Best Madison to Lincoln Movers + Moving Guide
Want help with the heavy lifting?
If you're moving from Madison to Lincoln and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 483 mile move from Wisconsin to Nebraska go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 24 Madison to Lincoln 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 King's Moving), how much the move costs (approximately $1,500 - $5,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Madison compared to Lincoln. 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.

Best Madison to Lincoln Moving Companies
Rank | Company | Affordability Index | License | |
---|---|---|---|---|
1 | King's Moving | 9.37 | 9.35 | Authorized For HHG |
2 | Gorilla Movers Of Wisconsin Inc. | 9.31 | 9.31 | Authorized For Property, HHG |
3 | The Go To Guys, LLC | 9.10 | 8.7 | Authorized For HHG |
4 | Top Notch Movers | 9.06 | 9 | Authorized For Property, HHG |
5 | Black Belt Movers | 8.14 | 8.47 | Authorized For HHG |
How Much Does it Cost to Move from Madison to Lincoln?
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 483 miles from Madison, WI to Lincoln, NE will cost on average $2,192 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Madison to Lincoln move is roughly $5,248. 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 Size | Moving Cost | Volume of Packed Items (ft³) | $/ft³ |
---|---|---|---|
Studio | $1,476 | 300 ft³ | $4.92 |
1 Bedroom | $2,192 | 450 ft³ | $4.87 |
2 Bedrooms | $3,616 | 750 ft³ | $4.82 |
3 Bedrooms | $5,248 | 1100 ft³ | $4.77 |
4 Bedrooms | $7,554 | 1600 ft³ | $4.72 |
5+ Bedrooms | $8,408 | 1800 ft³ | $4.67 |


Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Lincoln to Madison guide.
Compare the 5 Best Madison to Lincoln Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)

King's Moving
7530 F St
Omaha, NE, 68127
About King's Moving
King’s Moving is a five-star rated business established in 2012. Widely regarded as Omaha’s top local moving company, King’s Moving has...
Services
- Local moving
- Long-distance moving
- Residential moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 960979 / 954013 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 4 |
Registered Drivers | 5 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 65,000 (2022) |

Gorilla Movers Of Wisconsin Inc.
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
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2627768 / 1031866 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 7 |
Registered Drivers | 14 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 173,000 (2023) |

The Go To Guys, LLC
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
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3760134 / 1338262 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 3 |
Registered Drivers | 3 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 1 (2024) |

Top Notch Movers
2829 Perry St Suite 214
Madison, WI, 53713
About Top Notch Movers
Top Notch Movers may be a young business, but it’s already built an excellent reputation. It lives up well to its...
Services
- Local & Interstate Residential Moving
- Packing Services
- Junk Removal
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3322160 / 1066819 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 6 |
Registered Drivers | 8 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 70,000 (2023) |

Black Belt Movers
1514 S 3rd St
Lincoln, NE, 68502
About Black Belt Movers
Black Belt Movers is a Lincoln moving company that provides professional residential and commercial moving services including local and long-distance moves,...
Services
- Local Moving
- Long-Distance Moving
- Piano Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2631961 / 916084 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 6 |
Registered Drivers | 11 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 54,120 (2024) |

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.

