Best Milwaukee to Portland Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Milwaukee to Portland and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,031 mile move from Wisconsin to Oregon go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 28 Milwaukee to Portland 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 - $8,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Milwaukee compared to Portland. 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 Portland Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | About Time Moving Systems LLC | 9.32 | 9.33 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 2 | Gorilla Movers Of Wisconsin Inc. | 9.30 | 9.31 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| 3 | Northwest Grace Moving | 9.28 | 9.28 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 4 | All Service Moving | 9.27 | 8.91 | 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 Portland
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,031 miles from Milwaukee, WI to Portland, OR will cost on average $3,508 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Milwaukee to Portland move is roughly $8,466. 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 | $2,354 | 300 ft³ | 7.85 |
| 1 Bedroom | $3,508 | 450 ft³ | 7.80 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $5,810 | 750 ft³ | 7.75 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $8,466 | 1100 ft³ | 7.70 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $12,234 | 1600 ft³ | 7.65 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $13,673 | 1800 ft³ | 7.60 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Portland to Milwaukee guide.
Compare the 5 Best Milwaukee to Portland Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
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) |
Northwest Grace Moving
19764 Cypresswood St
Oregon City, OR, 97045
About Northwest Grace Moving
Founded in 2008, Northwest Grace Moving is a fully licensed, bonded, and insured Oregon moving company that serves the entire Portland...
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Senior Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1999959 / 755213 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 3 |
| Registered Drivers | 3 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 50,000 (2023) |
All Service Moving
This listing has been claimed by All Service Moving66 SE Morrison St
Portland, OR, 97214
About All Service Moving
Based in Portland, OR, Willamette Valley Moving has provided moving services in Oregon, Washington, and Idaho for over 18 years. By...
Services
- Residential Moving
- Commercial Moving
- Long Distance Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1863079 / 722865 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 80 |
| Registered Drivers | 113 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 1,186,786 (2022) |
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. Portland Neighborhood Comparison
Moving to a new city can be exciting yet overwhelming, especially when it comes to finding the perfect neighborhood. This guide aims to ease the transition by comparing Milwaukee, WI & Portland, OR's local neighborhoods . By understanding the similarities between areas in both cities, you can better envision your new life in a familiar-like setting. Let’s explore the counterparts of your favorite Milwaukee neighborhoods in Portland.
| Milwaukee | Portland | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Bay View | Richmond | Vibrant arts scene and dining |
| Third Ward | Pearl District | Upscale shopping and lofts |
| Walker’s Point | Mississippi Avenue | Eclectic shops and eateries |
| East Side | Alberta Arts District | Creative atmosphere with galleries |
| Wauwatosa | Sellwood-Moreland | Family-friendly with a nostalgic feel |
| Historic Third Ward | Nob Hill | Historical charm with modern amenities |
| Brady Street | Hawthorne Boulevard | Bohemian vibes and vintage shops |
| Shorewood | Lake Oswego | Affluent with scenic views |
| Riverwest | Boise | Diverse and community-oriented |
| West Allis | Montavilla | Suburban feel with urban convenience |
If you're drawn to the urban charm and creative buzz of Milwaukee’s East Side, you'll find a similar vibe in Portland’s Alberta Arts District, where art galleries, colorful murals, and unique events fill the streets. Enthusiasts of the vibrant and eclectic Brady Street in Milwaukee will be delighted by Hawthorne Boulevard's bohemian allure, offering a treasure trove of vintage shops, quaint cafes, and indie bookstores. Meanwhile, Bay View’s residents who admire a strong sense of community mixed with a great dining and arts scene will feel right at home in Richmond, where diverse culinary experiences and local art thrive. Each Portland neighborhood captures a unique essence, paralleling the familiar favorites of Milwaukee, ensuring you'll discover a new home where your lifestyle and interests continue to flourish.
Things to Do in Portland
Hike in Forest Park- Stroll through Portland Japanese Garden
- Enjoy food carts at various locations
- Visit the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry
- Explore Powell's City of Books
- Sample brews on a craft brewery tour
- Watch a movie at Cinema 21
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Milwaukee to Portland
Moving from one city to another can be a daunting yet exciting experience. This guide offers an honest reflection on moving from Milwaukee, WI to Portland, OR , breaking down the good and the bad to help you make an informed decision. Through comparing the cons and pros, you'll gain a clearer understanding of what awaits you in your new city.
