Moving from San Francisco to Milwaukee?

5 Best Movers and Your Ultimate Moving Guide

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San Francisco to Milwaukee Movers

Moving from the tech-savvy hills of San Francisco to Milwaukee’s brew-loving heart is not just a change of address, it's an exciting journey into a new chapter of your life. You'll trade the Golden Gate for the shores of Lake Michigan, leaving behind the haze of innovation for a city steeped in rich history and vibrant culture. Understanding the magnitude of this long-distance move, it's crucial to entrust your journey to professional movers who are not just reliable but come highly recommended, ensuring your transition is as smooth and worry-free as possible.

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

5 Best San Francisco 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
B
Exceptional

based on 634+ data points

San Francisco, CA
Long-distance moving, Small relocation , Full packing services See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 8/10/2024)

USDOT: 1396171 Verify

About Bay - L.A. Express Moving

Bay-L.A. Express Moving is a professional moving company that serves Los Angeles, San Francisco, and the entire Bay Area. Specializing in mo...Read More >>

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#4
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
#5
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 >>

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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

Relocating from San Francisco to Milwaukee Neighborhood Guide

When relocating from San Francisco, CA to Milwaukee, WI, one challenge you might face is finding a new neighborhood that feels like home. This guide compares popular neighborhoods in San Francisco, CA with Milwaukee, WI to help you familiarize yourself with your new city by using what's already familiar to you. We'll match San Francisco's top neighborhoods with their Milwaukee counterparts based on vibe, amenities, and community feel.

San FranciscoMilwaukee
The MissionBay View

Diverse, vibrant community

Nob HillYankee Hill

Historic charm, upscale living

SOMA (South of Market)Walker’s Point

Industrial, artsy with lofts

Hayes ValleyEast Town

Trendy shops, arts culture

Pacific HeightsShorewood

Affluent, lakefront community

Marina DistrictThird Ward

Stylish, with waterfront views

Haight-AshburyRiverwest

Bohemian, diverse population

North BeachBrady Street

Eclectic mix, Italian influence

CastroWalker's Point again

LGBTQ+-friendly area

Richmond DistrictWashington Heights

Residential, cultural mix

For those moving from San Francisco's iconic neighborhoods, Milwaukee offers intriguing parallels. Those who adore the artistic and tech-forward vibe of SOMA will find a similar allure in Walker's Point, where converted warehouses now serve as cutting-edge lofts and galleries. If you love strolling through the Marina District, admiring the waterfront and posh boutiques, Milwaukee's Third Ward will impress you with its stylish shops and scenic riverwalk. Haight-Ashbury's bohemian charm is mirrored in Riverwest, where a tapestry of live music venues and community gardens paint a vibrant cultural mosaic. And for the epicureans who revel in the Mission's culinary diversity, Bay View's eclectic dining scene—from farm-to-table restaurants to classic diners—promises a seamless gastronomic transition. Each Milwaukee neighborhood offers unique parks, restaurants, and local sights that pay homage to their San Francisco counterparts while introducing you to the distinct flavor of your new home.

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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 San Francisco to Milwaukee

Moving from one city to another is a significant life decision, filled with both excitement and challenges. This comparison aims to offer an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from San Francisco, CA to Milwaukee, WI, helping you weigh the pros and cons through visual charts. It's designed to guide you in making an informed choice about this major transition.

CONs
PROs
San Francisco, CA iconSan Francisco, CA
  • High living costs
  • Traffic congestion
  • Dense population
  • Competitive job market
Milwaukee, WI iconMilwaukee, WI
  • More affordable
  • Less traffic
  • Less crowded
  • Emerging job opportunities
Milwaukee, WI iconMilwaukee, WI
  • Smaller tech community
  • Colder winters
  • Less diversity
  • Fewer landmarks
San Francisco, CA iconSan Francisco, CA
  • Vibrant tech scene
  • Mild climate
  • Cultural diversity
  • Iconic landmarks

Relocating from San Francisco, CA, to Milwaukee, WI, offers an intriguing change in lifestyle. While you might miss the buzz of the Bay Area's tech scene, Milwaukee's emerging job market in tech and other industries provides exciting opportunities for growth and innovation. The transition will also introduce you to Milwaukee's rich cultural scene, with unique establishments like the Milwaukee Art Museum and cozy spots such as Colectivo Coffee that dot the city. Although Milwaukee's winters are markedly colder than San Francisco's mild climate, the variety of seasonal activities, from ice skating at Red Arrow Park to winter festivals, ensures there's always something to look forward to. This move invites you to a world of new experiences, blending the comfort of affordability with the adventure of exploring Milwaukee's vibrant neighborhoods and welcoming community.

