Moving from Portland to Milwaukee?

5 Best Movers and Your Ultimate Moving Guide

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Portland to Milwaukee Movers

Moving from the quirky, rain-soaked streets of Portland, OR, to the vibrant, festival-filled avenues of Milwaukee, WI, marks an exhilarating chapter in your life. You're trading the City of Roses for the Beer City, leaving behind the forested Pacific Northwest for the shores of Lake Michigan. Recognizing the significance of such a long-distance move, it's crucial to entrust your journey to trusted and reliable professional movers, ensuring your adventure begins on the right foot. With our commitment to connecting you with the best, based on an unbiased ranking algorithm, you can rest assured your move will be as smooth as the beers awaiting in Milwaukee.

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

5 Best Portland 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 9/10/2024)

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
#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 9/10/2024)

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
#3
Northwest Grace Moving Logo
Exceptional

based on 605+ data points

Oregon City, OR
Local Moving, Long Distance Moving, Senior Moving See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 8/9/2024)

USDOT: 1999959 Verify

About Northwest Grace Moving

Founded in 2008, Northwest Grace Moving is a fully licensed, bonded, and insured Oregon moving company that serves the entire Portland Metro...Read More >>

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top 10 ranked movers in salem 2023 northwest grace moving image
top 10 ranked movers in salem 2022 northwest grace moving image
#4
You Move Me Portland Logo
Exceptional

based on 1,680+ data points

Portland, OR
Local moving services, Long-distance moving services, Packing services See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/14/2021)

USDOT: 2388358 Verify

About You Move Me Portland

You Move Me Portland is the mover your neighbors trust and recommend. In terms of reliability, customer service, and professionalism, this l...Read More >>

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top 10 ranked movers in portland 2023 you move me portland image
top 10 ranked movers in portland 2022 you move me portland image
#5
All Service Moving Logo
Exceptional
claimed company icon

based on 9,065+ data points

Portland, OR
Residential Moving, Commercial Moving, Long Distance Moving See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/10/2024)

USDOT: 1863079 Verify

About All Service Moving

Based in Portland, OR, Willamette Valley Moving has provided moving services in Oregon, Washington, and Idaho for over 18 years. By using a ...Read More >>

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top ranked movers in portland 2023 all service moving image

Relocating from Portland to Milwaukee Neighborhood Guide

When moving from one city to another, getting to know your new neighborhood is key. This guide helps you familiarize yourself with Milwaukee by comparing it to what you know and love about Portland. We've made a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Portland, OR & Milwaukee, WI to ease your transition. Let's find your new favorite spot!

PortlandMilwaukee
Pearl DistrictHistoric Third Ward

Trendy, artsy vibe with upscale living

Alberta Arts DistrictBay View

Eclectic, artistic community with vibrant street art

Ladd's AdditionHistoric Water Tower

Charming, historic homes with a tight-knit community feel

Northwest DistrictEast Town

Bustling with shops, dining, and cultural venues

Sellwood-MorelandShorewood

Family-friendly, walkable with boutique shopping

MississippiWalker's Point

Hip, with an array of bars and innovative eateries

Nob HillLower East Side

Urban, youthful with an array of nightlife options

HawthorneBrady Street

Bohemian, known for unique shops and casual cafes

Division/ClintonSouth Milwaukee

Engaged community, known for local dining

Goose HollowWashington Heights

Leafy, relaxed with historic character

For those who've enjoyed the urban, artsy atmosphere of the Pearl District, Milwaukee's Historic Third Ward offers a similar vibe with its unique blend of art galleries, boutiques, and loft apartments. Meanwhile, fans of the vibrant street art and eclectic shops lining Alberta Arts District in Portland might find a new haven in Bay View, Milwaukee, known for its strong artsy community and lively events. If the cozy, family-oriented feel of Sellwood-Moreland has been your home, Shorewood in Milwaukee could be your next perfect neighborhood, boasting top-rated schools, a variety of local shops, and beautiful housing. Those moving from Portland will discover that Milwaukee's neighborhoods offer a diverse range of atmospheres, each with its unique charm and community spirit, ensuring you'll find a place that feels like 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 Portland to Milwaukee

Considering a move from Portland, OR, to Milwaukee, WI, demands a balanced perspective. To assist, we've designed charts to compare Portland's disadvantages with Milwaukee's advantages , and vice versa , offering an honest reflection of the good and bad attributes of this relocation.