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.
Madison vs. Lincoln Neighborhood Comparison
Moving to a new city can be filled with uncertainties. To ease this transition, we've created a guide that draws parallels between your old and new surroundings. By offering a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Madison, WI & Lincoln, NE , we aim to make you feel more at home in unfamiliar territory. Discover which neighborhood in Lincoln mirrors your favorite area in Madison, ensuring a smoother adaptation to your new city.
Madison | Lincoln | How They're Similar |
---|---|---|
State Street | Downtown Lincoln | Vibrant nightlife and shopping |
Capitol | Haymarket | Historic charm, entertainment options |
Monroe Street | Country Club | Quaint shops, quiet residential area |
Willy Street (Williamson) | Belmont | Diverse community, eclectic shopping |
Hilldale | South 48th Street | Shopping centers, family-friendly |
Nakoma | Sheridan | Stately homes, mature trees |
Shorewood Hills | Country Club | Exclusive, green spaces |
Maple Bluff | Wilderness Ridge | Upscale, golf community |
Atwood | Havelock | Artsy vibe, local festivals |
Verona | Waverly | Family-oriented, expanding community |
If the vibrant nightlife and shopping of State Street have always appealed to you, Downtown Lincoln will instantly feel like home with its bustling streets and array of dining options, such as Lazlo's Brewery & Grill. For those drawn to the eclectic and artsy vibe of Willy Street, the Belmont area in Lincoln offers a similarly diverse community atmosphere, complete with unique shops like From Nebraska Gift Shop. Haymarket in Lincoln mirrors the historic charm and entertainment options of Madison's Capitol neighborhood, inviting explorations around Lincoln Haymarket Development Corporation for fans of historical ambiance coupled with modern amenities.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Madison to Lincoln
Moving from Madison, WI to Lincoln, NE offers an opportunity to weigh the good with the not-so-good aspects of such a relocation. These charts aim to provide a balanced view, helping to visualize how the advantages and challenges directly compare. This guide is tailored to ensure you have a comprehensive understanding of what to expect in your new city.
- Higher living costs
- Smaller city feel
- Harsher winters
- Less job opportunities
- Lower cost of living
- Larger city vibe
- Milder winters
- More job opportunities
- Smaller arts scene
- Less water recreation
- Quieter nightlife
- More conservative
- Vibrant arts scene
- Bountiful lakes
- Varied nightlife
- Progressive community
When considering the cultural vibrancy Madison, WI offers, with its Madison Museum of Contemporary Art and the thriving State Street culinary scene, the comparison to Lincoln, NE's growing but more conservative vibe might seem daunting at first. However, Lincoln counters with its own unique offerings such as the Sunken Gardens, vibrant live music at Zoo Bar, and the revitalizing Haymarket District, showcasing the city's commitment to growth and cultural development. While Madison's extensive lakes provide numerous recreational opportunities, Lincoln's more moderate climate and open spaces present a different, yet appealing, form of outdoor enjoyment.
Madison vs. Lincoln Food Guide
This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Madison, WI, and Lincoln, NE, showcasing how food reflects the culture and living vibes of a location. Understanding the food scene gives insights into the lifestyle you're moving into.
- L'Etoile
- Graze
- The Old Fashioned
- The Oven
- Honest Abe's
- Leadbelly
In Madison, WI, the food scene is vibrant and diverse, with cheese curds being the city's must-try delicacy. This local favorite can be found in various forms, but fried cheese curds stand out as a popular choice among residents and visitors alike. Madison's iconic restaurants, such as L'Etoile and The Old Fashioned, exemplify the city's commitment to high-quality, locally-sourced ingredients. On the other hand, Lincoln, NE, offers a mix of traditional and innovative culinary experiences, with the Runza sandwich epitomizing Nebraska's unique food offerings. Walking Tacos are a common sight at local events and food trucks, reflecting Lincoln's laid-back and approachable food scene. For those looking to explore Lincoln's culinary delights, Honest Abe's and Leadbelly offer a taste of the city's best flavors in welcoming environments.
Madison vs. Lincoln Restaurant Comparison
Relocating can stir up a mix of emotions, but finding comfort in a new city often begins with satisfying your culinary cravings. This restaurant comparison is specially designed to transform your dining experience by guiding you from your favorites in Madison, WI to Lincoln, NE, ensuring you feel right at home. Discover your next beloved eatery with ease.
Madison | Lincoln | What You'll Love |
---|---|---|
L'Etoile | The Oven | Fine dining with a focus on Indian cuisine |
Graze | Bread & Cup | Farm-to-table inspired menu |
Forequarter | Dish | Seasonal and local ingredients with a creative twist |
A Pig in a Fur Coat | Block 16 | Gourmet dishes with a casual atmosphere |
Madison Sourdough | Goldenrod Pastries | Artisan bakery known for unique flavors |
Sardine | Green Gateau | European-inspired cuisine |
Pig in a Fur Coat | Sebastian's Table | A cozy, intimate dining experience |
Heritage Tavern | Blue Blood Brewing Co. | Brewpub with a hearty menu |
Naples 15 | Momo Pizzeria & Ristorante | Authentic Italian dishes |
Sushi Muramoto | Blue Sushi Sake Grill | Modern take on classic sushi dishes |
Discovering parallels between Madison and Lincoln's dining scenes opens up a world of gastronomic delight. The Oven in Lincoln, similar to L'Etoile in Madison, provides an upscale dining experience with a unique focus on Indian cuisine, showcasing the versatility found within Lincoln's food scene. For a more casual yet equally compelling dining atmosphere, Madison's A Pig in a Fur Coat finds its Lincoln counterpart in Block 16, where gourmet dishes merge with a laid-back ambiance to create an unforgettable dining experience. Meanwhile, bakery enthusiasts will relish visiting Goldenrod Pastries, reminiscent of Madison Sourdough's artisan approach and passion for baking. These comparisons just scratch the surface, inviting you to explore the rich culinary tapestry that makes each city unique while finding comfort in the familiar.

