Moving from Milwaukee to Oakland?

5 Best Movers and Your Ultimate Moving Guide

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Milwaukee to Oakland Movers

Moving from Milwaukee, the City of Festivals, to Oakland, the Sunny Side of the Bay, signifies an exciting leap towards new experiences and opportunities. While you might miss Milwaukee's vibrant beer gardens, you're about to embrace the rich cultural tapestry and innovative spirit of Oakland. Recognizing the magnitude of this long-distance move, we emphasize the importance of entrusting your journey to reliable and professional movers, ensuring your transition is as smooth and stress-free as possible.

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

5 Best Milwaukee to Oakland 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 >>

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top 10 ranked movers in san bruno 2023 kora moving image
#3
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
#4
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
#5
Big Dog Movers of Madison LLC Logo
Superb

based on 1,305+ data points

Fitchburg, WI
Residential Moving, Commercial Moving, Long Distance Moving See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 5/23/2024)

USDOT: 3284064 Verify

About Big Dog Movers of Madison LLC

Family owned and operated since 2018, Big Dog Movers was founded on a commitment to customer service and affordable rates. Since then, this ...Read More >>

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top 10 ranked movers in madison 2023 big dog movers of madison llc image
top 10 ranked movers in madison 2022 big dog movers of madison llc image

Relocating from Milwaukee to Oakland Neighborhood Guide

Embarking on a move from Milwaukee, WI, to Oakland, CA, can be both exhilarating and daunting. To ease the transition, we have created a guide comparing the top neighborhoods in Milwaukee, WI & Oakland, CA. This comparison aims to help you familiarize yourself with an unknown city by drawing parallels with what you already know and love about your current neighborhood.

MilwaukeeOakland
Third WardJack London Square

Vibrant arts & dining scene

Bay ViewRockridge

Eclectic charm, boutique shopping

East SidePiedmont Avenue

Trendy eateries, proximity to parks

Walker’s PointTemescal

Hip, foodie haven with brewery scene

ShorewoodMontclair

Family-friendly, nestled in nature

WauwatosaGlenview

Quiet, residential with a cozy feel

Historic Third WardOld Oakland

Rich history meets modern boutiques

RiverwestWest Oakland

Diverse, with a strong sense of community

Brady StreetGrand Lake

Lively nightlife, weekend market

Historic Mitchell StreetFruitvale

Cultural hub, vibrant street life

In the heart of Oakland, Jack London Square buzzes with an energy akin to Milwaukee's Third Ward, offering a diverse array of dining and cultural experiences by the waterfront. For those captivated by the artsy and eclectic ambience of Bay View, Rockridge in Oakland is a perfect match with its charming boutiques and cozy cafes. If you relish the trendy environment and green spaces of Milwaukee's East Side, you'll find a similar vibe in Oakland's Piedmont Avenue, where trendy eateries and proximity to lush parks abound. Lastly, for lovers of a tight-knit community with a rich cultural tapestry like Milwaukee's Riverwest, West Oakland offers diversity and a strong sense of belonging, with local businesses and artists' spaces galore.

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Things to Do in Oakland

  • Explore Chabot Space & Science Center
  • Stroll through Oakland Zoo
  • Enjoy Lake Merritt on paddleboat
  • Watch a game at Oakland Coliseum
  • Visit Oakland Museum of California
  • Sample at Jack London Square eateries
  • Hike in Redwood Regional Park

Ready to start your move?

Pros and Cons of Moving from Milwaukee to Oakland

Moving from one city to another can be a daunting yet exciting journey. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Milwaukee, WI to Oakland, CA . By examining the advantages and disadvantages through our charts, you'll gain a clearer perspective on what to expect from your new city.

