Guide to Moving Into a Home in Madison WI: Summer Checklist for 2025

by Ally Figiel

Summer is a popular time to move — especially to Madison. The weather is on your side, the kids are out of school, and the city is alive with farmers markets, festivals, and lake days. But the logistics of moving here in June, July, or August can hit different. Between college lease turnover, construction zones, and unpredictable heat waves, having a plan makes a big difference.

I grew up on the west side. I’ve helped people move into homes across every season, but summer has its own rhythm — and its own chaos. Whether you’re arriving from across the country or just upgrading within Dane County, here’s a checklist that’ll help you feel less overwhelmed and more at home.

📦 1. Book Moving Help Early

Madison is a college town. That means August 14–15 is basically a local holiday called “Hippie Christmas” — when student leases turn over and furniture floods the curbs. If you’re hiring a moving company, book early to avoid that crunch. Even U-Haul availability gets tight. Some local movers book out weeks ahead.

If you’re DIYing it, check alternate pick-up locations for equipment. Sun Prairie or Verona usually have better truck availability when the city center is maxed out.

🧊 2. Pack for the Weather

Summer in Madison can be gorgeous… or wildly humid. Highs in the 90s happen. So do intense storms. Plan for hydration, fans, and possibly hauling boxes in a downpour. Dress for sweat. And pack your essentials (meds, toiletries, clean clothes, bedding) in a separate box you can access fast.

Moving with pets? Bring cooling pads and take breaks. Moving with kids? Set up the TV or a splash pad before anything else. Trust me.

🛎️ 3. Get Utilities Set Up Before Arrival

It’s surprisingly easy to forget — but you don’t want to arrive and realize there’s no power or water. Schedule your Madison Gas & Electric (MG&E) start date at least 3–5 business days in advance. Same with internet. Some providers require someone to be home for install.

And if you’re renting or buying in an HOA, double-check what’s included and what you’re responsible for.

🚚 4. Understand Madison’s Moving Day Rules

Madison has strict parking rules. If your moving truck needs to be on the street, you’ll probably need a Temporary No Parking permit from the city. They’ll put up signage ahead of time, but you have to request it in advance. It’s $20 per 50 feet of curb.

Also: don’t block sidewalks or fire hydrants. Madison ticketing is no joke, even if you're “just unloading.”

More info here: Moving Truck Permits – City of Madison

🛋️ 5. Coordinate Furniture + Appliance Delivery

Lots of new Madison residents order big items right after closing — sofas, beds, fridges, etc. But be aware: summer = peak delivery delays. Schedule ahead when possible, and confirm timing after you know your closing date.

Some older neighborhoods have narrow streets or low-hanging trees. If you’re getting delivery from a national retailer, make sure they understand the access limits — especially if you’re in an older home near campus or on the isthmus.

🌇 6. Get to Know Your Neighborhood

After the boxes are unpacked (or even before), carve out time to walk or bike around. Find the closest grocery store, trailhead, pizza place, library. Madison is a city made up of little micro-neighborhoods, and once you know your nearby gems, you’ll feel way more settled.

Check out Neighborhood Guides for ideas on what to explore.

🧭 A Note on “Settling In”

Relocating is a process — even when it’s a good move. Summer in Madison gives you a running start: outdoor events, neighbor energy, and open skies. But there’s still an adjustment period. Give yourself a month or two before it all clicks.

If you’re feeling disoriented or out of rhythm, that’s normal. If your kid misses their old school or your dog won’t stop barking at the new backyard, that’s normal too. You’re not doing it wrong. You’re just doing it for real.

👉 I put together a FREE Moving to Madison Guide to help make the whole process smoother — you can download it here.