Moving from Oakland to Milwaukee?

5 Best Movers and Your Ultimate Moving Guide

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Oakland to Milwaukee Movers

Moving from the vibrant streets of Oakland, CA, to the bustling heart of Milwaukee, WI, marks an exciting chapter in your life, filled with new opportunities and adventures. Leaving behind the sunny landscapes and tech hubs of "The Town" for the rich cultural tapestry and breweries of "Cream City" is a journey of discovery in its own right. Understanding the importance of this transition, we stress the need for trusted and reliable professional movers to ensure a smooth transition to your new home, a service we pride ourselves on providing at Great Guys Moving.

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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Milwaukee to Oakland guide.

5 Best Oakland to Milwaukee Movers

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

#1
OCD Moving Services LLC Logo
Exceptional

based on 3,273+ data points

El Sobrante, CA
Local Moving, Long Distance Moving, Commercial Moving See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/10/2024)

USDOT: 2597230 Verify

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...Read More >>

top 3 san francisco 2024 ocd moving services llc image
top 10 ranked movers in san francisco 2023 ocd moving services llc image
top 10 ranked movers in oakland 2022 ocd moving services llc image
#2
Kora Moving Logo
Exceptional

based on 1,517+ data points

San Bruno, CA
Local moves, Long distance moves, Packing and unpacking See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/11/2024)

USDOT: 3139436 Verify

About Kora Moving

Kora Moving, based in San Francisco, was established in 2018 by Carlos Viera, who has over 17 years of experience in the moving industry. Th...Read More >>

top 10 san bruno 2024 kora moving image
top 10 ranked movers in san bruno 2023 kora moving image
#3
About Time Moving Systems LLC Logo
Exceptional

based on 2,396+ data points

Kenosha, WI
Local moving, Long-distance moving, Cross-country moving See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/10/2024)

USDOT: 2525330 Verify

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 servic...Read More >>

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top ranked movers in milwaukee 2023 about time moving systems llc image
top ranked movers in milwaukee 2022 about time moving systems llc image
#4
Gorilla Movers Of Wisconsin Inc. Logo
Exceptional

based on 2,029+ data points

Sun Prairie, WI
Residential moves, Commercial moves, Local/statewide moving See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/10/2024)

USDOT: 2627768 Verify

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 comme...Read More >>

top 10 milwaukee 2024 gorilla movers of wisconsin inc image
top 3 ranked movers in milwaukee 2023 gorilla movers of wisconsin inc image
top 3 ranked movers in milwaukee 2022 gorilla movers of wisconsin inc image
#5
Rock 'n Roll Moving Logo
Exceptional

based on 304+ data points

Oakland, CA
Residential moving, Packing and unpacking service, Dismantling and reassembling service See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 11/28/2022)

USDOT: 3277673 Verify

About Rock 'n Roll Moving

Rock 'n Roll Moving is a young company comprised of musicians and artists with years of experience in residential and local moving services....Read More >>

Relocating from Oakland to Milwaukee Neighborhood Guide

When relocating from Oakland, CA to Milwaukee, WI, familiarizing yourself with your new city is crucial. This guide aims to ease the transition by comparing local neighborhoods between Oakland, CA & Milwaukee, WI, identifying similar communities in Milwaukee to those you've loved in Oakland. Let's find your new neighborhood!

OaklandMilwaukee
RockridgeShorewood

Diverse dining options, boutique shopping

Piedmont AvenueWauwatosa

Quaint, walkable with local shops and cafes

MontclairWhitefish Bay

Family-friendly, strong community feel

TemescalBay View

Hip, artistic vibe, vibrant dining scene

Grand LakeEast Side

Near water, entertainment options, diverse eateries

West OaklandWalker's Point

Emerging, diverse, rich in history

Jack London SquareThird Ward

Waterfront location, bustling nightlife

UptownBrady Street

Lively, full of nightlife, eclectic shops

Adams PointBrewer's Hill

Urban, spectacular city views, green spaces

Downtown OaklandDowntown Milwaukee

Business hub, cultural attractions, nightlife

In moving from Oakland's vibrant Rockridge neighborhood, with its bustling College Avenue lined with gourmet restaurants and chic boutiques, you'll find a similar spirit in Shorewood, Milwaukee. Known for its diverse dining scene and unique shopping opportunities, Shorewood has that familiar, lively urban atmosphere. Temescal's trendy vibe and foodie culture can be relived in Bay View, where artistic expressions and vibrant eateries radiate Milwaukee’s hip environment. For those who enjoy the waterfront and dynamic lifestyle of Jack London Square, Milwaukee's Historic Third Ward offers a compelling mix of old and new, where converted warehouses now house stylish lofts, galleries, theatres, and riverside dining, mirroring the rich, communal atmosphere you cherished in Oakland.

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Things to Do in Milwaukee

  • Visit Milwaukee County Zoo
  • Explore Harley-Davidson Museum
  • Stroll along Lake Michigan
  • Shop at Milwaukee Public Market
  • Enjoy Summerfest music festival
  • Watch a Brewers game

Ready to start your move?

