Best Grand Rapids to Milwaukee Movers and Practical Moving Guide
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Moving from the vibrant, art-filled streets of Grand Rapids, MI, to the bustling, beer-loving city of Milwaukee, WI, is undeniably an adventure brimming with fresh beginnings and opportunities. As you bid farewell to the River City and gear up to embrace the Brew City, the shift between these unique landscapes and cultures promises an exciting chapter ahead. Recognizing the significance of this transition, it's crucial to ensure your journey is smooth and stress-free by choosing trusted and reliable professional movers, like us at Great Guys Moving, who are dedicated to making your long-distance move as seamless as possible.
Best Grand Rapids to Milwaukee Moving Companies
| Company Name | Rating  | BBB Rating | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| About Time Moving Systems LLC | 9.33 | A+ | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| Gorilla Movers Of Wisconsin Inc. | 9.31 | A+ | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| MASS Movers | 9.03 | NR | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| Kingsley Moving Systems | 8.99 | NR | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| Powell Relocation Group | 8.89 | A+ | Authorized For Property | Contact |
(800) 787-5428
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Milwaukee to Grand Rapids guide.
5 Best Grand Rapids to Milwaukee Moving Companies
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
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 >>
Services
- Local moving
- Long-distance moving
- Cross-country moving
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 >>
Services
- Residential moves
- Commercial moves
- Local/statewide moving
About MASS Movers
MASS Movers is a leading moving company in Lansing, MI. Established in 2016, this family-owned and operated business specializes in creating...Read More >>
Services
- Packing Service
- Large Item Moving
- Small to Medium Business Moving
About Kingsley Moving Systems
Kingsley Moving Systems is an experienced moving company located in Lansing, Michigan with over 20 years in the moving industry. Its profess...Read More >>
Services
- Local Moving
- Statewide Moving
- Interstate Moving
About Powell Relocation Group
Powell Relocation Group, founded in 1962, is a globally recognized and multi-award-winning moving company that believes quality does not nee...Read More >>
Services
- Residential Moving
- Commercial Services
- Corporate Relocation
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.
Grand Rapids vs. Milwaukee Neighborhood Comparison
Moving can be a daunting task, especially when leaving a familiar city like Grand Rapids, MI, for a new adventure in Milwaukee, WI. To ease your transition, we've created a comparative guide to local neighborhoods between Grand Rapids, MI & Milwaukee, WI . Our goal is to help you find a new neighborhood in Milwaukee that feels like home, using Grand Rapids' popular areas as a baseline.
| Grand Rapids | Milwaukee | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Eastown | Bay View | Diverse, vibrant community |
| Heritage Hill | Historic Third Ward | Both have historic homes |
| Midtown | Walker's Point | Similar nightlife and dining |
| Gaslight Village | Shorewood | Charming, walkable neighborhoods |
| Heartside | Brady Street | Artsy with a strong community vibe |
| East Grand Rapids | Whitefish Bay | Upscale, family-friendly |
| Roosevelt Park | Southgate | Culturally diverse, bustling local scene |
| Alger Heights | Washington Heights | Both have a tight-knit community |
| Fulton Heights | Wauwatosa | Suburban feel, close to urban amenities |
| Creston | Bayshore | Growing, with a mix of shops and homes |
If you adore the artsy and eclectic atmosphere of Eastown in Grand Rapids, you'll find a similar vibrant community spirit in Milwaukee's Bay View, known for its diverse collection of local shops, restaurants, and annual festivals. Heritage Hill's love for historical architecture is mirrored in Milwaukee's Historic Third Ward, where you can enjoy a stroll along the riverwalk and appreciate the well-preserved buildings that now house unique shops and eateries. For those who enjoy the nightlife and dining scene in Midtown, Walker's Point will not disappoint with its array of breweries, trendy restaurants, and vibrant LGBTQ+ community. And if you're moving from East Grand Rapids seeking a similarly upscale and family-oriented environment, Whitefish Bay will welcome you with open arms, offering top-rated schools and community events alongside Lake Michigan.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Grand Rapids to Milwaukee
Moving from one city to another can be a daunting yet exciting challenge, filled with changes that can impact your daily life significantly. This comparison aims to give you an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Grand Rapids, MI to Milwaukee, WI. By understanding both the pros and cons, you can make a more informed decision about your move.
