Best Portland to Milwaukee Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Portland to Milwaukee and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 1,206 mile move from Maine to Wisconsin go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 21 Portland to Milwaukee moving companies and more than 20,000 movers nationwide to provide up-to-date and data-driven information about: which moving company to hire (our top recommendation is About Time Moving Systems LLC), how much the move costs (approximately $2,000 - $7,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Portland 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 Portland to Milwaukee Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | About Time Moving Systems LLC | 9.32 | 9.33 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 2 | Gorilla Movers Of Wisconsin Inc. | 9.30 | 9.31 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| 3 | You Move Me Portland | 9.26 | 9.4 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 4 | SC Moving Services | 9.18 | 9.35 | Active | Contact |
| 5 | Vacationland Moving | 9.02 | 9.22 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Portland to Milwaukee
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 1,206 miles from Portland, ME to Milwaukee, WI will cost on average $2,807 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Portland to Milwaukee move is roughly $6,751. 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 | $1,886 | 300 ft³ | 6.29 |
| 1 Bedroom | $2,807 | 450 ft³ | 6.24 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $4,640 | 750 ft³ | 6.19 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $6,751 | 1100 ft³ | 6.14 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $9,740 | 1600 ft³ | 6.09 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $10,867 | 1800 ft³ | 6.04 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Milwaukee to Portland guide.
Compare the 5 Best Portland to Milwaukee Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
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) |
You Move Me Portland
9442 SW Barbur Blvd
Portland, OR, 97219
About You Move Me Portland
You Move Me Portland is the mover your neighbors trust and recommend. In terms of reliability, customer service, and professionalism, this...
Services
- Local moving services
- Long-distance moving services
- Packing services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2388358 / 820850 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 10 |
| Registered Drivers | 8 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 45,000 (2020) |
SC Moving Services
25 Augusta St
South Portland, ME, 04106
About SC Moving Services
SC Moving Services is a family-owned and operated business located in South Portland, offering a wide range of services to Southern...
Services
- Cheap moving services
- Local moving services
- Long-distance moving services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2324405 / - Active Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 3 |
| Registered Drivers | 2 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 10,000 (2016) |
Vacationland Moving
This listing has been claimed by Vacationland Moving1484 Maine St Apt 1
Poland, ME, 04274
About Vacationland Moving
Vacationland Moving is a relocation specialist company based in Portland, Maine. Their services, which are considered some of the finest moving...
Services
- Local & Long Distance Moving
- Residential & Commercial Moving
- Packing & Unpacking Services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3540196 / 1181718 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
| Registered Drivers | 4 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 10,000 (2024) |
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.
Portland vs. Milwaukee Neighborhood Comparison
If you're planning a move from Portland, ME & Milwaukee, WI and are eager to understand your new city, comparing familiar neighborhoods is a great starting point. This guide will help you acquaint yourself with Milwaukee, WI by matching its neighborhoods to those you already know in Portland, ME, providing you with a sense of local character and amenities.
| Portland | Milwaukee | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| East End | Lower East Side | Vibrant nightlife and arts scene |
| Old Port | Historic Third Ward | Cobblestone streets, boutique shopping |
| West End | Bay View | Eclectic vibe, strong community spirit |
| Munjoy Hill | Riverwest | Creative community with local eateries |
| Deering Center | East Tosa | Family-friendly, tree-lined streets |
| Rosemont | Washington Heights | Charming residential, accessible to parks |
| Downtown | Downtown Milwaukee | Commercial center, urban living |
| Riverton | Brewer's Hill | Historic homes, emerging dining spots |
| Libbytown | Walker’s Point | Industrial history meets diverse dining |
If you enjoy the historic charm of Portland's East End, you're likely to feel at home in Milwaukee's Lower East Side, where you'll find a lively mix of art and culture set against a backdrop of popular venues like the Milwaukee Art Museum. Similarly, Old Port's cobblestone streets and boutique shopping directly mirror the character found in the Historic Third Ward, with its array of galleries and trendy eateries, such as the renowned Milwaukee Public Market. For those coming from the West End, Bay View offers an eclectic vibe, enhanced by popular local taverns and the serene Bay View Park, making it a perfect transition with its welcoming community spirit and frequent neighborhood events.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Portland to Milwaukee
This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Portland, ME to Milwaukee, WI . Whether you’re considering the move for better opportunities or lifestyle changes, these charts will help you understand the diverse aspects of both cities, aiding in your decision-making process.