Pros and Cons of Moving from Oakland to Milwaukee

Moving from one city to another involves weighing various factors to find the right balance for your needs. This comparison aims to offer an honest reflection of the good and bad attributes of relocating from Oakland, CA to Milwaukee, WI , providing insight into how your life might change for better or worse. By examining the pros and cons of both cities, this guide seeks to give you a comprehensive overview of what to expect.

CONs
PROs
Oakland, CA iconOakland, CA
  • High cost of living
  • Heavy traffic
  • Earthquake risk
  • Less snowy winters
Milwaukee, WI iconMilwaukee, WI
  • More affordable
  • Less congestion
  • Lower natural disaster risk
  • Four distinct seasons
Milwaukee, WI iconMilwaukee, WI
  • Smaller arts community
  • More limited options
  • Cold, snowy winters
  • Less tech opportunities
Oakland, CA iconOakland, CA
  • Vibrant arts scene
  • Diverse cuisine
  • Mild winters
  • Proximity to Silicon Valley

Moving from Oakland to Milwaukee introduces a mix of changes that can deeply impact your day-to-day life. While you might miss Oakland's vibrant arts scene and the wealth of diverse culinary options—ranging from food trucks in Jack London Square to upscale dining in Piedmont Avenue, Milwaukee's lower cost of living and beautiful seasonal changes bring their own benefits. In Milwaukee, you can enjoy summer festivals by the lake, expansive parks like Bradford Beach, and a growing arts community signified by landmarks like the Milwaukee Art Museum. Whether you're craving a big city feel or the charm of a close-knit community, Milwaukee's diverse neighborhoods—from the historic Third Ward to the trendy Walker's Point—offer a spectrum of living experiences that could suit your tastes.

Food Scene Guide When Moving from Oakland to Milwaukee

This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Oakland & Milwaukee, shedding light on food as a key aspect of local culture and lifestyle. Through this comparison, you can gain insights into the culinary scene you're moving into, ensuring a smoother transition to your new home.

OaklandMilwaukee

Most iconic local food item

Sourdough BreadBeer Brats

Most popular meat dish

BBQ RibsFried Cheese Curds

Most popular street food item

TacosBratwurst

Most popular vegan food

Jackfruit TacosVegan Cheese Curds

Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city

    1. Commis
    2. Shakewell
    3. Chop Bar
    1. Mader's
    2. Lakefront Brewery
    3. SafeHouse

Fitness/Health Conscientiousness

87

Abundance of Food Trucks

96

Foodie Scene

97

Vegan Friendly

97

In Oakland, the culinary scene is vibrant and includes innovative vegan options like jackfruit tacos, which can be found at street food festivals or trendy neighborhoods such as Temescal. The city’s health and fitness conscientiousness is reflected in its abundant vegetarian and vegan-friendly restaurants. On the flip side, Milwaukee's cuisine is rich in tradition, with beer brats and fried cheese curds standing out as local favorites, especially at historic spots like Mader's or during Brewers games. Both cities offer unique culinary experiences shaped by their local cultures and histories.

Restaurant Guide for Moving from Oakland to Milwaukee

When you're moving from one city to another, finding your new go-to spots for delicious meals can make the new place feel like home. This comparison of eateries between Oakland and Milwaukee taps into the heart of local dining scenes, offering you a roadmap to discover restaurants that mirror your Oakland favorites in your new Milwaukee neighborhood.

CommisSanford

High-end dining with a creative twist

Brown Sugar KitchenMaxie's

Southern comfort cuisine with flair

ShakewellCrazy Water

Eclectic American with a cozy atmosphere

Dona TomasLa Merenda

International tapas, similar vibrant scene

PizzaioloZaffiro's

Iconic thin-crust pizza, a local favorite

Tamarindo AntojeriaBotanas Restaurant

Authentic Mexican eats

Itani RamenRed Light Ramen

Modern Japanese with a twist

Momma's Royal CafeBlue's Egg

Breakfast all-stars matching comfort and creativity

Cholita LindaCafé Corazón

Fresh, farm-to-table Latin American dishes

OrdinaireBryant’s Cocktail Lounge

Classic ambiance with a top-notch selection

In the journey to find your culinary home in Milwaukee, places like Sanford and Maxie's stand out for their ability to offer unique and comforting dining experiences, much like Commis and Brown Sugar Kitchen in Oakland. While Sanford provides an inventive menu that celebrates the region's seasons, paralleling the high-end creativity of Commis, Maxie's brings the warmth of Southern comfort food, reminiscent of the soulful flavors found at Brown Sugar Kitchen. Similarly, the transition from Pizzaiolo's iconic pizzas to the legendary thin crusts of Zaffiro's in Milwaukee promises to keep your pizza nights vibrant and delicious. These Milwaukee establishments not only mirror the quality and ambiance of their Oakland counterparts but also promise to welcome you with open arms and flavorful dishes that'll quickly become your new favorites.

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Ready to start your move?

Real Estate Facts to Know Before Moving from Oakland to Milwaukee

When planning a move, understanding the nuances of real estate in your target city is crucial. This comparison aims to highlight the key differences and similarities between housing options in Oakland, CA, and Milwaukee, WI, helping you make an informed decision about your new home.