Grand Rapids, MI- Smaller city vibe
- Lesser-known cultural scene
- Fewer dining options
- Limited nightlife
- Less public transportation
Milwaukee, WI- Larger city feel
- Richer cultural diversity
- More diverse restaurants
- Livelier nightlife
- Better public transport options
Milwaukee, WI- More impersonal
- Higher cost of living
- Costlier housing
- Less intimate arts scene
- More traffic congestion
Grand Rapids, MI- Community feel
- Lower cost of living
- Affordable housing
- Rich local arts scene
- Easier traffic
Moving to Milwaukee, WI, offers you the excitement of a larger city feel, with access to a richer cultural diversity and more diverse restaurants. Places like the Milwaukee Art Museum and the historic Pabst Theater are perfect examples of Milwaukee's vibrant arts and culture scene that attract visitors from all around. Food lovers will enjoy exploring areas like the Historic Third Ward, known for its high concentration of award-winning restaurants and boutique shops. On the flip side, Grand Rapids, MI, has a more community-focused vibe with a lower cost of living and affordable housing, making it attractive for those who prioritize a smaller, closely-knit community feel. Ultimately, your choice depends on what aspects of city life are most important to you.
Grand Rapids vs. Milwaukee Food Guide
Food plays a pivotal role in understanding the local culture and overall lifestyle of an area. In our guide, we'll engage in a detailed comparison of the local cuisine between Grand Rapids & Milwaukee to help you get acquainted with the culinary scene of your new home.
| Grand Rapids | Milwaukee | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Michigan hot dog | Bratwurst |
| Most popular meat dish | Smoked pork ribs | Beer-battered fish fry |
| Most popular street food item | Tacos | Pretzels |
| Most popular vegan food | Tofu scramble | Vegan bratwurst |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
When moving to Milwaukee, you're stepping into a city with a rich beer heritage, evident in its beloved beer-battered fish fry and an array of craft breweries like Lakefront Brewery. The city celebrates its German roots with authentic bratwurst, easily found in popular spots like Mader's, renowned for its traditional German fare. But it's not all about meat and beer; Milwaukee's vegan scene is thriving, with options like vegan bratwurst changing the game. Food trucks dot the landscape, hinting at an exciting street food scene. Whether it's exploring historic Third Ward or heading to the East Side, you'll find a culinary scene eager to welcome newcomers.
Grand Rapids vs. Milwaukee Restaurant Comparison
Finding a new favorite restaurant is a crucial step in making a new city feel like home. This restaurant comparison is destined to ease the transition from Grand Rapids to Milwaukee, helping you discover places where you can indulge in familiar flavors or embark on new culinary adventures. Let's take a closer look at where your next dining haunt might be.
| Grand Rapids | Milwaukee | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| The Chop House | Carnevor Steakhouse Moderne | Both are renowned for upscale, premium steaks and an extensive wine list. |
| Maru Sushi & Grill | Screaming Tuna | A sushi & Asian bistro that matches Maru’s quality and creativity in sushi and Japanese cuisine. |
| San Chez Bistro | Cafe Corazon | Both focus on farm-to-table dining with a fantastic fusion of flavors, with Cafe Corazon adding a Mexican twist. |
| Founders Brewing Co. | Lakefront Brewery | Iconic breweries that offer tours, craft beers, and a vibrant atmosphere that’s hard to beat. |
| Rose's | Bartolotta's Lake Park Bistro | Both offer a picturesque dining experience with exceptional food and views. |
| Leo's | St. Paul Fish Company | While Leo’s is known for seafood, St. Paul matches its freshness and offers a Milwaukee twist with its menu. |
| Madcap Coffee Company | Colectivo Coffee | Colectivo offers a similar dedication to quality and community in their coffee culture. |
| Two Beards Deli | Gouda's Italian Deli | Perfect for sandwich enthusiasts looking for quality, creativity, and comfort in every bite. |
| Terra GR | Odd Duck | Both are known for their focus on local and sustainable ingredients, with a dynamic, ever-changing menu. |
| Donkey Taqueria | BelAir Cantina | Nearly identical in their cool, modern take on traditional Mexican dishes and vibrant bar scenes. |
Both Grand Rapids and Milwaukee boast vibrant culinary scenes that cater to a variety of tastes. For instance, seafood lovers who appreciated the freshness and selection at Leo's in Grand Rapids will find a welcoming and equally tantalizing menu at St. Paul Fish Company. The focus on local and sustainable ingredients is a common thread, with restaurants like Terra GR and Odd Duck highlighting the best of what their respective regions have to offer. If craft beers and a warm, inviting atmosphere are what you seek, transitioning from Founders Brewing Co. to Lakefront Brewery will feel like swapping one home for another, without missing a beat. Each of these Milwaukee restaurants not only mirrors the essence but also elevates the dining experience in new, exciting ways.
Ready to start your move?
Grand Rapids vs. Milwaukee Real Estate & Living Facts
When planning a move, understanding the real estate landscape is crucial. This comparison between Grand Rapids and Milwaukee highlights key differences in housing costs, architecture, and lifestyle, helping you make an informed decision.
| Comparison | Grand Rapids | Milwaukee |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Prairie School, Colonial Revival | Cream City Brick, Bungalow |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Family-friendly, "Green" spaces | Lake views, Access to local breweries |
While both cities offer unique living experiences, Milwaukee stands out with its more affordable housing and higher walkability score, making it attractive for individuals seeking a vibrant urban lifestyle. The city's distinctive Cream City Brick architecture and the prevalence of lake views in real estate listings highlight Milwaukee's charming character. In contrast, Grand Rapids has a slightly higher cost of living but compensates with its unique prairie school and colonial revival homes, appealing to those seeking a blend of historical and modern environments. The difference in urban lifestyle ratings between the two cities suggests that Milwaukee might offer a more active city life, bolstered by its access to local breweries and lakefront activities.
