Best Boston to Madison Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Boston to Madison and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 1,169 mile move from Massachusetts to Wisconsin go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 64 Boston 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 Stairhopper Movers), how much the move costs (approximately $2,000 - $6,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Boston 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 Boston to Madison Moving Companies

Company
Score Question
Affordability IndexLicense
1Stairhopper Movers9.679.62Authorized For HHG
2Centaur Moving9.619.79Authorized For HHG
3Intelligent labor & Moving9.529.55Authorized For Property, HHG
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 Boston to Madison?

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 1,169 miles from Boston, MA to Madison, WI will cost on average $2,775 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Boston to Madison move is roughly $6,674. 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$1,865300 ft³$6.22
1 Bedroom$2,775450 ft³$6.17
2 Bedrooms$4,588750 ft³$6.12
3 Bedrooms$6,6741100 ft³$6.07
4 Bedrooms$9,6281600 ft³$6.02
5+ Bedrooms$10,7411800 ft³$5.97
*Please note: These Massachusetts to Wisconsin moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from Massachusetts & 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 MA to WI mover.
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Madison to Boston guide.

Compare the 5 Best Boston to Madison Movers

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

Stairhopper Movers Logo

Stairhopper Movers

Exceptional9.67/10
based on 8,823+ data points

20 Harvard St

Boston, MA, 2129

About Stairhopper Movers

Since 2001, Stairhopper Movers has operated as a Boston-based local moving company that performs local and long-distance residential and commercial moves....

Services

  • Local moves
  • Long distance moves
  • Commercial moves

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1696867 / 623045

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans21
Registered Drivers22
Total Annual Miles Moved261,200 (2022)
View Full Review
1
Centaur Moving Logo

Centaur Moving

Exceptional
claimed company icon
9.61/10
based on 1,518+ data points

171 Windsor St

Cambridge, MA, 02139

About Centaur Moving

Centaur Moving, based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, is a fully licensed and insured moving company with services for local and nationwide moves....

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Long Distance Moving
  • Commercial Relocations

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3638077 / 1249051

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers3
Total Annual Miles Moved20,000 (2022)
View Full Review
2
Intelligent labor & Moving Logo

Intelligent labor & Moving

Exceptional9.52/10
based on 1,835+ data points

18 Beck Rd

Arlington, MA, 2476

About Intelligent labor & Moving

Established in 2005, Intelligent Labor & Moving is a moving and storage company serving residential and corporate clients in the communities...

Services

  • Local moving services
  • Long-distance and interstate moving services
  • Cheap moving rates with two or three movers

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2065664 / 725481

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans8
Registered Drivers8
Total Annual Miles Moved43,583 (2023)
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.

Boston vs. Madison Neighborhood Comparison

If you're contemplating a move and want to find a slice of familiarity in your new city, this guide is perfect for you. Exploring local neighborhoods between Boston, MA, and Madison, WI, we pair up comparable neighborhoods to help you feel right at home from day one. This comparison aims to simplify your transition by highlighting matching local flavors, community vibes, and cultural offerings in both cities.

BostonMadisonHow They're Similar
Back BayState-LangdonHistoric with vibrant shopping
Beacon HillMaple BluffExclusive residential area
South EndWilly StreetEclectic with a strong community feel
North EndGreenbushRich in cultural heritage
FenwayRegentYoung and vibrant, close to university
CharlestownShorewood HillsQuiet with historical sites
Jamaica PlainAtwoodArtsy with a laid-back vibe
Seaport DistrictCapitolModern waterfront living
DorchesterSchenk-AtwoodDiverse and family-friendly
RoslindaleNakoma LeagueSuburban feel, close to nature

For those moving from Boston's famed Back Bay, known for its picturesque streets and upscale shopping at Newbury Street, you'll find a similar experience in Madison's State-Langdon neighborhood, where historic charm meets a bustling retail scene. Beacon Hill's cobblestone streets and elegant Federal-style rowhouses might remind you of Maple Bluff in Madison, offering a serene residential setting near the bustling city. Willy Street, comparable to Boston's South End, boasts a vibrant community vibrant with art galleries, unique eateries like Ha Long Bay, and a strong local culture. If you enjoyed the energetic atmosphere and Italian cuisine in Boston's North End, Greenbush will charm you with its cultural festivities and family-owned businesses such as Greenbush Bakery. These parallels ensure that even miles from Boston, you can find a new neighborhood in Madison to call home, complete with familiar comforts and exciting new explorations.

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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 Boston to Madison

Moving from one city to another always entails a mix of excitement and apprehension. This comparison seeks to offer an honest reflection of Boston, MA to Madison, WI , focusing on both the advantages and challenges of relocating. Understanding the pros and cons will help you make an informed decision, balancing optimism with realism.

