Best Columbus to Milwaukee Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Columbus to Milwaukee and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 455 mile move from Ohio to Wisconsin go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 33 Columbus 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 Blue Men Moving LLC), how much the move costs (approximately $1,500 - $5,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Columbus 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.

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Best Columbus to Milwaukee Moving Companies

RankCompany NameRating QuestionAffordability IndexLicenseContact
1Blue Men Moving LLC9.569.71Authorized For Property, HHGContact
2About Time Moving Systems LLC9.329.33Authorized For HHGContact
3Gorilla Movers Of Wisconsin Inc.9.309.31Authorized For Property, HHGContact
4Manifest Shipping Llc9.189.35Authorized For HHGContact
5Moyer's Movers8.939.15Authorized For Property, HHGContact
Phone (800) 787-5428

Cost to Move from Columbus to Milwaukee

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 455 miles from Columbus, OH to Milwaukee, WI will cost on average $2,168 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Columbus to Milwaukee move is roughly $5,190. 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 SizeMoving CostVolume of Packed Items (ft³)$/ft³
Studio$1,460300 ft³4.87
1 Bedroom$2,168450 ft³4.82
2 Bedrooms$3,576750 ft³4.77
3 Bedrooms$5,1901100 ft³4.72
4 Bedrooms$7,4691600 ft³4.67
5+ Bedrooms$8,3131800 ft³4.62
*Please note: These Ohio to Wisconsin moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from Ohio & Wisconsin. The volume listed here represents the estimated cubic footage of your household items when packed and loaded into a moving truck. To determine the exact costs associated with your move, get a quote from a licensed OH to WI mover.
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Milwaukee to Columbus guide.

Compare the 5 Best Columbus to Milwaukee Movers

These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)

Blue Men Moving LLC Logo

Blue Men Moving LLC

Exceptional9.56/10
based on 1,226+ data points

10445 Blacklick-Eastern Rd NW

Pickerington, OH, 43147

About Blue Men Moving LLC

With locations in Seville and Akron, Blue Men Moving started its operations in 2011 with a mission of providing a superior...

Services

  • Local moving services
  • Long-distance moving services
  • Cross-country moving services

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/9/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3544037 / 1184394

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans4
Registered Drivers4
Total Annual Miles Moved78,500 (2022)
View Full Review
1
About Time Moving Systems LLC Logo

About Time Moving Systems LLC

Exceptional9.32/10
based on 2,396+ data points

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

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/9/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2525330 / 877057

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans4
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved50,000 (2022)
View Full Review
2
Gorilla Movers Of Wisconsin Inc. Logo

Gorilla Movers Of Wisconsin Inc.

Exceptional9.30/10
based on 2,029+ data points

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

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/9/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2627768 / 1031866

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans7
Registered Drivers14
Total Annual Miles Moved173,000 (2023)
View Full Review
3
Manifest Shipping Llc Logo

Manifest Shipping Llc

Exceptional9.18/10
based on 452+ data points

501 Southwick Pl

Trenton, OH, 45067

About Manifest Shipping Llc

Manifest Shipping LLC, based in Trenton, Ohio, is a trusted residential and commercial moving company founded in 2017. Serving central and...

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Commercial Moving
  • Long Distance Moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 8/10/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3050908 / 49758

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans3
Registered Drivers8
Total Annual Miles Moved46,740 (2022)
View Full Review
4
Moyer's Movers Logo

Moyer's Movers

Superb8.93/10
based on 455+ data points

Newark, OH, 43055

About Moyer's Movers

Moyer’s Movers has been moving families and businesses across Ohio since 2004. This locally owned company can handle all types of...

Services

  • Residential and commercial moving
  • Long-distance moves across Ohio
  • Full pack and unpack services

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2523566 / 885535

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans3
Registered Drivers4
Total Annual Miles Moved58,800 (2023)
View Full Review
5
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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.

Columbus vs. Milwaukee Neighborhood Comparison

Relocating can be a daunting experience, especially when moving to an unfamiliar city. To ease the transition, we've prepared a guide that makes use of Columbus, OH & Milwaukee, WI comparison of the local neighborhoods . This comparison is designed to help you find a Milwaukee neighborhood that resonates with the vibe and characteristics of your favorite Columbus area, making your move feel a bit more like coming home.