CONs
PROs
Milwaukee, WI iconMilwaukee, WI
  • Colder winters
  • Smaller city
  • Fewer cultural venues
  • Higher unemployment rate
Oakland, CA iconOakland, CA
  • Milder climate
  • Larger urban area
  • More diverse culture
  • Greater job opportunities
Oakland, CA iconOakland, CA
  • Higher cost of living
  • Less spacious
  • Fewer local traditions
  • Urbanized environment
Milwaukee, WI iconMilwaukee, WI
  • Lower cost of living
  • Family-friendly areas
  • Rich local traditions
  • Accessible outdoor activities

Choosing to move from Milwaukee to Oakland marks the beginning of a new chapter filled with diverse experiences. You'll swap the frigid Milwaukee winters for Oakland's milder climate, allowing for a more outdoor-centric lifestyle year-round. While Milwaukee might have a cozy, small-town feel with solid local traditions, Oakland introduces you to an expansive urban area brimming with cultural diversity. Places like Oakland Zoo, the bustling Jack London Square, and the renowned cultural events at the Oakland Museum of California await your exploration. Although the cost of living may rise, the trade-off comes with access to significant career opportunities in the dynamic Bay Area job market. This move invites an adventurous shift in lifestyle, presenting both challenges and exciting possibilities.

Food Scene Guide When Moving from Milwaukee to Oakland

Food deeply enriches our understanding of local culture and what living in an area will be like. In recognizing this, we're providing a detailed comparison of the local cuisine between Milwaukee & Oakland. This will equip you with a better grasp of the culinary scenes in your current and future cities.

MilwaukeeOakland

Most iconic local food item

Cheese CurdsCalifornia Burrito

Most popular meat dish

BratwurstKorean BBQ

Most popular street food item

Fried Cheese CurdsTacos

Most popular vegan food

Vegan Beer BratsVegan Ramen

Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city

    1. Brown Sugar Kitchen
    2. The Waterfront
    3. ShakeWell

Fitness/Health Conscientiousness

68

Abundance of Food Trucks

59

Foodie Scene

79

Vegan Friendly

79

As you prepare for your transition from Milwaukee to Oakland, you'll find that Oakland embraces a diverse, vibrant food scene with a strong emphasis on street food and vegan options. Neighborhoods like Temescal are known for their bustling food truck gatherings, where you can indulge in authentic tacos or innovative vegan ramen. Meanwhile, iconic eateries such as Brown Sugar Kitchen in West Oakland offer a taste of the rich culinary diversity that awaits. This shift not only highlights the broader range of food available but also Oakland's high level of fitness and health conscientiousness, reflective of California's overall lifestyle.

Restaurant Guide for Moving from Milwaukee to Oakland

Relocating is more than just a change of address—it's about finding the places that make a city feel like home. This comparison aims to ease your transition from Milwaukee, WI to Oakland, CA, by matching your favorite Milwaukee restaurants with similar spots in Oakland , ensuring your dining experiences continue to be memorable and satisfying. Let this guide be your culinary compass in your new city.

SanfordCommis

High-end dining with innovative courses

Leon's Frozen CustardFentons Creamery

Iconic spot for ice cream treats

Bryant's Cocktail LoungeForbidden Island

Unique cocktails and vintage vibes

Conejito's PlaceGuadalajara Restaurant

Authentic Mexican food and margaritas

Odd DuckShakewell

Creative and eclectic small plates

Blue's EggMama's Royal Cafe

Cozy breakfast and brunch favorites

ArdentBelotti Ristorante e Bottega

Intimate setting with exquisite Italian dishes

Sobelman's Pub & GrillClove and Hoof

Butcher and restaurant known for burgers and sandwiches

La MerendaalaMar Kitchen

Specializing in seafood with a unique twist

Kopp's Frozen CustardLush Gelato

Artisan gelato with unique flavors

Moving from Milwaukee's beloved Sanford, known for its meticulously crafted courses, you'll find a warm welcome in Oakland's Commis, which mirrors that attention to creative, high-end dining. Similarly, if you're missing Leon's Frozen Custard's iconic treats, Fentons Creamery will fill that void with its own rich history and decadent ice cream offerings. Not to be overlooked, Oakland’s Forbidden Island offers a comparable experience to Bryant's Cocktail Lounge, providing a range of unique cocktails in an atmosphere that's both retro and inviting. These pairings emphasize that, while the surroundings might change, the quality and essence of your dining experiences can remain remarkably similar, offering comfort through culinary delights in your new Oakland home.

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Ready to start your move?

Real Estate Facts to Know Before Moving from Milwaukee to Oakland

Real estate is a critical aspect when planning a move. Understanding the housing market characteristics of both Milwaukee and Oakland can make your transition smoother. This comparison aims to highlight the key differences and similarities in housing options, costs, and lifestyle between these two vibrant cities.

