Best San Diego to Milwaukee Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from San Diego to Milwaukee and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,160 mile move from California to Wisconsin go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 27 San Diego to Milwaukee 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 The Rock Movers), how much the move costs (approximately $2,500 - $8,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in San Diego compared to Milwaukee. 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 San Diego to Milwaukee Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | The Rock Movers | 9.49 | 9.53 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 2 | Coast 2 Coast Moving, Inc. | 9.46 | 9.62 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 3 | About Time Moving Systems LLC | 9.33 | 9.33 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 4 | Gorilla Movers Of Wisconsin Inc. | 9.30 | 9.31 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| 5 | Atlas Transfer & Storage Co. | 8.94 | 8.13 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from San Diego to Milwaukee
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,160 miles from San Diego, CA to Milwaukee, WI will cost on average $3,618 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom San Diego to Milwaukee move is roughly $8,734. 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 | $2,427 | 300 ft³ | 8.09 |
| 1 Bedroom | $3,618 | 450 ft³ | 8.04 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $5,993 | 750 ft³ | 7.99 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $8,734 | 1100 ft³ | 7.94 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $12,624 | 1600 ft³ | 7.89 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $14,112 | 1800 ft³ | 7.84 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Milwaukee to San Diego guide.
Compare the 5 Best San Diego to Milwaukee Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
The Rock Movers
7087 Camino Revueltos UNIT 306
San Diego, CA, 92111
About The Rock Movers
The Rock Movers is a San Diego County-based moving company offering professional and affordable moving services for local and long-distance relocations....
Services
- Local Residential
- Furniture Moving
- Full Packing Service
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3653432 / 1541470 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 4 |
| Registered Drivers | 7 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 40,000 (2023) |
Coast 2 Coast Moving, Inc.
2020 Camino De La Reina
San Diego, CA, 92108
About Coast 2 Coast Moving, Inc.
Coast 2 Coast Moving, Inc. is a professional moving company based in San Diego, California. Founded by Donal and Jessica O'Neill,...
Services
- Local Moves
- Long-Distance Moves
- Packing Services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3177184 / 1157114 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 3 |
| Registered Drivers | 7 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 200,000 (2024) |
About Time Moving Systems LLC
4909 8th Ave
Kenosha, WI, 53140
About About Time Moving Systems LLC
This locally owned and operated moving company serves the Milwaukee, WI, area with high-quality residential and commercial relocation services. About Time...
Services
- Local moving
- Long-distance moving
- Cross-country moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2525330 / 877057 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 4 |
| Registered Drivers | 2 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 50,000 (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) |
Atlas Transfer & Storage Co.
13026 Stowe Dr A
Poway, CA, 92064
About Atlas Transfer & Storage Co.
Founded in 1925, Atlas Transfer & Storage Company has been serving Southern California for over 95 years. This family-owned and operated...
Services
- Long Distance Moving
- International Moving
- Storage Services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 877737 / 383831 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
| Registered Drivers | 4 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 8,778 (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.
San Diego vs. Milwaukee Neighborhood Comparison
Moving to a new city can feel overwhelming, especially when you're trying to find a neighborhood that feels like home. To ease this transition, we've done the groundwork for you by comparing popular neighborhoods in San Diego, CA & Milwaukee, WI . This comparison will help you familiarize yourself with your new surroundings using what you already know as a baseline. Whether you're searching for vibrant nightlife, serene parks, or historic charm, this guide will point you in the right direction.
