Moving from South Dakota to Wisconsin?

6 Best SD to WI Movers and Your Ultimate Moving Guide

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SD to WI Moving Specialists

Moving from state to state isn't just a change of scenery; it's an exhilarating leap into a new chapter of your life. As you bid farewell to South Dakota's majestic Mount Rushmore and serene Great Plains, and prepare to embrace Wisconsin's vibrant Cheesehead community and lush landscapes, remember that such a significant journey necessitates careful planning and execution. That's why it's crucial to prioritize hiring trusted and reliable professional movers for this long distance endeavor, ensuring your adventure from the Mount Rushmore State to the Badger State begins on the best possible note.

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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Wisconsin to South Dakota guide.

6 Best South Dakota to Wisconsin Movers

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

#1
A Smooth Move, LLC Logo
Exceptional
claimed company icon

based on 1,293+ data points

Appleton, WI
Full-Service Moves, Packing, Loading, Delivering, Unloading, Unpacking, Business and Residential Relocation Services See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/5/2024)

USDOT: 3350934 Verify

About A Smooth Move, LLC

A Smooth Move is a family-owned and operated moving company that serves Wisconsin and beyond. It’s proud of its reputation as one of the mos...Read More >>

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#2
Elite Movers Logo
Exceptional

based on 788+ data points

Eau Claire, WI
Full Service Move, Labor Only (Loading/Unloading Help), Single Item Move See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/6/2024)

USDOT: 3579816 Verify

About Elite Movers

Elite Movers is a professional moving service in Eau Claire that provides full-service moving solutions for local and long-distance relocati...Read More >>

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#3
Dial-A-Move Inc. Logo
Superb

based on 483+ data points

Aberdeen, SD
Cheap moving options, Local moving services, Long-distance moving services See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/6/2024)

USDOT: 885778 Verify

About Dial-A-Move Inc.

Family-run Dial-A-Move is a professional moving company incorporated in 2001. It has a location in Aberdeen, SD, offering a wide range of af...Read More >>

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#4
Two Men and a Truck Logo
Superb

based on 843+ data points

Sioux Falls, SD
Local moving, Junk removal, Storage See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/5/2024)

USDOT: 2575221 Verify

About Two Men and a Truck

Launched in the 1980s, Two Men and a Truck serves residential and commercial customers all over the country. The company opened its Sioux Fa...Read More >>

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#5
Dial-A-Move Logo
Very Good

based on 108+ data points

Watertown, SD
Cheap moving options, Local moving services, Long-distance moving services See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 8/10/2024)

USDOT: 885778 Verify

About Dial-A-Move

Dial-A-Move is your one-stop shop for affordable moving options. It has offices in Watertown, Aberdeen, and Huron, serving the Midwest and b...Read More >>

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#6
The Moving Guys, LLC Logo
Very Good

based on 157+ data points

Rapid City, SD
Cheap moving services, Local moving services, Long-distance moving services See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/4/2024)

USDOT: 3199241 Verify

About The Moving Guys, LLC

The Moving Guys, LLC is a locally-owned moving company based in Rapid City, providing comprehensive moving services to the Black Hills commu...Read More >>

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Pros and Cons of Moving from South Dakota to Wisconsin

Moving from one state to another is a big decision that requires weighing the benefits against the drawbacks. This comparison aims to offer an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from South Dakota to Wisconsin . By examining the pros and cons, you'll gain a clearer understanding of what to expect from your new environment.

CONs
PROs
South Dakota iconSouth Dakota
  • Harsher winters
  • Less populous cities
  • Fewer lakes
  • Limited cultural events
  • Smaller economy
Wisconsin iconWisconsin
  • Milder winters
  • Larger communities
  • More lakes
  • Richer cultural scene
  • Stronger economy
Wisconsin iconWisconsin
  • Less open land
  • Higher cost of living
  • More traffic
  • Less tight-knit communities
  • Higher population density
South Dakota iconSouth Dakota
  • Wide-open spaces
  • Lower cost of living
  • Less traffic
  • Strong community bond
  • Low population density

In transitioning from South Dakota with its sprawling landscapes and tight-knit communities to Wisconsin's bustling cities, you'll discover a blend of new opportunities. Wisconsin offers an abundant array of lakes, such as Lake Mendota and Lake Monona in Madison, providing plenty of water activities away from the larger crowds. The state shines with its cultural richness, hosting events like the annual Summerfest in Milwaukee, the world's largest music festival. Madison and Milwaukee boast vibrant restaurant scenes, with spots like L'Etoile in Madison, known for its farm-to-table dining, and Milwaukee's Sanford Restaurant, celebrated for its global cuisine. While the cost of living and traffic may increase, the trade-off comes with access to more extensive social and economic opportunities, illustrating the complex yet rewarding journey of such a relocation.

