Best San Francisco to Milwaukee Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from San Francisco to Milwaukee and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,184 mile move from California to Wisconsin go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 21 San Francisco 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 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 San Francisco 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 Francisco to Milwaukee Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | OCD Moving Services LLC | 9.66 | 9.47 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 2 | About Time Moving Systems LLC | 9.33 | 9.33 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 3 | Bay - L.A. Express Moving | 9.32 | 9.49 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 4 | Careful Movers | 9.31 | 8.63 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 5 | Gorilla Movers Of Wisconsin Inc. | 9.30 | 9.31 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from San Francisco to Milwaukee
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,184 miles from San Francisco, CA to Milwaukee, WI will cost on average $3,638 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom San Francisco to Milwaukee move is roughly $8,784. 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 | $2,441 | 300 ft³ | 8.14 |
| 1 Bedroom | $3,638 | 450 ft³ | 8.09 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $6,027 | 750 ft³ | 8.04 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $8,784 | 1100 ft³ | 7.99 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $12,697 | 1600 ft³ | 7.94 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $14,194 | 1800 ft³ | 7.89 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Milwaukee to San Francisco guide.
Compare the 5 Best San Francisco to Milwaukee 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) |
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) |
Bay - L.A. Express Moving
8 22nd St
San Francisco, CA, 94107
About Bay - L.A. Express Moving
Bay-L.A. Express Moving is a professional moving company that serves Los Angeles, San Francisco, and the entire Bay Area. Specializing in...
Services
- Long-distance moving
- Small relocation
- Full packing services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1396171 / 530464 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 2 |
| Registered Drivers | 3 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 60,000 (2022) |
Careful Movers
3641 Haven Ave C
Menlo Park, CA, 94025
About Careful Movers
With almost two decades of expertise and experience in the moving industry, Menlo Park-based Careful Movers promises stress-free, on-time, and on-budget...
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Office Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1464935 / 553377 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 14 |
| Registered Drivers | 14 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 90,000 (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) |
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 Francisco vs. Milwaukee Neighborhood Comparison
When relocating from San Francisco, CA to Milwaukee, WI, one challenge you might face is finding a new neighborhood that feels like home. This guide compares popular neighborhoods in San Francisco, CA with Milwaukee, WI to help you familiarize yourself with your new city by using what's already familiar to you. We'll match San Francisco's top neighborhoods with their Milwaukee counterparts based on vibe, amenities, and community feel.
| San Francisco | Milwaukee | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| The Mission | Bay View | Diverse, vibrant community |
| Nob Hill | Yankee Hill | Historic charm, upscale living |
| SOMA (South of Market) | Walker’s Point | Industrial, artsy with lofts |
| Hayes Valley | East Town | Trendy shops, arts culture |
| Pacific Heights | Shorewood | Affluent, lakefront community |
| Marina District | Third Ward | Stylish, with waterfront views |
| Haight-Ashbury | Riverwest | Bohemian, diverse population |
| North Beach | Brady Street | Eclectic mix, Italian influence |
| Castro | Walker's Point again | LGBTQ+-friendly area |
| Richmond District | Washington Heights | Residential, cultural mix |
For those moving from San Francisco's iconic neighborhoods, Milwaukee offers intriguing parallels. Those who adore the artistic and tech-forward vibe of SOMA will find a similar allure in Walker's Point, where converted warehouses now serve as cutting-edge lofts and galleries. If you love strolling through the Marina District, admiring the waterfront and posh boutiques, Milwaukee's Third Ward will impress you with its stylish shops and scenic riverwalk. Haight-Ashbury's bohemian charm is mirrored in Riverwest, where a tapestry of live music venues and community gardens paint a vibrant cultural mosaic. And for the epicureans who revel in the Mission's culinary diversity, Bay View's eclectic dining scene—from farm-to-table restaurants to classic diners—promises a seamless gastronomic transition. Each Milwaukee neighborhood offers unique parks, restaurants, and local sights that pay homage to their San Francisco counterparts while introducing you to the distinct flavor of your new home.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from San Francisco to Milwaukee
Moving from one city to another is a significant life decision, filled with both excitement and challenges. This comparison aims to offer an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from San Francisco, CA to Milwaukee, WI, helping you weigh the pros and cons through visual charts. It's designed to guide you in making an informed choice about this major transition.
