Moving to Madison, WI

Last updated 2026-07-10 · MovePlan Editorial Team

Wisconsin capital between two lakes, UW-Madison energy, farmers market on the square, and bike paths everywhere.

• Population: 269,840
• Median 2BR rent: $1,700/mo
• Typical local mover cost: $850-$2,700
• Popular neighborhoods: Tenney-Lapham, Marquette, Atwood, Monroe Street, Middleton

August 14 and 15 are the legendary Madison moving days, the entire student rental market flips at once. Movers triple their rates.

Climate: Cold snowy winters, warm summers.

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