Best Milwaukee to Santa Ana Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Milwaukee to Santa Ana and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,115 mile move from Wisconsin to California go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 25 Milwaukee to Santa Ana 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 Pure Moving), 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 Milwaukee compared to Santa Ana. 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 Santa Ana Moving Companies

RankCompany NameRating QuestionAffordability IndexLicenseContact
1Pure Moving9.649.49Authorized For HHGContact
2Terry Moving & Storage9.369.2Authorized For HHGContact
3About Time Moving Systems LLC9.339.33Authorized For HHGContact
4Gorilla Movers Of Wisconsin Inc.9.309.31Authorized For Property, HHGContact
5The Go To Guys, LLC9.078.7Authorized For HHGContact
Phone (800) 787-5428

Cost to Move from Milwaukee to Santa Ana

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,115 miles from Milwaukee, WI to Santa Ana, CA will cost on average $3,580 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Milwaukee to Santa Ana move is roughly $8,641. 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$2,402300 ft³8.01
1 Bedroom$3,580450 ft³7.96
2 Bedrooms$5,929750 ft³7.91
3 Bedrooms$8,6411100 ft³7.86
4 Bedrooms$12,4881600 ft³7.81
5+ Bedrooms$13,9591800 ft³7.76
*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 Santa Ana to Milwaukee guide.

Compare the 5 Best Milwaukee to Santa Ana Movers

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

Pure Moving Logo

Pure Moving

Exceptional9.64/10
based on 8,688+ data points

1450 2nd St ste 225

Santa Monica, CA, 90401

About Pure Moving

Pure Moving has six locations across California, including an office in Los Angeles. This locally operated business moves over 10,000 clients...

Services

  • Residential moving
  • Commercial moving
  • Long-distance moving

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3207734 / 1115049

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers1
Total Annual Miles Moved100,000 (2022)
View Full Review
1
Terry Moving & Storage Logo

Terry Moving & Storage

Exceptional9.36/10
based on 2,308+ data points

25958 Commercentre Dr

Lake Forest, CA, 92630

About Terry Moving & Storage

Terry Moving & Storage offers full-service moves locally and throughout the 11 Western States. This Lake Forest-based business has helped thousands...

Services

  • Local Move
  • Interstate Move
  • Packing Services

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

649215 / 306297

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans11
Registered Drivers11
Total Annual Miles Moved315,000 (2022)
View Full Review
2
About Time Moving Systems LLC Logo

About Time Moving Systems LLC

Exceptional9.33/10
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
3
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
4
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
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. Santa Ana Neighborhood Comparison

When moving from one city to another, it can be helpful to find a new neighborhood that feels like home. To assist in this transition, we provide a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Milwaukee, WI & Santa Ana, CA , helping you familiarize yourself with an unknown city by using your existing city as a baseline. Discover your new favorite neighborhood today.

MilwaukeeSanta AnaHow They're Similar
Third WardArtist VillageVibrant arts scene
Bay ViewFloral ParkStrong community vibe
Walker's PointFrench ParkHistoric homes, lively
East SidePark SantiagoEclectic mix of activities
WauwatosaWest Floral ParkFamily-friendly, serene
RiverwestHeninger ParkDiverse, artistic
Historic Third WardDowntown Santa AnaCultural hub
ShorewoodMorrison ParkQuiet, residential
Brady StreetWilshire SquareLively, historic
Brewers HillWashington SquareHistoric, community-centric

For those attracted to Milwaukee's Third Ward for its vibrant arts scene, Santa Ana's Artist Village will feel like a creative haven, hosting numerous art galleries and events such as the monthly Artwalk. Similarly, Bay View's strong community vibe and eclectic local businesses have a parallel in Floral Park, where tree-lined streets and historic homes create a welcoming atmosphere. If you’re moving from Walker’s Point, known for its historic architecture and lively nightlife, French Park offers a similar charm with its well-preserved homes and active neighborhood association. Transitioning from the East Side of Milwaukee, with its blend of university culture and urban living, to Park Santiago in Santa Ana, you'll find a similar eclectic mix of activities, from thriving local eateries to tranquil parks like Santiago Park. This detailed look into comparable neighborhoods provides a glimpse into the lifestyle transitions you can expect, focusing on the unique community vibe, architectural charm, and rich cultural tapestry that each respective neighborhood in Santa Ana offers.

Things To Do background image

Things to Do in Santa Ana

  • Explore the Santa Ana Public Library
  • Visit Discovery Cube Orange County
  • Stroll through Santiago Park Nature
  • Enjoy art at Bowers Museum
  • Shop at 4th Street Market
  • See a show at The Yost Theater
  • Join a class at Downtown Santa Ana

Ready to start your move?

Pros and Cons of Moving from Milwaukee to Santa Ana

Moving between cities is a major life decision that involves weighing various factors to make the best choice for your circumstances. This comparison aims to offer an honest reflection of the good and the bad aspects of relocating from Milwaukee, WI to Santa Ana, CA , helping you carefully consider your options. Below, you'll find tailored charts contrasting the cons and pros of such a move, designed to guide your decision-making process.

