Best Milwaukee to Seattle Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Milwaukee to Seattle and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 1,943 mile move from Wisconsin to Washington go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 37 Milwaukee to Seattle 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 Seattle Moves & More), 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 Seattle. 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 Seattle Moving Companies

RankCompany NameRating QuestionAffordability IndexLicenseContact
1Seattle Moves & More9.549.39Authorized For HHGContact
2John Volken Academy Movers9.339.65Authorized For HHGContact
3About Time Moving Systems LLC9.329.33Authorized 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 Seattle

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 1,943 miles from Milwaukee, WI to Seattle, WA will cost on average $3,434 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Milwaukee to Seattle move is roughly $8,283. 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$2,304300 ft³7.68
1 Bedroom$3,434450 ft³7.63
2 Bedrooms$5,685750 ft³7.58
3 Bedrooms$8,2831100 ft³7.53
4 Bedrooms$11,9681600 ft³7.48
5+ Bedrooms$13,3741800 ft³7.43
*Please note: These Wisconsin to Washington moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from Wisconsin & Washington. 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 WA mover.
Wisconsin iconArrow iconWashington icon
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Seattle to Milwaukee guide.

Compare the 5 Best Milwaukee to Seattle Movers

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

S

Seattle Moves & More

Exceptional9.54/10
based on 1,243+ data points

4601 Shilshole Ave NW

Seattle, WA, 98107

About Seattle Moves & More

Based in Seattle, Seattle Moves & More is a licensed, insured, and premier moving company in Seattle, WA, known for its...

Services

  • Residential & Commercial Moving
  • Long-Distance Relocation
  • Furniture Packing and Unpacking

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2962927 / 5796

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers5
Total Annual Miles Moved31,000 (2023)
View Full Review
1
John Volken Academy Movers Logo

John Volken Academy Movers

Exceptional9.33/10
based on 1,571+ data points

921 Central Ave N

Kent, WA, 98032

About John Volken Academy Movers

John Volken Academy Movers is a not-for-profit moving company that helps people move across Western and Eastern Washington. This local business...

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Commercial Moving
  • Residential Moving

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2261169 / 1666977

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans6
Registered Drivers8
Total Annual Miles Moved200 (2015)
View Full Review
2
About Time Moving Systems LLC Logo

About Time Moving Systems LLC

Exceptional9.32/10
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. Seattle Neighborhood Comparison

When planning a move from Milwaukee, WI to Seattle, WA, it's helpful to find new neighborhoods that feel like home. By comparing the top neighborhoods between Milwaukee, WI & Seattle, WA , you can better visualize your life in a new city. This guide aims to ease the transition by drawing parallels between your current and future surroundings.

MilwaukeeSeattleHow They're Similar
Third WardPioneer SquareHistoric, artsy vibe
Bay ViewBallardStrong sense of community, waterfront access
East SideCapitol HillVibrant nightlife, diverse community
Walker's PointFremontQuirky, eclectic shops
WauwatosaWallingfordFamily-friendly, suburban feel
ShorewoodQueen AnneUpscale, picturesque views
Historic Mitchell StreetInternational DistrictRich cultural history, diverse cuisine
RiverwestGreenwoodLively, tight-knit community
Brady StreetFremontEclectic dining and shopping
Historic Third WardSouth Lake UnionTrendy, tech-savvy atmosphere

For those accustomed to the vibrant nightlife and diverse community of Milwaukee's East Side, you'll find a similar spirit in Seattle's Capitol Hill, which buzzes with eclectic bars like Quinn's Pub and avant-garde venues like Northwest Film Forum. Meanwhile, the historic and artsy ambiance of the Third Ward is mirrored in Pioneer Square, where art galleries and the famed Seattle Underground Tour invite exploration. For a more laid-back vibe echoing Milwaukee's Bay View, Ballard provides a coastal retreat with attractions like the Hiram M. Chittenden Locks and the bustling Ballard Farmers Market.

