Best Milwaukee to Santa Rosa Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Milwaukee to Santa Rosa and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,192 mile move from Wisconsin to California go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 19 Milwaukee to Santa Rosa 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 OCD Moving Services 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 Santa Rosa. 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 Santa Rosa Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | OCD Moving Services LLC | 9.66 | 9.47 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 2 | Celis Movers | 9.37 | 9.32 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 3 | About Time Moving Systems LLC | 9.32 | 9.33 | 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 Santa Rosa
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,192 miles from Milwaukee, WI to Santa Rosa, CA will cost on average $3,645 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Milwaukee to Santa Rosa move is roughly $8,801. 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 | $2,445 | 300 ft³ | 8.15 |
| 1 Bedroom | $3,645 | 450 ft³ | 8.10 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $6,038 | 750 ft³ | 8.05 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $8,801 | 1100 ft³ | 8.00 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $12,721 | 1600 ft³ | 7.95 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $14,221 | 1800 ft³ | 7.90 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Santa Rosa to Milwaukee guide.
Compare the 5 Best Milwaukee to Santa Rosa Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
OCD Moving Services LLC
5914 Cobblestone Ct
El Sobrante, CA, 94803
About OCD Moving Services LLC
For over five years, OCD Moving Services LLC has been providing Oakland and the Bay Area with residential and commercial relocation...
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Commercial Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2597230 / 911812 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 6 |
| Registered Drivers | 6 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 153,000 (2022) |
Celis Movers
601 Petaluma Blvd N C
Petaluma, CA, 94952
About Celis Movers
Celis Movers is a family-owned Petaluma business committed to providing quality moves that don’t break the bank. For over 30 years,...
Services
- Local moving services
- Nationwide moving services
- Strategic warehousing locations
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2594954 / 921948 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 6 |
| Registered Drivers | 4 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 95,000 (2023) |
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) |
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. Santa Rosa Neighborhood Comparison
Moving can be overwhelming, especially to an unfamiliar city. This guide aims to ease the transition by comparing local neighborhoods between Milwaukee, WI & Santa Rosa, CA, using familiar areas as a baseline to find your new favorite spot. Discover your new home away from home with this neighborhood comparison.
| Milwaukee | Santa Rosa | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Third Ward | Railroad Square | Historic charm, arts, and dining |
| Bay View | Montgomery Village | Vibrant community, shopping, and parks |
| East Side | Rincon Valley | Family-friendly, great schools |
| Walker's Point | Roseland | Diverse, culinary hotspot |
| Historic Mitchell Street | West End | Cultural diversity, historical landmarks |
| Brady Street | Downtown | Nightlife, entertainment |
| Wauwatosa | Bennett Valley | Residential, serene |
| Shorewood | Oakmont | Upscale, peaceful |
| Riverwest | Santa Rosa Southeast | Artsy, community-oriented |
| Washington Heights | Coffey Park | Rebuilding, family-friendly |
Exploring the Railroad Square District in Santa Rosa reminds many of Milwaukee's Third Ward, where the emphasis on preserving historic buildings alongside modern, eclectic eateries and galleries creates a vibrant community hub. Similarly, lovers of Bay View's personality - brimming with local shops, cafes, and parks - will find a kindred spirit in Montgomery Village, offering charming boutiques and family-friendly events. For those drawn to the East Side of Milwaukee for its balance of nightlife, dining, and proximity to Lake Michigan, Rincon Valley in Santa Rosa provides an enticing mix of suburban comfort, excellent schools, and accessibility to nature, embodying the quintessential Northern California lifestyle. These neighborhood comparisons are designed to make your transition from Milwaukee to Santa Rosa feel more like coming home.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Milwaukee to Santa Rosa
Moving from one city to another is a significant decision that encompasses various factors, both positive and negative. This comparison aims to highlight the contrasts between living in Milwaukee, WI, and relocating to Santa Rosa, CA, offering an honest reflection of the good and the bad aspects of this move. Understanding these differences can help you make a more informed decision about your relocation.
Milwaukee, WI- Colder winters
- Less outdoor activities
- Smaller tech scene
- Lower diversity
Santa Rosa, CA- Milder climate
- More outdoor options
- Larger tech industry
- Higher diversity
Santa Rosa, CA- Higher cost of living
- Less cultural venues
- Traffic congestion
- No large lakes
Milwaukee, WI- Affordable living
- Rich culture
- Easy commutes
- Lake Michigan access
While Milwaukee's harsh winters and smaller tech scene may push you towards the milder climate and booming tech industry in Santa Rosa, it's important to consider the full picture. Santa Rosa's parks and outdoor activities like those in Annadel State Park offer a significant improvement in lifestyle for nature enthusiasts. However, this move also means adjusting to a higher cost of living. Milwaukee's affordability and rich cultural scene, evidenced by landmarks such as the Milwaukee Art Museum, give it a unique charm. You will find Santa Rosa’s vibrant downtown area and its restaurants, such as Stark's Steak & Seafood, provide a different yet enriching cultural experience. Although Santa Rosa lacks large lakes like Lake Michigan, its proximity to the Pacific and wineries like those in Sonoma County presents new opportunities for exploration and enjoyment.