| San Diego | Milwaukee | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| La Jolla | Shorewood | Upscale, coastal vibe |
| North Park | Bay View | Artsy, vibrant community |
| Pacific Beach | Brady Street | Young, nightlife-centric |
| Gaslamp Quarter | Third Ward | Historic, entertainment hub |
| Hillcrest | Walker's Point | Diverse, LGBTQ+-friendly |
| Little Italy | East Side | Eclectic, foodie paradise |
| Del Mar | Whitefish Bay | Family-friendly, affluent |
| Coronado | Brookfield | Suburban, upscale communities |
| Encinitas | Shorewood | Charming, beach town feel |
| Ocean Beach | Bay View | Laid-back, independent spirit |
When moving from San Diego to Milwaukee, you'll find neighborhoods that not only mirror the aesthetics but also the spirit of your old home. Shorewood, for example, parallels La Jolla with its scenic beauty and exclusive feel, providing a tranquil coastal lifestyle away from the urban hustle. Bay View stands out as Milwaukee's answer to North Park, buzzing with creative energy, eclectic eateries, and unique shops. In Bay View, places like the Honeypie Cafe and the Cactus Club are local favorites, reminiscent of the independent vibe in North Park. Like Gaslamp Quarter's vibrant nightlife and rich history, Milwaukee's Third Ward offers a similar experience but with a distinctive Midwestern flair, marked by landmarks like the Historic Third Ward Association and the bustling Milwaukee Public Market. These neighborhoods promise a blend of familiarity and new adventures, ensuring you feel right at home in Milwaukee.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from San Diego to Milwaukee
Moving can be a complex decision, with various factors tipping the balance. This comparison aims to show an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from San Diego, CA to Milwaukee, WI . Understanding the nuances can help you make an informed choice about your next big move.
San Diego, CA- High cost of living
- Traffic congestion
- Hot summers
Milwaukee, WI- More affordable housing
- Less traffic
- Milder summers
Milwaukee, WI- No ocean access
- Colder winters
- More subdued nightlife
San Diego, CA- Beautiful beaches
- Mild winters
- Vibrant nightlife
While San Diego boasts an idyllic coastal lifestyle with attractions like its famous beaches and the vibrant Gaslamp Quarter, Milwaukee offers its own unique charms. Milwaukee's affordable cost of living is a significant draw for many, providing the opportunity to enjoy a comfortable lifestyle in neighborhoods like the historic Third Ward without the financial stress often found in coastal cities. Moreover, Milwaukee's summers are pleasantly mild, perfect for enjoying outdoor attractions such as the Lakefront Festival of Art without enduring the scorching heat. While it's true that Milwaukee lacks the oceanfront and has a colder winter climate, the city more than compensates with a vibrant cultural scene, including renowned breweries, the Milwaukee Art Museum, and numerous parks such as Whitnall Park.
San Diego vs. Milwaukee Food Guide
When moving to a new city, it’s essential to get a taste of the local culture through its cuisine. This is why we have curated a comparison of the local cuisine between San Diego & Milwaukee to help you understand what culinary delights await you in your new home.
| San Diego | Milwaukee | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Fish Tacos | Bratwurst |
| Most popular meat dish | Carne Asada | Beer Brats |
| Most popular street food item | California Burrito | Fried Cheese Curds |
| Most popular vegan food | Acai Bowl | Vegan Cheese Curds |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
San Diego is famous for its vibrant food scene that heavily features Mexican influences, making dishes like fish tacos and carne asada must-tries. You'll find an impressive array of food trucks around neighborhoods like North Park and Little Italy, showcasing San Diego's diverse culinary offerings. Milwaukee, with its rich German heritage, prides itself on bratwurst and beer brats which are local staples. Neighborhoods such as the Historic Third Ward and Walker's Point are home to some of the city's most iconic eateries, including Mader's, known for its German cuisine, and the modern, lively AJ Bombers for a more contemporary taste of the city. Both cities offer unique culinary experiences reflective of their cultural backgrounds and modern influences.
