Best Fresno to Madison Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Fresno to Madison and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,070 mile move from California to Wisconsin go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 21 Fresno to Madison moving companies and more than 20,000 movers nationwide to provide up-to-date and data-driven information about: which moving company to hire (our top recommendation is Gorilla Movers Of Wisconsin Inc.), how much the move costs (approximately $2,500 - $8,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Fresno compared to Madison. With a move this big, you want big data on your side and Great Guys Moving is your trusted ally to help you sift through the noise to make informed moving decisions.

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Best Fresno to Madison Moving Companies

Company
Score Question
Affordability IndexLicense
1Gorilla Movers Of Wisconsin Inc.9.319.31Authorized For Property, HHG
2The Go To Guys, LLC9.108.7Authorized For HHG
3All In A Day Moving Services8.778.7Authorized For Property, HHG
4Pete's Moving Services LLC8.438.56Authorized For HHG
5Meathead Movers8.006.71Authorized For HHG
Phone (800) 787-5428

How Much Does it Cost to Move from Fresno to Madison?

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,070 miles from Fresno, CA to Madison, WI will cost on average $3,542 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Fresno to Madison move is roughly $8,547. See the chart below for a detailed breakdown by type of move and home size. Pricing will vary based upon the exact locations of pickup and dropoff as well as several other factors. The most important pricing component that is often overlooked is how far away the move date is. The earlier you can reserve movers, the better your pricing and options will be.

Home SizeMoving CostVolume of Packed Items (ft³)$/ft³
Studio$2,376300 ft³$7.92
1 Bedroom$3,542450 ft³$7.87
2 Bedrooms$5,865750 ft³$7.82
3 Bedrooms$8,5471100 ft³$7.77
4 Bedrooms$12,3521600 ft³$7.72
5+ Bedrooms$13,8061800 ft³$7.67
*Please note: These California to Wisconsin moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from California & Wisconsin. The volume listed here represents the estimated cubic footage of your household items when packed and loaded into a moving truck. To determine the exact costs associated with your move, get a quote from a licensed CA to WI mover.
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Madison to Fresno guide.

Compare the 5 Best Fresno to Madison Movers

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

Gorilla Movers Of Wisconsin Inc. Logo

Gorilla Movers Of Wisconsin Inc.

Exceptional9.31/10
based on 1,857+ data points

310 Progress Way Suite 140

Sun Prairie, WI, 53590

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 commercial...

Services

  • Residential moves
  • Commercial moves
  • Local/statewide moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/9/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2627768 / 1031866

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans7
Registered Drivers14
Total Annual Miles Moved173,000 (2023)
View Full Review
1
The Go To Guys, LLC Logo

The Go To Guys, LLC

Exceptional9.10/10
based on 258+ data points

Bayside, WI, 53217

About The Go To Guys, LLC

The Go To Guys, LLC is a seasoned moving company with 30 years of experience in the industry. Based in the...

Services

  • Cheap moving
  • Local moving
  • Long-distance moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/11/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3760134 / 1338262

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans3
Registered Drivers3
Total Annual Miles Moved1 (2024)
View Full Review
2
All In A Day Moving Services Logo

All In A Day Moving Services

Superb
claimed company icon
8.77/10
based on 815+ data points

1022 W 18th St #4

Merced, CA, 85340

About All In A Day Moving Services

All In A Day Moving Services promises to give you the smoothest and most stress-free moving experience. It’s a local moving...

Services

  • Local and long-distance moving
  • Piano moving
  • Packing services

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3861667 / 1410881

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved20,000 (2023)
View Full Review
3
Pete's Moving Services LLC Logo

Pete's Moving Services LLC

Fabulous8.43/10
based on 2,336+ data points

4807 Greenleaf Ct suite a

Modesto, CA, 95356

About Pete's Moving Services LLC

Founded in 2017, Pete's Moving Services LLC is a comprehensive door-to-door moving company specializing in residential, office, and commercial relocations in...

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Long Distance Moving
  • Office Moves

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 12/17/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3314910 / 1177987

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans3
Registered Drivers3
Total Annual Miles Moved10,000 (2020)
View Full Review
4
Meathead Movers Logo

Meathead Movers

Good8.00/10
based on 2,212+ data points

4744 N El Capitan Ave

Fresno, CA, 93722

About Meathead Movers

Since 1997, Meathead Movers has been providing high-quality relocation services to the entire California area, including Fresno. This moving company stands...