Food Scene Guide When Moving from South Dakota to Wisconsin

Understanding local cuisine is vital in appreciating the culture and lifestyle of a new area. Through this guide, we'll delve into a comparison of the local cuisine between South Dakota & Wisconsin, helping you discover what culinary delights await you in your new home state.

South DakotaWisconsin

Most iconic local food item

ChislicCheese Curds

Most popular meat dish

PheasantBratwurst

Most popular street food item

Indian TacosBratwurst

Most popular vegan food

Wild Rice DishesCheese-less Curds

Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the state

  • Phillips Avenue Diner
  • Minervas
  • Crawford's Bar & Grill
  • Culver's
  • Mader's
  • The Old Fashioned

Fitness/Health Conscientiousness

67

Abundance of Food Trucks

58

Foodie Scene

68

Vegan Friendly

47

When moving to Wisconsin, you're entering a state known for its deep love of dairy, particularly cheese. Cheese curds, especially when fresh and squeaky, are a local favorite. The love for bratwurst in Wisconsin is evident in many local festivals and the widespread availability of this sausage in street food settings, making it a must-try. For those interested in vegan options, Wisconsin's adaptation of cheeseless curds provides a tasty alternative. Icons of the state's dining scene include Culver's, known for its ButterBurgers and frozen custard; Mader's, showcasing traditional German cuisine; and The Old Fashioned, where you can experience Wisconsin's beer and cheese culture firsthand. If you're keen to explore the foodie scene, Madison and Milwaukee are vibrant hubs with an array of food trucks, vegan-friendly restaurants, and local eateries that highlight the state's culinary diversity.

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Ready to start your move?

Real Estate Facts to Know Before Moving from South Dakota to Wisconsin

Real estate significantly impacts your experience when moving to a new state. Knowing how housing aspects in South Dakota compare with Wisconsin is crucial for making informed decisions. This comparison highlights key housing attributes to consider.

When comparing the housing markets of South Dakota and Wisconsin, the differences in median home price and monthly rent are notable, suggesting that your budget may stretch further in Wisconsin, especially for home buyers. The architecture style reflects the regional preferences, with ranch-style homes prevalent in South Dakota and Cape Cod styles more common in Wisconsin, offering a quaint, charming feel. The higher walkability and bikeability scores in Wisconsin indicate a slightly more urban lifestyle, potentially making it a better choice for those seeking amenities within walking distance. Additionally, Wisconsin's focus on lakeside access and energy efficiency in real estate listings highlights the state's natural beauty and a growing awareness towards sustainability.

Weather Considerations for Moving from South Dakota to Wisconsin

When considering a move from South Dakota to Wisconsin, it's essential to understand how the climate and weather patterns will shift. This comparison will highlight weather differences between South Dakota and Wisconsin, providing valuable insights for a smoother transition. From temperature variances to humidity levels, this information will prepare you for your new environment.

Summer icon
85°F/60°F

South Dakota

82°F/63°F

Wisconsin

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
30°F/10°F

South Dakota

28°F/13°F

Wisconsin

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
20-30

South Dakota

30-35

Wisconsin

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
30-60

South Dakota

40-50

Wisconsin

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

Moving from South Dakota to Wisconsin, you'll experience slightly milder summers and marginally colder winters in Wisconsin. Despite having fewer days of sunshine, Wisconsin provides a similar quality of air but with a slightly higher humidity level. Interestingly, the annual snowfall is greater in Wisconsin, which can affect seasonal activities and transportation. Being prepared for these differences ensures you can adapt readily to Wisconsin's climate while also anticipating the joyful experiences the change in weather can bring.

Ready to start your move?

Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from South Dakota to Wisconsin

When considering a move from South Dakota to Wisconsin, it's vital to understand the financial implications. This comparison will help you grasp the cost of living, taxes, and overall economic environment you're moving into, ensuring a smoother transition.