In comparing housing between Oakland and Milwaukee, one can't help but notice the stark difference in median home prices and monthly rent costs, reflecting the broader cost of living contrasts between the two cities. Oakland's vibrant, tech-savvy market, with its Victorian and Craftsman-style homes, contrasts with Milwaukee's blend of German, Polish, and classic American bungalow architecture, hinting at its rich cultural history. Milwaukee's emphasis on historic neighborhoods and its proximity to natural beauty like the Great Lakes, matched with Oakland's higher urban lifestyle score and tech integration, showcases the diverse living experiences available.

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Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Milwaukee, WI

1. Bay View: Known for its community feel, you'll find an abundance of pet-friendly cafes and a popular dog park, ensuring your furry friend will always feel welcome.

2. Third Ward: This neighborhood boasts stylish pet-friendly apartments and several boutiques like Third Ward Dog, where you can pamper your pooch with the latest trends.

3. Wauwatosa: Offering numerous parks and green spaces, such as the spacious Hart Park, it's a paradise for pets who love the outdoors, making walks and playdates a part of your daily routine.

Weather Considerations for Moving from Oakland to Milwaukee

When planning a move from one city to another, understanding the weather differences is crucial. Here, we compare Oakland, CA to Milwaukee, WI to give you an insight into what to expect in terms of climate. This knowledge will help you prepare for your new environment.

Summer icon
75°F / 56°F

Oakland, CA

81°F / 63°F

Milwaukee, WI

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
58°F / 44°F

Oakland, CA

30°F / 18°F

Milwaukee, WI

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
23 inches

Oakland, CA

34.76 inches

Milwaukee, WI

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
0 inches

Oakland, CA

47 inches

Milwaukee, WI

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

Moving from Oakland to Milwaukee, you will experience more distinct seasons. Milwaukee's winters are significantly colder with considerable snowfall, unlike Oakland's mild winters. While both cities enjoy a fair amount of sunshine, Oakland outshines Milwaukee with more sunny days per year. Seasonal allergies in Milwaukee may be more intense, especially during Spring when the tree pollen levels are high. Preparing for Milwaukee's climate means investing in winter gear and possibly adjusting your outdoor activities to accommodate the colder, snowier winters.

Ready to start your move?

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

When planning a move from one city to another, it's crucial to understand how the cost of living and financial environment in Oakland compares to Milwaukee. This comparison will help you gauge what changes to expect in your finances and help you plan accordingly.

The financial landscapes of Oakland and Milwaukee are markedly different. Oakland’s significantly higher average household income and cost of living index reflect its economy and the impact of California’s statewide economic policies. However, Milwaukee presents a more affordable living scenario with its lower cost of living index and average household income. Despite Milwaukee's property tax being higher, it compensates with a lesser sales tax rate. The prevalent industries in both cities suggest varying job markets, with Oakland leaning more towards technology and Milwaukee towards manufacturing. Understanding these differences can significantly impact your financial planning and lifestyle adjustments when moving.

Political & Religious Comparison between Oakland, CA and Milwaukee, WI

This brief overview offers a glance at the comparison of the politics and religious landscapes between Oakland, CA & Milwaukee, WI —key aspects you'll want to understand as you plan your move. This comparison will give you a quick insight into how the resident culture may shift.

OaklandMilwaukee

Political Make-up

Heavily DemocraticLeans Democratic

Local Politics

City of OaklandCity of Milwaukee

Religion

Diverse; less religious overallHighly diverse; stronger religious presence

While both cities lean Democratic, Oakland tends to demonstrate a more robust progressive stance in its political makeup compared to Milwaukee’s slightly more moderate lean. The local politics of each city reflect their community's priorities and challenges, with active participation from their residents. When it comes to religion, Milwaukee presents a stronger religious presence across various denominations, influenced by its historically significant religious institutions. This contrasts with Oakland's diverse yet less religiously bound community. Understanding these differences can help you adjust to your new environment more seamlessly.

Traffic and Public Transit Considerations for Moving from Oakland to Milwaukee

Understanding the differences in traffic and transportation options between Oakland, CA & Milwaukee, WI is crucial for anticipating what your daily commute and general traffic experience will be like when moving. This comparison aims to shed light on what you can expect in terms of commute times, congestion, public transit availability, and the feasibility of living without a car in both cities.

OaklandMilwaukee
29.322.3

Avg Commute Time (in minutes)

7.54

Traffic Congestion (out of 10)

65

Availability of Public Transit (out of 10)

Yes, with some planning.It's more challenging but possible in certain areas.

Can you get by without car?

In Oakland, your commute might be longer, and you'll likely encounter more traffic congestion compared to Milwaukee. However, Oakland offers better public transportation options, making it easier to get by without a car if you plan accordingly. This includes access to the BART system for efficient travel across the Bay Area. In contrast, Milwaukee has less traffic congestion and a shorter average commute time, but its public transit system, while adequate, doesn't cover as extensively or run as frequently as in larger metropolitan areas. Living without a car in Milwaukee is feasible, particularly in more central and densely populated neighborhoods, but it may require more reliance on walking, biking, or strategic use of public transportation.

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