CONs
PROs
Portland, OR iconPortland, OR
  • High living costs
  • Frequent rainfall
  • Heavier traffic
  • Less snow
Milwaukee, WI iconMilwaukee, WI
  • More affordable
  • More sunny days
  • Less congestion
  • Distinct seasons
Milwaukee, WI iconMilwaukee, WI
  • Smaller arts community
  • Fewer natural landscapes
  • Less coffee variety
  • Colder winters
Portland, OR iconPortland, OR
  • Vibrant arts scene
  • Outdoor recreation
  • Coffee culture
  • Mild winters

When considering the move from Portland, OR, to Milwaukee, WI, it's essential to weigh the benefits of Milwaukee's more affordable living and less congested roads against the colder winters and smaller arts community. Milwaukee boasts vibrant neighborhoods like the Historic Third Ward and Bay View, each offering unique dining experiences, such as at Bavarian Bierhaus or Café Centraal, alongside cultural sights like the Milwaukee Art Museum. While you might miss Portland's vast outdoor recreation, Milwaukee's lakefront and riverwalk provide ample outdoor activities, including the popular summer festival season. Embrace the change, and you'll find Milwaukee's distinct charm and thriving community offers a fresh perspective on urban living.

Food Scene Guide When Moving from Portland to Milwaukee

When moving to a new city, understanding the local food scene is essential as food is a core component of cultural identity and lifestyle. In this brief guide, we compare the local cuisine between Portland, OR & Milwaukee, WI to help you get a taste of what your new home has to offer.

PortlandMilwaukee

Most iconic local food item

Dungeness CrabBeer Brats

Most popular meat dish

Pork BellyFish Fry

Most popular street food item

Food Carts SpecialsCheese Curds

Most popular vegan food

Tempeh ReubenVegetarian Bratwurst

Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city

  • Pok Pok
  • Le Pigeon
  • Salt & Straw
  • Sobelman's
  • Lakefront Brewery
  • Mader's

Fitness/Health Conscientiousness

86

Abundance of Food Trucks

95

Foodie Scene

97

Vegan Friendly

107

Portland, renowned for its vibrant street food culture, is heaven for foodies and vegans alike, with food carts and vegan options abound. Key neighborhoods like Alberta and the Pearl District are hotspot hubs for these culinary delights. On the contrary, Milwaukee, with its rich heritage reflected in its food, offers unique meat-centric dishes like beer brats and a legendary Friday fish fry. It's celebrated in such places as the historic Third Ward and Walker's Point, where food and tradition blend seamlessly. Establishments like Lakefront Brewery and Mader's provide not just a meal, but a deep dive into Milwaukee's culture.

Restaurant Guide for Moving from Portland to Milwaukee

Food significantly shapes our sense of place and belonging in a new city. This restaurant comparison aims to turn Milwaukee into your next culinary haven by comparing Portland's top restaurants to their Milwaukee counterparts, helping you find your new favorite spots .

Le PigeonSanford

High-end dining with innovative dishes

Pok PokEE-Sane

Authentic Thai cuisine with a similar cult following

TuskOdd Duck

A focus on small plates and seasonal ingredients

Screen DoorMaxie's

Southern comfort food with a lively atmosphere

Ken's Artisan PizzaZaffiro's

Famous for thin-crust pizza in a cozy setting

Apizza SchollsFixture Pizza

Artisanal pies with a creative flair

Nong's Khao Man GaiMeat on the Street

Renowned for its authentic and comforting Asian dishes

Blue Star DonutsHoley Moley

Doughnuts that are both novel and nostalgic

Le ChonAmilinda

Spanish and Portuguese influences with a warm ambiance

Salt & StrawPurple Door Ice Cream

Innovative ice cream flavors in a homey spot

When you're yearning for the innovative and refined flavors you loved back in Portland, you'll find Sanford's high-end dining experience in Milwaukee a perfect match. Both Sanford and Le Pigeon offer dishes that are as inventive as they are delicious, ensuring each visit is memorable. On the more casual side, Odd Duck mirrors Tusk with its commitment to seasonal ingredients and small plates, perfect for diners who love to share and experience a variety of flavors. Meanwhile, those missing the sweet and creative doughnuts from Blue Star Donuts will find solace in Holey Moley's equally inventive offerings, proving that Milwaukee can satisfy even the most particular Portland palate.

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Ready to start your move?

Real Estate Facts to Know Before Moving from Portland to Milwaukee

When considering a move, comparing real estate between Portland, OR, and Milwaukee, WI is crucial. Real estate encompasses more than just costs; it includes the lifestyle each city offers. This comparison aims to explore and highlight the differences and unique aspects of housing in these cities.

