Best Milwaukee to Chicago Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Milwaukee to Chicago and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 94 mile move from Wisconsin to Illinois go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 46 Milwaukee to Chicago 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 606 Movers, Inc.), how much the move costs (approximately $1,500 - $4,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Milwaukee compared to Chicago. 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 Chicago Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 606 Movers, Inc. | 9.36 | 9.27 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| 2 | Move-tastic! | 9.35 | 9.37 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 3 | About Time Moving Systems LLC | 9.33 | 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 Chicago
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 94 miles from Milwaukee, WI to Chicago, IL will cost on average $1,861 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Milwaukee to Chicago move is roughly $4,439. 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 | $1,256 | 300 ft³ | 4.19 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,861 | 450 ft³ | 4.14 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $3,064 | 750 ft³ | 4.09 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $4,439 | 1100 ft³ | 4.04 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $6,377 | 1600 ft³ | 3.99 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $7,085 | 1800 ft³ | 3.94 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Chicago to Milwaukee guide.
Compare the 5 Best Milwaukee to Chicago Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
606 Movers, Inc.
159 N Sangamon St Suite 300
Chicago, IL, 60607
About 606 Movers, Inc.
606 Movers, Inc. has been serving the Chicagoland area for over 12 years. This professional moving company offers quality, eco-friendly moving...
Services
- Residential Movers
- Commercial Movers
- Packing & Unpacking Services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3476069 / 1139300 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 4 |
| Registered Drivers | 4 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 1 (2021) |
Move-tastic!
3100 N Tripp Ave
Chicago, IL, 60641
About Move-tastic!
What happens when two passionate triathletes decide to make extra income using their physical abilities? The result is an energetic moving...
Services
- Full Moves
- Truck Loading and Unloading
- Interstate Moving Assistance
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1906350 / 675927 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 15 |
| Registered Drivers | 28 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 90,866 (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. Chicago Neighborhood Comparison
Relocating and curious about your new city? Let this guide serve as a gentle introduction, helping you ease into a new setting by using something familiar as your grounding point—your neighborhood. Compare Milwaukee, WI & Chicago, IL neighborhoods to find your new home's best match. This tailored comparison highlights the essence of local communities, easing your transition.
| Milwaukee | Chicago | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Third Ward | West Loop | Vibrant arts and dining scene |
| Bay View | Logan Square | Hip, with a strong community feel |
| East Side | Lincoln Park | Diverse, with plentiful amenities |
| Walker's Point | Pilsen | Rich in culture and culinary delights |
| Wauwatosa | Ravenswood | Residential with a cozy vibe |
| Shorewood | Andersonville | Quaint and full of charm |
| Historic Third Ward | Old Town | Mix of historic and modern influences |
| Washington Heights | Beverly | Known for its historic homes |
| Brookfield | Hyde Park | Cultured, with a suburban feel |
| Greendale | Roscoe Village | Family-friendly and quaint |
In the vibrant streets of West Loop, Chicago, you'll discover an atmosphere reminiscent of Milwaukee's Third Ward, where the blend of historic architecture and modern innovation creates a thrilling arts and dining landscape. Similarly, Lincoln Park, with its sprawling green spaces like the namesake park and the Lincoln Park Zoo, echoes the mix of urban and green living found in Milwaukee's East Side. On the other hand, Logan Square offers a hip, vibrant community feel akin to Bay View, celebrated for its craft beer scene, eclectic dining, and tight-knit community vibrance. Each neighborhood's unique character, from the culinary richness of Pilsen to the historic charm of Beverly or the family-friendly Roscoe Village, tells a story of cultural and communal richness just waiting to be explored.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Milwaukee to Chicago
Moving from Milwaukee, WI to Chicago, IL involves weighing the advantages against the drawbacks. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and bad attributes of this relocation, helping you make an informed decision. By examining the pros and cons, you'll gain insight into how life might change in a new city.
Milwaukee, WI- Smaller city vibe
- Fewer job opportunities
- Less diverse cuisine
- Lower public transit coverage
Chicago, IL- Larger, dynamic city
- More career options
- Wider food variety
- Better public transportation
Chicago, IL- Higher cost of living
- More impersonal
- Noisier surroundings
- Scarce parking spots
Milwaukee, WI- Affordable living
- Community feel
- Quiet neighborhoods
- Easier parking
While Milwaukee offers a tight-knit community vibe with more affordable living costs, Chicago's bustling atmosphere brings a wealth of opportunities and experiences. Living in Chicago, you’ll enjoy diverse dining options from famed eateries like Girl & The Goat to innovative food halls like Time Out Market. For culture aficionados, Chicago boasts renowned institutions like The Art Institute of Chicago and vibrant neighborhood parks such as Millennium Park, contrasting Milwaukee's quieter, community-focused environments. Additionally, Chicago's extensive public transportation network, including the "L" trains, surpasses Milwaukee's, providing easier access to the city's sights, shops, and job opportunities, though it comes with the trade-off of a higher cost of living and the hustle of a more crowded urban life.
