Best Portland to Milwaukee Movers + Moving Guide
Want help with the heavy lifting?
Trusted. Licensed. Insured.
If you're moving from Portland to Milwaukee and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,023 mile move from Oregon to Wisconsin go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 33 Portland 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 About Time Moving Systems LLC), 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 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 | 9.33 | 9.33 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 2 | Gorilla Movers Of Wisconsin Inc. | 9.30 | 9.31 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| 3 | Northwest Grace Moving | 9.29 | 9.28 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 4 | All Service Moving | 9.27 | 8.91 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| 5 | You Move Me Portland | 9.26 | 9.4 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Portland to Milwaukee
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,023 miles from Portland, OR to Milwaukee, WI will cost on average $3,502 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Portland to Milwaukee move is roughly $8,449. 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 | $2,349 | 300 ft³ | 7.83 |
| 1 Bedroom | $3,502 | 450 ft³ | 7.78 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $5,798 | 750 ft³ | 7.73 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $8,449 | 1100 ft³ | 7.68 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $12,210 | 1600 ft³ | 7.63 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $13,646 | 1800 ft³ | 7.58 |
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) |
Northwest Grace Moving
19764 Cypresswood St
Oregon City, OR, 97045
About Northwest Grace Moving
Founded in 2008, Northwest Grace Moving is a fully licensed, bonded, and insured Oregon moving company that serves the entire Portland...
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Senior Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1999959 / 755213 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 3 |
| Registered Drivers | 3 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 50,000 (2023) |
All Service Moving
This listing has been claimed by All Service Moving66 SE Morrison St
Portland, OR, 97214
About All Service Moving
Based in Portland, OR, Willamette Valley Moving has provided moving services in Oregon, Washington, and Idaho for over 18 years. By...
Services
- Residential Moving
- Commercial Moving
- Long Distance Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1863079 / 722865 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 80 |
| Registered Drivers | 113 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 1,186,786 (2022) |
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) |
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
When moving from one city to another, getting to know your new neighborhood is key. This guide helps you familiarize yourself with Milwaukee by comparing it to what you know and love about Portland. We've made a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Portland, OR & Milwaukee, WI to ease your transition. Let's find your new favorite spot!
| Portland | Milwaukee | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Pearl District | Historic Third Ward | Trendy, artsy vibe with upscale living |
| Alberta Arts District | Bay View | Eclectic, artistic community with vibrant street art |
| Ladd's Addition | Historic Water Tower | Charming, historic homes with a tight-knit community feel |
| Northwest District | East Town | Bustling with shops, dining, and cultural venues |
| Sellwood-Moreland | Shorewood | Family-friendly, walkable with boutique shopping |
| Mississippi | Walker's Point | Hip, with an array of bars and innovative eateries |
| Nob Hill | Lower East Side | Urban, youthful with an array of nightlife options |
| Hawthorne | Brady Street | Bohemian, known for unique shops and casual cafes |
| Division/Clinton | South Milwaukee | Engaged community, known for local dining |
| Goose Hollow | Washington Heights | Leafy, relaxed with historic character |
For those who've enjoyed the urban, artsy atmosphere of the Pearl District, Milwaukee's Historic Third Ward offers a similar vibe with its unique blend of art galleries, boutiques, and loft apartments. Meanwhile, fans of the vibrant street art and eclectic shops lining Alberta Arts District in Portland might find a new haven in Bay View, Milwaukee, known for its strong artsy community and lively events. If the cozy, family-oriented feel of Sellwood-Moreland has been your home, Shorewood in Milwaukee could be your next perfect neighborhood, boasting top-rated schools, a variety of local shops, and beautiful housing. Those moving from Portland will discover that Milwaukee's neighborhoods offer a diverse range of atmospheres, each with its unique charm and community spirit, ensuring you'll find a place that feels like home.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Portland to Milwaukee
Considering a move from Portland, OR, to Milwaukee, WI, demands a balanced perspective. To assist, we've designed charts to compare Portland's disadvantages with Milwaukee's advantages , and vice versa , offering an honest reflection of the good and bad attributes of this relocation.
