Best Milwaukee to San Jose Movers + Moving Guide
Want help with the heavy lifting?
Trusted. Licensed. Insured.
If you're moving from Milwaukee to San Jose and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,221 mile move from Wisconsin to California go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 27 Milwaukee to San Jose 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 D&L Movers), 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 San Jose. 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 San Jose Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | D&L Movers | 9.34 | 9.36 | Active | Contact |
| 2 | About Time Moving Systems LLC | 9.33 | 9.33 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 3 | Careful Movers | 9.31 | 8.63 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 4 | Gorilla Movers Of Wisconsin Inc. | 9.30 | 9.31 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| 5 | The Go To Guys, LLC | 9.07 | 8.7 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Milwaukee to San Jose
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,221 miles from Milwaukee, WI to San Jose, CA will cost on average $3,670 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Milwaukee to San Jose move is roughly $8,861. 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 | $2,462 | 300 ft³ | 8.21 |
| 1 Bedroom | $3,670 | 450 ft³ | 8.16 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $6,079 | 750 ft³ | 8.11 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $8,861 | 1100 ft³ | 8.06 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $12,809 | 1600 ft³ | 8.01 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $14,320 | 1800 ft³ | 7.96 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from San Jose to Milwaukee guide.
Compare the 5 Best Milwaukee to San Jose Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
D&L Movers
1563 Bahama Way
Campbell, CA, 95008
About D&L Movers
Founded by Drew Sanchez and Leo Cervantes, D&L Movers is a local moving company that offers full-service relocations for homes and...
Services
- Cheap moving
- Local moving
- Long-distance moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2706648 / - Active Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 3 |
| Registered Drivers | 5 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 20,000 (2017) |
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) |
Careful Movers
3641 Haven Ave C
Menlo Park, CA, 94025
About Careful Movers
With almost two decades of expertise and experience in the moving industry, Menlo Park-based Careful Movers promises stress-free, on-time, and on-budget...
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Office Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1464935 / 553377 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 14 |
| Registered Drivers | 14 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 90,000 (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) |
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. San Jose Neighborhood Comparison
Moving to a new city can be daunting, especially when you're not familiar with local neighborhoods. To ease this transition, we've created a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Milwaukee, WI & San Jose, CA . This guide is designed to help you find a new neighborhood in San Jose that feels just like home, using Milwaukee's top neighborhoods as a baseline.
| Milwaukee | San Jose | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Third Ward | Downtown San Jose | Vibrant arts scene and trendy eateries |
| Bay View | Willow Glen | Community-oriented with a mix of dining options |
| East Side | North San Jose | Tech hub with modern amenities |
| Walker's Point | SoFA District | Chic lofts and eclectic small businesses |
| Wauwatosa | Almaden Valley | Family-friendly with access to nature |
| Riverwest | Japantown | Diverse community with unique cultural experiences |
| Brewer's Hill | Rose Garden | Historic homes and beautiful gardens |
| Historic Third Ward | Downtown San Jose | Similar reasons as above |
| Shorewood | Los Gatos | Affluent with a quaint downtown area |
| Washington Heights | Willow Glen | Similar reasons as above |
If you're drawn to Milwaukee's Third Ward for its vibrant arts scene and trendy eateries, you'll feel right at home in Downtown San Jose. Fans of Bay View's community-oriented vibe and dining diversity will find a similar atmosphere in Willow Glen. For those who appreciate the tech-driven and modern living in Milwaukee's East Side, North San Jose offers a comparable environment with a focus on innovation. Walker's Point, known for its chic lofts and varied small businesses, shares its entrepreneurial spirit with San Jose's SoFA District. Lastly, if the historic charm and beautiful gardens of Brewer's Hill are what you love, the Rose Garden area in San Jose mirrors that allure with its own storied homes and stunning floral displays.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Milwaukee to San Jose
Moving across the country from Milwaukee, WI to San Jose, CA offers a unique opportunity to explore the contrasts and similarities between these two diverse locations. This guide is designed to provide a detailed comparison, highlighting the pros and cons of Milwaukee versus San Jose, ensuring you have a clear understanding of what to expect from this relocation.
Milwaukee, WI- Colder winters
- Less tech jobs
- Smaller population
San Jose, CA- Mild climate
- High tech hub
- Diverse community
San Jose, CA- Higher expenses
- Less historical sites
- Urban density
Milwaukee, WI- Lower cost of living
- Rich heritage
- More open space
When you move from Milwaukee, known for its vibrant beer culture and Harley-Davidson Museum, to San Jose, the heart of Silicon Valley, you're transitioning from a city with a rich heritage and a more laid-back lifestyle to one bustling with technological innovation and diversity. San Jose's mild climate and proximity to outdoor activities at places like Alum Rock Park provide a stark contrast to Milwaukee's cold winters. While Milwaukee offers more open spaces and a lower cost of living, San Jose counters with its diverse community and higher number of tech jobs, benefiting anyone looking to advance in the tech industry. However, it's also important to consider the higher expenses and urban density that come with life in San Jose.