Milwaukee vs. Santa Rosa Food Guide
Food is a cornerstone of culture and provides a taste of what life is like in a new area. In this guide, we're making it easier for you to understand the culinary landscape of your new home by comparing the local cuisine between Milwaukee, WI & Santa Rosa, CA . This comparison will help you get acquainted with the food scene you're moving into.
| Milwaukee | Santa Rosa | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Cheese Curds | Wine Country Cuisine |
| Most popular meat dish | Bratwurst | Trip-tip BBQ |
| Most popular street food item | Fried Cheese Curds | Fish Tacos |
| Most popular vegan food | Vegan Beer Brats | Avocado Toast |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
Relocating from Milwaukee to Santa Rosa invites you into a new culinary world. Milwaukee, known for its hearty, comfort foods like cheese curds and bratwurst, offers a rich, meat-heavy cuisine reflective of its German heritage. On the other hand, Santa Rosa, nestled in California's Wine Country, presents a diverse food scene that leans towards fresh, local produce, and wine-infused dishes. The vegan scene is notably more vibrant in Santa Rosa, with options like avocado toast becoming a staple. Culinary enthusiasts will appreciate Santa Rosa's health-conscious eating options and the plethora of food trucks offering a taste of local and international cuisines. Dive into the city's food scene by exploring neighborhoods like Railroad Square in Santa Rosa, where you can find establishments ranging from cozy wine bars to innovative vegan cafes.
Milwaukee vs. Santa Rosa Restaurant Comparison
Understanding the culinary landscape of a new city can be a thrilling part of your relocation journey. Food often plays a key role in making a place feel like home. This comparison aims to bridge the gap between your familiar Milwaukee favorites and their Santa Rosa counterparts, helping you discover your next go-to dining spots. Explore how the cities' top restaurants match up and find comfort in the familiar, while embracing the new flavors of Milwaukee to Santa Rosa.
| Milwaukee | Santa Rosa | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Bacchus - A Bartolotta Restaurant | Stark's Steak & Seafood | Upscale dining with an exquisite meat selection |
| Sanford Restaurant | Willi's Wine Bar | Fine dining with locally sourced ingredients |
| Conejito's Place | El Coqui Puerto Rican Cuisine | Casual, authentic Latin American eats |
| La Merenda | Gerard's Paella Y Tapas | Shareable, global dishes with a community feel |
| Ardent | LoCoco's Cucina Rustica | Intimate and refined Italian dining experience |
| Odd Duck | Spinster Sisters | Innovative and locally-sourced small plates |
| Leon's Frozen Custard | Sweet T's Restaurant + Bar | Classic comfort desserts and casual eats |
| HoneyPie Café | Dierk's Parkside Café | Homey spot for hearty, American-style breakfasts |
| Mazorca Tacos | El Farolito | Authentic Mexican food with a focus on fresh ingredients |
| Vanguard | Bellevue Ranch | Gourmet sausage and burger offerings in a casual setting |
When you start to miss the elegant dining of Bacchus - A Bartolotta Restaurant back in Milwaukee, Stark's Steak & Seafood in Santa Rosa will offer you a similar upscale experience, focusing on prime meats and a sophisticated wine list. Fans of global and innovative dishes reminiscent of Odd Duck's offerings will find themselves at home at Spinster Sisters, where the menu's creativity shines with locally-sourced ingredients. Meanwhile, those yearning for the unmatched comfort of Leon's Frozen Custard can find solace in the cozy ambience and classic desserts offered at Sweet T's Restaurant + Bar. Each Santa Rosa establishment not only mirrors the culinary excellence found in Milwaukee but also adds its unique twist, enriching your dining experience in your new city.
Ready to start your move?
Milwaukee vs. Santa Rosa Real Estate & Living Facts
When planning a move, understanding the differences in real estate between your current and future city is crucial. This comparison provides insights into housing specifics of Milwaukee versus Santa Rosa, emphasizing aspects like cost, architecture, and lifestyle.
| Comparison | Milwaukee | Santa Rosa |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Craftsman, Victorian | Modern, Ranch |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Close to bars, Lakeside views | Vineyard proximity, Energy efficiency |
In assessing the housing market between Milwaukee and Santa Rosa, distinct contrasts emerge, particularly regarding costs and architectural preferences. Homes in Santa Rosa are significantly more expensive than in Milwaukee, reflecting California's higher cost of living. Architecturally, Milwaukee homes often feature Craftsman and Victorian styles, paying homage to its historical roots, while Santa Rosa embraces more Modern and Ranch-style homes, aligning with California's contemporary and laid-back lifestyle. Additionally, Santa Rosa places a higher emphasis on bikeability and energy efficiency, indicative of the city's commitment to sustainability and outdoor living. Moving from Milwaukee to Santa Rosa not only signifies a change in scenery but also a shift towards a differing lifestyle and set of priorities in homeownership.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Santa Rosa, CA
1. Montgomery Village: With its numerous pathways and the nearby Howarth Park, your furry friends will enjoy countless hours of outdoor activity and socializing.