The table above highlights key financial differences between South Dakota and Wisconsin that could impact your decision-making process. Notably, Wisconsin's average household income is slightly higher, which might be influenced by its diverse economy, including a strong manufacturing sector. However, Wisconsin also has a higher cost of living and state income taxes, factors that can diminish net income. Property and sales taxes are also higher in Wisconsin, impacting long-term homeownership and daily expenses. Despite these financial implications, both states offer a relatively strong economic environment with low poverty and homelessness levels. Understanding these dynamics can help you plan more effectively for your move and financial future.

Political & Religious Comparison between South Dakota and Wisconsin

This quick comparison provides a snapshot into the comparison of the politics between South Dakota & Wisconsin , plus the religious landscape of both states. It’s designed to give you an understanding of the community you're moving into or considering.

South DakotaWisconsin

Political Make-up

Republican-leaningSwing state, with a mix of Republican and Democrat support

Local Politics

Conservative in rural areas, with some liberal leanings in urban centers like Sioux FallsMixed, with conservative rural areas and more liberal urban centers such as Milwaukee and Madison

Religion

Christianity predominantly, with significant Lutheran and Catholic communitiesChristianity predominantly, with a diversity of beliefs including Lutheran, Catholic, and a growing population of non-religious

When moving from South Dakota to Wisconsin, you'll notice differences and similarities in the political and religious climates. South Dakota typically leans Republican, with conservative values more prevalent, especially in rural areas. However, urban areas such as Sioux Falls show a spectrum of political beliefs. Wisconsin, on the other hand, is known for its political swings, hosting a vibrant mix of ideologies. The state's major cities, Milwaukee and Madison, are known for their liberal stance, contrasting with the conservative leanings of its rural regions. Both states share a strong Christian influence, though Wisconsin presents a broader religious diversity and a more notable presence of non-religious individuals. This insight can help you better understand the social fabric of your new home.

Education Guide When Moving from South Dakota to Wisconsin

When considering a move from South Dakota to Wisconsin, comparing educational institutions is crucial for families. This comparison aims to help you better understand what the comparisons are between school options in South Dakota and Wisconsin, ensuring your children can continue to thrive in their new environment.

South DakotaWisconsin

Where most Seniors go to college (top 3)

South Dakota State University
University of South Dakota
Dakota State University
University of Wisconsin-Madison
University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee
Marquette University

Top 3 Elementary Schools

Challenge Center (Sioux Falls)
Corona Elementary School (Corona)
Discovery Elementary (Sioux Falls)
Randall Consolidated School (Burlington)
Lake Shore Middle School (Mequon)
Swallow Elementary School (Hartland)

Top 3 Middle Schools

Patrick Henry Middle School (Sioux Falls)
George S. Mickelson Middle School (Brookings)
Yankton Middle School (Yankton)
Longfellow Middle School (Wauwatosa)
Pilgrim Park Middle School (Elm Grove)
Lake Shore Middle School (Mequon)

Top 3 High School Schools

Lincoln High School (Sioux Falls)
Roosevelt High School (Sioux Falls)
Washington High School (Sioux Falls)
Brookfield Central High School (Brookfield)
Cedarburg High School (Cedarburg)
Whitefish Bay High School (Whitefish Bay)

Top 3 private high schools

O'Gorman High School (Sioux Falls)
Roncalli High School (Aberdeen)
Sioux Falls Christian Schools (Sioux Falls)
University School of Milwaukee (Milwaukee)
Marquette University High School (Milwaukee)
Brookfield Academy (Brookfield)

Top 3 private K-12 schools

Sioux Falls Christian Schools (Sioux Falls)
Great Plains Lutheran High School (Watertown)
Roncalli Primary School (Aberdeen)
University School of Milwaukee (Milwaukee)
Brookfield Academy (Brookfield)
Prairie School (Racine)

Top 3 School Districts

Sioux Falls School District
Aberdeen School District
Brookings School District
Elmbrook School District
Middleton-Cross Plains Area School District
Mequon-Thiensville School District

If you're moving from South Dakota to Wisconsin, you'll find some differences in educational opportunities. Wisconsin offers a variety of highly-rated schools across all levels, from elementary to high school. For instance, the University School of Milwaukee and Brookfield Academy are renowned for their comprehensive K-12 education, highlighting Wisconsin's strength in private education. In contrast, South Dakota's Sioux Falls Christian Schools offer a unique blend of faith-based education across all grades. Additionally, public universities like the University of Wisconsin-Madison have a strong national reputation, drawing in students from across the country, whereas South Dakota State University is well-known regionally for its robust programs. Making an informed decision will take some research, but understanding these key differences will help you identify the best educational path for your family in Wisconsin.

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