San Francisco, CA- High living costs
- Traffic congestion
- Dense population
- Competitive job market
Milwaukee, WI- More affordable
- Less traffic
- Less crowded
- Emerging job opportunities
Milwaukee, WI- Smaller tech community
- Colder winters
- Less diversity
- Fewer landmarks
San Francisco, CA- Vibrant tech scene
- Mild climate
- Cultural diversity
- Iconic landmarks
Relocating from San Francisco, CA, to Milwaukee, WI, offers an intriguing change in lifestyle. While you might miss the buzz of the Bay Area's tech scene, Milwaukee's emerging job market in tech and other industries provides exciting opportunities for growth and innovation. The transition will also introduce you to Milwaukee's rich cultural scene, with unique establishments like the Milwaukee Art Museum and cozy spots such as Colectivo Coffee that dot the city. Although Milwaukee's winters are markedly colder than San Francisco's mild climate, the variety of seasonal activities, from ice skating at Red Arrow Park to winter festivals, ensures there's always something to look forward to. This move invites you to a world of new experiences, blending the comfort of affordability with the adventure of exploring Milwaukee's vibrant neighborhoods and welcoming community.
San Francisco vs. Milwaukee Food Guide
As you plan your move, understanding how food plays into the local culture of your new home is crucial. In this guide, we’ll compare the local cuisine between San Francisco & Milwaukee to help you get a taste of the food scene you’re moving into.
| San Francisco | Milwaukee | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Sourdough bread | Beer Cheese Soup |
| Most popular meat dish | Cioppino | Bratwurst |
| Most popular street food item | Mission Burrito | Fried Cheese Curds |
| Most popular vegan food | Jackfruit Tacos | Vegan Brat |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
San Francisco and Milwaukee offer unique dining experiences central to their local culture. San Francisco, known for its sourdough bread and sustainable seafood dishes like Cioppino, boasts a vibrant foodie scene with high concentration on fitness and health, evident in its plethora of vegan options and fitness-conscious restaurants. Trendy neighborhoods like Mission District and the Embarcadero showcase this diversity within the culinary realm. Milwaukee, celebrated for its Beer Cheese Soup and Bratwurst, might not match San Francisco's level of health conscientiousness but has its charm with an emerging food scene focused on local and hearty midwestern fare. The city's historic Third Ward and Walker's Point areas are great places to explore these local flavors, with restaurants like Mader's providing a traditional German dining experience that's hard to find elsewhere.
San Francisco vs. Milwaukee Restaurant Comparison
Food significantly contributes to the feeling of home in a new city. Our restaurant comparison aims to ease your transition from San Francisco to Milwaukee by matching your favorite eateries with Milwaukee's vibrant dining scene. Explore this guide to discover your next favorite spot, making the move feel less daunting and more like an exciting new chapter.
| San Francisco | Milwaukee | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| State Bird Provisions | Sanford | Inventive New American dishes |
| Zuni Café | Bacchus | Classic fine dining experience |
| Tartine Bakery | Amilinda | Exceptional baked goods and European flavors |
| Nopa | Odd Duck | Focus on local, sustainable cuisine |
| La Taqueria | BelAir Cantina | Fusion and traditional fare with a lively atmosphere |
| Swan Oyster Depot | St. Paul Fish Company | Fresh seafood in a casual setting |
| Slanted Door | Mekong Café | Authentic Southeast Asian flavors |
| Foreign Cinema | Movie Tavern by Marcus | Unique dining and movie experience |
| R&G Lounge | DanDan | Exceptional Chinese-American dishes |
| Bi-Rite Creamery | Kopp's Frozen Custard | Iconic dessert spot with a local twist |
Exploring Milwaukee's dining scene can feel like a culinary adventure reminiscent of what San Francisco offers. For instance, fans of State Bird Provisions' innovative approach to American cuisine will find themselves at home in Sanford's hands, indulging in dishes that challenge and delight the palate in equal measure. On the casual side, La Taqueria's counterparts in Milwaukee, like BelAir Cantina, serve up a vibrant atmosphere along with their fusion and traditional dishes. Additionally, R&G Lounge enthusiasts who crave that authentic Chinese-American flavor will be pleasantly surprised by the dishes at DanDan, where traditional recipes meet Modern American influences, ensuring that every meal is an exploration of cultures. By diving into Milwaukee's diverse and rich culinary offerings, you'll find not just a replacement for your old favorites but potentially new staples that make Wisconsin feel like home.
Ready to start your move?
San Francisco vs. Milwaukee Real Estate & Living Facts
When planning a move, understanding the real estate landscape is crucial. This comparison aims to enlighten you on the key differences and similarities between San Francisco and Milwaukee in terms of housing, including cost, architecture, and lifestyle.
| Comparison | San Francisco | Milwaukee |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Victorian and Modern | German and Polish Influence |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Views, Tech-friendly, Sustainable | Family-friendly, Spacious yards, Affordability |
San Francisco and Milwaukee offer distinct living experiences reflected in their real estate markets. San Francisco, known for its Victorian homes and high tech accommodations, demands a premium, both in buying and renting. Moreover, its urban lifestyle score and walkability reflect a city designed for those who love to live in the heart of tech and culture, with amenities and attractions all within reach. Milwaukee, by contrast, presents an affordable option with a focus on family-friendly features and spacious living. The architecture in Milwaukee is heavily influenced by its German and Polish history, providing a unique aesthetic. For those who prioritize affordability and a slower pace of life without sacrificing urban benefits, Milwaukee might be the right choice.
