Best Milwaukee to Salem Movers + Moving Guide
Want help with the heavy lifting?
If you're moving from Milwaukee to Salem and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,150 mile move from Wisconsin to Oregon go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 22 Milwaukee to Salem 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 Salem. 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 Salem 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 |
Cost to Move from Milwaukee to Salem
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,150 miles from Milwaukee, WI to Salem, OR will cost on average $3,610 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Milwaukee to Salem move is roughly $8,713. 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 | $2,421 | 300 ft³ | 8.07 |
1 Bedroom | $3,610 | 450 ft³ | 8.02 |
2 Bedrooms | $5,978 | 750 ft³ | 7.97 |
3 Bedrooms | $8,713 | 1100 ft³ | 7.92 |
4 Bedrooms | $12,594 | 1600 ft³ | 7.87 |
5+ Bedrooms | $14,078 | 1800 ft³ | 7.82 |


Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Salem to Milwaukee guide.
Compare the 5 Best Milwaukee to Salem 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

66 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. Salem Neighborhood Comparison
When moving from one city to another, familiarizing yourself with the new environment can feel daunting. One way to bridge this gap is by comparing neighborhoods between your current city and your future one. This guide aims to ease the transition from Milwaukee, WI to Salem, OR by comparing the local neighborhoods . We've matched top Milwaukee neighborhoods with their Salem equivalents, helping you find a new home that feels comfortably familiar.
Milwaukee | Salem | How They're Similar |
---|---|---|
Third Ward | Central Area | Artsy, historic |
Bay View | South Salem | Hip, vibrant community |
Walker's Point | West Salem | Diverse, evolving locale |
East Side | Sunnyslope | Trendy, youthful vibe |
Historic Mitchell Street | Grant | Rich in history, culture |
Riverwest | Morningside | Community-focused, eclectic |
Wauwatosa | Englewood | Family-friendly, quaint |
Shorewood | Fairmount Park | Upscale, serene residential |
Brady Street | Lansing | Lively, rich nightlife |
Washington Heights | Salem Heights | Vintage charm, peaceful |
Each neighborhood comparison offers a glimpse into the character and attractions of potential new homes. For example, if you relish the artistic and modern atmosphere of Milwaukee's Third Ward, you'll find a similar vibe in Salem's Central Area, known for its historic buildings and burgeoning arts scene. Those fond of the welcoming, indie spirit of Bay View might feel at home in South Salem, where community events and local businesses thrive. Salem's Morningside mirrors Milwaukee's Riverwest with its diverse community and array of local cafes and boutiques, such as Morningside Cafe. Meanwhile, East Side’s residents looking for a neighborhood with a youthful energy and variety of eateries and shops will appreciate Sunnyslope’s trendy atmosphere and community engagement. By understanding these parallels, your transition from Milwaukee to Salem may seem less like a leap into the unknown and more like a step into a new chapter of familiar comforts.