ColumbusMilwaukeeHow They're Similar
Short NorthEast SideVibrant arts scene, eclectic dining
German VillageHistoric Third WardCobblestone streets, historic architecture
ClintonvilleBay ViewCommunity focus, environmental consciousness
Upper ArlingtonWauwatosaFamily-friendly, upscale residential
Victorian VillageYankee HillHistoric homes, close-knit community
Italian VillageWalker’s PointRich in heritage, lively culinary scene
Brewery DistrictBrady StreetNightlife, unique brewpubs
Grandview HeightsShorewoodWalkable urban area, family-friendly amenities
FranklintonRiverwestArtistic community, indie businesses
DowntownDowntown MilwaukeeUrban living, entertainment options

For those moving from Columbus to Milwaukee, finding a neighborhood that matches your lifestyle and preferences is crucial for an easy transition. For instance, if you're enamored with the lively arts and eclectic dining scene of Short North, Milwaukee's East Side will feel like home, boasting a similar cultural vibrancy with venues like the Oriental Theatre and Colectivo Coffee. Fans of German Village's charming brick streets and historic atmosphere will appreciate the Historic Third Ward in Milwaukee, where the Milwaukee Public Market and Broadway Theatre Center highlight the blend of old and modern city life. Likewise, Clintonville residents passionate about community and sustainability will find Bay View a welcoming neighborhood, with its active environmental initiatives and popular local businesses like Outpost Natural Foods. These carefully paired neighborhoods ensure that no matter where you come from in Columbus, there's a place in Milwaukee with the community feel you've grown to love.

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Pros and Cons of Moving from Columbus to Milwaukee

Moving from Columbus, OH to Milwaukee, WI is a big step, reflecting both opportunities and challenges. This comparison aims to offer an honest reflection of Columbus, OH to Milwaukee, WI , focusing on the pros and cons of the relocation.

CONs
PROs
Columbus, OH iconColumbus, OH
  • Higher sales tax
  • Less snowfall
  • Smaller craft beer scene
  • Fewer waterfront activities
Milwaukee, WI iconMilwaukee, WI
  • Lower sales tax
  • More snowfall
  • Larger craft beer scene
  • More waterfront activities
Milwaukee, WI iconMilwaukee, WI
  • Less affordable housing
  • Colder winters
  • Smaller city vibe
  • Fewer dining options
Columbus, OH iconColumbus, OH
  • More affordable housing
  • Warmer winters
  • Bigger city amenities
  • Diverse dining options

Milwaukee, WI, boasts a vibrant waterfront scene with numerous activities along Lake Michigan such as sailing, fishing, and beach-going, notably at places like Bradford Beach. In contrast, Columbus, OH, while having the Scioto Mile, offers less in terms of large waterfront exploration. The craft beer scene in Milwaukee is also noteworthy, with well-known breweries such as Lakefront Brewery providing tours and tastings. On the flip side, Columbus's dining scene is incredibly diverse, featuring everything from upscale dining options in the Short North Arts District to the unique flavors found in the North Market. While Milwaukee's winters are significantly colder, offering a winter wonderland that's especially enchanting over the holiday season, Columbus offers a milder winter experience, appealing for those less enthused about snow.

Columbus vs. Milwaukee Food Guide

Local cuisine comparison between Columbus, OH & Milwaukee, WI is essential for those relocating for a slice of life in a new city. Food is not just sustenance but a deep dive into the culture and vibe of your future home. This guide aims to shed light on what your taste buds can expect after moving.

ColumbusMilwaukee
Most iconic local food itemBuckeye CandyBeer Brats
Most popular meat dishColumbus-style PizzaButter Burger
Most popular street food itemTaco TrucksCurds
Most popular vegan foodComfrey Corner Cafés Vegan ChiliPlant-based Beer Brats
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams
  • The Thurman Café
  • Schmidt’s Sausage Haus
  • Mader's
  • Leon's Frozen Custard
  • The SafeHouse
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

In Columbus, the food scene is diverse and vibrant, with an emphasis on local ingredients and a burgeoning street food scene. You'll find food trucks scattered throughout neighborhoods like Short North and German Village, offering everything from gourmet tacos to eclectic vegan dishes. On the other hand, Milwaukee's culinary landscape is deeply influenced by its German heritage, with beer brats and butter burgers as beloved staples. The city excels in comfort food with a modern twist, and the vegan movement is growing rapidly, particularly in areas like Bay View and Riverwest. Both cities have rich food cultures with something to offer every type of food enthusiast.

