Best Milwaukee to Salinas Movers + Moving Guide

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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.

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Best Milwaukee to Salinas Moving Companies

RankCompany NameRating QuestionAffordability IndexLicenseContact
1About Time Moving Systems LLC9.329.33Authorized For HHGContact
2Gorilla Movers Of Wisconsin Inc.9.309.31Authorized For Property, HHGContact
3The Go To Guys, LLC9.078.7Authorized For HHGContact
4Mod Movers8.798.1Authorized For HHGContact
5Poulos Moving Systems8.348.48Authorized For HHGContact
Phone (800) 787-5428

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 SizeMoving CostVolume of Packed Items (ft³)$/ft³
Studio$2,494300 ft³8.31
1 Bedroom$3,718450 ft³8.26
2 Bedrooms$6,160750 ft³8.21
3 Bedrooms$8,9791100 ft³8.16
4 Bedrooms$12,9811600 ft³8.11
5+ Bedrooms$14,5141800 ft³8.06
*Please note: These Wisconsin to California moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from Wisconsin & California. 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 WI to CA mover.
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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 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
1
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
2
The Go To Guys, LLC Logo

The Go To Guys, LLC

Exceptional9.07/10
based on 275+ data points

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

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/11/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3760134 / 1338262

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans3
Registered Drivers3
Total Annual Miles Moved1 (2024)
View Full Review
3
Mod Movers Logo

Mod Movers

Superb8.79/10
based on 1,087+ data points

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

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2983026 / 1294330

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans4
Registered Drivers4
Total Annual Miles Moved20,000 (2023)
View Full Review
4
Poulos Moving Systems Logo

Poulos Moving Systems

Very Good8.34/10
based on 527+ data points

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

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2618126 / 1016606

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans9
Registered Drivers6
Total Annual Miles Moved39,036 (2022)
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.

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.

MilwaukeeSalinasHow They're Similar
Third WardOld Town SalinasVibrant arts scene, shopping
Bay ViewSouth SalinasClose-knit community, historic homes
East SideMaple ParkLush parks, educational institutions
Walker's PointLaurelwoodDiverse dining options, nightlife
WauwatosaCreekbridgeFamily-friendly, modern amenities
RiverwestNorth SalinasCreative community, affordable living
Brewer's HillLos OlivosHistoric charm, community-focused
Historic Mitchell StreetEast SalinasRich cultural traditions, vibrant markets
ShorewoodHarrodUpscale, quiet residential area
Washington HeightsMission ParkArchitectural 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.

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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.

CONs
PROs
Milwaukee, WI iconMilwaukee, WI
  • Colder Winters
  • Less Diversity
  • Smaller City
  • Higher Crime Rate
Salinas, CA iconSalinas, CA
  • Milder Climate
  • Greater Diversity
  • Larger Population
  • Lower Crime Rate
Salinas, CA iconSalinas, CA
  • Higher Cost of Living
  • Scarce Housing
  • Fewer Parks
  • Less Craft Beer Variety
Milwaukee, WI iconMilwaukee, WI
  • 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.

MilwaukeeSalinas
Most iconic local food itemCheese CurdsArtichoke dishes
Most popular meat dishBratwurstTri-tip barbecue
Most popular street food itemFried FishTacos
Most popular vegan foodVegetable PaniniSalad Bowls
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Mader's
  • Sobelman's
  • Sanford
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.

MilwaukeeSalinasWhat You'll Love
ArdentPatriaOffers an upscale dining experience with a focus on exquisite, inventive cuisine.
SanfordGiorgio'sKnown for fine dining and a meticulously crafted menu, akin to Sanford's attention to detail.
HoneypieEagle RestaurantOffers homestyle comfort food in a quirky, welcoming atmosphere, similar to Honeypie’s charm.
Odd DuckFarm Fresh DeliCelebrates local, seasonal ingredients with a creative menu much like Odd Duck’s philosophy.
La MerendaRancho Cielo's Drummond Culinary AcademyProvides a unique dining experience with a focus on international, farm-to-table dishes.
Leon's Frozen CustardRita'sWhile primarily known for Italian Ice, Rita's offers frozen custard that reminds one of Leon's iconic treats.
Crazy WaterGrowers PubServes hearty, American cuisine in a historic setting, echoing Crazy Water's cozy and rustic vibe.
Bryant’s Cocktail LoungeXL Public HouseOffers a wide range of craft beers and spirits in a comfortable, retro setting, much like Bryant’s.
Transfer Pizzeria CaféGiorgino'sDelivers authentic, handcrafted pizza, capturing the essence of Transfer Pizzeria Café’s Italian specialties.
Blue's EggFirst AwakeningsKnown 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.

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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.

ComparisonMilwaukeeSalinas
Typical Architecture StyleBungalow, Cape CodRanch, Craftsman
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingLake views, historical landmarksAgricultural 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.

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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.

Summer icon
79°F / 62°F

Milwaukee, WI

70°F / 55°F

Salinas, CA

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
30°F / 18°F

Milwaukee, WI

62°F / 44°F

Salinas, CA

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
34.76"

Milwaukee, WI

12"

Salinas, CA

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
46.9"

Milwaukee, WI

0"

Salinas, CA

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonMilwaukeeSalinas
Air QualityModerateGood
Natural DisastersSnowstorms, Extreme ColdEarthquakes
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.

ComparisonMilwaukeeSalinas
Avg. Household Income$46,637$80,154
Cost of Living Index101.9136.4
State Income Tax4-7.651-13.3
Avg. Property Tax2.170.79
Avg. Sales Tax5.69.25
Top 3 IndustriesManufacturing, Healthcare, RetailAgriculture, Manufacturing, Healthcare
AffluenceModerateHigher
PovertyHigherLower
HomelessnessSignificantConcerning

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.

MilwaukeeSalinas
Political Make-upLean DemocraticStrongly Democratic
Local PoliticsUnion-centric policiesAgricultural-focused initiatives
ReligionDiverse, with a significant Catholic presencePrimarily 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.

ComparisonMilwaukeeSalinas
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)2224
Traffic Congestion 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦
Availability of Public Transit 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇
Can you get by without car?Possible, but challengingDifficult

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.

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