Best Milwaukee to Salinas Movers + Moving Guide
Want help with the heavy lifting?
If you're moving from Milwaukee to Salinas and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,278 mile move from Wisconsin to California go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 17 Milwaukee to Salinas 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 $2,500 - $9,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Milwaukee compared to Salinas. 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 Milwaukee to Salinas 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 | The Go To Guys, LLC | 9.07 | 8.7 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
4 | Mod Movers | 8.79 | 8.1 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
5 | Poulos Moving Systems | 8.34 | 8.48 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
Cost to Move from Milwaukee to Salinas
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,278 miles from Milwaukee, WI to Salinas, CA will cost on average $3,718 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Milwaukee to Salinas move is roughly $8,979. 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 | $2,494 | 300 ft³ | 8.31 |
1 Bedroom | $3,718 | 450 ft³ | 8.26 |
2 Bedrooms | $6,160 | 750 ft³ | 8.21 |
3 Bedrooms | $8,979 | 1100 ft³ | 8.16 |
4 Bedrooms | $12,981 | 1600 ft³ | 8.11 |
5+ Bedrooms | $14,514 | 1800 ft³ | 8.06 |


Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Salinas to Milwaukee guide.
Compare the 5 Best Milwaukee to Salinas 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) |

The Go To Guys, LLC
Bayside, WI, 53217
About The Go To Guys, LLC
The Go To Guys, LLC is a seasoned moving company with 30 years of experience in the industry. Based in the...
Services
- Cheap moving
- Local moving
- Long-distance moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3760134 / 1338262 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 3 |
Registered Drivers | 3 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 1 (2024) |

Mod Movers
1118 Airport Way STE 100
Monterey, CA, 93940
About Mod Movers
Mod Movers is one of the top-rated moving companies in Northern California. This locally-owned business in Monterey operates throughout the Golden...
Services
- Local Movers
- Long Distance Movers
- Interstate Movers
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2983026 / 1294330 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 4 |
Registered Drivers | 4 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 20,000 (2023) |

Poulos Moving Systems
222 Commission St
Salinas, CA, 93901
About Poulos Moving Systems
A locally owned and operated moving company that started in 2009, Poulos Moving Systems is proud to continue providing reliable and...
Services
- Local Moves
- Office Moves
- Intrastate Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2618126 / 1016606 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 9 |
Registered Drivers | 6 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 39,036 (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.
Milwaukee vs. Salinas Neighborhood Comparison
Moving to a new city can be an exciting yet daunting process. One way to ease the transition is by comparing the local neighborhoods between your current and future home. This guide is specifically designed to help those moving from Milwaukee, WI to Salinas, CA find their perfect new neighborhood by highlighting similarities with their old one.
Milwaukee | Salinas | How They're Similar |
---|---|---|
Third Ward | Old Town Salinas | Vibrant arts scene, shopping |
Bay View | South Salinas | Close-knit community, historic homes |
East Side | Maple Park | Lush parks, educational institutions |
Walker's Point | Laurelwood | Diverse dining options, nightlife |
Wauwatosa | Creekbridge | Family-friendly, modern amenities |
Riverwest | North Salinas | Creative community, affordable living |
Brewer's Hill | Los Olivos | Historic charm, community-focused |
Historic Mitchell Street | East Salinas | Rich cultural traditions, vibrant markets |
Shorewood | Harrod | Upscale, quiet residential area |
Washington Heights | Mission Park | Architectural beauty, serene living |
For those moving from Milwaukee's diverse and dynamic neighborhoods, finding a comparable vibe in Salinas is easier than you might think. For instance, if you love the artistic and lively atmosphere of Milwaukee's Third Ward, with its unique blend of historic warehouses turned into chic lofts, galleries, and eateries, you'll find a similar spirit in Old Town Salinas. This neighborhood boasts an impressive arts scene, including the Salinas City Center, and historical sites alongside modern shopping and dining options. Bay View residents, known for their strong community bonds and historic homes, will appreciate South Salinas for its similar small-town feel within a city, featuring well-preserved residences and a warm community. Meanwhile, East Siders used to the lush parklands of Milwaukee will enjoy Maple Park in Salinas, where educational institutions and green spaces offer a tranquil urban retreat.