Columbus vs. Milwaukee Restaurant Comparison

Moving from Columbus, OH to Milwaukee, WI? This restaurant comparison will help bridge the gap between your old favorites and new discoveries, making the transition smoother by finding equivalent dining experiences in your new city.

ColumbusMilwaukeeWhat You'll Love
The Refectory Restaurant & BistroSanford RestaurantElegant dining with a focus on seasonal ingredients
Northstar CaféBeans & BarleyCasual and health-conscious eatery with a similar ethos
Lincoln Social RooftopThe OutsiderRooftop bar with an exciting vibe and great views
Hot Chicken TakeoverTomken’s Bar & GrillFamous for wings, offering a comfort food experience
Jeni’s Splendid Ice CreamsPurple Door Ice CreamCraft ice cream with inventive flavors
Thurman CafeOscar’s Pub & GrillBurgers that rival the best of Columbus’s offerings
Mitchell’s Ocean ClubHarbor HouseSeafood-centric fine dining with a fantastic water view
Marcella’sCentro CaféCozy Italian eatery with a similar charm and menu
Katzinger’s DelicatessenBenji’s Deli & RestaurantClassic deli providing a comforting taste of tradition
Wolf’s Ridge BrewingLakefront BreweryCraft beer and innovative pub fare in a communal atmosphere

For those who savor the blend of innovation and tradition in their dining experiences, this comparison sheds light on how Milwaukee mirrors Columbus's vibrant culinary scene. At Sanford Restaurant, like The Refectory Restaurant & Bistro in Columbus, you'll find a menu that celebrates seasonal ingredients, but with Milwaukee's unique flavor. Beans & Barley offers a comforting similarity to Northstar Café, focusing on healthy, wholesome meals that satisfy the soul. Ice cream aficionados will feel right at home at Purple Door Ice Cream, where the commitment to quality and creativity matches that of Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams. And for those who enjoy a good burger or seafood, Oscar’s Pub & Grill and Harbor House in Milwaukee rise to the occasion, ensuring that no matter where you are, the essence of great dining remains unchanged.

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Columbus vs. Milwaukee Real Estate & Living Facts

Real estate is one of the most important aspects of a move. It's important to know how the two cities compare in terms of housing costs, architectural styles, and lifestyle. Here's a detailed comparison between Columbus, OH and Milwaukee, WI to assist in your decision-making process.

ComparisonColumbusMilwaukee
Typical Architecture StyleColonial, RanchVictorian, Bungalow
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingSpacious yards, family-friendlyProximity to Lake Michigan, vibrant neighborhoods

When considering a move from Columbus, OH to Milwaukee, WI, it's intriguing to note the differences in housing affordability and lifestyle. Milwaukee presents a more budget-friendly housing market with a median home price significantly lower than Columbus's. Architecture enthusiasts moving to Milwaukee will appreciate the city's rich Victorian and Bungalow styles, showcasing Milwaukee's historical charm. The city's higher walkability and bikeability scores reflect Milwaukee's compact urban layout and commitment to accessible transportation options. Furthermore, real estate listings in Milwaukee frequently highlight proximity to Lake Michigan and the city's vibrant neighborhoods, offering a bustling urban lifestyle that's slightly more pronounced than in Columbus. These distinctions make Milwaukee an appealing destination for those seeking a lifestyle enriched by historical architecture, accessible urban amenities, and a touch of lakeside living.

Pet-friendly neighborhoods background image

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.

Columbus vs. Milwaukee Weather Considerations

When planning a move from Columbus, OH to Milwaukee, WI, it's crucial to compare the climates of your current and future homes. Understanding how the weather differs will prepare you for what to expect. This guide aims to highlight the key weather variations between Columbus and Milwaukee to help you adapt more easily to your new environment.