CONs
PROs
Milwaukee, WI iconMilwaukee, WI
  • Colder Winters
  • Smaller Economy
  • Less Cultural Diversity
  • Lesser Outdoor Activities
Santa Ana, CA iconSanta Ana, CA
  • Warmer Climate
  • Larger Job Market
  • Greater Diversity
  • Beaches Nearby
Santa Ana, CA iconSanta Ana, CA
  • Higher Cost of Living
  • Fewer Historical Sites
  • Urban Density
  • More Traffic
Milwaukee, WI iconMilwaukee, WI
  • Affordable Housing
  • Rich Historical Sites
  • Smaller City Charm
  • Less Traffic Congestion

Moving to Santa Ana, CA from Milwaukee, WI comes with notable lifestyle changes. Santa Ana boasts a warmer climate, which is welcoming for those who prefer sunny days over cold winters. The city is known for its cultural diversity, offering a variety of cuisines and cultural festivals that are a feast for the senses. Places like the Santiago Park offer ample outdoor activities, from hiking to bird watching. While the adjustment to a higher cost of living may take time, the economic opportunities, especially in sectors like technology and hospitality, are more abundant. Moreover, neighborhoods like Floral Park and West Grove offer a blend of urban and suburban feel, with beautiful parks, renowned restaurants like Baca Pops, and vibrant art scenes that make Santa Ana an engaging and fulfilling place to call home.

Milwaukee vs. Santa Ana Food Guide

This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Milwaukee & Santa Ana, aiming to showcase how food is an integral part of local culture and living experience. As you prepare for your move, understanding the culinary landscape will help you get a taste of what life will be like in your new city.

MilwaukeeSanta Ana
Most iconic local food itemCheese CurdsTacos
Most popular meat dishBratwurstCarne Asada
Most popular street food itemPolish SausageStreet Tacos
Most popular vegan foodBlack Bean BurgerJackfruit Tacos
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Mader's
  • SafeHouse
  • Kopp's Frozen Custard
  • Playground
  • 4th Street Market
  • Taco María
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

In Milwaukee, the culinary scene heavily features hearty, comfort foods with a German twist, such as cheese curds and bratwurst, which reflect the city's rich cultural heritage. You'll find these classic dishes at legendary spots like Mader's, a testament to Milwaukee's deep-rooted German influence. On the other hand, Santa Ana offers a vibrant blend of flavors, heavily influenced by its Mexican-American population. Street tacos and carne asada are staples here, available in numerous local eateries and food trucks roaming the city. Taco María, for instance, represents the innovative culinary landscape of Santa Ana, offering gourmet Mexican dishes that draw food enthusiasts from all over. Both cities boast a unique food scene, but Santa Ana leans more toward a health-conscious, diverse offering with its abundance of vegan options and street food culture.

Milwaukee vs. Santa Ana Restaurant Comparison

Food is a crucial element in making a new place feel like home. For those planning a relocation from Milwaukee, WI, to Santa Ana, CA, this restaurant comparison from Milwaukee to Santa Ana will guide you in discovering your next go-to eateries, ensuring a smoother transition into your new culinary landscape.

MilwaukeeSanta AnaWhat You'll Love
BacchusPlaygroundDiverse and sophisticated menu
SanfordAnepalcoInnovative dishes with a blend of cultures
ArdentTaco MariaFocus on quality and creativity in dishes
Odd DuckBurritos La PalmaUnique and diverse food selections
MobCraft BeerThe Good Beer CompanyCraft beer focus with local flavors
Leon's Frozen CustardChunk-N-ChipHandcrafted desserts with unique flavors
Transfer Pizzeria CaféFuoco Pizzeria NapoletanaAuthentic and high-quality pizza
La MerendaCraveDiverse and international small plates
The Purple DoorHopper & BurrSpecialty coffee with a similar vibe
Café Benelux4th Street MarketFood hall with varied options

Discovering your new favorite spots will be an exciting journey in Santa Ana, especially with equivalents to Milwaukee’s beloved eateries. For example, Ardent's innovative and meticulously crafted dishes find a west coast counterpart in Taco Maria, where the focus on creativity and high-quality ingredients shines through in their modern Mexican cuisine. Similarly, fans of MobCraft Beer's unique and community-driven beer selections will appreciate The Good Beer Company, known for its commitment to crafting distinct and locally inspired brews. And for those who have cherished moments at Leon's Frozen Custard, Chunk-N-Chip offers a chance to create new memories over handcrafted, adventurous flavored scoops and cookies. Exploring these similarities will not only comfort but also excite your palate as you embark on a new chapter in Santa Ana.

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Ready to start your move?

Milwaukee vs. Santa Ana Real Estate & Living Facts

Real estate is one of the most important aspects of a move. Understanding how two cities compare in this regard can significantly impact your decision. In this guide, we'll delve into the housing aspects of Milwaukee and Santa Ana , exploring cost, architecture, and lifestyle to make your transition as smooth as possible.