Things to Do in Salinas
- Explore Pinnacles National Park.
- Enjoy wine tasting at River Road Wine Trail.
- Visit the Monterey County Agricultural & Rural Life Museum.
- Stroll along Salinas River Walk.
- Attend California Rodeo Salinas.
- Shop at Oldtown Salinas.
- Take a class at Heidi’s Studio.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Milwaukee to Salinas
Moving across the country can be a daunting task, filled with both opportunities and challenges. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Milwaukee, WI to Salinas, CA . By juxtaposing the cons with the pros and vice versa, you'll gain a balanced perspective on what to expect from this significant life change.
- Colder Winters
- Less Diversity
- Smaller City
- Higher Crime Rate
- Milder Climate
- Greater Diversity
- Larger Population
- Lower Crime Rate
- Higher Cost of Living
- Scarce Housing
- Fewer Parks
- Less Craft Beer Variety
- Rich Cultural Heritage
- More Affordable Housing
- Lots of Green Space
- Lively Beer Scene
Moving from Milwaukee to Salinas introduces you to a climate that is more forgiving and conducive to outdoor activities year-round. Imagine leaving behind the frosty winters for Salinas’s mild weather, perfect for visiting the local parks or exploring the Salinas Valley without needing to bundle up. While you might miss the vibrant, diverse beer scene Milwaukee offers, Salinas compensates with its rich diversity and lower crime rates, offering a safer environment. The cost of living might be higher, and housing more competitive, but the benefits of living in a culturally rich and geographically diverse area like Salinas, close to both the mountains and the sea, make the decision worthwhile. Popular areas such as Steinbeck Center or the bustling Main Street, filled with unique restaurants like Patria, are just a couple of the local jewels that await your discovery.
Milwaukee vs. Salinas Food Guide
This comparison of the local cuisine between Milwaukee & Salinas highlights the vibrant food scenes that significantly contribute to the cultural fabric of each city. Understanding these culinary landscapes will enrich your relocating experience and get you excited about the flavors awaiting in your new home.
Milwaukee | Salinas | |
---|---|---|
Most iconic local food item | Cheese Curds | Artichoke dishes |
Most popular meat dish | Bratwurst | Tri-tip barbecue |
Most popular street food item | Fried Fish | Tacos |
Most popular vegan food | Vegetable Panini | Salad Bowls |
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In Salinas, a notable shift towards healthier and fresher food items reflects the city's abundance of agriculture and its close proximity to California's rich farmlands. The local cuisine is characterized by an extensive use of fresh produce, with artichoke dishes standing out as a popular and iconic option, directly sourced from nearby fields. Vegan and health-conscious eaters will find Salinas accommodating, especially with its range of salad bowls that feature an array of locally sourced vegetables and fruits. Tacos, reflecting the city's vibrant Mexican influence, are a street food staple, found in numerous food trucks and roadside eateries throughout the city, particularly in the bustling Oldtown Salinas. Restaurants like Fish Fresca and Monterey Street offer a glimpse into the region's seafood and farm-to-table dining options, encapsulating the Salinas experience in every bite.
Milwaukee vs. Salinas Restaurant Comparison
Moving from Milwaukee, WI to Salinas, CA, finding comfort in the local food scene is crucial. This restaurant comparison is designed to help you discover your next favorite spots, drawing parallels between the beloved eateries of Milwaukee and their counterparts in Salinas. Whether you’re seeking high-end dining, casual bites, or iconic meals, we’ve got you covered.
Milwaukee | Salinas | What You'll Love |
---|---|---|
Ardent | Patria | Offers an upscale dining experience with a focus on exquisite, inventive cuisine. |
Sanford | Giorgio's | Known for fine dining and a meticulously crafted menu, akin to Sanford's attention to detail. |
Honeypie | Eagle Restaurant | Offers homestyle comfort food in a quirky, welcoming atmosphere, similar to Honeypie’s charm. |
Odd Duck | Farm Fresh Deli | Celebrates local, seasonal ingredients with a creative menu much like Odd Duck’s philosophy. |
La Merenda | Rancho Cielo's Drummond Culinary Academy | Provides a unique dining experience with a focus on international, farm-to-table dishes. |
Leon's Frozen Custard | Rita's | While primarily known for Italian Ice, Rita's offers frozen custard that reminds one of Leon's iconic treats. |
Crazy Water | Growers Pub | Serves hearty, American cuisine in a historic setting, echoing Crazy Water's cozy and rustic vibe. |
Bryant’s Cocktail Lounge | XL Public House | Offers a wide range of craft beers and spirits in a comfortable, retro setting, much like Bryant’s. |
Transfer Pizzeria Café | Giorgino's | Delivers authentic, handcrafted pizza, capturing the essence of Transfer Pizzeria Café’s Italian specialties. |
Blue's Egg | First Awakenings | Known for their hearty, innovative breakfast and brunch options, a parallel to Blue's Egg’s beloved menu. |
As you transition from the vibrant, diverse food scene of Milwaukee to the fresh, innovative flavors of Salinas, several local spots stand ready to welcome you with open arms. For instance, if the artisanal, globally-inspired dishes of Odd Duck have been your go-to, Farm Fresh Deli in Salinas will fill that void with its commitment to seasonal, local produce and creative culinary explorations. On the other end of the spectrum, if Leon's Frozen Custard was a summertime staple, Rita’s in Salinas offers a taste of nostalgia with their frozen custard varieties. Making these new discoveries will not only satiate your appetite but also help you feel more at home in Salinas, as you find connections to your Milwaukee favorites in these thoughtfully paired establishments.