Things to Do in Salem
- Stroll through the colorful Bush's Pasture Park
- Discover gothic horrors at Witch's Castle
- Visit the Willamette National Forest
- Book a ticket to an event at El Sinai Center
- Explore craft brews at Gilgamesh Brewing
- Enjoy a show at Elsinore Theatre
- Join a Salem Saturday Market
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Milwaukee to Salem
Moving from one city to another is always a journey filled with excitement and challenges. This guide shines a light on the pros and cons of relocating from Milwaukee, WI, to Salem, OR, to help you weigh your options and decisions carefully. By comparing the characteristics of each city, you'll gain a clearer understanding of what awaits you in your new home.
- Cold winters
- Higher crime rate
- Less green space
- Milder winters
- Lower crime rate
- More parks, greenery
- Quieter lifestyle
- Fewer cultural venues
- Smaller job market
- Vibrant city life
- Rich cultural scenes
- Strong job market
Moving from Milwaukee to Salem introduces you to a significantly different lifestyle. While Milwaukee offers a vibrant urban scene with bustling markets and cultural events like those held at the Pabst Theater, Salem prides itself on its tranquil atmosphere, extensive parks such as Minto-Brown Island Park, and a strong sense of community. Although Salem's job market may seem smaller, it's growing, particularly in sectors such as technology and public services. Additionally, Salem's lower crime rate and abundance of green spaces offer a safer, more relaxing environment. Each city has its unique charm and challenges, so consider what aspects of life are most important to you as you make your decision.
Milwaukee vs. Salem Food Guide
When relocating, it's essential to immerse yourself in the local culture, a significant part of which is the cuisine. Through this comparison, we aim to give you a better understanding of what awaits your taste buds. This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Milwaukee & Salem so that you can feel more at home in your new city.
Milwaukee | Salem | |
---|---|---|
Most iconic local food item | Cheese Curds | Marionberry Pie |
Most popular meat dish | Bratwurst | Dungeness Crab |
Most popular street food item | Pretzels | Fish Tacos |
Most popular vegan food | Vegan Cheese Platter | Tempeh Reuben |
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
While Milwaukee offers a rich culinary tradition with its famous Cheese Curds and Bratwurst, highlighted at iconic spots like Mader's and Sobelman's, Salem presents a different flavor profile with local favorites like Marionberry Pie and Dungeness Crab, with restaurants such as Word of Mouth Bistro leading the scene. Salem boasts a slightly more health-conscious and vegan-friendly atmosphere, evident in its higher scores in these areas. Notable neighborhoods for food exploration in Salem include downtown's vibrant streets, where you can encounter a diverse array of food trucks offering everything from fish tacos to gourmet tempeh dishes, reflecting the city's robust and growing foodie scene.
Milwaukee vs. Salem Restaurant Comparison
Whether you're moving cities or simply exploring new culinary landscapes, finding equivalent dining spots can transform an unknown place into your new home. This comparison of top restaurants from Milwaukee to Salem aims to ease your transition by matching your old favorites with potential new ones. Discover where you can continue to enjoy the meals that mean the most to you in Salem, OR.
Milwaukee | Salem | What You'll Love |
---|---|---|
Sanford | DaVinci Ristorante | Upscale dining with a focus on fine ingredients |
La Merenda | Andaluz | Small plates with a global twist, fostering a communal dining experience |
Conejito's Place | La Margarita Express | Authentic and affordable, offering hearty Mexican fare |
Ardent | Table FIVE 08 | New American cuisine with a creative and modern approach |
Odd Duck | Rafns' | Locally sourced ingredients crafted into unique small plates |
Leon's Frozen Custard | EZ Orchards | Offers a local twist on frozen desserts, using Oregon's bountiful fruit |
Speed Queen Bar-B-Q | Adam's Rib Smokehouse | Authentic smoked meats that cater to BBQ lovers |
Bryant's Cocktail Lounge | Archive Coffee & Bar | Both iconic in their cities for unique drinks and a vintage vibe |
HoneyPie | Willamette Valley Pie Company | Celebrated for their pies, made with local ingredients |
Zaffiro's Pizza | Christo's Pizzeria | Traditional pizzas that pride themselves on a loyal local following |
Finding a new favorite eatery is like discovering a piece of home in a new city. For Milwaukeeans moving to Salem, options abound. If the cozy, communal dining of La Merenda is what you'll miss, Andaluz in Salem offers a similar vibe, focusing on small plates that bring people together. On the sweeter side of things, while Leon's Frozen Custard might have been your go-to in Milwaukee for a cold treat, EZ Orchards in Salem provides a unique twist by highlighting the rich, local produce of Oregon in their frozen desserts. Similarly, the transition from Zaffiro's Pizza to Christo's Pizzeria promises continued pizza nights, thanks to both establishments' commitment to quality ingredients and creating a local hangout for pizza aficionados.

Ready to start your move?
Milwaukee vs. Salem Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate significantly impacts your relocation journey, especially when comparing Milwaukee, WI, and Salem, OR. Understanding the differences in housing - from costs to lifestyle - is crucial for making the right move. This comparison offers an insight into what you can expect in each city.
Comparison | Milwaukee | Salem |
---|---|---|
Typical Architecture Style | Victorian and Bungalow | Craftsman and Ranch |
Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Lakefront Views | Proximity to Nature Parks |
When comparing the real estate markets of Milwaukee and Salem, it's clear each city offers a unique living experience influenced by local architecture and lifestyle. Milwaukee's homes often feature Victorian and bungalow styles, providing historical charm with lakefront views highly sought after. On the other hand, Salem's market leans towards Craftsman and ranch-style homes, with listings frequently highlighting the city's easy access to nature parks and outdoor activities. While Salem boasts a slightly higher bikeability score, reflecting its friendlier attitude towards cyclists, Milwaukee presents a more urban atmosphere. Regardless, both cities balance modern living with their distinct characteristics, appealing to various preferences and needs.

