Best California to Wisconsin Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from California to Wisconsin and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,177 mile CA to WI move go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 355 California to Wisconsin moving companies and more than 15,000 movers nationwide to provide up-to-date and data-driven information about: which moving company to hire (our top recommendation is OCD Moving Services LLC), how much the move costs (approximately $2,500 - $9,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in California compared to Wisconsin. 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 California to Wisconsin Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | OCD Moving Services LLC | 9.66 | 9.47 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 2 | Pure Moving | 9.64 | 9.49 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 3 | Murdock's Moving & Hauling Inc. | 9.63 | 9.59 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 4 | Elite Movers | 9.57 | 9.52 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 5 | Best California Movers | 9.52 | 9.73 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 6 | MACS Moving and Storage | 9.43 | 9.43 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from California to Wisconsin
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,177 miles from California to Wisconsin will cost on average $3,633 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom CA to WI move is roughly $8,770. 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 in California and dropoff in Wisconsin 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 California to Wisconsin movers, the better your pricing and options will be.
| Home Size | Moving Cost | Volume of Packed Items (ft³) | $/ft³ |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio | $2,437 | 300 ft³ | 8.12 |
| 1 Bedroom | $3,633 | 450 ft³ | 8.07 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $6,017 | 750 ft³ | 8.02 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $8,770 | 1100 ft³ | 7.97 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $12,676 | 1600 ft³ | 7.92 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $14,170 | 1800 ft³ | 7.87 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Wisconsin to California guide.
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Trusted. Licensed. Insured. Hire the best out of state movers. Moving to another state just got easier.Most Popular California to Wisconsin Moving Routes
Compare the 6 Best CA to WI Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
OCD Moving Services LLC
5914 Cobblestone Ct
El Sobrante, CA, 94803
About OCD Moving Services LLC
For over five years, OCD Moving Services LLC has been providing Oakland and the Bay Area with residential and commercial relocation...
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Commercial Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2597230 / 911812 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 6 |
| Registered Drivers | 6 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 153,000 (2022) |
Pure Moving
1450 2nd St ste 225
Santa Monica, CA, 90401
About Pure Moving
Pure Moving has six locations across California, including an office in Los Angeles. This locally operated business moves over 10,000 clients...
Services
- Residential moving
- Commercial moving
- Long-distance moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3207734 / 1115049 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
| Registered Drivers | 1 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 100,000 (2022) |
Murdock's Moving & Hauling Inc.
Chico, CA, 95973
About Murdock's Moving & Hauling Inc.
Murdock's Moving & Hauling Inc. makes it a point to go above and beyond in every moving job. This includes giving...
Services
- Local & Long Distance Moving
- Residential Moving
- Commercial Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3421940 / 1416634 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 6 |
| Registered Drivers | 9 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 100,000 (2024) |
Elite Movers
429 Lake St
Eau Claire, WI, 54703
About Elite Movers
Elite Movers is a professional moving service in Eau Claire that provides full-service moving solutions for local and long-distance relocations. They...
Services
- Full Service Move
- Labor Only (Loading/Unloading Help)
- Single Item Move
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3579816 / 1208798 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 3 |
| Registered Drivers | 1 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 45,000 (2022) |
Best California Movers
Glendale, CA, 91206
About Best California Movers
Best California Movers is a family-owned moving company based in Southern California, with over six years of experience in the industry....
Services
- Cheap moving services
- Local moving services
- Long-distance moving services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3489907 / 1173381 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 12 |
| Registered Drivers | 12 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 157,000 (2023) |
MACS Moving and Storage
901 Maxwell St
Lake Geneva, WI, 53147
About MACS Moving and Storage
Lake Geneva-based MACS Moving and Storage is a full-service moving company that has served Southeastern Wisconsin and Northern Illinois for over...
Services
- Local Moves
- Long Distance Moves
- Packing
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2386699 / 820142 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 13 |
| Registered Drivers | 10 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 216,309 (2022) |
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.
Pros and Cons of Moving from California to Wisconsin
Moving across states presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities. This guide aims to highlight the California to Wisconsin relocation by comparing their respective drawbacks and benefits. By examining these aspects side by side, you'll gain a balanced perspective on what awaits in your new home.