Milwaukee vs. Chicago Food Guide
This comparison of the local cuisine between Milwaukee & Chicago illuminates the unique food culture embedded in each location. Whether you're curious about the iconic dishes, street food, or vegan options, this guide will help you navigate the delicious landscapes awaiting in your new city.
| Milwaukee | Chicago | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Cheese Curds | Deep Dish Pizza |
| Most popular meat dish | Bratwurst | Italian Beef |
| Most popular street food item | Fried Fish | Hot Dog |
| Most popular vegan food | Vegan Chili | Vegan Deep Dish Pizza |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
Moving from Milwaukee to Chicago, you’re transitioning from a city known for its cheese curds and bratwurst to one famed for its deep-dish pizzas and hot dogs with a "no ketchup" rule. In Chicago, neighborhoods such as the West Loop and Logan Square are foodie heavens, offering a blend of high-end dining experiences, like those at Alinea, and casual street food delights. Lou Malnati's is an essential stop for anyone looking to dive into the deep-dish pizza scene, while Portillo's offers a taste of Chicago's beloved Italian beef sandwiches. The increase in vegan options, including vegan deep-dish pizzas, ensures that Chicago's food scene accommodates a diverse palette.
Milwaukee vs. Chicago Restaurant Comparison
When relocating, finding local cuisines that taste like home can be a comforting bridge between the known and the new. This restaurant comparison between Milwaukee and Chicago aims to help you discover eateries in your new city that resonate with your favorite flavors back home. By using familiar Milwaukee restaurants as a guide, you're invited to explore similar culinary delights in Chicago, ensuring a smoother transition.
| Milwaukee | Chicago | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Ardent | Alinea | Known for innovative, high-end dining experiences |
| Sanford | North Pond | Emphasizes seasonal ingredients with a fine dining touch |
| La Merenda | Carnivale | Vibrant atmosphere with a focus on global, eclectic dishes |
| Odd Duck | Girl & The Goat | Small plates, diverse flavors, foodie favorite |
| Conejito's Place | Xoco | Quick, casual, but authentically crafted Mexican street food |
| Mader's | Laschet's Inn | Authentic German cuisine in a cozy, traditional setting |
| Leon's Frozen Custard | Scooter's Frozen Custard | Iconic custard spot with a devoted local following |
| Zaffiro's Pizza | Pequod's Pizza | Deep dish with a cult following, similar local favorite vibes |
| Blue's Egg | Yolk | Breakfast and brunch classics done right, with a twist on the traditional |
| Kopp's Frozen Custard | The Original Rainbow Cone | Legendary for its unique multilayer ice cream cone |
Among the chosen establishments, Alinea in Chicago stands as a beacon of culinary excellence, mirroring Milwaukee's Ardent with its revolutionary approach to high-end dining and atmosphere. Similarly, the move from enjoying the highly lauded Leon's Frozen Custard to indulging in Scooter's Frozen Custard in Chicago promises a seamless transition, allowing you to bask in the familiar comfort of iconic desserts. For those whose culinary adventures are incomplete without exploring the finest in German cuisine, transitioning from Mader's in Milwaukee to Chicago's Laschet's Inn will ensure that you won't miss the hearty flavors and gemütlichkeit of home. These establishments not only offer exceptional food but also embody the spirit and community vibe of their respective cities, making your culinary journey a bridge between Milwaukee's familiarity and Chicago's vibrant new experiences.
Ready to start your move?
Milwaukee vs. Chicago Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is a pivotal component of your move, understanding how Milwaukee and Chicago compare in aspects like housing costs, architecture, and lifestyle is essential. This comparison is intended to highlight the differences and similarities that might influence your decision.
| Comparison | Milwaukee | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Germanic, Cream City Brick | Prairie Style, Skyscrapers |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Lake views, spacious layouts | Lake views, proximity to public transit |
When comparing Milwaukee and Chicago, the differences in housing costs are immediately noticeable, with Chicago presenting a higher median home price and rent. This reflects Chicago's expansive urban lifestyle and amenities, which scores higher in walkability, bikeability, and urban living compared to Milwaukee. The typical architectural styles also differ greatly, from Milwaukee's Germanic influence and unique Cream City Brick, to Chicago's world-renowned Prairie Style and skyscrapers, epitomized by landmarks like the Willis Tower. Moreover, listings in both cities often highlight lake views, showcasing the significant role Lake Michigan plays in the lifestyle and aesthetics of each city, though Chicago listings also emphasize proximity to a robust public transit system.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Chicago, IL
1. Lincoln Park: With its sprawling namesake park, you'll find plenty of green spaces for walks and the Lincoln Park Dog Park where your furry friend can run off-leash.