San Diego vs. Milwaukee Restaurant Comparison
Moving to a new city can be daunting, especially when you're on the hunt for culinary comforts that remind you of home. This restaurant comparison between San Diego and Milwaukee is designed to seamlessly transition your palate. Let this guide serve as your culinary compass, leading you to your new favorite eateries by leveraging your existing favorites as a reference point.
| San Diego | Milwaukee | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Juniper & Ivy | Sanford | Refined American cuisine with an innovative twist |
| Lolita's Mexican Food | Conejito's Place | Traditional Mexican plates in a laid-back setting |
| Phil's BBQ | Speed Queen BBQ | Legendary barbecue, known for tender meats and tangy sauces |
| George's at the Cove | Harbor House | Waterfront dining with a focus on seafood and stunning views |
| Oscar's Mexican Seafood | El Senorial | Authentic Mexican seafood offerings in a casual environment |
| Hodad's | Oscar's Pub & Grill | Famous for hearty burgers and a vibrant atmosphere |
| Sushi Ota | RuYi | Sushi Bar at Potawatomi Hotel & Casino, offering an exquisite sushi experience |
| The Prado at Balboa Park | Lake Park Bistro | Beautiful park setting with a European bistro feel |
| CUCINA urbana | Third Coast Provisions | Modern, upscale dining with a focus on seafood and inventive dishes |
| Puesto | BelAir Cantina | Known for tacos, tequilas, and a laid-back, fun atmosphere |
Discovering the culinary gems of Milwaukee that resonate with your San Diego favorites can elevate your dining experiences in your new city. For example, Sanford's approach to American cuisine with its innovative twist offers a dining sophistication reminiscent of Juniper & Ivy, ensuring a seamless transition for your fine-dining preferences. On the other hand, for those missing the casual, surf-inspired vibes of Oscar's Mexican Seafood, El Senorial in Milwaukee steps up with its authentic Mexican seafood offerings, promising a taste of the coast. Lastly, the transition from the iconic Hodad's in San Diego to Oscar's Pub & Grill in Milwaukee will satisfy any burger aficionado looking for that perfect combination of a juicy patty and a lively environment. In essence, Milwaukee's vibrant food scene is ready to welcome you with open arms and delicious dishes that reflect the flavors of your San Diego favorites.
Ready to start your move?
San Diego vs. Milwaukee Real Estate & Living Facts
When planning a move, evaluating real estate is crucial to understanding your new home. This comparison between San Diego and Milwaukee looks at housing costs, styles, and city life to inform your decision.
| Comparison | San Diego | Milwaukee |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Spanish Colonial | German and Polish Influence |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Ocean views, outdoor living spaces | Historic homes, lake proximity |
While San Diego offers a mild climate with ocean views increasing the median home price, Milwaukee showcases a more affordable housing market with historic homes and a unique blend of German and Polish architectural influences. The higher walkability and bikeability scores in Milwaukee reflect its compact, urban structure compared to San Diego's spread-out layout. For those drawn to outdoor living, San Diego's listings frequently highlight patios and decks, capitalizing on the city's year-round sunny weather. Conversely, Milwaukee's proximity to Lake Michigan and rich history are prominent features in its real estate listings, appealing to those who value heritage and natural water attractions.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Milwaukee, WI
1. Bay View: Known for its community feel, you'll find an abundance of pet-friendly cafes and a popular dog park, ensuring your furry friend will always feel welcome.
2. Third Ward: This neighborhood boasts stylish pet-friendly apartments and several boutiques like Third Ward Dog, where you can pamper your pooch with the latest trends.
3. Wauwatosa: Offering numerous parks and green spaces, such as the spacious Hart Park, it's a paradise for pets who love the outdoors, making walks and playdates a part of your daily routine.
San Diego vs. Milwaukee Weather Considerations
When planning a relocation, understanding how the weather contrasts between your current and future home is crucial. This guide aims to provide a detailed comparison between San Diego, CA, and Milwaukee, WI, focusing on various weather elements. It will assist you in setting realistic expectations and preparing adequately for your new environment.