Milwaukee, WI- Harsher winters
- Less cultural diversity
- Smaller tech scene
- Fewer natural landscapes
- More traditional cuisine
Portland, OR- Milder climate
- More cultural diversity
- Bigger tech industry
- Abundance of nature
- More diverse food scene
Portland, OR- No large freshwater lakes
- Higher cost of living
- Fewer historical sites
- Less focused on beer
- More individualistic
Milwaukee, WI- Lake Michigan access
- Lower cost of living
- Rich historical sites
- Strong beer culture
- Community focused
Both Milwaukee and Portland have their unique offerings, making such a move a mix of trade-offs and gains. Swapping the cold, snowy winters of Milwaukee for Portland's milder, albeit rainier, climate means trading in your snowshoes for a sturdy umbrella. You might miss Milwaukee's proximity to Lake Michigan, but Portland's proximity to both the Pacific Ocean and mountains like Mt. Hood offers unparalleled access to nature and outdoor activities. Foodies will relish in Portland's diverse food scene, with spots like Pok Pok for Thai cuisine and the bustling Portland Farmers Market for local eats. While Milwaukee's historical buildings and strong beer culture, symbolized by the iconic Pabst Mansion and breweries, are deeply ingrained in its identity, Portland counters with a vibrant tech scene and a forward-thinking environmental ethos reflected in places like the Forest Park, one of the largest urban forests in the US. Each city accentuates different aspects of life, ensuring that your move is not just a change of scenery, but a new chapter with distinct experiences and opportunities.
Milwaukee vs. Portland Food Guide
Exploring a new city’s food scene is a flavorful journey into its culture and lifestyle. As you plan your move, understanding the culinary differences and delights awaiting you is essential. To help, we’ve prepared a comparison of the local cuisine between Milwaukee & Portland, offering insights into what your taste buds can expect in your new home.
| Milwaukee | Portland | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Beer Brats | Voodoo Doughnut |
| Most popular meat dish | Fish Fry | Smoked Brisket |
| Most popular street food item | Cheese Curds | Korean Tacos |
| Most popular vegan food | Beer Cheese Soup | Tempeh Reuben |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
While exploring Portland, you will discover a vibrant food scene that mirrors the city's eclectic and inclusive ethos. Neighborhoods such as the Pearl District and Hawthorne Boulevard are teeming with culinary delights, from the nationally acclaimed Voodoo Doughnut to inventive vegan options like the Tempeh Reuben found at local cafés. Portland’s commitment to health and sustainability is evident in its numerous vegan establishments and farm-to-table restaurants, making it a paradise for food lovers. The city’s dynamic food truck scene, especially around Mississippi Avenue, offers a taste from every corner of the globe, reflecting Portland’s diverse and welcoming community.
Milwaukee vs. Portland Restaurant Comparison
For those moving from Milwaukee to Portland, finding a new go-to spot for dining can transform a city into a home. This comparison between top Milwaukee restaurants and their Portland equivalents is designed to ease the transition. Whether you're craving high-end dining, casual bites, or something utterly unique, this guide will help you discover your next favorite eatery.
| Milwaukee | Portland | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Ardent | Le Pigeon | Fine dining with inventive tasting menus |
| Sanford | Beast | Upscale, pre-fixe dining with a focus on local ingredients |
| Odd Duck | Tusk | Eclectic, locally-sourced dishes with a global influence |
| Conejito's Place | Nuestra Cocina | Authentic Mexican cuisine in a casual setting |
| La Merenda | Andina | Peruvian tapas with a modern twist |
| Speed Queen Bar-B-Q | Podnah's Pit BBQ | Classic Texas-style barbecue |
| Zaffiro's Pizza | Apizza Scholls | Iconic pizza with a focus on quality ingredients |
| Kopp's Frozen Custard | Salt & Straw | Inventive ice cream flavors with local ingredients |
| Mader's | Gruner | German-inspired dishes with a Pacific Northwest flair |
| Bartolotta's Lake Park Bistro | Le Chon | Waterfront dining with a focus on French techniques |
Exploring the culinary scene is a thrilling part of settling into a new city, and Portland's diverse dining options promise to cater to any Milwaukee transplant's tastes. For instance, the transition from Ardent's intimate dining experience in Milwaukee can be beautifully mirrored by Le Pigeon in Portland, where the chef's inventive tasting menus have garnered national attention. Similarly, those missing the casual yet authentic Mexican flavors of Conejito's Place will find solace in Nuestra Cocina, where the focus on tradition and quality ingredients echoes Milwaukee's cherished spot. Lastly, dessert lovers loyal to Kopp's Frozen Custard can delight in Salt & Straw's innovative approach to ice cream, where local partnerships and creative concoctions offer a unique taste of Portland. Each pairing underscores the vibrant culinary landscapes awaiting Milwaukeeans in their new Pacific Northwest home.
Ready to start your move?
Milwaukee vs. Portland Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is a crucial aspect of relocating. Understanding how Milwaukee, WI and Portland, OR compare in terms of housing—covering costs, architectural styles, walkability, and more—can significantly ease your transition. This comparison aims to highlight the key differences and similarities to help you make an informed decision.
| Comparison | Milwaukee | Portland |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Victorian and Bungalow | Craftsman and Ranch |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Hardwood floors, natural light | Eco-friendly features, open floor plans |
In comparing Milwaukee and Portland, the stark contrast in median home prices and monthly rents highlights the affordability of Milwaukee. However, Portland scores higher in walkability, bikeability, and urban lifestyle, reflecting its vibrant city life and focus on sustainability. Portland's real estate listings often emphasize eco-friendly features and open floor plans, resonating with its environmentally conscious community. Meanwhile, Milwaukee's charm is accentuated by its Victorian and bungalow-style homes, often boasting hardwood floors and ample natural light, appealing to those who cherish traditional aesthetics and comfort.