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 Francisco vs. Milwaukee Weather Considerations
When planning a move from one city to another, understanding how the weather compares is crucial. This comparison between San Francisco, CA and Milwaukee, WI highlights key weather differences to prepare you for the transition. It's important to know what kind of climate and weather changes to expect as you relocate.
San Francisco, CA
Milwaukee, WI
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
San Francisco, CA
Milwaukee, WI
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
San Francisco, CA
Milwaukee, WI
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
San Francisco, CA
Milwaukee, WI
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | San Francisco | Milwaukee |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Earthquakes, Wildfires | Snowstorms, Cold Waves |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Transitioning from San Francisco's mild weather to Milwaukee's distinct seasons will be noticeable. San Francisco boasts a cooler summer and milder winters with minimal temperature extremes, whereas Milwaukee experiences hot summers and cold, snowy winters. The significantly higher annual snowfall in Milwaukee compared to San Francisco's virtually nonexistent snowfall means preparing for winter weather operations such as snow removal. Additionally, the different natural disaster risks – from earthquakes and wildfires in San Francisco to snowstorms and cold waves in Milwaukee – require a shift in emergency preparedness strategies.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from San Francisco to Milwaukee
When considering a move from one city to another, it's crucial to grasp how your financial situation might change. This comparison of San Francisco and Milwaukee regarding money and finance highlights key economic metrics that could impact your budget and lifestyle. Understanding these differences ensures you're well-prepared for your relocation.
| Comparison | San Francisco | Milwaukee |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $121,826 | $46,637 |
| Cost of Living Index | 164 | 101.9 |
| State Income Tax | 9.3 | 7.65 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.6 | 2.17 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 8.5 | 5.6 |
| Top 3 Industries | Technology, Finance, Tourism | Manufacturing, Health Services, Education |
| Affluence | Very High | Modest |
| Poverty | Low | High |
| Homelessness | High | Moderate |
San Francisco is often characterized by its very high cost of living, nearly more than triple compared to Milwaukee. This is reflected not just in the general expenses but also in housing. While the average household income in San Francisco significantly surpasses that of Milwaukee, the state income and sales taxes are higher. Interestingly, despite its affluence, San Francisco faces a considerable homelessness issue, showcasing the city's vast income disparities. On the flip side, Milwaukee offers a more modest cost of living with its own challenges, including a higher poverty rate. However, its lower cost of living could provide a more comfortable lifestyle for those earning a moderate income.
San Francisco vs. Milwaukee Political & Religious Comparison
When planning your move from San Francisco, CA to Milwaukee, WI, it’s crucial to understand the local demographic nuances. This comparison offers a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents, highlighting the differences you'll encounter. This is a comparison of the politics between San Francisco & Milwaukee, aimed at helping you feel more prepared for your new home.
| San Francisco | Milwaukee | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Liberal/Democratic | Democratic, with conservative outskirts |
| Local Politics | Highly progressive policies | Mix of progressive urban policies and traditional values |
| Religion | Diverse, with a significant non-religious population | Christian dominance, but religiously diverse |
In both cities, Democratic leanings guide the local political atmosphere, but the extent of progressive policies in San Francisco far outweighs that of Milwaukee, reflecting a stark contrast in local politics. Milwaukee, while maintaining a Democratic base, is surrounded by more conservative regions, influencing its overall political discourse. Religious diversity is present in both locales, but San Francisco's significantly non-religious population contrasts with Milwaukee's stronger Christian presence. Understanding these nuances will aid in your transition, giving insight into the ideological and cultural fabric of your new home.
San Francisco vs. Milwaukee Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
This comparison between San Francisco & Milwaukee is designed to help you better understand what daily commutes and traffic are like. Moving from the West to the Midwest comes with changes in your transportation options and traffic experiences.
| Comparison | San Francisco | Milwaukee |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 34 | 22 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Yes, quite easily | It’s challenging, but possible in some areas |
While both cities have their unique traffic and transport profiles, moving from San Francisco to Milwaukee will notably shift your commuting experience. In San Francisco, you might be used to relying on a well-connected public transit system, including BART and MUNI, making it possible to navigate the city without a car. The higher traffic congestion reflects its urban layout and population density. On the other hand, Milwaukee offers a more relaxed commute with significantly less congestion, though you may find its public transit options less comprehensive, making car ownership more of a necessity for reaching outlying areas.
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