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Things to Do in Seattle

  • Visit the Space Needle for iconic city views.
  • Explore Pike Place Market's unique shops.
  • Relax at Green Lake Park.
  • Discover art at Seattle Art Museum.
  • Enjoy a ferry ride to Bainbridge Island.
  • Watch a Mariners baseball game at T-Mobile Park.
  • Hike in Mount Rainier National Park.

Ready to start your move?

Pros and Cons of Moving from Milwaukee to Seattle

Moving can be an exhilarating yet daunting process, especially when it entails leaving behind the familiar comforts of one's current home for a new city. This guide aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Milwaukee, WI to Seattle, WA . Through comparative charts, we will delve into the pros and cons to help you weigh your decision with clarity.

CONs
PROs
Milwaukee, WI iconMilwaukee, WI
  • Harsher winters
  • Smaller job market
  • Lower cultural diversity
  • Less seafood
  • Fewer public transit options
Seattle, WA iconSeattle, WA
  • Milder winters
  • Larger tech industry
  • Higher cultural diversity
  • Fresh seafood
  • Extensive public transit
Seattle, WA iconSeattle, WA
  • Higher cost of living
  • Frequent rain
  • Less intimate community
  • Expensive housing market
  • Higher population density
Milwaukee, WI iconMilwaukee, WI
  • Affordable housing
  • Easier winters
  • Smaller, close-knit community
  • Lower cost of living
  • Rich local history

The decision to move from Milwaukee to Seattle entails navigating a blend of economic, climatic, and cultural shifts. For instance, while Milwaukee's winters can be bitterly cold, Seattle offers a milder climate, allowing for outdoor activities year-round. Seattle's vibrant, diverse culture is a haven for foodies, especially lovers of fresh seafood, with places like Pike Place Market creating a haven for gourmet explorers. Moreover, the tech boom in Seattle has led to a robust job market, particularly in the tech industry, with companies such as Amazon and Microsoft based there. For those craving green spaces, Seattle does not disappoint, with stunning parks like Discovery Park offering expansive trails and stunning views. However, this comes at a cost, as the city's housing market and general cost of living are significantly higher than in Milwaukee. Navigating these changes will require consideration of what you value most in your living environment.

Milwaukee vs. Seattle Food Guide

This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Milwaukee & Seattle, showcasing how food is an integral reflection of local culture and living experience. Through this comparison, you will be better informed about the diverse and vibrant food scene awaiting you in your new city.

MilwaukeeSeattle
Most iconic local food itemCheese CurdsSalmon
Most popular meat dishBratwurstPacific Northwest Clam Chowder
Most popular street food itemFried Cheese CurdsTacos
Most popular vegan foodBeer Cheese Soup (vegan version)Pho
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Mader's
  • Sobelman's
  • Lakefront Brewery
  • Pike Place Chowder
  • Canlis
  • Salumi
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

In Seattle, the vibrant food scene is greatly influenced by its coastal location, offering an abundant selection of seafood, with salmon leading as the city's most iconic dish. Neighborhoods like Capitol Hill and Ballard are notable for their rich culinary landscapes, housing establishments such as Pike Place Chowder and Salumi, which have become institutions in their own right. The city's commitment to inclusive eating is evident, with a vast array of vegan and health-conscious options abundantly available across Seattle. Here, food trucks and pop-up markets also add a dynamic layer to the city's foodie culture, offering everything from gourmet tacos to innovative vegan dishes.

Milwaukee vs. Seattle Restaurant Comparison

Food is a pivotal part of feeling at home in a new city. This restaurant comparison is aimed at easing your transition by comparing the top restaurants in Milwaukee to their equivalent spots in Seattle, helping you find new favorite eateries. By using your current hometown favorites as a guide, you'll discover where to dine next.