Milwaukee vs. Portland Weather Considerations
When preparing to move from Milwaukee, WI to Portland, OR, understanding how the weather in your new city compares to what you're accustomed to in Milwaukee vs. Portland is crucial. This comparison will help you better prepare for the different climate conditions you'll experience.
Milwaukee, WI
Portland, OR
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Milwaukee, WI
Portland, OR
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Milwaukee, WI
Portland, OR
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Milwaukee, WI
Portland, OR
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Milwaukee | Portland |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Snowstorms, Cold Snaps | Earthquakes, Floods |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
When moving from Milwaukee to Portland, you'll notice a significant change in winter temperatures and snowfall. Portland's winters are milder, with less snow, making it easier for those not fond of heavy snow and cold snaps. However, despite having fewer sunny days, Portland experiences a modest increase in rainfall. This contributes to its renowned lush, green landscapes, offering a different kind of beauty and outdoor experience than Milwaukee. Be prepared for a slight adjustment in terms of air quality and additional allergens, such as mold, due to the higher humidity and moisture levels in Portland.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Milwaukee to Portland
When planning a move from Milwaukee to Portland, it's crucial to grasp how your finances might change. This comparison sheds light on the cost of living, taxes, and the economic landscape, contrasting Milwaukee and Portland . It aims to give you a better understanding of what to expect money-wise in your new city.
| Comparison | Milwaukee | Portland |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $46,637 | $79,057 |
| Cost of Living Index | 101.9 | 111.3 |
| State Income Tax | 7.65 | 9.9 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 2.17 | 1.07 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 5.6 | 0 |
| Top 3 Industries | Manufacturing, Healthcare, Retail | Technology, Manufacturing, Healthcare |
| Affluence | Moderate | High |
| Poverty | Significant | Moderate |
| Homelessness | High | Very High |
The financial landscape between Milwaukee and Portland shows significant differences, especially in average household income and cost of living. While a move to Portland may come with a noticeable increase in salary, it's accompanied by a substantially higher cost of living, reflecting particularly in housing costs since the city sports a much higher Cost of Living Index. The difference in state income tax rates further emphasizes Portland's higher cost of financial living, although it offers a respite with no sales tax. Additionally, the shift in primary industries might present new career opportunities, especially in technology for those moving from Milwaukee. Considering the affluence and poverty levels, one might find that despite the higher cost of living, Portland offers a potentially higher standard of living but also challenges with homelessness.
Milwaukee vs. Portland Political & Religious Comparison
Moving from one city to another involves more than just a change of location; it encompasses a transition between diverse communities, each with its unique political and religious landscapes. This brief overview aims to provide a quick, at-a-glance snapshot comparing the political and religious makeup of the residents between Milwaukee & Portland , helping you gain insight into the cultural shift you might experience.
| Milwaukee | Portland | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Leans Democratic | Strongly Democratic |
| Local Politics | Focus on industrial growth, education | Environmental sustainability, social equity |
| Religion | Diverse; significant Catholic & Lutheran populations | Diverse; less religious overall compared to national average |
In moving from Milwaukee to Portland, you'll find yourself transitioning from a city with a sturdy Democratic lean to one where Democratic ideals are even more deeply rooted, particularly with regards to environmental sustainability and social equity. Milwaukee's industrial growth and focus on education contrast with Portland's emphasis on greener policies and progressive values. Additionally, while Milwaukee boasts significant Catholic and Lutheran populations, Portland presents as less religiously inclined on the whole, reflecting a broader spectrum of beliefs and perhaps a more secular day-to-day culture. This shift may present new opportunities to engage with differing viewpoints and community values.
Milwaukee vs. Portland Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
When considering a move from Milwaukee, WI to Portland, OR, understanding the difference in daily commute and traffic can significantly impact your decision. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Milwaukee & Portland aims to provide a clear overview of what to expect in each city.
| Comparison | Milwaukee | Portland |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 22 | 24 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Possible but challenging | Yes, easier |
In Milwaukee, while the average commute time is slightly lower than Portland's, the city has less traffic congestion. This could mean smoother drives to work or for errands. However, Milwaukee's public transit system scores lower in terms of availability, making it somewhat more challenging to rely solely on public transportation compared to Portland. Portland shines with its higher public transit rating, indicating a more robust and accessible system, such as the TriMet for buses and light rail, making it easier for residents to get around without a personal vehicle. This difference highlights the importance of considering how you plan to commute, as it could greatly affect your daily life.
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