CONs
PROs
Boston, MA iconBoston, MA
  • Higher living costs
  • Harsh winters
  • Heavy traffic
  • Smaller green spaces
Madison, WI iconMadison, WI
  • Lower living costs
  • Milder winters
  • Less congestion
  • Larger parks
Madison, WI iconMadison, WI
  • Less historical sites
  • Narrower job market
  • Quieter nightlife
  • Less seafood variety
Boston, MA iconBoston, MA
  • Rich history
  • Greater job market
  • Vibrant nightlife
  • Seafood cuisine

Moving from Boston to Madison introduces you to a lifestyle with markedly lower living costs, allowing you to enjoy a comfortable life with less financial stress. Madison offers an abundance of green spaces like the renowned Olbrich Botanical Gardens and spacious parks such as James Madison Park which sit by the lake, providing stunning views and a plethora of outdoor activities. While you may miss the rich historical tapestry and vibrant nightlife Boston offers, Madison counters with its unique charms like the bustling Dane County Farmers' Market and a plethora of craft breweries, such as the Ale Asylum. Madison's community-centered lifestyle, highlighted by events at the Wisconsin State Capitol and the diverse culinary scenes along State Street, offers a different but equally enriching experience.

Boston vs. Madison Food Guide

This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Boston, MA & Madison, WI, shining a light on food as a vibrant part of local culture and lifestyle. As you plan your move, understanding the food scene at your new destination can enrich your culinary experiences and help with adjusting to your new home.

Boston
Madison
Most iconic local food item
Clam Chowder
Cheese Curds
Most popular meat dish
Lobster Roll
Bratwurst
Most popular street food item
Cannoli
Fried Cheese Curds
Most popular vegan food
Jackfruit Tacos
Tempeh Reuben
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Neptune Oyster
  • Uni
  • Mike's Pastry
  • Graze
  • Lombardino's
  • Estrellón
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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When exploring the food scene in Madison, you'll quickly discover an array of iconic restaurants and neighborhood gems, notably around Capitol Square and Williamson Street. Graze, for instance, is renowned not only for its breathtaking Capitol views but also for its eclectic mix of American classics with a twist. Cheese enthusiasts will relish sampling Fried Cheese Curds, a staple at local eateries and farmers’ markets. Madison’s commitment to fitness and health is mirrored in its high-quality vegan offerings, like the Tempeh Reuben found in various local cafes, illustrating the city’s innovative spirit in catering to diverse dietary preferences.

Boston vs. Madison Restaurant Comparison

Finding comfort in a new city often starts with discovering great places to eat. This restaurant comparison between Boston and Madison is designed to help you find your next favorite dining spots by leveraging your current favorites as a guide. Let's embark on a culinary journey that makes Madison feel like home.

BostonMadisonWhat You'll Love
Neptune OysterSardineOffers high-quality seafood in a bistro setting, reminiscent of Neptune's charm.
Mike's PastryBlooms Bake ShopKnown for an array of pastries and sweets that echo the Mike's Pastry experience.
O YaMuramotoProvides an exquisite sushi experience similar to O Ya, with innovative dishes.
GiuliaOsteria PapaveroOffers an Italian dining experience that closely mirrors Giulia's authenticity and warmth.
ToroMercadoCaptures Toro's lively Spanish tapas scene with a Midwestern twist.
Union Oyster HouseThe Old FashionedThough more known for traditional American fare, it evokes the historic ambiance of Union Oyster House.
Craigie On MainL'EtoileShowcases farm-to-table dining that competes with Craigie On Main's acclaimed menu.
Flour Bakery + CafeBatch BakehouseDelivers artisanal breads and pastries with the warmth and community feel of Flour Bakery.
The Daily CatchTavernakayaOffers a unique take on seafood and pasta dishes, sharing The Daily Catch's cozy atmosphere.
LocalePizza BruttaProvides an authentic Neapolitan pizza experience that stands toe-to-toe with Locale’s offerings.

In your search for culinary treasures in Madison, venues like Sardine and Osteria Papavero stand out as must-visits. Sardine offers an inviting bistro atmosphere akin to Neptune Oyster but with its unique Midwestern charm. It’s a perfect spot for seafood lovers looking to replicate the Bostonian dining experience. Meanwhile, Osteria Papavero brings the warmth and authenticity of a true Italian meal, much like what you’d find at Giulia. From the sourcing of local ingredients to the meticulous preparation, these Madison eateries offer a foodie experience that will remind you of Boston’s best, not by imitation, but through their commitment to quality and atmosphere.

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Ready to start your move?

Boston vs. Madison Real Estate & Living Facts

When planning a move, comparing the real estate landscapes of Boston, MA and Madison, WI is crucial. Understanding the variations in housing costs, styles, and the overall living experience are key factors that will influence your decision. This comparison aims to provide a clear picture of what to anticipate in your new city.