California- High cost of living
- Heavy traffic
- Wildfires
- Earthquakes
Wisconsin- Lower cost of living
- Less congestion
- Four distinct seasons
- Stable geology
Wisconsin- Colder climate
- Smaller cultural scenes
- Fewer tech industries
- More rural areas
California- Warm beaches
- Diverse culture
- Innovative hubs
- Vibrant city life
While the thought of leaving California's warm beaches and vibrant cities such as Los Angeles and San Francisco may seem daunting, Wisconsin offers its own charm with less congestion and a more manageable cost of living. Imagine the money you'll save on housing and everyday expenses in Madison or Milwaukee compared to the Bay Area. Plus, Wisconsin's four distinct seasons bring a unique beauty, from the colorful fall leaves in the Kettle Moraine State Forest to the serene snowscapes of Door County. The state's smaller cultural scenes don't mean a lack of vibrancy; places like the Milwaukee Art Museum and Madison's eclectic State Street offer rich experiences. Moreover, Wisconsin's emphasis on community and outdoor activities—be it enjoying a show at The Rave Eagles Club in Milwaukee or exploring the hiking trails near Lake Geneva—is sure to make you feel right at home.
California vs. Wisconsin Food Guide
Understanding local cuisine is essential to get a feel for the culture and lifestyle in a new area. This is a comparison of the local cuisine between California & Wisconsin to help you get acquainted with the food scene in your new home.
| California | Wisconsin | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Sushi | Cheese Curds |
| Most popular meat dish | Tri-tip barbecue | Bratwurst |
| Most popular street food item | Tacos | Fried Cheese Curds |
| Most popular vegan food | Avocado Toast | Beer-battered Cauliflower |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the state |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In California, the food scene is as diverse as its landscapes, with an emphasis on fresh, local ingredients and international cuisines. Los Angeles is known for its vibrant street food scene, notably tacos that have become a culinary staple. San Francisco’s Michelin-starred restaurants like The French Laundry and Chez Panisse set a high benchmark for fine dining. Meanwhile, Wisconsin offers hearty midwestern fare, with cheese curds standing out as a beloved snack. Madison is an excellent place to explore vegan options, with many restaurants introducing innovative plant-based dishes. Whether you're dining by the ocean in California or enjoying the lush landscapes of Wisconsin, each state offers a unique dining experience that reflects its cultural heritage.
Ready to start your move?
California vs. Wisconsin Real Estate & Living Facts
When you're planning a move, comparing the real estate landscape between your current and future home is crucial. This comparison will help you understand how California and Wisconsin fare in terms of housing costs, styles, and lifestyle. Knowing these differences can significantly impact your relocation decisions and help you set the right expectations.
| Comparison | California | Wisconsin |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Modern, Spanish | Craftsman, Colonial |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Pool, Outdoor Living | Family-friendly, Large Yards |
In comparing the real estate aspects of California with Wisconsin, it's clear there's a significant cost difference, with California leaning on the more expensive side. What stands out notably is the median home price and rent, which are considerably higher in California. This reflects the premium cost of living and the demand for housing in the state. Architectural styles also greatly differ, capturing the distinct cultural and historical influences unique to each state. California homes often feature Modern and Spanish designs, reflecting its historical roots and contemporary lifestyle. In contrast, Wisconsin's architecture leans towards Craftsman and Colonial, showcasing the state's rich history and traditional values. The listings in California frequently highlight luxury and outdoor living, indicative of the state's warmer climate and affluent market, while Wisconsin's listings emphasize family-friendly features and large yards, catering to a different set of priorities and lifestyle expectations.
California vs. Wisconsin Weather Considerations
When considering a move from one state to another, it's essential to compare the climates you're transitioning between. This comparison will help you adjust to and prepare for your new environment. Our chart specifically aims to highlight the weather differences between California and Wisconsin, empowering you with knowledge on what to expect and how to plan ahead.
California
Wisconsin
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
California
Wisconsin
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
California
Wisconsin
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
California
Wisconsin
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | California | Wisconsin |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Variable; often moderate | Generally good |
| Natural Disasters | Earthquakes, Wildfires | Snowstorms, Tornadoes |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Moving from California to Wisconsin, you'll find distinct differences in climate conditions that could impact your lifestyle. Winter temperatures and snowfall are major contrasts, with Wisconsin experiencing harsh winters that necessitate winter gear and often snow removal plans. The number of sunshine days in California nearly doubles that of Wisconsin, which offers more sunny days to enjoy the outdoors. However, the natural disaster threats shift from earthquakes and wildfires to snowstorms and tornadoes. These variations in weather conditions highlight the importance of being prepared for significant changes in seasonal weather patterns when moving from California to Wisconsin.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from California to Wisconsin
If you're moving from one location to another, it's crucial to understand how the cost of living, income, and taxes in California and Wisconsin will compare to what you are used to. This comparison will help you gauge your financial readiness and plan accordingly for a smooth transition.
| Comparison | California | Wisconsin |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $91,551 | $70,996 |
| Cost of Living Index | 136.4 | 95.65 |
| State Income Tax | 1% - 13.3% | 4% - 7.65% |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.73% | 1.76% |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 8.56% | 5.43% |
| Top 3 Industries | Technology, Entertainment, Agriculture | Manufacturing, Agriculture, Health Services |
| Affluence | Higher | Moderate |
| Poverty | More prevalent | Less prevalent |
| Homelessness | Significantly higher | Lower |
Comparing the financial aspect of living in California versus Wisconsin reveals significant differences. For example, while the average household income is higher in California, the cost of living there is significantly higher as well, outweighing the income advantage. This is reflected in the Cost of Living Index, where California ranks much higher than Wisconsin, indicating that your money might go further in Wisconsin. Additionally, the state income tax in California can reach up to 13.3%, which is almost double the maximum rate in Wisconsin. However, one should also consider Wisconsin's higher average property tax rate when planning finances. Lastly, the differences in the top industries between the two states highlight the diversity in job opportunities, which could influence your employment prospects depending on your field of expertise.