MilwaukeeSeattleWhat You'll Love
Sanford RestaurantCanlisOffers a fine dining experience with a focus on innovative cuisine.
ArdentAlturaBoasts a seasonal tasting menu that highlights the Pacific Northwest's bounty.
HoneyPiePie BarKnown for its homey atmosphere and an impressive selection of sweet and savory pies.
Bryant's Cocktail LoungeZig Zag CaféAn iconic bar with a cozy atmosphere and a reputation for creative cocktails.
La MerendaTarsan i JaneFeatures a Valencian-inspired menu that emphasizes sharing plates and communal dining.
Conejito's PlaceEl CamionCelebrated for its authentic, affordable Mexican fare reminiscent of Conejito's homey vibe.
Odd DuckWalrus and the CarpenterOffers a menu of small plates with a focus on local, seasonal ingredients.
Blue's EggPortage Bay CaféFamous for its breakfast menu that prioritizes organic and sustainable ingredients.
Leon's Frozen CustardMolly Moon's Homemade Ice CreamBoth are iconic dessert spots famous for their local charm and flavors.
Transfer Pizzeria CaféDelanceyDelivers a pizza experience inspired by traditional techniques and local ingredients.

For those moving from Milwaukee to Seattle, finding a culinary scene that resonates with home is critical. Sanford Restaurant and Canlis both offer an unparalleled fine dining experience, drawing in guests with their innovative and luxurious dishes. Meanwhile, appetites for homestyle pies find solace in the sweet and savory selections of HoneyPie and Pie Bar, where comfort food reigns supreme. For a taste of spirited nightlife, Bryant's Cocktail Lounge and Zig Zag Café stand out as must-visit bars, offering unique cocktails in an inviting atmosphere. This guide not only helps in mapping out the new culinary adventures awaiting in Seattle but also ensures that the flavors of Milwaukee continue to inspire your dining experiences in your new city.

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Milwaukee vs. Seattle Real Estate & Living Facts

When considering a move, it's essential to explore and understand the differences in real estate, as it constitutes a major part of the relocation equation. This comparison aims to shed light on how Milwaukee, WI and Seattle, WA stack up in terms of housing aspects like cost, architecture, walkability, and more, providing you with the essential insights to make an informed decision.

ComparisonMilwaukeeSeattle
Typical Architecture StyleVictorian and BungalowModern and Craftsman
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingNearby amenities, historic detailsEco-friendly upgrades, views

Milwaukee and Seattle offer distinct living experiences, influenced heavily by their local real estate markets. In Milwaukee, the more affordable housing options often come with charming Victorian and Bungalow architectural styles, making it attractive for those who appreciate historic details and a slower urban pace. Meanwhile, Seattle commands a higher living cost but compensates with its modern Craftsman homes and stunning views, catering to those seeking an eco-conscious lifestyle in a vibrant urban setting. Walkability and bikeability are significantly better in Seattle, emphasizing the city's commitment to sustainability and active living. Regardless of your preference, both cities promote a unique blend of urban lifestyle features that cater to a wide range of desires and needs.

Pet-friendly neighborhoods background image

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Seattle, WA

1. Ballard: With its numerous off-leash dog parks, Ballard is ideal for your furry friends to run free and socialize.

2. Green Lake: Known for the pet-friendly Green Lake Park, you and your pet will enjoy the scenic 2.8-mile trail and ample green space for play.

3. Queen Anne: This neighborhood is packed with pet-friendly cafes and shops, plus it offers easy access to Kinnear Park's off-leash area, making it a perfect spot for pet owners.

Milwaukee vs. Seattle Weather Considerations

When planning a move from Milwaukee, WI to Seattle, WA, understanding the weather comparison is crucial. The climate you're used to in Milwaukee will differ significantly from what awaits you in Seattle . This overview serves to prepare you for those differences, ensuring a smoother transition to your new home.