Ready to start your move?
Madison vs. Lincoln Real Estate & Living Facts
When considering a move, diving into the real estate comparisons between Madison, WI, and Lincoln, NE is crucial. Understanding both cities' housing markets can significantly influence your decision. This comparison aims to enlighten you about the cost, architectural styles, and lifestyle nuances of these locations.
In Madison, the proximity to lakes and the University of Wisconsin campus often highlights real estate listings, emphasizing the city's blend of urban and natural appeal. Meanwhile, Lincoln homes frequently boast about their quiet neighborhoods and proximity to parks, mirroring a closely-knit community atmosphere that caters to family-centric lifestyles. While Madison scores higher in terms of walkability and bikeability, reflecting its more developed urban infrastructure, Lincoln's charm lies in its affordable living options, with a considerable difference in both median home prices and monthly rents compared to Madison. This contrast illustrates not just the cost differences but also sheds light on the lifestyle each city promotes, potentially influencing your choice based on what you value more—urban convenience or affordability coupled with a serene environment.

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Lincoln, NE
1. South Salt Creek : You’ll enjoy the expansive parks and walking trails here, perfect for giving your pet ample outdoor exercise.
2. Near South : This historic area offers plenty of parks and pet-friendly amenities like cafes with outdoor seating where your furry friend is welcome.
3. Downtown : You can easily access numerous open spaces and dog parks, making this a convenient location for pet lovers who enjoy city life.
Madison vs. Lincoln Weather Considerations
When planning a move, it’s crucial to consider how your everyday life will be affected by the change in environment. A key aspect of this is the weather. Here we provide a detailed comparison to help you understand what to expect weather-wise in your new city. Madison and Lincoln can have notably different climatic conditions, impacting your choice of activities, clothing, and even your mood. Understanding these differences will help you prepare for your move.
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
While both Madison and Lincoln experience four distinct seasons, there are key differences in their weather patterns worth noting. Lincoln generally experiences hotter summers and slightly milder winters than Madison. This means you might need to adjust your wardrobe and budget for heating and cooling. Moreover, Lincoln enjoys more days of sunshine annually, which could be a significant plus for those who love outdoor activities. Another point to consider is the natural disaster risks; both cities have their own concerns, with Madison facing severe winter storms and Lincoln being more prone to tornadoes and severe thunderstorms. These aspects should be taken into account when preparing for your move.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Madison to Lincoln
When relocating from Madison, WI to Lincoln, NE, understanding the financial differences plays a crucial role in your move. This comparison sheds light on the cost of living, taxes, and economic conditions to help you gauge how your finances might adjust. Know what awaits your wallet in both Madison and Lincoln.
The differences in average household income and the cost of living index between Madison and Lincoln show that while you might earn less in Lincoln, your dollar goes further due to a lower cost of living. The slight variance in state income tax rates offers a nuanced financial landscape, potentially affecting your take-home pay. However, both cities share a common average sales tax rate, easing the transition for daily purchases. Significantly, the economic landscapes differ; Madison leans towards healthcare and education as its top industries, while Lincoln is propelled by service and manufacturing sectors. This distinction might influence job opportunities relevant to your career path.
Madison vs. Lincoln Political & Religious Comparison
Embarking on a move from Madison, WI to Lincoln, NE? This comparison of the politics and religious makeup between Madison & Lincoln offers a quick glimpse into the resident demographics you're transitioning from and into. Understanding the political leanings and religious landscapes can help you gauge the community vibe awaiting you.
When comparing Madison and Lincoln, you'll find Madison is known for its liberal leanings, particularly reflected in its progressive policies and lesser religious affiliation among its residents. In contrast, Lincoln presents a more moderate political landscape, combining both progressive and conservative influences, and boasts a higher degree of religious affiliation. This nuanced blend makes Lincoln's social fabric distinct, offering a mix that might appeal to those looking for a balanced lifestyle amidst differing viewpoints. For newcomers, this diversity can translate into a rich community experience with opportunities to engage across the spectrum.
Madison vs. Lincoln Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
When planning your move from Madison, WI, to Lincoln, NE, understanding the differences in traffic and transportation options between Madison & Lincoln can significantly impact your daily life. This comparison aims to provide a clearer picture of what you can expect regarding your commute and getting around in both cities.
In Madison, the average commute time is slightly longer than in Lincoln, with a mild level of traffic congestion. The city of Madison offers better public transit options, rated 6 out of 10, making it somewhat feasible to get by without a car, especially if you live and work within the city or close to bus lines. In contrast, Lincoln boasts shorter commute times and less congestion but has a lower availability of public transit, making it more difficult to rely solely on public transportation for your daily needs. While both cities present unique challenges and advantages in commuting and transportation, your lifestyle and preferences will play a significant role in adapting to each environment.



Additional Resources
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