2. Lakeview: Home to the popular Wiggly Field Dog Park, Lakeview offers an urban setting with a pet-friendly attitude, hosting numerous pet supply shops and pet-friendly patios.
3. Andersonville: This community-oriented neighborhood not only features pet-friendly dining and shopping but also events like the annual Andersonville Pet Parade, making it a delightful place for pet owners.
Milwaukee vs. Chicago Weather Considerations
Moving from Milwaukee, WI to Chicago, IL introduces changes in your daily life, including the weather you'll experience. Understanding these differences is crucial as weather significantly impacts your lifestyle, activities, and even mood. This comparison aims to highlight the key weather differences you should expect, making your move as smooth as possible. Milwaukee's and Chicago's weather characteristics are compared to give you a clear picture of what to expect in your new city.
Milwaukee, WI
Chicago, IL
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Milwaukee, WI
Chicago, IL
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Milwaukee, WI
Chicago, IL
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Milwaukee, WI
Chicago, IL
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Milwaukee | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Snowstorms, Cold Waves | Snowstorms, Cold Waves |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
While both Milwaukee and Chicago experience similar weather patterns, some key differences are noteworthy. For instance, Chicago tends to have slightly warmer summers and winters, which might slightly alter your wardrobe requirements. Although both cities boast nearly the same number of days with sunshine, Milwaukee experiences significantly more snowfall, which could impact your winter preparations and activities. Understanding these nuances will help you adjust better to your new home, ensuring you are prepared for the climate differences in Chicago.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Milwaukee to Chicago
When planning a move from one city to another, understanding how your finances might be affected is crucial. This comparison chart offers a clear view of what you're transitioning into financially. From the average household income to the cost of living index and top industries in both Milwaukee and Chicago , you'll find all the essential money matters covered here.
| Comparison | Milwaukee | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $46,637 | $66,576 |
| Cost of Living Index | 101.9 | 116.9 |
| State Income Tax | 6.27 | 4.95 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 2.17 | 2.10 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 5.6 | 10.25 |
| Top 3 Industries | Manufacturing, Health Care, Retail | Finance, Technology, Manufacturing |
| Affluence | Moderate | High |
| Poverty | Significant | Considerable |
| Homelessness | Concerning | Worrisome |
Moving from Milwaukee to Chicago means encountering a higher cost of living, reflected not only in everyday expenses but also in housing costs. However, it's also important to note that average household incomes are significantly higher in Chicago, which can help mitigate some of these costs. Despite both cities having their challenges with poverty and homelessness, Chicago's diverse economy, characterized by strengths in finance, technology, and manufacturing, offers a dynamic environment for professionals. Comparing state and sales taxes between the two, you'll notice Illinois has a lower state income tax, but Chicago compensates with a high sales tax rate, which is one of the highest in the country.
Milwaukee vs. Chicago Political & Religious Comparison
When considering a move from Milwaukee, WI, to Chicago, IL, understanding the community you're about to join can greatly ease your transition. This comparison offers a quick snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents between Milwaukee & Chicago , providing insights into the environment and culture you'll be moving into.
| Milwaukee | Chicago | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Democratic-leaning | Strongly Democratic |
| Local Politics | Focus on manufacturing & social issues | Docuses on finance, social justice, and environmental issues |
| Religion | Diverse, with a significant Catholic community | Diverse, with a large Catholic presence but also significant Jewish, Muslim, and Buddhist communities |
In both Milwaukee and Chicago, the political landscape is predominantly Democratic, though Chicago tends to be more strongly aligned with the Democratic Party. This difference can affect local policies and initiatives, something you might notice through community programs and city development projects. Religion plays an essential role in both cities, offering diverse and vibrant communities where you can find significant Catholic populations alongside growing Jewish, Muslim, and Buddhist communities, especially in Chicago. These diverse religious landscapes contribute to the cities' rich cultural tapestries, providing ample opportunities for you to explore and engage with different faiths and cultures.
Milwaukee vs. Chicago Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Milwaukee to Chicago brings a change in daily commutes and navigating the urban landscape. To better understand what to expect, this guide provides a comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Milwaukee & Chicago to help you prepare for your new city life.
| Comparison | Milwaukee | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 22 | 34 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without a car? | Challenging | Possible |
Moving to Chicago, you will experience longer average commute times due to greater traffic congestion compared to Milwaukee. However, the silver lining is Chicago's robust public transit system, which is more comprehensive and rated higher in availability. The Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) operates buses and trains that cover a vast area, making it feasible to navigate the city without a personal vehicle. Conversely, in Milwaukee, while there is public transportation available through the Milwaukee County Transit System (MCTS), the city is generally more car-dependent, and getting by without a vehicle might pose more of a challenge for your daily activities.
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