Best Wisconsin to California Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Wisconsin to California and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,175 mile WI to CA move go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 353 Wisconsin to California 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 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 Wisconsin compared to California. 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 Wisconsin to California Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | OCD Moving Services LLC | 9.66 | 9.47 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 2 | Pure Moving | 9.64 | 9.49 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 3 | Elite Movers | 9.57 | 9.52 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 4 | MACS Moving and Storage | 9.43 | 9.43 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| 5 | About Time Moving Systems LLC | 9.33 | 9.33 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 6 | Gorilla Movers Of Wisconsin Inc. | 9.30 | 9.31 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Wisconsin to California
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,175 miles from Wisconsin to California will cost on average $3,631 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom WI to CA move is roughly $8,765. 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 in Wisconsin and dropoff in California 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 Wisconsin to California movers, the better your pricing and options will be.
| Home Size | Moving Cost | Volume of Packed Items (ft³) | $/ft³ |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio | $2,436 | 300 ft³ | 8.12 |
| 1 Bedroom | $3,631 | 450 ft³ | 8.07 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $6,014 | 750 ft³ | 8.02 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $8,765 | 1100 ft³ | 7.97 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $12,670 | 1600 ft³ | 7.92 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $14,163 | 1800 ft³ | 7.87 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from California to Wisconsin guide.
Popular Wisconsin to California Moving Destinations
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Trusted. Licensed. Insured. Hire the best out of state movers. Moving to another state just got easier.Most Popular Wisconsin to California Moving Routes
Compare the 6 Best WI to CA 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) |
Pure Moving
1450 2nd St ste 225
Santa Monica, CA, 90401
About Pure Moving
Pure Moving has six locations across California, including an office in Los Angeles. This locally operated business moves over 10,000 clients...
Services
- Residential moving
- Commercial moving
- Long-distance moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3207734 / 1115049 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
| Registered Drivers | 1 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 100,000 (2022) |
Elite Movers
429 Lake St
Eau Claire, WI, 54703
About Elite Movers
Elite Movers is a professional moving service in Eau Claire that provides full-service moving solutions for local and long-distance relocations. They...
Services
- Full Service Move
- Labor Only (Loading/Unloading Help)
- Single Item Move
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3579816 / 1208798 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 3 |
| Registered Drivers | 1 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 45,000 (2022) |
MACS Moving and Storage
901 Maxwell St
Lake Geneva, WI, 53147
About MACS Moving and Storage
Lake Geneva-based MACS Moving and Storage is a full-service moving company that has served Southeastern Wisconsin and Northern Illinois for over...
Services
- Local Moves
- Long Distance Moves
- Packing
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2386699 / 820142 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 13 |
| Registered Drivers | 10 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 216,309 (2022) |
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) |
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.
Pros and Cons of Moving from Wisconsin to California
Moving from Wisconsin to California presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities. This guide aims to give you an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of this relocation, comparing the cons of leaving Wisconsin to the pros of living in California, and vice versa. Let's navigate through this journey together, marking out the cons and pros to help you make an informed decision.
Wisconsin- Cold Winters
- Less Diversity
- Smaller Economy
- Fewer Beaches
- Lower Cost of Living
California- Mild Winters
- Greater Diversity
- Larger Economy
- Coastal Access
- Higher Cost of Living
California- Expensive Housing
- Urban Crowding
- Distant Communities
- Higher Taxes
- Less Seasonal Change
Wisconsin- Affordable Housing
- Abundant Nature
- Close-knit Communities
- Lower Taxes
- Seasonal Variety
While the colder winters in Wisconsin might have you longing for California's milder climate, it's essential to consider the higher cost of living you'll encounter on the West Coast. California boasts a wealth of diversity, from the bustling streets of Los Angeles to the innovative hub of Silicon Valley. The state's economic opportunities in tech, entertainment, and green industries often attract newcomers despite the intimidating housing market. On the flip side, Wisconsin's affordable living and close-knit communities present a stark contrast to California's urban crowding and higher taxes. Yet, for those seeking vibrant city life, places like San Diego or San Francisco are hard to beat for their rich cultural experiences, from world-class restaurants to iconic sights like the Golden Gate Bridge.
