Best Washington DC to Madison Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Washington DC to Madison and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 888 mile move from DC to Wisconsin go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 40 Washington DC 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 Bookstore Movers), how much the move costs (approximately $1,500 - $6,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Washington DC 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 Washington DC to Madison Moving Companies

Company
Score Question
Affordability IndexLicense
1Bookstore Movers9.609.55Authorized For HHG
2Mic's Moving9.609.56Authorized For HHG
3Ap Pro Moving Llc9.459.39Active
4Gorilla Movers Of Wisconsin Inc.9.319.31Authorized For Property, HHG
5The Go To Guys, LLC9.108.7Authorized For HHG
Phone (800) 787-5428

How Much Does it Cost to Move from Washington DC to Madison?

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 888 miles from Washington DC, DC to Madison, WI will cost on average $2,536 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Washington DC to Madison move is roughly $6,090. 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$1,706300 ft³$5.69
1 Bedroom$2,536450 ft³$5.64
2 Bedrooms$4,190750 ft³$5.59
3 Bedrooms$6,0901100 ft³$5.54
4 Bedrooms$8,7781600 ft³$5.49
5+ Bedrooms$9,7851800 ft³$5.44
*Please note: These DC to Wisconsin moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from DC & 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 DC to WI mover.
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Madison to Washington DC guide.

Compare the 5 Best Washington DC to Madison Movers

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

Bookstore Movers Logo

Bookstore Movers

Exceptional9.60/10
based on 6,057+ data points

5200 46th Ave

Hyattsville, MD, 20781

About Bookstore Movers

Locally owned and operated, Bookstore Movers was founded in 2005 with a dedication to customer service, personalization, and small business values....

Services

  • Local moving
  • Long-distance moving
  • Cross-country moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 9/15/2021)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2005212 / 707471

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans21
Registered Drivers21
Total Annual Miles Moved153,245 (2019)
View Full Review
1
Mic's Moving Logo

Mic's Moving

Exceptional9.60/10
based on 3,605+ data points

1250 9th st. nw

Washington DC, DC, 20011

About Mic's Moving

Mic's Moving is a locally owned and operated moving company that focuses on providing a personalized moving experience to residential and...

Services

  • Local Move
  • Long Distance Moving
  • Labor Only: Loading, Unloading and In-house moves

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 9/14/2021)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2474176 / 856657

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans7
Registered Drivers7
Total Annual Miles Moved40,000 (2019)
View Full Review
2
Ap Pro Moving Llc Logo

Ap Pro Moving Llc

Exceptional9.45/10
based on 343+ data points

5021 Seminary Rd # 822

Alexandria, VA, 22311

About Ap Pro Moving Llc

Ap Pro Moving LLC is a reliable and professional moving company based in Arlington, VA. They offer various services such as...

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Long Distance Moving
  • Packing Services

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 9/6/2022)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3338902 / -

Active

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved4,000 (2021)
View Full Review
3
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
4
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
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.

Washington DC vs. Madison Neighborhood Comparison

When contemplating a move from one city to another, familiarizing yourself with your new surroundings is key. Our guide aims to compare the local neighborhoods between Washington DC, DC & Madison, WI , helping those moving to find a slice of home in their new city. By aligning the top neighborhoods from Washington, DC, with their Madison counterparts, this comparison serves as a bridge for newcomers to transition smoothly.

Washington DCMadisonHow They're Similar
Dupont CircleWilly StreetDiverse, vibrant dining scene
GeorgetownMaple BluffAffluent, waterfront views
Capitol HillTenney-LaphamHistoric homes, active community
Adams MorganAtwoodEclectic, strong sense of community
Navy YardSchenk-AtwoodGrowing, near water
ShawEast JohnsonCreative, lively nightlife
Logan CircleState-LangdonHistoric, close to amenities
Columbia HeightsWexford RidgeDiverse, family-friendly
U Street CorridorMiddletonVibrant, entertainment options
NoMaCapitolEmerging, modern developments

If you enjoy the bustling vibes and historic architecture of Dupont Circle, with its plethora of dining options and cultural events, you'll be drawn to Willy Street in Madison. This neighborhood thrives with an eclectic food scene, including establishments like the Ha Long Bay, known for its Vietnamese cuisine. Meanwhile, the waterfront allure and upscale ambiance of Georgetown find a match in Maple Bluff, where residents appreciate serene lakeside views and have easy access to the Maple Bluff Country Club. For those captivated by the historic charm and vibrant community activities of Capitol Hill, Tenney-Lapham in Madison will feel like home, offering picturesque homes and a tight-knit community vibe.

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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 Washington DC to Madison

Considering a move from Washington DC, DC to Madison, WI? This comparison aims to reveal an honest reflection of moving from Washington DC, DC to Madison, WI, by weighing both the advantages and disadvantages. Whether it's the change in climate, commute times, or cultural scenes, these charts provide a concise glance at what to expect in this significant transition.