2. Oakmont: This neighborhood is known for its hiking club and proximity to Annadel State Park, offering expansive areas for you and your pets to explore the great outdoors together.
3. Bennett Valley: Home to the Galvin Community Park, which features a dedicated dog park where your pets can run free and socialize with other dogs in a safe and friendly environment.
Milwaukee vs. Santa Rosa Weather Considerations
When planning a move from Milwaukee, WI to Santa Rosa, CA, it's crucial to understand how the climates differ. This comparison will help you anticipate the changes and adjust accordingly. Moving between cities requires an understanding of weather variations, such as those between Milwaukee and Santa Rosa, to better prepare for your new environment.
Milwaukee, WI
Santa Rosa, CA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Milwaukee, WI
Santa Rosa, CA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Milwaukee, WI
Santa Rosa, CA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Milwaukee, WI
Santa Rosa, CA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Milwaukee | Santa Rosa |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good to Moderate | Good |
| Natural Disasters | Snowstorms, Cold Waves | Earthquakes, Wildfires |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Transitioning from Milwaukee's continental climate to Santa Rosa's Mediterranean climate brings several adjustments. You'll enjoy more sunny days in Santa Rosa, a significant benefit for outdoor enthusiasts. However, keep in mind that Santa Rosa's winters are much milder, eliminating heavy snowfall but introducing a higher risk of natural disasters such as earthquakes and wildfires. Understanding these differences will aid in preparing your wardrobe and home for the new climate, ensuring a smoother adaptation to your new surroundings.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Milwaukee to Santa Rosa
When considering a move from Milwaukee, WI to Santa Rosa, CA , it's crucial to grasp how your finances might be impacted. Understanding the comparison between the cost of living, taxes, and economic conditions in these cities will prepare you for a smoother transition.
| Comparison | Milwaukee | Santa Rosa |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $46,637 | $86,459 |
| Cost of Living Index | 101.9 | 136.4 |
| State Income Tax | 7.65 | 13.3 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 2.17 | 0.77 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 5.6 | 8.25 |
| Top 3 Industries | Manufacturing, Healthcare, Education | Wine, Healthcare, Tourism |
| Affluence | Moderate | Higher |
| Poverty | Higher | Lower |
| Homelessness | Significant | Moderate |
Moving from Milwaukee to Santa Rosa involves a significant adjustment in terms of living costs and economic environment. Your average household income might seem higher in Santa Rosa, but so is the cost of living — notably 54 points higher on the index. A higher state income tax in California may also affect your take-home pay. However, the booming wine, health care, and tourism industries in Santa Rosa offer diverse employment opportunities. The affluent Santa Rosa, with its lower poverty and moderate homelessness rates, presents a vibrant yet expensive living environment, contrasting with Milwaukee's more affordable but less affluent setting.
Milwaukee vs. Santa Rosa Political & Religious Comparison
In moving from Milwaukee, WI, to Santa Rosa, CA, it's insightful to quickly examine how the politics between Milwaukee & Santa Rosa as well as the religious landscape differ. This comparison will give you a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents, easing your transition.
| Milwaukee | Santa Rosa | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Leans Democratic | Leans Democratic |
| Local Politics | Moderate to liberal | Liberal |
| Religion | Diverse; includes Christian, Jewish, Muslim | Pluralistic with a strong non-religious presence |
When relocating, understanding the local political climate and religious diversity can help you acclimate more comfortably. Both Milwaukee and Santa Rosa lean Democratic, but Santa Rosa is known for a more liberal outlook, especially in local matters. This is reflected in the city’s policies and community initiatives. The religious scenery contrasts slightly; Milwaukee hosts a more visible variety of faiths with established communities like Catholic Archdiocese of Milwaukee and Milwaukee Jewish Federation, whereas Santa Rosa’s spiritual landscape is characterized by a broad spectrum of beliefs, including a notable proportion of individuals who identify as non-religious. This comparison should serve as a foundation for understanding the social and cultural environment awaiting you.
Milwaukee vs. Santa Rosa Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Milwaukee, WI to Santa Rosa, CA brings not just a change in scenery but a significant shift in the daily commute and traffic norms. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Milwaukee & Santa Rosa is designed to help you adapt smoothly to your new environment.
| Comparison | Milwaukee | Santa Rosa |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 22 | 26 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without a car? | Possible, but challenging | Difficult |
In Milwaukee, the average commute time is shorter compared to Santa Rosa, indicative of less sprawling urban development. Despite this, both cities experience relatively low levels of traffic congestion. Milwaukee offers a slightly better public transit system, evidenced by a higher rating, making it somewhat more feasible to live without a car than in Santa Rosa. However, in Santa Rosa, the reliance on personal vehicles is higher due to the city’s layout and the limited coverage of public transit options. Understanding these differences can help you plan your daily commute efficiently and decide whether maintaining a car is necessary for your new life in California.
Additional Resources
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