state income and sales taxes are relatively similar, indicating that day-to-day living expenses and income retention could feel familiar. The industry sectors also point to diverse economic strengths; while both cities value education and healthcare, Durham's emphasis on technology hints at its growing importance in the digital age. This contrast suggests that your professional opportunities could look different depending on your sector of interest.

Political & Religious Comparison between Madison, WI and Durham, NC

When planning a move from Madison, WI, to Durham, NC, it’s essential to understand the communities you’ll be joining. This quick guide offers a comparison of the politics between Madison & Durham , providing an at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of each city's residents, helping you feel right at home in your new environment.

MadisonDurham

Political Make-up

LiberalLiberal

Local Politics

Progressive policiesProgressive policies

Religion

Diverse, with a variety of churchesDiverse, featuring notable institutions like Duke Chapel

Diving deeper into the similarities, both Madison and Durham boast a liberal stance on most political issues, attracting residents that value progressive policies. This shared ideology may ease your transition, ensuring your values align closely with those of your new community. The vibrant religious landscape in both cities caters to a diversity of beliefs and practices, exemplified by Madison's multitude of churches and Durham's historic Duke Chapel. This diversity ensures a welcoming environment for you, regardless of your faith or spiritual inclinations.

Traffic and Public Transit Considerations for Moving from Madison to Durham

Moving from Madison, WI to Durham, NC? Understanding the differences in traffic and transportation options between Madison & Durham is crucial for adapting to your new environment. This comparison will give you a clearer picture of what to expect regarding your daily commute and getting around in both cities.

MadisonDurham
2224

Avg Commute Time (in minutes)

43

Traffic Congestion (out of 10)

65

Availability of Public Transit (out of 10)

Possibly, with limitationsChallenging

Can you get by without a car?

While both Madison and Durham provide unique living experiences, their transportation dynamics offer distinct features for newcomers. In Madison, the slightly better public transit rating reflects the city's efforts in providing accessible transportation options like buses and bike-sharing programs. On the other hand, Durham, with a slightly lower congestion level, suggests smoother traffic flow despite its lesser public transit score. However, living in Durham might necessitate having a car more so than in Madison due to less extensive public transportation services. This comparison suggests that while it's feasible to live without a car in Madison, it would be more challenging to do the same in Durham.

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