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.
Grand Rapids vs. Milwaukee Weather Considerations
When planning a move from Grand Rapids, MI to Milwaukee, WI, it's crucial to understand how the weather conditions compare, as this can significantly impact your lifestyle and well-being. This comparison aims to highlight the weather differences between Grand Rapids and Milwaukee, providing a clearer picture of what to expect in your new home.
Grand Rapids, MI
Milwaukee, WI
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Grand Rapids, MI
Milwaukee, WI
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Grand Rapids, MI
Milwaukee, WI
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Grand Rapids, MI
Milwaukee, WI
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Grand Rapids | Milwaukee |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Winter storms, Tornadoes | Winter storms, Tornadoes |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Moving from Grand Rapids to Milwaukee, you'll experience slightly milder summers and slightly more sunshine annually, possibly making the Milwaukee winters feel a bit more tolerable despite similar temperatures. While both cities experience similar humidity and face threats from winter storms and tornadoes, air quality is one notable difference, with Milwaukee having moderate air quality due to its larger urban population and industrial activity. Allergy sufferers will find a similar landscape in terms of triggers, but the slight variation in annual rainfall and snowfall might affect the timing and severity of allergy seasons and outdoor activities.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Grand Rapids to Milwaukee
When moving between cities, understanding the financial landscape is crucial. This comparison focuses on the cost of living, income, and taxes between Grand Rapids, MI, and Milwaukee, WI , providing insight into how your finances might adjust.
| Comparison | Grand Rapids | Milwaukee |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $59,596 | $46,637 |
| Cost of Living Index | 90.7 | 101.9 |
| State Income Tax | 4.25 | 5.00 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 1.58 | 2.17 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 6 | 5.5 |
| Top 3 Industries | Manufacturing, Health Services, Education | Manufacturing, Health Services, Retail |
| Affluence | Moderate | Lower |
| Poverty | Moderate | High |
| Homelessness | Low to moderate | Moderate |
Despite Grand Rapids having a higher average household income than Milwaukee, it's noteworthy that Milwaukee's cost of living index is lower, suggesting your money might go further there, especially in housing and daily expenses. However, higher state income and property taxes in Milwaukee could offset some of these savings. Employment opportunities might differ as both cities have a strong presence in manufacturing and health services, but unique to Milwaukee is a robust retail industry. These variations highlight the importance of considering multiple financial aspects when planning your move.
Grand Rapids vs. Milwaukee Political & Religious Comparison
When considering a move from Grand Rapids, MI to Milwaukee, WI, understanding the comparison of the politics and religious makeup between Grand Rapids & Milwaukee can give you a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the community you're about to join. This comparison aims to help you better gauge the cultural and social landscape of your new city.
| Grand Rapids | Milwaukee | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Moderately Conservative | Liberal |
| Local Politics | Focused on business development and social services | Strong union influence, with emphasis on social equity |
| Religion | Diverse, with a strong Protestant presence | Religiously diverse, large Catholic community |
In both Grand Rapids and Milwaukee, the political and religious landscapes shape much of the local culture and community activities. Grand Rapids, with its moderately conservative leaning, harbors a significant focus on business development and social services. Notably, Grand Rapids features several community-oriented churches that play crucial roles in the city's social fabric. Milwaukee, in contrast, is known for its liberal stance, heavily influenced by strong union traditions. This city boasts a vibrant array of social equity initiatives. The religious scene in Milwaukee is notably diverse, with a significant Catholic community that includes historic churches acting as key community hubs. Understanding these nuances will aid in your transition, helping you find your community and engage with local politics and religious groups that align with your values.
Grand Rapids vs. Milwaukee Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Understanding the daily commute and traffic is crucial when moving from one city to another. This guide offers a comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Grand Rapids & Milwaukee, aiming to equip you with insights into how each city functions from a transportation standpoint.
| Comparison | Grand Rapids | Milwaukee |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 22 | 23 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Possible but challenging | More feasible, especially in downtown areas |
In Grand Rapids, the average commute time is slightly shorter than in Milwaukee, but both cities offer relatively quick commutes. However, Milwaukee stands out for its slightly better public transit system, making it more feasible to live there without a car, particularly if you work or live in more central areas. Traffic congestion in both cities is manageable, but Milwaukee experiences slightly higher levels. This might be due to its larger size and denser urban areas. Ultimately, each city offers distinct advantages depending on your transportation preferences and whether you prefer driving or utilizing public transit.
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