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Salem, OR
1. West Salem: This area is highly pet-friendly due to its numerous walking trails such as Wallace Marine Park and pet services like Taylor Street OB/GYN Veterinary Clinic.
2. South Salem: Your pet will enjoy South Salem's selection of pet-friendly restaurants and services, including All-In-One Pet Grooming and Garry's Pub which has a pet-friendly patio.
3. Morningside: Known for its large number of dog-friendly parks such as Morningside City Park, this neighborhood also hosts a favorite pet supply store, Petco.
Milwaukee vs. Salem Weather Considerations
Moving from one place to another involves adjusting to new weather patterns. Understanding how the weather in Milwaukee compares to Salem is crucial for your relocation plans. This comparison will help you anticipate changes and prepare accordingly.
Milwaukee, WI
Salem, OR
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Milwaukee, WI
Salem, OR
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Milwaukee, WI
Salem, OR
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Milwaukee, WI
Salem, OR
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Comparison | Milwaukee | Salem |
---|---|---|
Air Quality | Moderate | Good |
Natural Disasters | Snowstorms, Extreme Cold | Earthquakes, Wildfires |
Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
When moving from Milwaukee to Salem, you'll notice a significant change in winter temperatures. Salem's winters are milder, and while Milwaukee experiences heavy snowfall, accumulating nearly 47 inches annually, Salem sees an average of only 3 inches. Prominent seasonal allergies in both cities revolve around tree pollen and grasses, so prepare for similar allergenic conditions. Air quality is generally better in Salem compared to Milwaukee, which could be a relief for those sensitive to air pollutants. Understanding these differences can help ease the transition between these diverse climates.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Milwaukee to Salem
Understanding financial differences is crucial when moving from one city to another. This comparison will highlight key economic factors to consider if you're relocating from Milwaukee, WI to Salem, OR. It's designed to help you grasp how the cost of living, taxes, and income levels compare between these two cities.
Comparison | Milwaukee | Salem |
---|---|---|
Avg. Household Income | $46,637 | $63,927 |
Cost of Living Index | 101.9 | 110.55 |
State Income Tax | Up to 7.65 | Up to 9.9 |
Avg. Property Tax | 2.17 | 1.18 |
Avg. Sales Tax | 5 | 0 |
Top 3 Industries | Manufacturing, Healthcare, Education | Government, Agriculture, Manufacturing |
Affluence | Moderate | Higher |
Poverty | Higher | Lower |
Homelessness | Significant | Moderate |
When considering a move from Milwaukee to Salem, you'll discover differences in economic conditions that might affect your decision. Salem presents a higher average household income, which reflects in its slightly elevated cost of living index. However, Oregon's lack of sales tax can offset some of these increased costs, potentially leading to significant savings on everyday purchases. Furthermore, the property tax rate in Salem is considerably lower than in Milwaukee, presenting an advantage for homeowners. The industry sectors dominant in each city also suggest variations in job opportunities, which could influence your career direction post-move.
Milwaukee vs. Salem Political & Religious Comparison
In this guide, we provide a quick comparison between the politics of Milwaukee & Salem to offer you an at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious landscape of the two cities. Understanding these aspects can help you get a sense of the community you're moving into.
Milwaukee | Salem | |
---|---|---|
Political Make-up | Democratic-leaning | Democratic-leaning |
Local Politics | Focus on urban development, public transportation | Emphasis on environmental policies, education |
Religion | Mixed, with a significant Catholic presence | Diverse, with Protestant and non-religious groups notably present |
Milwaukee and Salem share a democratic-leaning political makeup, which reflects their open-minded and possibly progressive nature. However, their focuses differ; Milwaukee prioritizes urban development and enhancing public transportation, showcasing its industrial backbone. Salem, on the other hand, is significantly geared towards environmental policies and education, indicating the city's strong tilt towards sustainability and knowledge. The religious landscape in both cities is diverse, yet Milwaukee has a particularly notable Catholic community, whereas Salem sees a mix, with Protestant and non-religious groups being more dominant. This difference in religious makeup could influence the cultural and social activities available in your new hometown.
Milwaukee vs. Salem Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
When contemplating a move from Milwaukee, WI to Salem, OR, it's crucial to better understand what the daily commute and traffic is like. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Milwaukee & Salem is designed to help with just that, providing a snapshot of what to expect in your daily travels.
Comparison | Milwaukee | Salem |
---|---|---|
Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 22.3 | 23.5 |
Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
Can you get by without car? | Possible, but challenging | More challenging |
In Milwaukee, you may find the commute slightly quicker on average, though both cities offer comparable times. A notable difference is in traffic congestion; Milwaukee experiences a higher level of this, reflecting its larger population and denser urban environment. Public transit in Milwaukee is relatively more robust, attributed to services like the Milwaukee County Transit System, making it somewhat easier to navigate the city without a car. Conversely, in Salem, while there's still access to public transit such as the Cherriots bus service, the options are less extensive, potentially making car ownership more of a necessity for efficient commuting.



Additional Resources
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