Wisconsin vs. California Food Guide
When relocating, immersing yourself in the local culture is key, and nothing embodies culture quite like food. To help you transition smoothly, we're offering a heartfelt comparison of the local cuisine between Wisconsin & California. This guide aims to provide insights into the food scene awaiting you in your new locale.
| Wisconsin | California | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Cheese Curds | California Roll |
| Most popular meat dish | Bratwurst | Tri-tip BBQ |
| Most popular street food item | Fried Cheese Curds | Fish Tacos |
| Most popular vegan food | Deep Fried Cauliflower | Avocado Toast |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the state |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In Wisconsin, you can delight in the unique taste of cheese curds, a local staple, especially at The Old Fashioned or during a visit to Culver's for a fast-food twist. California, on the other hand, offers a diverse palate with an emphasis on health-conscious choices like avocado toast and a range of vegan options. The state boasts a vibrant food truck scene, particularly in Los Angeles where you can savor the iconic fish tacos at spots like Ricky's Fish Tacos. Regardless of your dietary preferences, both states present a delightful culinary journey that mirrors the local culture and lifestyle.
Ready to start your move?
Wisconsin vs. California Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is a crucial element when considering a move. It's important to grasp how housing aspects between Wisconsin and California compare, ranging from costs and architecture to walkability and urban lifestyle. This comparison will help clarify the significant differences and assist in making an informed decision.
| Comparison | Wisconsin | California |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Prairie and Cape Cod | Spanish and Modern |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Lakeside views, Large yards | Ocean views, Sustainability features |
When moving from Wisconsin to California, you'll notice notable differences in living standards and costs. California’s higher median home price reflects its desirability and economic opportunities, while its emphasis on sustainability and modern architecture caters to a different lifestyle than Wisconsin’s traditional homes with spacious yards. Moreover, California's cities offer a more walkable and bikeable environment, enhancing the urban lifestyle. This transition may not just be about changing locations but also adapting to a new way of life, where proximity to nature might mean oceans instead of lakes, and sustainability takes priority.
Wisconsin vs. California Weather Considerations
Moving from one location to another brings many changes, but understanding how the weather compares between Wisconsin and California is crucial for your preparation. This comparison will help you adapt more comfortably to your new environment.
Wisconsin
California
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Wisconsin
California
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Wisconsin
California
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Wisconsin
California
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Wisconsin | California |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Varies (from Good in rural areas to Poor in cities) |
| Natural Disasters | Blizzards, Tornadoes | Earthquakes, Wildfires |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Understanding the weather differences between Wisconsin and California can greatly influence your daily life and comfort. In California, you'll enjoy more sunshine and milder winters, a stark contrast to Wisconsin's snowy winters and cooler summer nights. California's diverse climate means while coastal areas offer moderate weather year-round, inland areas can experience more extreme temperatures and different natural disaster risks, such as wildfires and earthquakes. Adapting might also include adjusting to a higher UV index, leading to different skin care precautions. This information will assist you in preparing for your move, from wardrobe changes to health care considerations.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Wisconsin to California
When planning a move from Wisconsin to California, understanding the financial implications is crucial. This comparison will highlight the differences in cost of living, income, taxes, and economic conditions between Wisconsin and California, helping you make an informed decision about your relocation.
| Comparison | Wisconsin | California |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $70,996 | $91,551 |
| Cost of Living Index | 95.65 | 136.4 |
| State Income Tax | Up to 7.65 | Up to 13.3 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 1.68 | 0.77 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 5.43 | 8.56 |
| Top 3 Industries | Manufacturing, Agriculture, Healthcare | Technology, Agriculture, Entertainment |
| Affluence | Moderate | High |
| Poverty | Low | High |
| Homelessness | Low | Very High |
In comparing the financial landscapes of Wisconsin and California, several key factors emerge. While the average household income is higher in California, the cost of living and state income taxes are significantly higher as well, which can quickly offset the increased earnings. California's technological and entertainment industries offer lucrative job opportunities, yet the state struggles with high rates of poverty and homelessness. Wisconsin, with its lower cost of living and moderate affluence, presents a different set of financial advantages and challenges. Understanding these dynamics is vital for a smooth transition and managing expectations.
