Moving from Des Moines to Milwaukee?

5 Best Movers and Your Ultimate Moving Guide

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Des Moines to Milwaukee Movers

Moving from the heart of the Midwest in Des Moines, Iowa, to the vibrant shores of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, marks an exciting chapter in your life, filled with new adventures and opportunities. As you bid farewell to the 'Hartford of the West' with its laid-back charm, and prepare to embrace the 'City of Festivals' known for its breweries and bustling waterfront, it's crucial to transition smoothly. To ensure your journey is as seamless as possible, we emphasize the importance of entrusting your move to reliable and experienced professionals, ensuring your belongings arrive safely in your new city.

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

5 Best Des Moines to Milwaukee Movers

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

#1
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 9/5/2024)

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
#2
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 9/5/2024)

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
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#3
Best Move Inc Logo
Exceptional

based on 520+ data points

Burlington, IA
Material Packing, Local Moving, Long-Distance Moving See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 5/24/2024)

USDOT: 749231 Verify

About Best Move Inc

Best Move, Inc. prides itself on being one of the most preferred and recommended moving companies in Fort Madison, IA. Its BBB accreditation...Read More >>

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top 10 ranked movers in iowa city 2023 best move inc image
top 10 ranked movers in iowa city 2022 best move inc image
#4
Hemmen Moving Logo
Exceptional

based on 621+ data points

Ames, IA
Local moving, Long distance moving, Small moving See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/5/2024)

USDOT: 608245 Verify

About Hemmen Moving

For over 25 years, Hemmen Moving has served the Ames area with full-service moving solutions. It provides services for residential and comme...Read More >>

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top 10 ranked movers in ames 2023 hemmen moving inc image
top 3 ranked movers in ames 2022 hemmen moving inc image
#5
Two Men and a Truck Logo
Fabulous

based on 973+ data points

Urbandale, IA
Local Moving, Junk Removal, Storage See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/5/2024)

USDOT: 739369 Verify

About Two Men and a Truck

Two Men and a Truck is a longstanding moving company with locations in almost every state. In Iowa, this company has been performing residen...Read More >>

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Relocating from Des Moines to Milwaukee Neighborhood Guide

Moving can be a daunting task, especially when you're heading to an unfamiliar city. To ease the transition, we've developed a guide comparing local neighborhoods between Des Moines, IA & Milwaukee, WI, offering you a familiar baseline as you familiarize yourself with your new surroundings. This comparison will help you find a neighborhood in Milwaukee that echoes the vibe of your favorite Des Moines locality.

Des MoinesMilwaukee
BeaverdaleBay View

Vibrant, community-focused

East VillageThird Ward

Artsy, with unique shops

Waveland ParkWashington Heights

Residential, historic homes

DrakeMarquette

University campus area

South of GrandHistoric Third Ward

Upscale, historic

Sherman HillAvenues West

Historic, architectural beauty

Highland ParkRiverwest

Diverse, tight-knit community

Gray's LakeLake Park

Natural beauty, recreational

Ingersoll AreaWalker's Point

Trendy eateries, nightlife

WaterburyShorewood

Quiet, family-friendly

Exploring these neighborhoods, you'll find that places like Historic Third Ward in Milwaukee share similarities with Des Moines's South of Grand, both offering a luxurious living experience amid historical surroundings. For those who appreciate the vibrant, community atmosphere of Beaverdale, Milwaukee's Bay View neighborhood is your new home base, brimming with local eateries such as Honeypie Café and community events that foster a strong neighborhood spirit. Lastly, if the unique and creative shops of the East Village drew you in, you'll find a new haven in Milwaukee's Third Ward, where boutique shopping, art galleries, and artisan coffee shops like Colectivo Coffee line the streets, offering a similarly eclectic vibe.

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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 Des Moines to Milwaukee

Moving from one city to another allows you to redefine your lifestyle and environment. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad aspects of relocating from Des Moines, IA to Milwaukee, WI . Through these charts, we will weigh the pros against the cons and vice versa, helping you make an informed decision.

CONs
PROs
Des Moines, IA iconDes Moines, IA
  • Smaller City
  • Fewer Cultural Venues
  • Less Diverse Cuisine
  • Lower Employment Opport.
Milwaukee, WI iconMilwaukee, WI
  • Larger City
  • Rich Cultural Scene
  • Diverse Dining Options
  • Better Job Market
Milwaukee, WI iconMilwaukee, WI
  • Higher Cost of Living
  • Noisier Environment
  • More Traffic
  • Less Personal
Des Moines, IA iconDes Moines, IA
  • Low Cost of Living
  • Quiet Neighborhoods
  • Less Traffic
  • Close-knit Community

Moving from Des Moines to Milwaukee presents an exciting opportunity to immerse oneself in a more vibrant cultural scene. In Milwaukee, you can explore the Milwaukee Art Museum, a landmark with stunning architecture and a vast collection of artworks. Food enthusiasts will appreciate the diverse dining options available, including the bustling Milwaukee Public Market, where vendors serve a wide array of cuisines. Milwaukee's thriving job market in sectors like healthcare and technology presents new career opportunities. However, this move comes with trade-offs, such as adjusting to a higher cost of living and a busier, more urban lifestyle. Despite these challenges, Milwaukee's unique neighborhoods, like the Historic Third Ward and Bay View, offer a dynamic urban experience with their range of parks, restaurants, and sights, making the transition an enriching journey.