ComparisonMilwaukeeSanta Ana
Typical Architecture StylePrairie and BungalowMission Revival and Ranch
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingHardwood Floors, Stainless Steel AppliancesOutdoor Living Spaces, Open Floor Plans

The stark contrast in median home prices and monthly rent between Milwaukee and Santa Ana underscores the broader cost of living differences between the Midwest and Southern California. In Milwaukee, the architectural landscape favors Prairie and Bungalow-style homes, reflecting its historical roots, while Santa Ana's architecture tends to be more varied, with Mission Revival and Ranch styles highlighting the region's colonial and agricultural history. Santa Ana scores higher in terms of walkability, bikeability, and urban lifestyle, signifying a more active and outdoor-oriented lifestyle. This is further emphasized in the city's real estate listings, which often feature outdoor living spaces and open floor plans, catering to California's sunny disposition.

Milwaukee vs. Santa Ana Weather Considerations

When planning a move from one city to another, considering how the weather will change is crucial. This comparison aims to highlight the differences in climate between Milwaukee, WI and Santa Ana, CA, giving you a clear understanding of what to expect. Understanding these variations ensures a smoother transition to your new home environment.

Summer icon
79/62

Milwaukee, WI

83/64

Santa Ana, CA

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
30/18

Milwaukee, WI

70/48

Santa Ana, CA

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
34.76

Milwaukee, WI

13.90

Santa Ana, CA

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
45

Milwaukee, WI

0

Santa Ana, CA

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonMilwaukeeSanta Ana
Air QualityModerateGood
Natural DisastersSnowstorms, Cold WavesEarthquakes, Wildfires
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

Moving from Milwaukee to Santa Ana means preparing for milder winters and enjoying more sunny days throughout the year. While Milwaukee experiences a broad range of temperatures and significant snowfall, Santa Ana's climate is comparatively milder with minimal rainfall. This difference notably impacts lifestyle, especially in outdoor and commuting activities. Adjusting to Santa Ana also means staying alert for different natural disasters, such as earthquakes and wildfires, rather than the snowstorms common in Milwaukee. Understanding these changes will help you adapt more quickly to your new environment.

Ready to start your move?

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

When considering a move from Milwaukee, WI to Santa Ana, CA, it's crucial to grasp how the cost of living, taxes, and average income between Milwaukee and Santa Ana compare. This comparison will help you understand the financial implications of your move.

ComparisonMilwaukeeSanta Ana
Avg. Household Income$46,637$80,265
Cost of Living Index101.9136.4
State Income Tax7.659.3
Avg. Property Tax2.170.72
Avg. Sales Tax5.67.75
Top 3 IndustriesManufacturing, Healthcare, RetailTechnology, Healthcare, Retail
AffluenceModerateHigher
PovertyHigherLower
HomelessnessNotableSignificant

Moving from Milwaukee to Santa Ana, you'll notice the average household income is significantly higher in Santa Ana, which can be appealing. However, this comes with a steep increase in the cost of living index—making everyday expenses more challenging to manage. While state income tax is also higher in California, property taxes are much lower, which could influence your decision if you’re planning to buy a home. Interestingly, despite the higher affluence in Santa Ana, the city faces significant challenges with homelessness, underscoring the complexity of economic issues in larger urban centers.

Milwaukee vs. Santa Ana Political & Religious Comparison

Welcome! As you prepare for your move from Milwaukee, WI, to Santa Ana, CA, understanding the differences between your old and new home can help ease the transition. This guide offers a quick snapshot to compare the politics and religious makeup between Milwaukee & Santa Ana , providing insight into the community you’ll be joining.

MilwaukeeSanta Ana
Political Make-upLargely DemocraticStrongly Democratic
Local PoliticsDiverse political representationHeavily Democratic city council
ReligionMixed, with Catholic and Protestant majoritiesDiverse, significant Latino Catholic community

Transitioning from Milwaukee to Santa Ana, you'll find yourself moving from one Democratic stronghold to another, yet the local political landscape in Santa Ana leans even more towards Democratic representation, especially within its city council. Religion plays a vital role in community life in both cities, although the religious makeup differs. Milwaukee's religious landscape is quite mixed, with Catholic and Protestant beliefs predominating. In contrast, Santa Ana hosts a diverse religious community with a significant Latino Catholic presence, reflecting the city's demographic composition. Understanding these facets of your new home can help you connect with the community and its values.

Milwaukee vs. Santa Ana Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving from Milwaukee, WI to Santa Ana, CA, it's crucial to understand how your daily commute and traffic experiences might change. This comparison between Milwaukee & Santa Ana is designed to help you get a clearer picture of what to expect when it comes to driving and using public transit in these cities.

ComparisonMilwaukeeSanta Ana
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)2225
Traffic Congestion 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦
Availability of Public Transit 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇
Can you get by without car?Possible but challengingDifficult

In Milwaukee, your average commute time might seem reasonable at about 22 minutes, but relocating to Santa Ana could add a few extra minutes to your daily travel, mainly due to higher traffic congestion. While Milwaukee offers a decent public transit system, you might find it slightly more challenging in Santa Ana, although both cities present potential hurdles for those trying to get by without a car. It's important to consider these factors, as adjusting to the traffic patterns and public transit availability will be a significant aspect of your move.

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