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Long Distance Moving
  • Commercial Moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/9/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

921143 / 398077

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans53
Registered Drivers87
Total Annual Miles Moved1,188,444 (2023)
View Full Review
5
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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.

Fresno vs. Madison Neighborhood Comparison

Moving to a new city can be daunting, especially when you're not familiar with the local neighborhoods. To ease this transition, we’ve prepared a comparison of popular neighborhoods in Fresno, CA & Madison, WI. This guide helps you find areas in your new city that share a similar vibe with your old stomping grounds, making the settling-in process a bit more like coming home.

FresnoMadisonHow They're Similar
Tower DistrictWilly Streetvibrant, cultural hub
Woodward ParkHilldalefamily-friendly with green spaces
The BluffsMaple Bluffaffluent, scenic waterfront
Van Ness ExtensionNakoma Leaguehistoric homes, prestigious
SunnysideShermanquiet, suburban feel
Old Fig GardenUniversity Heightshistoric charm, eclectic
North Growth AreaShorewood Hillsupscale, academic atmosphere
Huntington BoulevardRegentstately homes, established
ClovisMononafamily-oriented, lakeside living
River ParkTenney-Laphamlively, community-centric

For those who adore the cultural richness and artistic vibe of Fresno's Tower District, Willy Street in Madison will feel like a kindred spirit with its eclectic mix of shops, restaurants, and annual festivals like the Willy Street Fair. Woodward Park residents moving to Madison will find a similarly family-oriented atmosphere and ample outdoor activities in Hilldale, known for its shopping centers and proximity to the University of Wisconsin-Madison Arboretum. If the scenic, waterfront lifestyle of The Bluffs has been your haven, Madison's Maple Bluff offers an elegant transition with its picturesque lake views and high-end homes. For history enthusiasts, the move from Old Fig Garden to University Heights in Madison is seamless, where historical integrity meets modern charm, embodied by landmarks such as Camp Randall Stadium and the University of Wisconsin campus. This detailed understanding of neighborhoods bridges the gap between Fresno and Madison, ensuring you find a new home that resonates with your lifestyle and preferences.

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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 Fresno to Madison

Moving from Fresno, CA to Madison, WI presents a unique opportunity to weigh the benefits against the drawbacks in a significant lifestyle shift. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection on moving from Fresno, CA to Madison, WI , highlighting both the promising and the challenging aspects of such a relocation.

CONs
PROs
Fresno, CA iconFresno, CA
  • Higher crime rate
  • Extreme summer heat
  • Less green spaces
  • Fewer cultural events
Madison, WI iconMadison, WI
  • Lower crime rate
  • Cooler summers
  • Abundant parks
  • Vibrant arts scene
Madison, WI iconMadison, WI
  • Higher cost of living
  • Longer winters
  • Less local produce
  • Traffic congestion
Fresno, CA iconFresno, CA
  • Lower cost of living
  • More sunny days
  • Large agriculture hub
  • Easier commutes

While the transition from Fresno to Madison introduces the challenge of adapting to colder winter conditions, it also welcomes you into a city with a robust green infrastructure, like the expansive Madison Parks, and a highly-regarded cultural scene. Madison's renowned Isthmus area, for example, is a hub for both local art and culinary delights. Furthermore, while Fresno boasts a lower cost of living, Madison offers a significantly safer environment and a plethora of community engagement opportunities, contributing to a high quality of life. Neighborhoods in Madison, such as Downtown Madison and the Monona Terrace area, often host events that pull the community together, fostering a sense of belonging and inclusion.

Fresno vs. Madison Food Guide

This comparison of the local cuisine between Fresno & Madison aims to shed light on the distinct culinary scenes of both cities. As food is a vital aspect of local culture and daily life, understanding the variations in local cuisine can help you feel more at home in your new location.