Portland, ME- High housing costs
- Limited job opportunities
- Long winters
- Small city feel
Milwaukee, WI- Lower living expenses
- Diverse job market
- Milder climate
- Urban lifestyle
Milwaukee, WI- No ocean nearby
- Larger city pace
- Fewer local markets
- Higher crime rates
Portland, ME- Coastal scenery
- Small-town charm
- Farmers markets
- Lower Crime
Moving from Portland to Milwaukee presents some intriguing contrasts. While Portland offers the gorgeous coastal beauty of [Beals Island](https://visitmaine.com/places-to-go/downeast-acadia/beals-island) and charming neighborhoods like [Munjoy Hill](https://munjoyhillneighbors.org/), Milwaukee brings a host of amenities and attractions. The city boasts a vibrant job market and economic opportunities, catering to diverse fields with companies headquartered in the [Third Ward](https://historicthirdward.org/). Although you might miss the ocean and the serene [Eastern Promenade](https://portlandmaine.com/eastern-promenade/), you're compensated with [Lake Michigan’s](https://www.travelwisconsin.com/things-to-do/outdoor-fun/lakes-rivers/lake-michigan-204410) vastness and the lively [Milwaukee Art Museum](https://mam.org/). Relishing in Milwaukee’s culinary scene, you'll find everything from the famed [Milwaukee Public Market](https://milwaukeepublicmarket.org/) to standout restaurants like [Odd Duck](https://oddduckrestaurant.com/) and [La Merenda](https://www.lamerenda125.com/), ensuring diverse dining experiences.
Portland vs. Milwaukee Food Guide
Food is an integral part of local culture and a key aspect of experiencing life in a new location. To help you become acquainted with your new surroundings, here's a comparison of the local cuisine between Portland, ME & Milwaukee, WI. Understanding these culinary distinctions can enrich your transition from Portland to Milwaukee.
| Portland | Milwaukee | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Lobster Roll | Cheese Curds |
| Most popular meat dish | Clam Chowder | Bratwurst |
| Most popular street food item | Fish Tacos | Polish Sausage |
| Most popular vegan food | Portabella Sandwich | Jackfruit Tacos |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness (out of 10) | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks (out of 10) | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene (out of 10) | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly (out of 10) | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
As you make Milwaukee your new home, exploring the city's vibrant food scene can be an adventure in itself. The iconic cheese curds and bratwurst are must-tries, often found in establishments around the Historic Third Ward and popular events like the Milwaukee County Fair. For fine dining, Bacchus offers a culinary experience that reflects the city’s rich heritage. If street food excites you, the Polish sausage stands along Brady Street are not to be missed. With a lively food truck scene, especially around festivals at the lakefront, Milwaukee promises a delightful phase of culinary discovery.
Portland vs. Milwaukee Restaurant Comparison
Food is a major component of making an area feel like home. This restaurant comparison will help you discover your new favorite eateries by using your current Portland to Milwaukee favorites as a guide.
| Portland | Milwaukee | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Fore Street | Supper Club | Both offer farm-to-table experiences in a rustic setting. |
| Duckfat | Cafe Hollander | Belgian-inspired comfort foods with a perfect touch. |
| Eventide Oyster Co. | Harbor House | Offers fresh and innovative takes on seafood dishes. |
| Central Provisions | Odd Duck | Creative tapas style, focusing on unique flavor combinations. |
| Becky's Diner | George Webb | Nostalgic, hearty diner fare served all day. |
| Portland Lobster Company | St. Paul Fish Company | Fresh seafood with a lively, casual atmosphere. |
| Flatbread Company | Pizza Man | Stone-fired pizzas with organic, local ingredients. |
| Hot Suppa | Cafe Benelux | Cozy spot emphasizing comfort foods and Midwest charm. |
For those who value a fresh farm-to-table experience in a rustic setting, Supper Club in Milwaukee offers a dining atmosphere similar to the cherished Fore Street in Portland. If you're a fan of innovative seafood, Harbor House stands out with its inventive dishes reminiscent of the offerings at Eventide Oyster Co. In pursuit of daring flavor combinations, head to Odd Duck, where a myriad of small plates awaits, drawing parallels to Portland's Central Provisions. Pizza enthusiasts will appreciate Pizza Man, which offers stone-fired pies that emphasize organic, local ingredients, capturing the spirit of Flatbread Company perfectly.
Ready to start your move?
Portland vs. Milwaukee Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is one of the most essential aspects of a move. Knowing how the housing market and lifestyle compare in Portland, ME to Milwaukee, WI helps you make an informed decision. Understanding metrics like median cost , architecture , and neighborhood walkability equips you for a seamless transition.
| Comparison | Portland | Milwaukee |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Colonial | Craftsman |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Proximity to the waterfront | Historic homes |
When considering a move from Portland to Milwaukee, it's notable that the cost of housing is significantly lower in Milwaukee. You might find the architectural styles appealing as well: Portland’s colonial homes contrast with Milwaukee’s charming craftsman style residences. If you are an urban enthusiast, both cities offer comparable biking and walking opportunities, though Portland boasts a slightly higher walkability score. Additionally, each city's real estate market emphasizes unique draws, such as Portland's scenic waterfront proximity and Milwaukee's historical neighborhoods. These differences could greatly influence your decision depending on your lifestyle preferences.
