Best Madison to Lincoln Movers + Moving Guide

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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.

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Best Madison to Lincoln Moving Companies

Company
Score Question
Affordability IndexLicense
1King's Moving9.379.35Authorized For HHG
2Gorilla Movers Of Wisconsin Inc.9.319.31Authorized For Property, HHG
3The Go To Guys, LLC9.108.7Authorized For HHG
4Top Notch Movers9.069Authorized For Property, HHG
5Black Belt Movers8.148.47Authorized For HHG
Phone (800) 787-5428

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 SizeMoving CostVolume of Packed Items (ft³)$/ft³
Studio$1,476300 ft³$4.92
1 Bedroom$2,192450 ft³$4.87
2 Bedrooms$3,616750 ft³$4.82
3 Bedrooms$5,2481100 ft³$4.77
4 Bedrooms$7,5541600 ft³$4.72
5+ Bedrooms$8,4081800 ft³$4.67
*Please note: These Wisconsin to Nebraska moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from Wisconsin & Nebraska. 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 WI to NE mover.
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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 Logo

King's Moving

Exceptional9.37/10
based on 1,047+ data points

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

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

960979 / 954013

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans4
Registered Drivers5
Total Annual Miles Moved65,000 (2022)
View Full Review
1
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
2
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
3
Top Notch Movers Logo

Top Notch Movers

Exceptional9.06/10
based on 1,006+ data points

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

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3322160 / 1066819

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans6
Registered Drivers8
Total Annual Miles Moved70,000 (2023)
View Full Review
4
Black Belt Movers Logo

Black Belt Movers

Very Good8.14/10
based on 1,533+ data points

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

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2631961 / 916084

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans6
Registered Drivers11
Total Annual Miles Moved54,120 (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.

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.

MadisonLincolnHow They're Similar
State StreetDowntown LincolnVibrant nightlife and shopping
CapitolHaymarketHistoric charm, entertainment options
Monroe StreetCountry ClubQuaint shops, quiet residential area
Willy Street (Williamson)BelmontDiverse community, eclectic shopping
HilldaleSouth 48th StreetShopping centers, family-friendly
NakomaSheridanStately homes, mature trees
Shorewood HillsCountry ClubExclusive, green spaces
Maple BluffWilderness RidgeUpscale, golf community
AtwoodHavelockArtsy vibe, local festivals
VeronaWaverlyFamily-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.

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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.

CONs
PROs
Madison, WI iconMadison, WI
  • Higher living costs
  • Smaller city feel
  • Harsher winters
  • Less job opportunities
Lincoln, NE iconLincoln, NE
  • Lower cost of living
  • Larger city vibe
  • Milder winters
  • More job opportunities
Lincoln, NE iconLincoln, NE
  • Smaller arts scene
  • Less water recreation
  • Quieter nightlife
  • More conservative
Madison, WI iconMadison, WI
  • 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.

Madison
Lincoln
Most iconic local food item
Cheese Curds
Runza
Most popular meat dish
Bratwurst
Steak
Most popular street food item
Fried Cheese Curds
Walking Tacos
Most popular vegan food
Quinoa Salad
Black Bean Burger
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • L'Etoile
  • Graze
  • The Old Fashioned
  • The Oven
  • Honest Abe's
  • Leadbelly
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness
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Abundance of Food Trucks
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Foodie Scene
🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly
🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱
🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

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.

MadisonLincolnWhat You'll Love
L'EtoileThe OvenFine dining with a focus on Indian cuisine
GrazeBread & CupFarm-to-table inspired menu
ForequarterDishSeasonal and local ingredients with a creative twist
A Pig in a Fur CoatBlock 16Gourmet dishes with a casual atmosphere
Madison SourdoughGoldenrod PastriesArtisan bakery known for unique flavors
SardineGreen GateauEuropean-inspired cuisine
Pig in a Fur CoatSebastian's TableA cozy, intimate dining experience
Heritage TavernBlue Blood Brewing Co.Brewpub with a hearty menu
Naples 15Momo Pizzeria & RistoranteAuthentic Italian dishes
Sushi MuramotoBlue Sushi Sake GrillModern 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.

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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.

Madison
Lincoln
Typical Architecture Style
Prairie and Craftsman
Ranch and Bungalow
Walkability
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👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing
Lakeside views, proximity to UW campus
Near parks, quiet neighborhoods

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 background image

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.

Madison
Lincoln
Days of Sunshine per Year
☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. Annual Humidity
💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦
💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦
Avg. UV Index
🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Natural Disasters
Severe winter storms, Tornadoes
Tornadoes, Severe thunderstorms
Air Quality
Good
Moderate
Summer icon

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

82/61
89/66
Winter icon

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

28/13
36/16


Rainfall icon

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

34.4
28.9
Snowfall icon

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

42
25.9


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.

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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.

Madison
Lincoln
Avg. Household Income
$67,270
$62,294
Cost of Living Index
95.65
90.85
State Income Tax
4-7.65
2.46-6.84
Avg. Property Tax
1.62
1.73
Avg. Sales Tax
5.5
5.5
Top 3 Industries
Healthcare, Education, Manufacturing
Service, Manufacturing, Retail
Affluence
Relatively High
Moderate
Poverty
Lower
Moderate
Homelessness
Moderate
Lower

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.

Madison
Lincoln
Political Make-up
Liberal
More conservative than Madison, but still moderate
Local Politics
Progressive policies
Mix of progressive and conservative policies
Religion
Less religiously affiliated
Higher religious affiliation

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.

Madison
Lincoln
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)
22
19
Traffic Congestion
5 out of 10
3 out of 10
Availability of Public Transit
6 out of 10
4 out of 10
Can you get by without car?
Possible, but challenging
Difficult

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.

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