Ready to start your move?
Milwaukee vs. Salinas Real Estate & Living Facts
When considering a move, it's essential to compare the real estate landscapes of your current and future cities. This comparison between Milwaukee, WI, and Salinas, CA, focuses on housing aspects such as cost, architecture, and lifestyle. Understanding these differences will help you make an informed decision.
Comparison | Milwaukee | Salinas |
---|---|---|
Typical Architecture Style | Bungalow, Cape Cod | Ranch, Craftsman |
Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Lake views, historical landmarks | Agricultural opportunities, proximity to national parks |
Moving from Milwaukee to Salinas brings significant changes in your housing environment and lifestyle. Milwaukee’s housing market is notably more affordable, whether you’re buying or renting, with a charming mix of bungalow and Cape Cod-style homes that reflect the city’s rich history. In contrast, Salinas, while pricier, offers a unique blend of ranch and craftsman architectural styles, typically with more land, hinting at the city’s agricultural roots. While Milwaukee boasts slightly higher walkability and urban lifestyle scores, Salinas’s close proximity to pristine national parks and its agricultural opportunities present a different but appealing living situation. This stark difference in the housing market and living environment underscores the importance of understanding the real estate landscape to make the best decision for your move.

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Salinas, CA
1. South Salinas: Known for its family-friendly atmosphere, South Salinas offers several parks and open spaces where your pets can enjoy a walk, including the popular Central Park where dogs can roam freely in designated off-leash areas.
2. CreekBridge: This neighborhood is recognized for its walkable paths and proximity to the Natividad Creek Park, a beautiful place for dog owners looking for scenic walks and outdoor activities to enjoy with their furry friends.
3. Laurelwood: Laurelwood stands out for its quiet streets and access to pet-friendly facilities, including several dog parks and the nearby Petco for all your pet's needs, making it a convenient and pleasant neighborhood for pet owners.
Milwaukee vs. Salinas Weather Considerations
When planning a move from one city to another, it's crucial to understand how the weather will differ. This comparison aims to highlight the weather changes from Milwaukee to Salinas to help you prepare for a new climate.
Milwaukee, WI
Salinas, CA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Milwaukee, WI
Salinas, CA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Milwaukee, WI
Salinas, CA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Milwaukee, WI
Salinas, CA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Comparison | Milwaukee | Salinas |
---|---|---|
Air Quality | Moderate | Good |
Natural Disasters | Snowstorms, Extreme Cold | Earthquakes |
Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Moving from Milwaukee to Salinas, you'll experience a notable shift in climate. Salinas boasts more days of sunshine and milder winters, making it an ideal location if you're seeking to escape the cold and snow. Although both cities have similar humidity levels, the contrast in winter temperatures and snowfall is stark, with Milwaukee experiencing chilly winters with significant snow. Additionally, the difference in the UV index means you'll need to be more diligent about sun protection in Salinas. Adjusting to these changes will help make your transition smoother.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Milwaukee to Salinas
When considering a move from one city to another, it's crucial to pinpoint how your financial landscape may shift. This comparison aims to illuminate the differences in money and finance between Milwaukee, WI, and Salinas, CA, helping you map out your new economic terrain.
Comparison | Milwaukee | Salinas |
---|---|---|