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.
Portland vs. Milwaukee Weather Considerations
When moving from Portland, ME to Milwaukee, WI , it is essential to understand the weather differences . This knowledge helps you prepare for the climatic changes and adjust comfortably to your new environment. Here's a comparative analysis of the weather in these two cities.
Portland, ME
Milwaukee, WI
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Portland, ME
Milwaukee, WI
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Portland, ME
Milwaukee, WI
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Portland, ME
Milwaukee, WI
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Portland | Milwaukee |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Good |
| Natural Disasters | Nor'easters, Coastal Flooding | Tornadoes, Winter Storms |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
As you adjust from Portland to Milwaukee, you’ll notice that Milwaukee has slightly warmer summers and comparable winter temperatures, but it generally receives less snowfall. The rainfall disparity is significant, with Portland experiencing more annual precipitation. Despite the wetter climate in Portland, both cities enjoy a similar number of sunny days per year. Be prepared for different natural challenges between the two cities, with Milwaukee having a higher propensity for tornadoes, whereas Portland is more likely to have coastal flooding events. Understanding these differences in weather patterns will help you plan appropriately for everything from wardrobe choices to home preparedness.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Portland to Milwaukee
If you're considering a move from Portland, ME to Milwaukee, WI , it's crucial to understand how the cost of living and other financial aspects compare between these two locations, ensuring you are prepared for any changes in your financial situation.
| Comparison | Portland | Milwaukee |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $70,244 | $46,637 |
| Cost of Living Index | 116.5 | 101.9 |
| State Income Tax | 7.15 | 6.27 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 1.30 | 2.63 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 5.50 | 5.60 |
| Top 3 Industries | Healthcare, Education, Tourism | Manufacturing, Healthcare, Finance |
| Affluence | Upper middle class | Working class |
| Poverty | Low | Moderate |
| Homelessness | Minimal | Moderate |
Relocating from Portland to Milwaukee means adjusting to significant changes in economic dynamics. Milwaukee's cost of living is notably lower, which could mean more spending power for your dollar compared to Portland. However, you’ll also encounter a lower average household income, implying less overall earning potential. Interestingly, property taxes are higher in Milwaukee, which might offset some of the benefits of the lower cost of living. On a community level, Milwaukee’s manufacturing industry provides a unique economic backbone, distinct from Portland's focus on healthcare and tourism. These factors collectively influence the perception of affluence and poverty in each city, with Milwaukee experiencing higher poverty rates, impacting economic stability and social challenges differently compared to Portland.
Portland vs. Milwaukee Political & Religious Comparison
Exploring the demographic landscape is an important step when relocating. This guide provides a comparison of the politics between Portland & Milwaukee , offering a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents to help you better understand your new community.
| Portland | Milwaukee | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Liberal-leaning | Democratic-leaning |
| Local Politics | Progressive city council City Council | Strong mayor-council system |
| Religion | Religious but diverse, with a strong presence of non-religious individuals | Predominantly Christian, diverse religious communities |
When transitioning from Portland to Milwaukee, you will notice a shift in the political environment. While Portland is known for its liberal atmosphere, reflected in its progressive city council, Milwaukee also leans Democratic but operates under a robust mayor-council system. This difference in local politics may influence how community issues are addressed and what public projects take precedence. On the religious front, while both cities boast diverse communities, Milwaukee is predominantly Christian, with active congregations and faith-based initiatives contributing significantly to the local culture.
Portland vs. Milwaukee Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
When considering a move between cities, understanding traffic and transportation can make all the difference. This guide provides a comparison of traffic and transportation options between Portland, ME & Milwaukee, WI , helping you better anticipate your daily commute and adapt to local transit systems.
| Comparison | Portland | Milwaukee |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 20 | 23 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without a car? | Yes | Yes, but with some limitations |
Portland offers a relatively breezy commute with an average time of just 20 minutes, while Milwaukee's commute is only slightly longer. Despite this minor increase, Milwaukee experiences slightly more traffic congestion, scoring 5 out of 10, compared to Portland's 3. Both cities have viable public transit systems; however, Milwaukee offers a somewhat broader network with a score of 7 out of 10. You might find it fairly easy to get by without a car in both locations, though Milwaukee may present some limitations for car-free living. For more detailed information about public transit in Portland, visit their local public transit site, while Milwaukee's options can be explored through the Milwaukee County Transit System.
Additional Resources
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Popular Portland to Wisconsin Routes
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