Milwaukee vs. San Jose Food Guide
This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Milwaukee & San Jose, highlighting the significance of food in understanding the local culture and lifestyle of an area. This side-by-side look aims to provide insights into the culinary scene awaiting you in your new city.
| Milwaukee | San Jose | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Beer Brats | Phở |
| Most popular meat dish | Fish Fry | Carne Asada |
| Most popular street food item | Cheese Curds | Tacos |
| Most popular vegan food | Roasted Vegetable Tacos | Phở Chay |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
When moving from Milwaukee to San Jose, you'll notice a shift not just in scenery but also in the culinary landscape. Milwaukee's love for beer and cheese is evident, with beer brats and cheese curds being local favorites. Places like Mader's and SafeHouse give a traditional taste of the city. On the other hand, San Jose, nestled in the heart of Silicon Valley, offers a vibrant foodie scene influenced by its diverse population. The Vietnamese dish Phở and Mexican tacos are staples here, reflecting the city's multicultural fabric. San Jose's notable establishments like Falafel's Drive-In and Original Joe's highlight the city's eclectic dining options. With a higher health consciousness and more options for vegan diners, San Jose caters to a variety of dietary preferences, making it an exciting culinary adventure for newcomers.
Milwaukee vs. San Jose Restaurant Comparison
When relocating from Milwaukee to San Jose, it's not just about moving your belongings, but also finding places that make the new city feel like home. Food plays a crucial role in this transition. This comparison of top restaurants from Milwaukee to their San Jose equivalents will help bridge the familiarity gap, ensuring you find new favorite spots in no time. Whether you seek high-end dining, casual eats, or unique culinary experiences, this guide aims to recreate the flavors of Milwaukee in your new San Jose surroundings.
| Milwaukee | San Jose | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Sanford | Le Papillon | Both offer high-end dining with a focus on local, seasonal ingredients |
| Ardent | Plumed Horse | Upscale, innovative American cuisine with exceptional wine lists at both |
| HoneyPie | Bill's Cafe | Comfort food with a homey feel, perfect for breakfast and brunch lovers |
| Zaffiro's Pizza | Giorgio's Italian Food & Pizzeria | Classic, family-friendly pizza places beloved by locals |
| Odd Duck | Orchard City Kitchen | A casual yet trendy spot, famous for small plates and innovative dishes |
| La Merenda | Mezcal | Both specialize in international small plates, perfect for adventurous eaters |
| The Vanguard | Smoking Pig BBQ | For those who appreciate hearty meals with a focus on smoked meats |
| Blue's Egg | Scrambl'z | Both offer a twist on traditional breakfast fare with a focus on fresh, local produce |
| Braise | Manresa | Focuses on farm-to-table dining, showcasing the best of what local farmers have to offer |
| Transfer Pizzeria Café | Pizza My Heart | Both are great for a casual pizza night out, featuring unique and classic toppings |
Among the highlighted transitions from Milwaukee to San Jose, stands out the leap from HoneyPie to Bill's Cafe, two establishments that epitomize their city's approach to comfort food. At Bill's Cafe, you'll discover a menu that comforts the soul with hearty portions and a laid-back atmosphere, closely mirroring the beloved dining experience at HoneyPie. Similarly, the move from Sanford's sophisticated offerings to Le Papillon's exquisite French-American cuisine ensures that aficionados of fine dining have a place to continue indulging their palates. Both destinations are renowned for their meticulous attention to ingredient quality and innovative menus, promising an exquisite dining experience in your new city. Through these matches, you can continue to savor the tastes you love while embracing the culinary landscape of San Jose.
Ready to start your move?
Milwaukee vs. San Jose Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is a key factor in your move to a new city. Understanding how housing costs, style, and lifestyle compare between Milwaukee, WI and San Jose, CA can help you make an informed decision. This comparison aims to highlight the differences and similarities to expect.
| Comparison | Milwaukee | San Jose |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Craftsman, Bungalow | Modern, Ranch |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Lake views, Historic details | Technology upgrades, Energy efficiency |
When moving from Milwaukee to San Jose, one of the most striking differences is the cost of housing - with median home prices in San Jose being significantly higher. This is reflective of the tech-driven economy in San Jose, leading to higher living costs but also offering modern housing options with technology upgrades and a focus on energy efficiency. Despite the cost, San Jose offers a more vibrant urban lifestyle with better walkability and bikeability, catering to those who prefer a dynamic city life. Milwaukee, with its charming Craftsman and Bungalow style homes, provides a more affordable option with its own cultural benefits, including historic details and picturesque lake views in real estate listings.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in San Jose, CA
1. Willow Glen: Known for its quaint, tree-lined streets, you'll find plenty of pet-friendly restaurants and a welcoming atmosphere at Willow Glen's downtown area, perfect for leisurely walks with your furry friends.