CONs
PROs
Washington DC, DC iconWashington DC, DC
  • High living costs
  • Heavy traffic
  • High crime rates
  • Humid summers
Madison, WI iconMadison, WI
  • More affordable housing
  • Less congestion
  • Lower crime rates
  • Milder summers
Madison, WI iconMadison, WI
  • Quieter nightlife
  • Less political clout
  • Less diversity
  • Fewer dining options
Washington DC, DC iconWashington DC, DC
  • Vibrant nightlife
  • Political center
  • Cultural diversity
  • Global cuisine

When you move from Washington DC to Madison, you’ll experience a significant shift in lifestyle. Washington's abundant cultural diversity and vibrant nightlife, with venues like 9:30 Club and restaurants offering global cuisines such as Rasika, contrasts with Madison's quieter, yet richly engaging lifestyle. Madison is known for its significant outdoor appeal, like the Olbrich Botanical Gardens and Capitol Square, offering a more laid-back vibe but with fewer dining and nightlife options. Yet, the transition could be a welcome change with Madison's lower living costs, reduced crime rates, and less congestion, offering a quality of life that’s hard to beat.

Washington DC vs. Madison Food Guide

This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Washington DC & Madison, showcasing the unique food culture native to each. Through this comparison, you can better understand the culinary scene in your new home city.

Washington DC
Madison
Most iconic local food item
Half-Smoke
Beer Cheese Soup
Most popular meat dish
Fried Chicken
Bratwurst
Most popular street food item
Food Trucks Variety
Fried Cheese Curds
Most popular vegan food
Kimchi Tofu Stew
Tempeh Reuben
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
    • Ben's Chili Bowl
    • Rose's Luxury
    • Zaytinya
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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🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

Washington DC is celebrated for its diverse and vibrant food scene, featuring iconic dishes like the Half-Smoke from Ben's Chili Bowl and a wide variety of food trucks. Madison presents a contrast with its hearty Midwestern fare, including the famous Beer Cheese Soup and Bratwurst. Notably, both cities offer a welcoming environment for vegan diners, with DC's Kimchi Tofu Stew and Madison's Tempeh Reuben highlighting the diverse vegan options available. Madison's foodie scene might be slightly less intense than DC's, but it compensates with a strong local focus, especially in neighborhoods like the Capitol Square and Willy Street, where establishments like Graze turn local ingredients into culinary masterpieces.

Washington DC vs. Madison Restaurant Comparison

Food plays a crucial role in making a place feel like home. Whether you're craving a high-end dining experience or a casual bite, this restaurant comparison from Washington DC to Madison will guide you towards finding your new favorite spot in your new city. Let's dive into the culinary similarities that bridge the distance between these two vibrant communities.

Washington DCMadisonWhat You'll Love
Rose's LuxuryL'EtoileA farm-to-table ethos that mirrors Rose's creative dishes.
ZaytinyaA-OK Sunshine & SpiritsInnovative and eclectic Mediterranean flavors in a cozy setting.
Le DiplomateCafe HollanderEuropean vibes with a focus on Belgian beers and cuisine matching Le Diplomate's French flair.
Ben's Chili BowlThe Old FashionedIconic for its hearty, comfort food reminiscent of Ben's Chili Bowl's legendary status.
Fiola MareTempest Oyster BarBoth offer exceptional seafood in an upscale, waterfront-esque atmosphere.
Bad SaintHa Long BayBoth are celebrated for their authentic, flavorful Southeast Asian dishes.
Jose Andres' JaleoEldorado GrillKnown for its flavorful and vibrant Spanish-inspired dishes, a nod to Jaleo's specialty.
Little SerowLao Laan-XangImmerse yourself in intense, traditional Isaan Thai flavors similar to Little Serow's exploration of regional cuisines.
2 AmysGreenbush BakeryFor an unconventional twist, compare 2 Amys' Neapolitan pizzas with Greenbush's artisan donuts for a taste of unique, crafted flavors.
Blue Duck TavernHarvestBoth are dedicated to American cuisine with a focus on locally-sourced ingredients and a seasonal menu.

Exploring Madison's dining scene through the lens of your Washington DC favorites offers exciting new culinary adventures without leaving the comfort of familiar tastes behind. L'Etoile and Rose's Luxury both share a commitment to high-quality, innovative dishes that emphasize seasonal and local ingredients, making them perfect for special occasions. On the more casual side, The Old Fashioned and Ben's Chili Bowl bridge the gap between comfort food and regional flair, ensuring that homesickness for your go-to spots is kept at bay. Truly, Madison offers a wealth of establishments that resonate with the spirit and flavors of Washington DC's diverse restaurant scene, inviting you to feel at home in your new city.

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Washington DC vs. Madison Real Estate & Living Facts

When planning a move, comparing the real estate landscape between your current city and your future home is crucial. Understanding how Washington DC and Madison stack up in terms of housing cost, architecture, and lifestyle can help you make an informed decision. This comparison will guide you through the essential aspects of real estate in both cities.