Avg. Household Income | $46,637 | $80,154 |
Cost of Living Index | 101.9 | 136.4 |
State Income Tax | 4-7.65 | 1-13.3 |
Avg. Property Tax | 2.17 | 0.79 |
Avg. Sales Tax | 5.6 | 9.25 |
Top 3 Industries | Manufacturing, Healthcare, Retail | Agriculture, Manufacturing, Healthcare |
Affluence | Moderate | Higher |
Poverty | Higher | Lower |
Homelessness | Significant | Concerning |
Transitioning from Milwaukee to Salinas involves navigating several financial shifts. Despite Salinas’ higher average household income, it also has a notably higher cost of living index, meaning your expenses on goods and services may significantly increase. Interestingly, while Salinas boasts a lower average property tax rate than Milwaukee, its state income tax can be steeper depending on your income bracket. Additionally, engagement in primary industries between the two cities sees a shift, with agriculture playing a pivotal role in Salinas’ economy, representing a substantial sectorial pivot from Milwaukee’s characteristic manufacturing and healthcare dominance.
Milwaukee vs. Salinas Political & Religious Comparison
Moving from one city to another can be a significant life change, bringing new opportunities and challenges. One factor that might influence your experience is the local culture, shaped in part by the comparison of the politics between Milwaukee & Salinas as well as the religious landscape. This quick snapshot aims to give you a brief overview of what to expect in your new home compared to what you're leaving behind.
Milwaukee | Salinas | |
---|---|---|
Political Make-up | Lean Democratic | Strongly Democratic |
Local Politics | Union-centric policies | Agricultural-focused initiatives |
Religion | Diverse, with a significant Catholic presence | Primarily Catholic with growing evangelical and non-religious communities |
While both Milwaukee and Salinas lean Democratic, you'll find Salinas has a stronger Democratic presence, which is reflected in local politics and policy-making. Milwaukee's local politics often center around union-related policies, reflecting its history as a hub for manufacturing and industry. In contrast, Salinas, situated in one of the most productive agricultural regions in California, focuses on agricultural-based initiatives. This includes supporting policies beneficial to farming communities and labor. On the religious front, both cities have a significant Catholic presence, but Salinas is experiencing growth in evangelical and non-religious communities, reflecting broader national trends towards religious diversity. Understanding these dynamics will help you grasp the cultural and political landscape of your new home.
Milwaukee vs. Salinas Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Milwaukee, WI to Salinas, CA brings significant changes to your daily commute and traffic experiences. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Milwaukee & Salinas helps you better understand what to expect in your new city.
Comparison | Milwaukee | Salinas |
---|---|---|
Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 22 | 24 |
Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
Can you get by without car? | Possible, but challenging | Difficult |
Moving to Salinas from Milwaukee, you'll find that your average daily commute may slightly increase, though the difference is marginal and unlikely to significantly impact your daily schedule. However, one notable change will be the level of traffic congestion; Salinas scores lower on the congestion scale compared to Milwaukee, possibly resulting in a smoother driving experience during peak hours. Public transportation options are somewhat more limited in Salinas, reflecting the city's infrastructure and urban planning. This change emphasizes the need for a car more in Salinas than in Milwaukee, where you might find it slightly easier to navigate the city without personal transportation.



Additional Resources
Milwaukee Moving Services
Popular Milwaukee to California Routes
Popular Moving Resources