Portland, OR- High living costs
- Frequent rainfall
- Heavier traffic
- Less snow
Milwaukee, WI- More affordable
- More sunny days
- Less congestion
- Distinct seasons
Milwaukee, WI- Smaller arts community
- Fewer natural landscapes
- Less coffee variety
- Colder winters
Portland, OR- Vibrant arts scene
- Outdoor recreation
- Coffee culture
- Mild winters
When considering the move from Portland, OR, to Milwaukee, WI, it's essential to weigh the benefits of Milwaukee's more affordable living and less congested roads against the colder winters and smaller arts community. Milwaukee boasts vibrant neighborhoods like the Historic Third Ward and Bay View, each offering unique dining experiences, such as at Bavarian Bierhaus or Café Centraal, alongside cultural sights like the Milwaukee Art Museum. While you might miss Portland's vast outdoor recreation, Milwaukee's lakefront and riverwalk provide ample outdoor activities, including the popular summer festival season. Embrace the change, and you'll find Milwaukee's distinct charm and thriving community offers a fresh perspective on urban living.
Portland vs. Milwaukee Food Guide
When moving to a new city, understanding the local food scene is essential as food is a core component of cultural identity and lifestyle. In this brief guide, we compare the local cuisine between Portland, OR & Milwaukee, WI to help you get a taste of what your new home has to offer.
| Portland | Milwaukee | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Dungeness Crab | Beer Brats |
| Most popular meat dish | Pork Belly | Fish Fry |
| Most popular street food item | Food Carts Specials | Cheese Curds |
| Most popular vegan food | Tempeh Reuben | Vegetarian Bratwurst |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
Portland, renowned for its vibrant street food culture, is heaven for foodies and vegans alike, with food carts and vegan options abound. Key neighborhoods like Alberta and the Pearl District are hotspot hubs for these culinary delights. On the contrary, Milwaukee, with its rich heritage reflected in its food, offers unique meat-centric dishes like beer brats and a legendary Friday fish fry. It's celebrated in such places as the historic Third Ward and Walker's Point, where food and tradition blend seamlessly. Establishments like Lakefront Brewery and Mader's provide not just a meal, but a deep dive into Milwaukee's culture.
Portland vs. Milwaukee Restaurant Comparison
Food significantly shapes our sense of place and belonging in a new city. This restaurant comparison aims to turn Milwaukee into your next culinary haven by comparing Portland's top restaurants to their Milwaukee counterparts, helping you find your new favorite spots .
| Portland | Milwaukee | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Le Pigeon | Sanford | High-end dining with innovative dishes |
| Pok Pok | EE-Sane | Authentic Thai cuisine with a similar cult following |
| Tusk | Odd Duck | A focus on small plates and seasonal ingredients |
| Screen Door | Maxie's | Southern comfort food with a lively atmosphere |
| Ken's Artisan Pizza | Zaffiro's | Famous for thin-crust pizza in a cozy setting |
| Apizza Scholls | Fixture Pizza | Artisanal pies with a creative flair |
| Nong's Khao Man Gai | Meat on the Street | Renowned for its authentic and comforting Asian dishes |
| Blue Star Donuts | Holey Moley | Doughnuts that are both novel and nostalgic |
| Le Chon | Amilinda | Spanish and Portuguese influences with a warm ambiance |
| Salt & Straw | Purple Door Ice Cream | Innovative ice cream flavors in a homey spot |
When you're yearning for the innovative and refined flavors you loved back in Portland, you'll find Sanford's high-end dining experience in Milwaukee a perfect match. Both Sanford and Le Pigeon offer dishes that are as inventive as they are delicious, ensuring each visit is memorable. On the more casual side, Odd Duck mirrors Tusk with its commitment to seasonal ingredients and small plates, perfect for diners who love to share and experience a variety of flavors. Meanwhile, those missing the sweet and creative doughnuts from Blue Star Donuts will find solace in Holey Moley's equally inventive offerings, proving that Milwaukee can satisfy even the most particular Portland palate.
Ready to start your move?
Portland vs. Milwaukee Real Estate & Living Facts
When considering a move, comparing real estate between Portland, OR, and Milwaukee, WI is crucial. Real estate encompasses more than just costs; it includes the lifestyle each city offers. This comparison aims to explore and highlight the differences and unique aspects of housing in these cities.
| Comparison | Portland | Milwaukee |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Craftsman | Bungalow |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Eco-friendly, Proximity to nature | Historic homes, Urban lifestyle |
The median home price and rent in Portland are significantly higher than in Milwaukee, reflecting Portland's higher living cost. However, what your money buys in each city varies greatly. Portland's homes often highlight eco-friendly features and proximity to nature, appealing to those who prioritize sustainability and outdoor activities. Milwaukee's real estate listings frequently boast historic homes and an urban lifestyle, suggesting a rich architectural heritage and a vibrant city life. Both cities offer reasonable walkability and bikeability, but Portland edges ahead, especially in bike-friendliness, reflecting its residents' preference for green commuting.