Summer icon
79/61

Milwaukee, WI

76/57

Seattle, WA

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
30/18

Milwaukee, WI

47/37

Seattle, WA

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
34.76

Milwaukee, WI

37.49

Seattle, WA

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
45

Milwaukee, WI

5

Seattle, WA

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonMilwaukeeSeattle
Air QualityModerateGood
Natural DisastersBlizzards, Severe StormsEarthquakes, Volcanic Activity
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

Moving from Milwaukee to Seattle will introduce you to a milder climate with less extreme temperatures, particularly in winter. While Milwaukee experiences significant snowfall, averaging around 45 inches annually, Seattle sees much less, with an average of 5 inches. This difference reflects the more temperate wet climate of Seattle compared to the continental climate of Milwaukee. Additionally, you will find that Seattle has more days with overcast skies, resulting in fewer sunny days than you might be accustomed to. Understanding these variations will help you adjust to your new environment in Seattle with ease.

Ready to start your move?

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

When planning a move from Milwaukee, WI to Seattle, WA, it's crucial to understand how the finance aspects compare. This includes examining average household income , cost of living , taxation , and more. Understanding these differences will ensure you're financially prepared for your new life in Seattle compared to Milwaukee .

ComparisonMilwaukeeSeattle
Avg. Household Income$46,637$110,781
Cost of Living Index101.9121.4
State Income Tax7.650
Avg. Property Tax2.170.99
Avg. Sales Tax5.610.1
Top 3 IndustriesManufacturing, Healthcare, RetailTechnology, Aerospace, Healthcare
AffluenceModestHigh
PovertySignificantModerate
HomelessnessConcerningSevere

When comparing financial factors between Milwaukee and Seattle, it's evident the move will introduce you to a vastly different economic environment. Seattle's average household income nearly doubles that of Milwaukee, reflecting its high affluence partly due to booming technology and aerospace industries. However, this increase in income comes with a cost; Seattle's cost of living is significantly higher, marked by a cost of living index of 172 out of 100, compared to Milwaukee's more modest 84. Additionally, while Seattle benefits from having no state income tax, its sales tax and cost of living may offset this advantage. These factors are key to understanding and preparing for your financial transition from Milwaukee to Seattle.

Milwaukee vs. Seattle Political & Religious Comparison

This comparison provides a quick snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents between Milwaukee & Seattle. Understanding these aspects can help you adjust to the community dynamics of your new city.

MilwaukeeSeattle
Political Make-upDemocratic-leaningStrongly Democratic
Local PoliticsFocus on economic development, educationEmphasis on environmental policies, social equity
ReligionMixed, with a significant Catholic presenceModerately religious, diverse beliefs

When moving from Milwaukee to Seattle, you'll find both cities are Democratic-leaning, with Seattle being particularly strong in its political affiliation. This is reflected in the local political focuses, with Seattle putting a significant emphasis on environmental policies and social equity, which can be seen through initiatives and resources like Seattle's Office of Sustainability & Environment. Religion in Milwaukee offers a mixed landscape with a noteworthy Catholic presence; however, Seattle presents a more moderately religious community, embracing a wide array of beliefs, linked to places like the Seattle Unity Church. This shift represents an opportunity to engage with diverse perspectives and contributes to a vibrant community dialogue in your new home.

Milwaukee vs. Seattle Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving from Milwaukee, WI, to Seattle, WA, involves adapting to new daily routines, especially when it comes to commuting. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Milwaukee & Seattle is designed to help you better understand what your daily commute and traffic might look like.

ComparisonMilwaukeeSeattle
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)2228
Traffic Congestion 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦
Availability of Public Transit 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇
Can you get by without car?With difficultyYes, easier

While Milwaukee offers a shorter average commute time compared to Seattle, it falls behind in terms of public transit options and ease of living without a car. Milwaukee's public transit system, though reliable, might not cover all areas comprehensively, making car ownership more of a necessity. On the other hand, Seattle's robust public transit, including buses, light rail, and ferries, makes it considerably easier to navigate the city without a personal vehicle. Plus, with higher traffic congestion, Seattle residents might find public transit a more convenient option for their daily commute.

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