Washington DC
Madison
Typical Architecture Style
Federal and Victorian
Prairie and Craftsman
Walkability
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👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing
Neighborhood charm, proximity to landmarks
Lakeside views, community events

While examining housing differences between Washington DC and Madison, note that homes in Madison are generally more affordable, both in terms of purchase price and rent. Madison's architecture leans more towards Prairie and Craftsman styles, reflecting its Midwestern setting, whereas Washington DC showcases Federal and Victorian styles, mirroring its historical significance. Despite DC having a higher urban lifestyle rating, Madison offers a unique appeal with its lakeside living and vibrant community events, making it a charming place to call home. The shift in walkability and bikeability scores also hints at Madison's growing emphasis on sustainable and active transportation options.

Pet-friendly neighborhoods background image

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.

Washington DC vs. Madison Weather Considerations

When planning a move from one city to another, understanding the weather differences is crucial for a smooth transition. This comparison focuses on the climate variations between Washington DC and Madison, helping you anticipate changes and prepare adequately.

Washington DC
Madison
Days of Sunshine per Year
☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. Annual Humidity
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💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦
Avg. UV Index
🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Natural Disasters
Hurricanes, Heatwaves
Snowstorms, Cold Waves
Air Quality
Moderate
Good
Summer icon

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

89/71
82/62
Winter icon

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

47/30
30/16


Rainfall icon

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

40.8
34.1
Snowfall icon

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

15.4
42.5


While both cities have their charms, weather-wise, you'll find distinct differences. Madison experiences colder winters with a significant increase in snowfall compared to Washington DC, requiring winter gear and possibly snow tires. Summers in Madison are milder, which might be a relief from the hot and humid summers in DC. Also, despite Madison's higher average humidity, many find its air quality to be generally better, contributing to a comfortable living experience. Notably, Madison's lower UV index and different allergen profiles might also affect your daily comfort and health. These considerations are essential for adapting to your new home.

Ready to start your move?

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

If you're moving from one location to another, it's important to understand how the cost of living and finance factors comparing Washington DC and Madison will impact your wallet. Here's a clear breakdown to help you gauge what to expect in your new city.

Washington DC
Madison
Avg. Household Income
$90,088
$67,270
Cost of Living Index
140.1
95.65
State Income Tax
4.0 to 8.95
4.0 to 7.65
Avg. Property Tax
0.56
1.94
Avg. Sales Tax
6.0
5.5
Top 3 Industries
Government, Professional Services, Education
Education, Health Services, Manufacturing
Affluence
High
Moderate
Poverty
Moderate
Low
Homelessness
Significant
Moderate

When you move from Washington DC to Madison, you'll notice a significant change in the cost of living index, reflecting Madison's more affordable lifestyle. Despite a lower average household income in Madison, your dollars stretch further due to lower living expenses. However, be prepared for Madison's higher property tax rates, though offset somewhat by a slightly lower state income tax rate. Industry opportunities also shift, with Madison offering strengths in education, health services, and manufacturing compared to DC's government and professional services-oriented economy. This transition may influence your employment prospects and standard of living.

Washington DC vs. Madison Political & Religious Comparison

When considering a move from Washington DC to Madison, WI, it's essential to understand the local atmosphere you're moving into. This quick comparison focuses on the political and religious makeup between Washington DC & Madison, providing a snapshot of what to expect in your new home.

Washington DC
Madison
Political Make-up
Heavily Democratic
Mostly Democratic
Local Politics
Progressive policies, high engagement
Progressive, with a focus on local initiatives
Religion
Diverse, with no single dominance
Pluralistic but less diverse than DC

Both Washington DC and Madison share a progressive political ethos, but the scale and nature of their engagement diverge. In Washington DC, you're part of national policy debates, a hub of significant political movements. Madison, while still progressive, channels its energies into vibrant local initiatives, reflecting its strong community spirit. The religious landscape in Madison is less diverse than in DC, but it fosters an inclusive environment where various beliefs coexist harmoniously. This brief overview hints at the broader cultural shift you'll experience, blending the familiar with the novel in enriching ways.

Washington DC vs. Madison Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving from Washington DC to Madison, WI, involves adjusting to new dynamics in traffic and transportation options. This comparison will help you better understand what the daily commute and traffic is like in both cities, aiding in a smoother transition.

Washington DC
Madison
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)
34.4
22.1
Traffic Congestion
7.5 out of 10
3 out of 10
Availability of Public Transit
8 out of 10
6 out of 10
Can you get by without car?
Yes
Yes, but less convenient

In Washington DC, the dense urban environment contributes to a higher average commute time and notable traffic congestion, although the city compensates with excellent public transportation options, like the WMATA services that cover the metro and bus routes. The compact layout of Madison allows for shorter commutes and significantly less congestion. However, Madison's public transit, governed by Madison Metro, while reliable, doesn't offer the same coverage and frequency as its Washington DC counterpart, making a car more necessary for certain areas and activities outside the city center.

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