Food Scene Guide When Moving from Des Moines to Milwaukee

Food is an essential aspect of local culture and what it’s like to live in an area. Understanding the culinary scene can greatly influence your moving experience. This guide aims to compare the local cuisine between Des Moines, IA & Milwaukee, WI to help you better understand the food scene where you are relocating.

Des MoinesMilwaukee

Most iconic local food item

Pork Tenderloin SandwichBeer Brats

Most popular meat dish

Iowa ChopPolish Sausage

Most popular street food item

TacosPretzels

Most popular vegan food

Quinoa SaladVegan Cheese Curds

Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city

  • Fong's Pizza
  • Centro
  • Zombie Burger + Drink Lab
  • Mader's
  • Lakefront Brewery
  • SafeHouse

Fitness/Health Conscientiousness

67

Abundance of Food Trucks

57

Foodie Scene

78

Vegan Friendly

68

When you move to Milwaukee, you'll quickly notice its deeply-rooted brewing culture, reflected in its most iconic food item, beer brats, often enjoyed at tailgates or local pubs. Enthusiasts of vegan cuisine will find Milwaukee surprisingly accommodating, thanks to innovative dishes like vegan cheese curds making rounds at local festivals and eateries. For those eager to dive into Milwaukee’s dining scene, starting with landmarks such as Mader's, known for its German cuisine, and the Lakefront Brewery, offering tours paired with locavore snacks, is essential. Each neighborhood, from the Historic Third Ward to East Side, showcases unique food experiences that represent Milwaukee’s rich and diverse culinary landscape.

Restaurant Guide for Moving from Des Moines to Milwaukee

Making a new place feel like home often starts with finding your favorite spots to dine. This comparison of restaurants will assist you in discovering new favorite eateries in Milwaukee by using your Des Moines favorites as a guide. By exploring these culinary parallels, you'll seamlessly transition your palates affiliations from Des Moines to Milwaukee.

A dongBamboo

Authentic Asian cuisine with a focus on fresh ingredients.

CentroSan Giorgio Pizzeria Napoletana

Neapolitan pizzas and Italian classics in an upscale, yet casual setting.

Fong's PizzaFixture Pizza Pub

Creative pizzas in a fun vibe, with a nod to unique toppings and combinations.

Jethro's BBQSmoke Shack

Southern comfort barbecue, focusing on slow-cooked meats and homestyle sides.

Zombie BurgerOscar's Pub & Grill

Famous for their big, juicy burgers and a great selection of beers.

801 ChophouseMilwaukee ChopHouse

A premier steakhouse with an emphasis on quality cuts and an extensive wine list.

Tasty TacosBelAir Cantina

Modern and traditional Mexican fare, known for its tacos and vibrant atmosphere.

La Mie BakeryAmilinda

Offers a cozy ambiance with locally-sourced ingredients, highlighting artisanal bakery goods and European influences.

Django RestaurantOdd Duck

Known for its small plates, this place has a quirky, eclectic menu that borrows from multiple cuisines.

Machine Shed RestaurantEngine Company No. 3

A unique dining experience in a renovated firehouse, focusing on farm-to-table American breakfast and brunch.

Whether you're craving the innovative pizzas from Fong's Pizza in Des Moines or the adventurous toppings at Fixture Pizza Pub in Milwaukee, you'll find comfort in these familiar yet fresh experiences. Likewise, the transition from the beloved BBQ at Jethro's to the southern flavors of Smoke Shack in Milwaukee ensures your taste for smoky, tender meats is well catered to. And when you seek an upscale dining adventure, Milwaukee ChopHouse offers an elegance and quality reminiscent of 801 Chophouse, promising a seamless transition for your sophisticated dining expectations. Each of these Milwaukee restaurants captures the essence of your Des Moines favorites, providing a culinary bridge to help settle into your new city.

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Ready to start your move?

Real Estate Facts to Know Before Moving from Des Moines to Milwaukee

Real estate is one of the most important aspects of a move. It's essential to understand how the housing market in Des Moines, IA compares with Milwaukee, WI. Whether you're considering the cost of living, walkability, or the local architecture, this side-by-side comparison aims to highlight what you can expect in each city.