Food Scene Guide When Moving from San Francisco to Milwaukee

As you plan your move, understanding how food plays into the local culture of your new home is crucial. In this guide, we’ll compare the local cuisine between San Francisco & Milwaukee to help you get a taste of the food scene you’re moving into.

San FranciscoMilwaukee

Most iconic local food item

Sourdough breadBeer Cheese Soup

Most popular meat dish

CioppinoBratwurst

Most popular street food item

Mission BurritoFried Cheese Curds

Most popular vegan food

Jackfruit TacosVegan Brat

Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city

Fitness/Health Conscientiousness

96

Abundance of Food Trucks

97

Foodie Scene

107

Vegan Friendly

96

San Francisco and Milwaukee offer unique dining experiences central to their local culture. San Francisco, known for its sourdough bread and sustainable seafood dishes like Cioppino, boasts a vibrant foodie scene with high concentration on fitness and health, evident in its plethora of vegan options and fitness-conscious restaurants. Trendy neighborhoods like Mission District and the Embarcadero showcase this diversity within the culinary realm. Milwaukee, celebrated for its Beer Cheese Soup and Bratwurst, might not match San Francisco's level of health conscientiousness but has its charm with an emerging food scene focused on local and hearty midwestern fare. The city's historic Third Ward and Walker's Point areas are great places to explore these local flavors, with restaurants like Mader's providing a traditional German dining experience that's hard to find elsewhere.

Restaurant Guide for Moving from San Francisco to Milwaukee

Food significantly contributes to the feeling of home in a new city. Our restaurant comparison aims to ease your transition from San Francisco to Milwaukee by matching your favorite eateries with Milwaukee's vibrant dining scene. Explore this guide to discover your next favorite spot, making the move feel less daunting and more like an exciting new chapter.

State Bird ProvisionsSanford

Inventive New American dishes

Zuni CaféBacchus

Classic fine dining experience

Tartine BakeryAmilinda

Exceptional baked goods and European flavors

NopaOdd Duck

Focus on local, sustainable cuisine

La TaqueriaBelAir Cantina

Fusion and traditional fare with a lively atmosphere

Swan Oyster DepotSt. Paul Fish Company

Fresh seafood in a casual setting

Slanted DoorMekong Café

Authentic Southeast Asian flavors

Foreign CinemaMovie Tavern by Marcus

Unique dining and movie experience

R&G LoungeDanDan

Exceptional Chinese-American dishes

Bi-Rite CreameryKopp's Frozen Custard

Iconic dessert spot with a local twist

Exploring Milwaukee's dining scene can feel like a culinary adventure reminiscent of what San Francisco offers. For instance, fans of State Bird Provisions' innovative approach to American cuisine will find themselves at home in Sanford's hands, indulging in dishes that challenge and delight the palate in equal measure. On the casual side, La Taqueria's counterparts in Milwaukee, like BelAir Cantina, serve up a vibrant atmosphere along with their fusion and traditional dishes. Additionally, R&G Lounge enthusiasts who crave that authentic Chinese-American flavor will be pleasantly surprised by the dishes at DanDan, where traditional recipes meet Modern American influences, ensuring that every meal is an exploration of cultures. By diving into Milwaukee's diverse and rich culinary offerings, you'll find not just a replacement for your old favorites but potentially new staples that make Wisconsin feel like home.

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Ready to start your move?

Real Estate Facts to Know Before Moving from San Francisco to Milwaukee

When planning a move, understanding the real estate landscape is crucial. This comparison aims to enlighten you on the key differences and similarities between San Francisco and Milwaukee in terms of housing, including cost, architecture, and lifestyle.

San Francisco and Milwaukee offer distinct living experiences reflected in their real estate markets. San Francisco, known for its Victorian homes and high tech accommodations, demands a premium, both in buying and renting. Moreover, its urban lifestyle score and walkability reflect a city designed for those who love to live in the heart of tech and culture, with amenities and attractions all within reach. Milwaukee, by contrast, presents an affordable option with a focus on family-friendly features and spacious living. The architecture in Milwaukee is heavily influenced by its German and Polish history, providing a unique aesthetic. For those who prioritize affordability and a slower pace of life without sacrificing urban benefits, Milwaukee might be the right choice.