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 planning a move from one location to another, it's crucial to understand how the weather in your new city compares to what you're accustomed to. This guide is designed to highlight the weather differences between Portland, OR , and Milwaukee, WI , allowing you to better prepare for your relocation.
Portland, OR
Milwaukee, WI
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Portland, OR
Milwaukee, WI
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Portland, OR
Milwaukee, WI
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Portland, OR
Milwaukee, WI
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Portland | Milwaukee |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Earthquakes, Wildfires | Snowstorms, Tornadoes |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
While both cities enjoy similar summer temperatures, Milwaukee experiences colder winters with significantly more snowfall—averaging 52 inches compared to Portland's 4 inches. Milwaukee also boasts more sunny days per year, which can be a pleasant change for Portlanders used to fewer clear skies. However, winter in Milwaukee can be challenging, with lower temperatures and high snowfall that necessitates regular snow removal. In contrast, Portland's milder winters focus more on rainfall. For individuals with allergies, the predominant allergens differ slightly between the two cities, which might influence symptomatic responses during peak seasons. Understanding these climatic differences can guide your preparations for seasonal clothing, home maintenance, and overall lifestyle adjustments in your new city.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Portland to Milwaukee
When considering a move from Portland, OR to Milwaukee, WI, it's crucial to understand how the cost of living, taxes, and local economies compare between these locations. This knowledge will help you gauge how your financial situation may change and what to expect in your new home city.
| Comparison | Portland | Milwaukee |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $79,057 | $46,637 |
| Cost of Living Index | 111.3 | 101.9 |
| State Income Tax | 9.9 | 7.65 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.91 | 2.17 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 0 | 5.6 |
| Top 3 Industries | Technology, Manufacturing, Healthcare | Manufacturing, Healthcare, Financial Services |
| Affluence | Moderate | Varied |
| Poverty | Moderate | High |
| Homelessness | High | Noticeable |
Moving from Portland to Milwaukee will present significant differences in living costs and tax obligations. For instance, while Milwaukee offers a more affordable living index and lower average property tax rates, the average household income is substantially lower than in Portland. This juxtaposition affects lifestyle choices and available amenities. Additionally, the absence of sales tax in Portland versus the average rate in Milwaukee could influence your spending habits. Therefore, adjusting to the financial ecosystem of Milwaukee may require some planning and adaptation, particularly in budgeting for housing, taxes, and daily expenditures.
Portland vs. Milwaukee Political & Religious Comparison
This comparison of the politics between Portland & Milwaukee provides a quick snapshot of the political and religious makeup of residents in both cities, aiding those moving to understand their new community better.
| Portland | Milwaukee | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Mostly Liberal/Democratic | Liberal/Democratic with Conservative Suburbs |
| Local Politics | Progressive policies, environmental focus | Focus on urban development and education |
| Religion | Less religiously affiliated | Higher religious affiliation, diverse faith communities |
In both Portland and Milwaukee, you'll find a predominantly Liberal/Democratic political makeup, though Milwaukee's surrounding suburbs exhibit a more conservative stance. What sets these cities apart is their approach to local governance. Portland is well-known for its progressive policies, especially those related to environmental sustainability, and boasts numerous community initiatives aimed at maintaining its green ethos. Milwaukee, on the other hand, places a strong emphasis on urban development and education reform, with significant investments in public infrastructure and school programs designed to boost local talent and business. Religious affiliation varies notably between the two, with Portland being one of the least religious cities in the U.S., whereas Milwaukee hosts a more diverse religious landscape, including robust Catholic, Lutheran, and Jewish communities. This cultural and ideological diversity enhances Milwaukee's vibrant social fabric, contributing to a rich array of community-centered activities and faith-based services.
Portland vs. Milwaukee Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Portland, OR to Milwaukee, WI? It's crucial to understand how daily commuting and traffic patterns differ to seamlessly integrate into your new city. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Portland & Milwaukee aims to prepare you for what lies ahead.
| Comparison | Portland | Milwaukee |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 26 | 23 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without a car? | Yes, with some planning | More challenging but possible |
Portland, known for its strong public transportation system, makes it easier to live without a car compared to Milwaukee. With a score of 8 out of 10 for public transit availability, Portland offers extensive options like the TriMet buses and MAX light rail, facilitating movement across the city. Milwaukee, while having a reliable public transit system through Milwaukee County Transit System (MCTS), scores slightly lower in this aspect, indicating a bit more reliance on personal vehicles for daily commute. However, both cities exhibit uniqueness in their transit culture, with bike-friendly routes and community support for alternative modes of transportation.
Additional Resources
Portland Moving Services
Popular Portland to Wisconsin Routes
Popular Moving Resources