Moving from Des Moines to Milwaukee could mean a shift in housing expectations and lifestyle. Milwaukee offers a denser, more walkable environment which is perfect if you enjoy an urban lifestyle and the convenience of being closer to work, entertainment, and shopping. The typical Craftsman-style homes in Milwaukee, often with lakefront views and desirable hardwood floors, contrast with the spacious Ranch-style homes prevalent in Des Moines. Despite the higher median rent in Milwaukee, its vibrant city life and better bikeability score might offer you a richer urban living experience.

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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 Des Moines to Milwaukee

When planning a move from Des Moines, IA, to Milwaukee, WI, it’s crucial to understand how the weather will impact your lifestyle. Comparing the climate can prepare you for Des Moines' and Milwaukee's seasonal changes, ensuring a smoother transition. The following chart and detailed assessment aim to highlight key weather differences to consider.

Summer icon
86/65

Des Moines, IA

80/62

Milwaukee, WI

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
31/14

Des Moines, IA

29/16

Milwaukee, WI

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
36

Des Moines, IA

34.96

Milwaukee, WI

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
33

Des Moines, IA

46.9

Milwaukee, WI

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

Moving from Des Moines to Milwaukee, you might find the summers a bit milder and winters slightly colder by the lake. While both cities enjoy a similar annual humidity, Milwaukee experiences more snowfall—meaning more snow-related activities but also potentially more shoveling. Interestingly, both locations have the same top seasonal allergy (tree pollen), but Milwaukee residents also frequently deal with mold. If you're relocating, anticipate adjusting to fewer days of sunshine but also enjoying Milwaukee's lake-effect beauty during winter months.

Ready to start your move?

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

When planning your move from Des Moines, IA to Milwaukee, WI, it's crucial to grasp how the cost of living, taxes, and economic opportunities in your new city will impact your finances. This comparison aims to clarify the financial differences and similarities between Des Moines and Milwaukee to help you prepare for your relocation.

While Des Moines boasts a higher average household income and a slightly lower cost of living index than Milwaukee, it's imperative to note the higher property tax in Milwaukee. This could affect your decision if you're planning to buy a home. Additionally, Milwaukee's poverty and homelessness rates are described as higher and concerning, respectively, hinting at broader socio-economic challenges in the city. On the brighter side, Milwaukee has a slightly lower state income tax and sales tax, which could marginally benefit your finances depending on your income bracket and spending habits.

Political & Religious Comparison between Des Moines, IA and Milwaukee, WI

This guide provides a quick, at-a-glance snapshot to compare the political and religious makeup between Des Moines & Milwaukee , as you consider moving. Understanding these aspects will give you a sense of the communities you're moving from and to.

Des MoinesMilwaukee

Political Make-up

Leans DemocraticStrongly Democratic

Local Politics

Moderately active civic engagementHighly active civic engagement

Religion

Christian majority with diverse religious communitiesChristian majority; higher percentage of Catholic residents

In both Des Moines and Milwaukee, you'll find that the political atmosphere leans Democratic, though Milwaukee exhibits a stronger inclination towards Democratic values and shows a higher level of civic engagement. This indicates a community in Milwaukee that might be more vocal and participatory in local politics and social issues. The religious landscape is predominantly Christian in both cities, with Milwaukee having a notably higher percentage of Catholic residents. If you're moving from Des Moines, you might find Milwaukee's stronger religious and political engagement both refreshing and different, offering new avenues for community involvement and cultural experiences.

Traffic and Public Transit Considerations for Moving from Des Moines to Milwaukee

Moving from Des Moines, IA, to Milwaukee, WI? It's crucial to compare the traffic and transportation options between Des Moines & Milwaukee to better understand what your daily commute and traffic will be like. This guide aims to give you a clearer picture of what to expect on the roads and public transit systems in both cities.

Des MoinesMilwaukee
20.122.3

Avg Commute Time (in minutes)

46

Traffic Congestion (out of 10)

36

Availability of Public Transit (out of 10)

ChallengingFeasible

Can you get by without car?

In Des Moines, the average commute time tends to be slightly shorter than in Milwaukee, indicating less time spent on the roads. However, Milwaukee boasts a higher score in public transit availability, making it more viable for residents to navigate the city without a car. While traffic congestion in Milwaukee is rated higher, the effective public transit system - including buses and the hop streetcar - helps to mitigate the impact for daily commuters. Living in Milwaukee can offer you the flexibility of getting around without reliance on a car, a stark contrast to Des Moines, where having a vehicle is almost a necessity. This distinction between the two cities could profoundly influence your daily life and needs to be considered when making your move.

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