2. Cambrian Park: Boasting a serene suburban vibe, Cambrian Park is home to several parks, including the dog-friendly Butcher Dog Park, where your pets can play off-leash in a safe, enclosed environment.
3. Downtown San Jose: If you're looking for a more urban experience, Downtown San Jose offers many pet-friendly living spaces and amenities, alongside dog-friendly dining options like Original Joe’s, making it an ideal place for pet owners who love city living.
Milwaukee vs. San Jose Weather Considerations
Moving from one climate to another can be a significant change. This comparison highlights the key weather differences you'll experience when relocating from Milwaukee, WI to San Jose, CA. Understanding these variations will help you prepare for your new environment.
Milwaukee, WI
San Jose, CA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Milwaukee, WI
San Jose, CA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Milwaukee, WI
San Jose, CA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Milwaukee, WI
San Jose, CA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Milwaukee | San Jose |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good to Moderate | Good to Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Blizzards, Extreme Cold | Earthquakes, Wildfires |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
When moving from Milwaukee to San Jose, you’ll enjoy more days of sunshine and milder winters, making it an attractive destination for those seeking less harsh winter months. However, the increased UV index in San Jose means you’ll need to consider additional sun protection. Also, while Milwaukee residents brace for blizzards, San Jose residents must be prepared for earthquakes and wildfires. These factors contribute significantly to lifestyle changes and the type of home maintenance you'll need to consider in San Jose.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Milwaukee to San Jose
When considering a move, it's vital to compare how your financial situation will shift. Understanding the differences in cost of living and income between Milwaukee and San Jose is crucial for a smooth transition. This comparison will offer insights into finances, housing, and the economic landscape of both cities.
| Comparison | Milwaukee | San Jose |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $46,637 | $126,377 |
| Cost of Living Index | 101.9 | 156.1 |
| State Income Tax | 5.3% | 9.3% |
| Avg. Property Tax | 2.17% | 0.79% |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 5.6% | 9.25% |
| Top 3 Industries | Manufacturing, Healthcare, Retail | Technology, Education, Healthcare |
| Affluence | Moderate | High |
| Poverty | Noticeable | Lower |
| Homelessness | Concerning | Significant |
Moving from Milwaukee to San Jose means preparing for a significant change in your financial landscape. San Jose's average household income is more than double that of Milwaukee, highlighting the wealthier demographic and high tech-industry salaries. However, this increase comes alongside a stratospheric rise in the cost of living index—San Jose's index sits at a whopping 214 out of 100, compared to Milwaukee's more modest 84. Despite the higher income, taxes also see an uptick in San Jose, especially the state income and sales taxes, which might eat into the larger salaries. The economic climates of these cities are polar opposites, driven by their dominant industries; manufacturing and healthcare in Milwaukee versus technology in San Jose. However, despite their affluence, both cities face challenges with homelessness, a critical issue that underscores the complexity of urban economic landscapes.
Milwaukee vs. San Jose Political & Religious Comparison
In your journey from Milwaukee to San Jose, it's crucial to understand the communities you're leaving and entering. This comparison aims to give a quick snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents between Milwaukee & San Jose. Gain insights into where your beliefs and values might align or differ.
| Milwaukee | San Jose | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | More Democratically Leaning | Strongly Democratic |
| Local Politics | Progressive on local issues | Liberal, with strong tech industry influence |
| Religion | Diverse; includes Catholic, Lutheran | Diverse; includes Catholic, Buddhist, Hindu |
Moving from Milwaukee to San Jose will immerse you in distinct political atmospheres, despite both cities leaning Democratic. Milwaukee's progressive stance on local issues becomes more pronounced in San Jose, where the tech industry heavily influences liberal policies. Religious diversity is a common thread, yet San Jose introduces a broader spiritual palette, reflecting its rich cultural tapestry. This transition offers an exciting opportunity to engage with new perspectives and communities.
Milwaukee vs. San Jose Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Milwaukee, WI, to San Jose, CA, it's essential to understand the differences in daily commute and traffic. This comparison of traffic and transportation options between Milwaukee & San Jose will help you adapt to your new city more smoothly.
| Comparison | Milwaukee | San Jose |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 22 | 30 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without a car? | Challenging | Possible |
Milwaukee offers a quicker average commute time compared to San Jose, but experiences less traffic congestion. While Milwaukee's public transit is decent, San Jose provides more extensive options, making it easier to navigate without a car. This could be particularly appealing if you're looking to reduce your environmental impact or avoid the costs associated with car ownership. San Jose's higher rating in public transit availability underscores its investment in providing accessible and convenient transportation options for its residents.
Additional Resources
Milwaukee Moving Services
Popular Milwaukee to California Routes
Popular Moving Resources