The median home price and rent in Portland are significantly higher than in Milwaukee, reflecting Portland's higher living cost. However, what your money buys in each city varies greatly. Portland's homes often highlight eco-friendly features and proximity to nature, appealing to those who prioritize sustainability and outdoor activities. Milwaukee's real estate listings frequently boast historic homes and an urban lifestyle, suggesting a rich architectural heritage and a vibrant city life. Both cities offer reasonable walkability and bikeability, but Portland edges ahead, especially in bike-friendliness, reflecting its residents' preference for green commuting.

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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 Portland to Milwaukee

When planning a move from one location to another, it's crucial to understand how the weather in your new city compares to what you're accustomed to. This guide is designed to highlight the weather differences between Portland, OR , and Milwaukee, WI , allowing you to better prepare for your relocation.

Summer icon
80°F / 57°F

Portland, OR

81°F / 63°F

Milwaukee, WI

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
47°F / 36°F

Portland, OR

30°F / 18°F

Milwaukee, WI

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
36

Portland, OR

34.76

Milwaukee, WI

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
4

Portland, OR

52

Milwaukee, WI

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

While both cities enjoy similar summer temperatures, Milwaukee experiences colder winters with significantly more snowfall—averaging 52 inches compared to Portland's 4 inches. Milwaukee also boasts more sunny days per year, which can be a pleasant change for Portlanders used to fewer clear skies. However, winter in Milwaukee can be challenging, with lower temperatures and high snowfall that necessitates regular snow removal. In contrast, Portland's milder winters focus more on rainfall. For individuals with allergies, the predominant allergens differ slightly between the two cities, which might influence symptomatic responses during peak seasons. Understanding these climatic differences can guide your preparations for seasonal clothing, home maintenance, and overall lifestyle adjustments in your new city.

Ready to start your move?

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

When considering a move from Portland, OR to Milwaukee, WI, it's crucial to understand how the cost of living, taxes, and local economies compare between these locations. This knowledge will help you gauge how your financial situation may change and what to expect in your new home city.

Moving from Portland to Milwaukee will present significant differences in living costs and tax obligations. For instance, while Milwaukee offers a more affordable living index and lower average property tax rates, the average household income is substantially lower than in Portland. This juxtaposition affects lifestyle choices and available amenities. Additionally, the absence of sales tax in Portland versus the average rate in Milwaukee could influence your spending habits. Therefore, adjusting to the financial ecosystem of Milwaukee may require some planning and adaptation, particularly in budgeting for housing, taxes, and daily expenditures.

Political & Religious Comparison between Portland, OR and Milwaukee, WI

This comparison of the politics between Portland & Milwaukee provides a quick snapshot of the political and religious makeup of residents in both cities, aiding those moving to understand their new community better.

PortlandMilwaukee

Political Make-up

Mostly Liberal/DemocraticLiberal/Democratic with Conservative Suburbs

Local Politics

Progressive policies, environmental focusFocus on urban development and education

Religion

Less religiously affiliatedHigher religious affiliation, diverse faith communities

In both Portland and Milwaukee, you'll find a predominantly Liberal/Democratic political makeup, though Milwaukee's surrounding suburbs exhibit a more conservative stance. What sets these cities apart is their approach to local governance. Portland is well-known for its progressive policies, especially those related to environmental sustainability, and boasts numerous community initiatives aimed at maintaining its green ethos. Milwaukee, on the other hand, places a strong emphasis on urban development and education reform, with significant investments in public infrastructure and school programs designed to boost local talent and business. Religious affiliation varies notably between the two, with Portland being one of the least religious cities in the U.S., whereas Milwaukee hosts a more diverse religious landscape, including robust Catholic, Lutheran, and Jewish communities. This cultural and ideological diversity enhances Milwaukee's vibrant social fabric, contributing to a rich array of community-centered activities and faith-based services.

Traffic and Public Transit Considerations for Moving from Portland to Milwaukee

Moving from Portland, OR to Milwaukee, WI? It's crucial to understand how daily commuting and traffic patterns differ to seamlessly integrate into your new city. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Portland & Milwaukee aims to prepare you for what lies ahead.

PortlandMilwaukee
2623

Avg Commute Time (in minutes)

64

Traffic Congestion (out of 10)

86

Availability of Public Transit (out of 10)

Yes, with some planningMore challenging but possible

Can you get by without a car?

Portland, known for its strong public transportation system, makes it easier to live without a car compared to Milwaukee. With a score of 8 out of 10 for public transit availability, Portland offers extensive options like the TriMet buses and MAX light rail, facilitating movement across the city. Milwaukee, while having a reliable public transit system through Milwaukee County Transit System (MCTS), scores slightly lower in this aspect, indicating a bit more reliance on personal vehicles for daily commute. However, both cities exhibit uniqueness in their transit culture, with bike-friendly routes and community support for alternative modes of transportation.

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