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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 San Francisco to Milwaukee

When planning a move from one city to another, understanding how the weather compares is crucial. This comparison between San Francisco, CA and Milwaukee, WI highlights key weather differences to prepare you for the transition. It's important to know what kind of climate and weather changes to expect as you relocate.

Summer icon
68°F / 53°F

San Francisco, CA

79°F / 60°F

Milwaukee, WI

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
57°F / 46°F

San Francisco, CA

30°F / 18°F

Milwaukee, WI

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
23.65

San Francisco, CA

34.76

Milwaukee, WI

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
0

San Francisco, CA

46.9

Milwaukee, WI

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

Transitioning from San Francisco's mild weather to Milwaukee's distinct seasons will be noticeable. San Francisco boasts a cooler summer and milder winters with minimal temperature extremes, whereas Milwaukee experiences hot summers and cold, snowy winters. The significantly higher annual snowfall in Milwaukee compared to San Francisco's virtually nonexistent snowfall means preparing for winter weather operations such as snow removal. Additionally, the different natural disaster risks – from earthquakes and wildfires in San Francisco to snowstorms and cold waves in Milwaukee – require a shift in emergency preparedness strategies.

Ready to start your move?

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

When considering a move from one city to another, it's crucial to grasp how your financial situation might change. This comparison of San Francisco and Milwaukee regarding money and finance highlights key economic metrics that could impact your budget and lifestyle. Understanding these differences ensures you're well-prepared for your relocation.

San Francisco is often characterized by its very high cost of living, nearly more than triple compared to Milwaukee. This is reflected not just in the general expenses but also in housing. While the average household income in San Francisco significantly surpasses that of Milwaukee, the state income and sales taxes are higher. Interestingly, despite its affluence, San Francisco faces a considerable homelessness issue, showcasing the city's vast income disparities. On the flip side, Milwaukee offers a more modest cost of living with its own challenges, including a higher poverty rate. However, its lower cost of living could provide a more comfortable lifestyle for those earning a moderate income.

Political & Religious Comparison between San Francisco, CA and Milwaukee, WI

When planning your move from San Francisco, CA to Milwaukee, WI, it’s crucial to understand the local demographic nuances. This comparison offers a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents, highlighting the differences you'll encounter. This is a comparison of the politics between San Francisco & Milwaukee, aimed at helping you feel more prepared for your new home.

San FranciscoMilwaukee

Political Make-up

Liberal/DemocraticDemocratic, with conservative outskirts

Local Politics

Highly progressive policiesMix of progressive urban policies and traditional values

Religion

Diverse, with a significant non-religious populationChristian dominance, but religiously diverse

In both cities, Democratic leanings guide the local political atmosphere, but the extent of progressive policies in San Francisco far outweighs that of Milwaukee, reflecting a stark contrast in local politics. Milwaukee, while maintaining a Democratic base, is surrounded by more conservative regions, influencing its overall political discourse. Religious diversity is present in both locales, but San Francisco's significantly non-religious population contrasts with Milwaukee's stronger Christian presence. Understanding these nuances will aid in your transition, giving insight into the ideological and cultural fabric of your new home.

Traffic and Public Transit Considerations for Moving from San Francisco to Milwaukee

This comparison between San Francisco & Milwaukee is designed to help you better understand what daily commutes and traffic are like. Moving from the West to the Midwest comes with changes in your transportation options and traffic experiences.

San FranciscoMilwaukee
3422

Avg Commute Time (in minutes)

74

Traffic Congestion (out of 10)

96

Availability of Public Transit (out of 10)

Yes, quite easilyIt’s challenging, but possible in some areas

Can you get by without car?

While both cities have their unique traffic and transport profiles, moving from San Francisco to Milwaukee will notably shift your commuting experience. In San Francisco, you might be used to relying on a well-connected public transit system, including BART and MUNI, making it possible to navigate the city without a car. The higher traffic congestion reflects its urban layout and population density. On the other hand, Milwaukee offers a more relaxed commute with significantly less congestion, though you may find its public transit options less comprehensive, making car ownership more of a necessity for reaching outlying areas.

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