California vs. Wisconsin Political & Religious Comparison
Moving from one state to another introduces new neighborhoods, job opportunities, and, importantly, a different community vibe. This quick guide provides an at-a-glance snapshot comparing the politics between California & Wisconsin, highlighting the political, and religious makeup of the residents to help you understand your potential new home better.
| California | Wisconsin | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Liberal/Democratic | Mixed, leans slightly Conservative/Republican |
| Local Politics | Progressive policies on environment, immigration | Varies greatly by area, mix of conservative and liberal policies |
| Religion | More diverse, less religious overall | Higher prevalence of Christianity |
While both states offer their unique appeals, differences in the local political climate and religious beliefs can influence your experience significantly. California’s political landscape is characterized by a strong Democratic leaning with progressive policies, particularly on environmental and immigration issues. In contrast, Wisconsin's political inclinations are more balanced, with a slight conservative tilt, meaning you'll encounter a broader spectrum of views and policies. Religion in California is broadly diverse with a lesser overall emphasis on religious life, whereas in Wisconsin, Christianity plays a more central role in the community fabric. Understanding these aspects will help you better prepare for the social and cultural shifts as you transition from the Golden State to the Badger State.
Education Guide When Moving from California to Wisconsin
Transitioning from California to Wisconsin involves several considerations, one of the most significant being education. To make this move smoother for you and your family, we've compiled a detailed comparison focusing on the educational landscape between California and Wisconsin . This comparison aims to elucidate the variety of schooling options available, helping you make an informed decision on where to enroll your children.
| California | Wisconsin |
|---|---|
Where most Seniors go to college (top 3) University of California Stanford University California State UniversityUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison Marquette University University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee | |
Top 3 Elementary Schools Point Vicente Elementary School (Rancho Palos Verdes) El Carmelo Elementary (Palo Alto) Montemalaga Elementary School (Palos Verdes Estates)Swanson Elementary School (Brookfield) Elm Lawn Elementary (Middleton) Shorewood Hills Elementary (Shorewood Hills) | |
Top 3 Middle Schools Miller Creek Middle School (San Rafael) Egan Junior High School (Los Altos) Huntington Middle School (San Marino)Whitefish Bay Middle (Whitefish Bay) Pilgrim Park Middle School (Elm Grove) Kromrey Middle School (Middleton) | |
Top 3 High Schools Henry M. Gunn High School (Palo Alto) California Academy of Mathematics and Science (Carson) Whitney High School (Cerritos)Madison West High School (Madison) Brookfield East High School (Brookfield) Whitefish Bay High School (Whitefish Bay) | |
Top 3 private high schools Harvard-Westlake School (Los Angeles) The College Preparatory School (Oakland) Phillips Exeter Academy (Exeter)University School of Milwaukee (Milwaukee) Marquette University High School (Milwaukee) Brookfield Academy (Brookfield) | |
Top 3 private K-12 schools The Nueva School (Hillsborough) Chadwick School (Palos Verdes Peninsula) Crossroads School for Arts & Sciences (Santa Monica)St. John's Northwestern Academies (Delafield) The Prairie School (Racine) University Lake School (Hartland) | |
Top 3 School Districts Palo Alto Unified School District San Marino Unified School District Las Virgenes Unified School DistrictElmbrook School District (Brookfield) Middleton-Cross Plains Area School District Whitefish Bay School District | |
Looking closer at these comparisons, you'll notice that both states have highly respected institutions, but they cater to slightly different audiences and communities. For example, California's top high schools, like Henry M. Gunn High School in Palo Alto, are renowned for their rigorous academic standards and proximity to the country's tech hub, making them ideal for students aiming for STEM careers. Meanwhile, Wisconsin's schools, such as Madison West High School, offer a robust curriculum with a focus on holistic education in a community-centered environment. On the topic of private education, the presence of historical and prestigious institutions like Marquette University High School in Milwaukee reflects Wisconsin's strong educational heritage. Whether you're drawn to California's innovation-driven education or Wisconsin's community-centric schools, this comparison helps in deciding the best fit for your family's educational needs.
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