Wisconsin vs. California Political & Religious Comparison
Welcome! In this segment, we’re going to provide a quick snapshot focusing on the comparison of the politics between Wisconsin & California, along with the religious composition of each state's residents. This aims to give you a better understanding of the communities you may be joining.
| Wisconsin | California | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Mixed; leans slightly conservative | Liberal, especially in urban areas |
| Local Politics | Varies by region, conservative in rural areas | Significantly liberal, particularly in cities like San Francisco and Los Angeles |
| Religion | Christianity dominates, with a mix of Protestant and Catholic | Diverse; higher percentage of unaffiliated individuals |
When moving from Wisconsin to California, you'll find that the political atmosphere shifts significantly. California is known for its liberal stance, particularly in its major cities like San Francisco and Los Angeles, whereas Wisconsin tends to have a more balanced political landscape, with rural areas leaning conservative. On the religious front, California presents a more diverse range of beliefs, with a notable portion of the population identifying as unaffiliated with any religion. This diversity also extends to local politics and communities, offering a vibrant tapestry of cultures and viewpoints for new residents.
Education Guide When Moving from Wisconsin to California
Making the move from Wisconsin to California means adjusting to new surroundings, and if you're a parent or a student, education is likely a top priority. To help you understand the differences and make an informed decision, we've compared educational institutions in both states. The purpose of this comparison is to better understand what the comparisons are between school options in Wisconsin and California .
| Wisconsin | California |
|---|---|
Where most Seniors go to college (top 3) University of Wisconsin-Madison Madison Marquette University Milwaukee University of Wisconsin-La Crosse La CrosseUniversity of California Los Angeles Los Angeles University of California Berkeley Berkeley Stanford University Stanford | |
Top 3 Elementary Schools Sunset Ridge Elementary Middleton Lake Shore Middle Mequon Bayside Middle School BaysidePoint Vicente Elementary Rancho Palos Verdes Reed Elementary Tiburon El Morro Elementary Laguna Beach | |
Top 3 Middle Schools Whitefish Bay Middle Whitefish Bay Glacier Creek Middle Cross Plains Kromrey Middle MiddletonMiller Creek Middle School San Rafael Carmel Valley Middle School San Diego Palos Verdes Intermediate Palos Verdes Estates | |
Top 3 High Schools Cedarburg High Cedarburg Whitefish Bay High Whitefish Bay Brookfield East High BrookfieldHenry M. Gunn High Palo Alto Torrey Pines High San Diego Palos Verdes Peninsula High Palos Verdes Estates | |
Top 3 private high schools University School of Milwaukee Milwaukee Brookfield Academy Brookfield St. Mary's Springs Academy Fond du LacHarvard-Westlake School Studio City The Bishop's School La Jolla Phillips Academy Andover | |
Top 3 private K-12 schools University Lake School Hartland Wayland Academy Beaver Dam Madison Country Day School WaunakeeThe Harker School San Jose The Athenian School Danville Crossroads School for Arts & Sciences Santa Monica | |
Top 3 School Districts Elmbrook School District Brookfield Middleton-Cross Plains Area School District Middleton Whitefish Bay School District Whitefish BayPalo Alto Unified School District Palo Alto San Marino Unified School District San Marino La Cañada Unified School District La Cañada Flintridge | |
When comparing the educational landscape between Wisconsin and California, it's clear that both states boast impressive institutions for every level of learning, from elementary to high school. Wisconsin's University of Wisconsin-Madison is renowned for its comprehensive programs and vibrant campus life, attracting students from across the nation. Meanwhile, California's University of California, Berkeley, and Stanford University are iconic for their rigorous academics and innovative research opportunities. For families considering private education, California offers institutions like the prestigious Harvard-Westlake School, known for its academic excellence and robust extracurricular options. Whether you value a strong public school system, exceptional private institutions, or proximity to prestigious colleges and universities, both states offer compelling choices making it essential to weigh your priorities closely.
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