San Diego, CA
Milwaukee, WI
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
San Diego, CA
Milwaukee, WI
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
San Diego, CA
Milwaukee, WI
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
San Diego, CA
Milwaukee, WI
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | San Diego | Milwaukee |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Earthquakes, Wildfires | Snowstorms, Cold Waves |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Moving from San Diego to Milwaukee brings a significant weather transition, particularly in winter when you'll exchange mild, comfortable temperatures for Milwaukee's cold and snowy winters. The nearly triple amount of annual snowfall in Milwaukee compared to San Diego's virtually nonexistent snow might require an update to your winter wardrobe and driving skills in snowy conditions. Additionally, Milwaukee experiences more humidity during the summer and fewer days of sunshine per year, which can affect outdoor activities and general lifestyle adjustments. Understand these differences to make your move as smooth as possible.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from San Diego to Milwaukee
When planning a move from one city to another, comparing financial aspects is crucial. This comparison will shed light on what to expect in terms of living costs, taxes, and income when moving from San Diego to Milwaukee. Understanding these variables can significantly impact your economic adjustment and quality of life in your new home.
| Comparison | San Diego | Milwaukee |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $93,042 | $46,637 |
| Cost of Living Index | 132.3 | 101.9 |
| State Income Tax | 13.3 | 7.65 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.77 | 2.17 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 7.75 | 5.60 |
| Top 3 Industries | Defense/Military, Tourism, International Trade | Manufacturing, Healthcare, Financial Services |
| Affluence | Moderately prosperous | Moderately affluent |
| Poverty | Moderate | Significant |
| Homelessness | High | Moderate |
Moving from San Diego to Milwaukee will bring about significant financial changes in your life. For starters, the average household income in Milwaukee is about half that of San Diego, which might seem alarming. However, this difference is balanced by Milwaukee's considerably lower cost of living index, making everyday expenses more manageable. Milwaukee's state and sales tax rates are lower, too, offering some relief despite the higher property tax rate. The economic landscapes differ greatly, with San Diego thriving on its defense, tourism, and trade industries while Milwaukee is bolstered by manufacturing, healthcare, and financial services. These contrasts illustrate the economic adjustments you'll need to make but also highlight new opportunities for growth and stability in Milwaukee.
San Diego vs. Milwaukee Political & Religious Comparison
This comparison offers a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents between San Diego & Milwaukee, aimed at helping you understand the community you’re moving into.
| San Diego | Milwaukee | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Leans Democratic | Leans Democratic |
| Local Politics | Moderate, with a focus on environmental issues and cross-border relations | Progressive with a strong emphasis on urban development and social programs |
| Religion | Diverse, with Christianity being predominant alongside other faiths | Christianity dominant, significant Catholic presence, alongside other faiths |
Despite both San Diego and Milwaukee leaning Democratic, their local political landscapes have unique priorities shaped by their individual challenges and demographics. In San Diego, the political scene is moderated with a notable focus on environmental sustainability and relations with Mexico due to its geographical location. Meanwhile, Milwaukee's politics are characterized by progressive commitments, especially regarding urban redevelopment and bolstering social welfare programs. Religion in both cities shows a strong Christian majority, but Milwaukee is distinguished by a particularly significant Catholic community. Understanding these nuances will help you grasp the communal atmosphere and values in your new home.
San Diego vs. Milwaukee Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from one city to another involves adjusting to a host of changes, including getting around. This guide aims to ease your transition by comparing the traffic and transportation options between San Diego & Milwaukee. Understanding the differences can greatly affect your daily commute and traffic experiences, making your adaptation smoother.
| Comparison | San Diego | Milwaukee |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 25 | 22 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Possible but challenging | More challenging |
In both San Diego and Milwaukee, you'll find distinct transportation dynamics that could influence your decision on whether or not to keep a car. San Diego's slightly higher traffic congestion is balanced by a more robust public transit system, making it possible, though challenging, to navigate the city without a car. Milwaukee, with its lower congestion levels, might seem easier to drive in, but its public transit system scores slightly lower, meaning you'll potentially rely more on personal vehicle use. Consider your daily commute and how you prefer to travel when deciding on how to get around in your new city.
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