Summer icon
85/65

Columbus, OH

79/61

Milwaukee, WI

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
39/24

Columbus, OH

30/18

Milwaukee, WI

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
39

Columbus, OH

34.53

Milwaukee, WI

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
22

Columbus, OH

47

Milwaukee, WI

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonColumbusMilwaukee
Air QualityGoodModerate
Natural DisastersSevere Storms, TornadoesSevere Storms, Winter Weather
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

Moving from Columbus to Milwaukee, you’ll notice a significant change in winter temperatures and snowfall. Milwaukee's winters are harsher, with more snow and lower temperatures, which is critical for your wardrobe and commuting preparations. While both cities have similar humidity levels and wrestle with pollen and mold allergies, Milwaukee enjoys more sunny days. This could mean additional opportunities for outdoor activities despite its colder climate. Adjusting to the difference in air quality will also be important for those sensitive to changes in the environment.

Ready to start your move?

Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Columbus to Milwaukee

When contemplating a move from Columbus, OH to Milwaukee, WI, understanding how your financial situation might change is crucial. This comparison aims to illuminate the key money and finance differences you'll encounter, aiding in a smoother transition.

ComparisonColumbusMilwaukee
Avg. Household Income$58,202$46,637
Cost of Living Index92101.9
State Income Tax2.85 to 4.7974 to 7.65
Avg. Property Tax2.062.68
Avg. Sales Tax7.55.6
Top 3 IndustriesEducation, Healthcare, FinanceManufacturing, Healthcare, Education
AffluenceModerately affluentLess affluent
PovertyModerateHigh
HomelessnessLowLow to moderate

Comparing the financial landscapes of Columbus and Milwaukee offers insight into the potential for different living experiences. Columbus residents enjoy a significantly higher average household income, possibly due to the concentration of industries such as finance and healthcare. Milwaukee's lower cost of living might seem advantageous at first glance, but it also reflects a challenging economic situation with a higher poverty rate. The sales tax in Milwaukee is markedly lower, which could be beneficial for day-to-day expenses. Still, the higher state income and property taxes indicate a steeper tax burden. Understanding these nuances will help you prepare financially for the move.

Columbus vs. Milwaukee Political & Religious Comparison

When planning a move from Columbus, OH to Milwaukee, WI, understanding the local dynamics of your new city can be incredibly helpful. This comparison aims to give you a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents between Columbus & Milwaukee , providing a deeper insight into what to expect in your new home.

ColumbusMilwaukee
Political Make-upLean DemocraticStrongly Democratic
Local PoliticsModerately progressiveMore liberal
ReligionMixed, with a Christian majorityMixed, with a Christian majority but more diverse religious presence

In Columbus, the political environment leans Democratic, reflecting a moderately progressive stance on many issues. However, as you move to Milwaukee, you'll find a more decidedly liberal vibe, especially in local politics, emphasizing a stronger Democratic leaning. Both cities display a diverse religious landscape; however, Milwaukee presents an even broader spectrum of religious communities, including larger Jewish, Muslim, and Buddhist communities compared to Columbus. This diversity not only contributes to the unique cultural fabric of Milwaukee but might also provide a richer variety of community and religious events, adding to the vibrancy of your new home.

Columbus vs. Milwaukee Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving from Columbus, OH to Milwaukee, WI offers a unique opportunity to compare the daily commute and traffic jam scenarios in these bustling cities. This comparison will help you better understand what the daily commute and traffic is like between Columbus & Milwaukee, assisting you in planning your move and daily life in your new city.

ComparisonColumbusMilwaukee
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)2322
Traffic Congestion 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦
Availability of Public Transit 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇
Can you get by without car?ChallengingFeasible

In Columbus, daily commutes average around 23 minutes, indicating a relatively moderate pace of life. The city scores a 6 out of 10 in traffic congestion, hinting at occasional bottlenecks, especially during rush hours. Public transit options, while present, are rated a moderate 5 out of 10, suggesting that having a car could significantly ease daily routines. Conversely, Milwaukee offers a slightly quicker average commute time of 22 minutes and less traffic congestion with a score of 4 out of 10, making for smoother travel. The availability of public transit in Milwaukee is rated higher at 6 out of 10, providing more efficient alternatives to car travel. Living in Milwaukee without a car is more feasible than in Columbus, thanks to a better public transit system and the city's layout.

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