Boston
Madison
Typical Architecture Style
Colonial, Brownstone
Prairie, Craftsman
Walkability
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Bikeability
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Urban Lifestyle
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Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing
Proximity to public transit, Historic details
Lakeside views, Access to bike paths

Boston and Madison offer distinct living experiences shaped largely by their housing markets and city layouts. In Boston, the high median home price reflects the city's historic charm, with its colonial and brownstone architecture, and its robust urban lifestyle marked by exceptional public transit connectivity. Conversely, Madison provides a more cost-effective housing market, with its prairie and craftsman-style homes, greater emphasis on bikeability, and picturesque lakeside views. The contrast in walkability and bikeability scores between the two cities illustrates lifestyle differences that might influence your decision on where to move based on personal preferences and daily commuting habits.

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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.

Boston vs. Madison Weather Considerations

When preparing to move from Boston, MA to Madison, WI, understanding the weather differences between these cities is crucial to adapting seamlessly to your new home. This comparison will outline key weather characteristics and how they vary from one city to the another, ensuring you know what to expect in Boston versus Madison.

Boston
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
Nor'easters, blizzards
Tornadoes, snowstorms
Air Quality
Good
Good
Summer icon

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

81°F / 65°F
82°F / 62°F
Winter icon

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

36°F / 22°F
27°F / 11°F


Rainfall icon

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

43.8"
36.5"
Snowfall icon

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

48"
53"


Though Boston and Madison have similar annual UV indexes and both cities manage good air quality, their climates offer unique challenges. Madison experiences colder winters than Boston, reflected in its average winter low, and it also sees more snowfall. This means heavier winter clothing and perhaps more robust winter driving skills will be necessary in Madison. The higher humidity in Madison might also affect your outdoor activities and how you manage indoor air quality. Understanding these differences will help you adjust quicker to your new environment, whether you're deciding on your home's heating and cooling systems or planning your outdoor activities.

Ready to start your move?

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

When planning a move from one city to another, understanding how your finances might be impacted is crucial. This comparison aims to ease your transition by highlighting key economic factors in Boston, MA and Madison, WI, presenting them side by side for a clear, immediate grasp of how your cost of living and overall financial health may change.

Boston
Madison
Avg. Household Income
$79,283
$67,270
Cost of Living Index
132.5
95.65
State Income Tax
5
7.65 (highest bracket)
Avg. Property Tax
1.13
1.95
Avg. Sales Tax
6.25
5.5
Top 3 Industries
Education, Health Services, Finance
Education, Health Services, Manufacturing
Affluence
Higher
Moderate
Poverty
Lower
Moderate
Homelessness
Noticeable
Lesser

Adjusting to a new city financially involves considering numerous factors beyond just the average income. For example, while Boston presents a significantly higher cost of living index compared to Madison, it also boasts a considerably higher average household income, potentially offsetting some of those higher costs. However, property taxes in Madison are almost double those in Boston, which could impact long-term homeownership affordability. Moreover, each city's leading industries suggest potential career paths that align with local economic strengths, thus influencing professional opportunities. Understanding these nuances can help you make an informed decision about your move.

Boston vs. Madison Political & Religious Comparison

Embarking on a move offers an excellent opportunity to immerse yourself in the unique cultural and social fabric of a new city. This comparison highlights the political and religious makeup between Boston & Madison , providing a snapshot to help you understand the communities you're transitioning between.

Boston
Madison
Political Make-up
Democratic
Democratic
Local Politics
Liberal, with a focus on education and healthcare
Progressive, environmentally focused
Religion
Catholic majority
Diverse, with significant non-religious population

While both Boston and Madison lean Democratic, the local political landscapes offer distinct flavors. Boston's focus on education and healthcare reflects its history as an intellectual and medical hub, host to world-renowned institutions like Harvard University and the Massachusetts General Hospital. Madison, with its strong progressive streak, is well-known for environmental advocacy, and its policies frequently reflect this priority. The religious makeup of each city also reveals diversity, with Boston's Catholic majority juxtaposed against Madison's broader spectrum of beliefs, including a significant portion of residents identifying as non-religious. Understanding these nuances will help you smoothly transition into your new community.

Boston vs. Madison Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

When moving from Boston, MA to Madison, WI, it's crucial to understand the differences in traffic and transportation options between the two cities. This comparison aims to give you a better grasp of what your daily commute might look like, factoring in average commute times, traffic congestion levels, and the availability of public transit. Knowing whether you can get by without a car in your new city is also a key consideration.

Boston
Madison
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)
30
22
Traffic Congestion
7 out of 10
4 out of 10
Availability of Public Transit
9 out of 10
6 out of 10
Can you get by without car?
Yes
More challenging

In Boston, the higher traffic congestion is balanced by excellent public transit options, making it feasible to live without a car. The MBTA offers extensive subway, bus, and commuter rail lines, covering much of the Greater Boston area. On the other hand, Madison has a more moderate traffic scene and shorter average commute times. However, its public transit system, although reliable, is less comprehensive than Boston's. Thus, getting by without a car in Madison might be more challenging, though certainly not impossible, especially with the city's commitment to cycling and expanding public transit services.

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