Fresno
Madison
Most iconic local food item
Tri-tip Steak
Cheese Curds
Most popular meat dish
Grilled Chicken Tacos
Bratwurst
Most popular street food item
Tacos
Food Carts offering a Variety of Foods
Most popular vegan food
Vegan Tacos
Vegan Cheese Pizza
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • The Annex Kitchen
  • Tacos Marquitos
  • Pismo's Coastal Grill
  • Graze
  • L'Etoile
  • The Old Fashioned
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness
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Abundance of Food Trucks
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Foodie Scene
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Vegan Friendly
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While both Fresno and Madison offer vibrant and diverse food scenes, each has its unique draws. In Fresno, the taco scene is unparalleled, reflecting the city's rich Mexican heritage. Places like Tacos Marquitos provide an authentic street food experience. Meanwhile, Madison dazzles with its array of food carts, particularly during the warmer months, showcasing an eclectic mix of cuisines. Madison's high rating in vegan-friendliness points towards a community keen on plant-based options, with establishments like Graze leading the charge. Both cities emphasize healthy living, though Madison appears to take a slight edge in health consciousness and foodie culture. Regardless of where you find yourself, both cities promise a culinary journey that's reflective of their unique cultures and traditions.

Fresno vs. Madison Restaurant Comparison

When relocating, finding comfort in a new city often begins with food, making the search for the perfect dining spots crucial. This restaurant comparison between Fresno and Madison aims to bridge culinary worlds, guiding you towards new favorites reminiscent of home. Let's explore how Fresno's diverse restaurant scene compares to Madison's, ensuring you can always satisfy those food cravings, no matter where you are.

FresnoMadisonWhat You'll Love
The Annex KitchenGrazefarm-to-table dining with a similar commitment to fresh, local ingredients
CampagniaL'Etoileposh ambience with exquisite local cuisine, reflecting Campagnia's upscale experience
Cracked Pepper BistroForequarterinventive American cuisine that mirrors Cracked Pepper Bistro's creative dishes
La BoulangerieBatch Bakehouseoffering a comparable selection of fine baked goods and pastries
Lucy’s LoungeThe Old Fashionedboth provide a cozy atmosphere with a great selection of cocktails
Mediterranean GrillMed Cafe & Marketshares a passion for authentic Mediterranean flavors and dishes
Pismo’s Coastal GrillSardineoffers fresh, quality seafood in an atmosphere that echoes Pismo’s upscale casual vibe
Taco Truck ThrowdownTaqueria Guadalajaracaptures the essence of a vibrant street food scene with delicious, authentic tacos
Five RestaurantEno Vino Downtownupscale dining with a diverse menu that mirrors Five's eclectic offerings
Max’s Bistro & BarHeritage Tavernmelds fine dining with comfort food in a way that's reminiscent of Max’s

Experiencing the culinary delights of a new city is one of the true joys of moving. In Madison, Graze is not just a restaurant; it's an experience that captures the farm-to-table essence similar to The Annex Kitchen in Fresno, promising a seamless transition for your palate. Likewise, the clever and comforting concoction of flavors at Forequarter offers a Madison equivalent to the innovative American cuisine found at Fresno's Cracked Pepper Bistro, ensuring that your culinary adventures continue unabated. These establishments epitomize the idea that, while your location may change, your dining experiences can continue to be as enriching and fulfilling as ever.

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Ready to start your move?

Fresno vs. Madison Real Estate & Living Facts

When planning a move, understanding the nuances between your current and future home's real estate market is crucial. Comparing Fresno, CA and Madison, WI in terms of housing costs, styles, and lifestyle can provide essential insights to guide your relocation process.

Fresno
Madison
Typical Architecture Style
Ranch
Prairie
Walkability
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Bikeability
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Urban Lifestyle
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Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing
Large yards, swimming pools
Lakeside views, energy efficiency

In comparing Fresno and Madison, two distinct real estate markets emerge. Fresno, with its ranch-style homes and emphasis on large yards and swimming pools, offers a different lifestyle from Madison's prairie-style homes that often tout lakeside views and energy efficiency. The differences extend beyond aesthetics to lifestyle, with Madison scoring higher in walkability and bikeability, suggesting a more urban experience. This could be appealing if you're looking for a city where you can rely less on a car. The higher median monthly rent in Madison reflects the city's demand for living spaces that cater to its vibrant, urban lifestyle, contrasting Fresno's more suburban appeal.

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Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Madison, WI

1. Atwood Avenue : You'll love this neighborhood for its abundance of green spaces and community parks, perfect for walking and playing with your pets.

2. Marquette : This area offers a welcoming atmosphere with plenty of pet-friendly cafes and a strong sense of community that embraces pet owners.

3. Vilas : Known for its proximity to parks and the arboretum, Vilas provides ample outdoor opportunities for you and your furry friends to explore.

Fresno vs. Madison Weather Considerations

When planning a move from Fresno, CA to Madison, WI, understanding the weather comparison between these cities is crucial for adapting to your new home. This guide highlights key differences in climate factors such as temperature, sunshine, and precipitation, ensuring you are well-prepared for the change.

Fresno
Madison
Days of Sunshine per Year
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Avg. Annual Humidity
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Avg. UV Index
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Natural Disasters
Wildfires, Earthquakes
Snowstorms, Tornadoes
Air Quality
Poor
Good
Summer icon

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

97°F / 66°F
82°F / 63°F
Winter icon

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

55°F / 38°F
27°F / 13°F


Rainfall icon

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

11.5
37
Snowfall icon

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

0
42


Moving from the dry heat of Fresno to Madison's distinct four-season climate requires a wardrobe adjustment, especially for winter, where temperatures often drop below freezing. The significant difference in sunshine and the presence of snow in Madison may affect your daily routines and activities. Preparing for Madison's colder climate and knowing that the city enjoys fewer days of sunshine but offers better air quality and varied seasonal experiences, from colorful autumns to snowy winters, will help smoothen your transition.

Ready to start your move?

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

When you're planning a move, it's crucial to understand how your finances will be impacted. This comparison provides insight into Fresno vs. Madison related to money and finance, helping you to prepare for the costs of living, taxation, and the economic environment you're moving into.

Fresno
Madison
Avg. Household Income
$61,250
$67,270
Cost of Living Index
117.3
95.65
State Income Tax
1%-13.3%
4%-7.65%
Avg. Property Tax
0.77%
1.94%
Avg. Sales Tax
7.25%
5%
Top 3 Industries
Agriculture, Manufacturing, Healthcare
Education, Healthcare, Information Technology
Affluence
Moderate
High
Poverty
Significant
Moderate
Homelessness
High
Low

When comparing Fresno and Madison, it's clear that while Madison presents a higher cost of living index and property taxes, it also enjoys a higher average household income. This suggests that despite higher expenses, residents may have more financial bandwidth due to earnings. Notably, Madison benefits from a lower sales tax, which can mitigate some of the increased costs associated with its cost of living. The economic backdrop of these cities is distinctly different, with Madison having a strong presence in the Information Technology sector, which typically offers higher wages. Additionally, Madison's lower homelessness rate reflects a positively different social environment compared to Fresno, hinting at possibly more effective support systems and economic policies.

Fresno vs. Madison Political & Religious Comparison

When planning your move from Fresno, CA, to Madison, WI, understanding the local demographic nuances is essential. This comparison of the politics between Fresno & Madison provides you with a quick snapshot of the political and religious makeup of residents in both cities, assisting in smoothing your transition.

Fresno
Madison
Political Make-up
Moderately Democratic
Strongly Democratic
Local Politics
Focus on agricultural & urban issues
Environmental and progressive issues
Religion
Mixture of religious communities with a significant Christian population
Diverse, with lower overall religiosity compared to Fresno

In both Fresno and Madison, the local political scene reflects broader statewide trends, albeit with unique local flavors. Fresno's balance swings towards a moderate Democratic stance, influenced heavily by its agricultural backbone and urban development concerns. Conversely, Madison's political landscape leans more heavily Progressive, with a strong emphasis on environmental stewardship and progressive social policies, reflecting Wisconsin's prominent academic and liberal communities. The religious makeup in Fresno is diverse, hosting a multitude of faiths but with a noticeable Christian majority. Madison, while also diverse, tends to showcase a lower overall religiosity, which aligns with its reputation for progressive values and inclusivity. Understanding these aspects can help you better acclimate to your new home by aligning with communities that share your values.

Fresno vs. Madison Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving from Fresno, CA to Madison, WI offers a unique opportunity to better understand what the daily commute and traffic is like. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Fresno & Madison will help you navigate your new city seamlessly.

Fresno
Madison
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)
22
19
Traffic Congestion
4 out of 10
3 out of 10
Availability of Public Transit
6 out of 10
7 out of 10
Can you get by without car?
Challenging
Possible

When comparing the commute in Fresno and Madison, you'll find that Madison offers a slightly quicker average commute time and less congestion. While Fresno provides an adequate public transit system, Madison scores a bit higher, reflecting its more compact urban layout and effective bus service. Notably, living in Madison without a car is more feasible than in Fresno, thanks to its bike-friendly nature and comprehensive public transportation system. This makes Madison an attractive option for those seeking to reduce their reliance on personal vehicles.

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