The stark contrast in median home prices and monthly rents between Milwaukee and Oakland underscores the significantly higher cost of living in California. However, Oakland's higher scores in walkability, bikeability, and urban lifestyle reflect its dense urban environment, with convenient access to public transit and a strong emphasis on sustainability and modern amenities. For those moving from Milwaukee, it's essential to weigh these factors comprehensively. While Milwaukee offers more affordable housing options with traditional architecture like Bungalow and Cape Cod, Oakland presents a bustling urban lifestyle with Victorian and modern homes, closer proximity to amenities, and a higher emphasis on eco-friendly living.

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Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Oakland, CA

1. Rockridge: Known for its welcoming atmosphere, Rockridge offers numerous pet-friendly cafes and a local pet shop, ensuring your furry friends are always pampered.

2. Lake Merritt: This area surrounds a picturesque lake with a 3.4-mile walking path that's perfect for dog-walking, alongside veterinary services easily accessible for your pets' health needs.

3. Montclair Village: Nestled in the hills, Montclair Village is not only scenic but also boasts a pet-friendly environment with holistic pet care, and numerous trails for adventurous walks with your pets.

Weather Considerations for Moving from Milwaukee to Oakland

Moving from one city to another requires understanding the new weather conditions you'll face. Knowing how the weather in Milwaukee, WI compares to Oakland, CA is essential for preparing your wardrobe and lifestyle changes. This side-by-side comparison will highlight key differences and what to expect.

Summer icon
79 / 61

Milwaukee, WI

75 / 56

Oakland, CA

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
30 / 18

Milwaukee, WI

58 / 44

Oakland, CA

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
34.76

Milwaukee, WI

23.88

Oakland, CA

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
46.9

Milwaukee, WI

0

Oakland, CA

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

Moving from Milwaukee to Oakland means you'll experience milder winters and more sunny days annually. While Milwaukee faces heavy snowfalls, Oakland enjoys a snow-free climate, allowing for year-round outdoor activities without the hassle of winter gear. Summers in both cities are relatively mild, but Oakland's lower average humidity can make its summer days feel more comfortable. Air quality in Oakland generally ranks better due to its coastal breezes helping to dissipate pollution. Understanding these differences can help you adjust your lifestyle and expectations as you make the move.

Ready to start your move?

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

Considering a move from one city to another can be a daunting experience, especially when your finances are involved. It's crucial to understand how the cost of living and general financial climate in Milwaukee compares with what you'll face in Oakland. This comparison aims to shed light on various financial aspects to help ease your transition.

When moving from Milwaukee to Oakland, you'll find significant differences in financial aspects. The average household income in Oakland is considerably higher, which is paramount considering the city's higher cost of living index. While state income tax and sales tax rates are steeper in Oakland, the average property tax rate is notably lower than Milwaukee's. This disparity might influence your decision on renting versus buying a home. The shift in top industries suggests a potential change in job opportunities, with technology being a major player in Oakland. Understanding these variances can help in planning and adjusting your finances for a smoother relocation process.

Political & Religious Comparison between Milwaukee, WI and Oakland, CA

When considering a move from Milwaukee, WI to Oakland, CA, it's important to understand the community you're transitioning into. This comparison aims to give you a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents, specifically focusing on the comparison of the politics between Milwaukee & Oakland and their religious landscapes. Knowing this can help you anticipate the culture and values you'll encounter in your new home.

MilwaukeeOakland

Political Make-up

Lean DemocraticStrongly Democratic

Local Politics

Progressive with a focus on community developmentHighly progressive, with strong emphasis on social justice and environmental sustainability

Religion

Mixed, with a notable Catholic presenceDiverse, with significant representation of non-religious residents

Moving from Milwaukee to Oakland, you'll find yourself in a community that is not only diverse but also holds a strong political identity. Oakland's political scene is characterized by a highly progressive stance, especially on issues like social justice and environmental sustainability, which tend to resonate more deeply here than perhaps in Milwaukee. The religious landscape in Oakland is notably diverse, with a significant number of individuals identifying as non-religious, contrasting Milwaukee's more mixed religious makeup with a noticeable Catholic community. This transition could present an enriching opportunity to engage with a broad spectrum of beliefs and political views, fostering an environment of learning and growth.

Traffic and Public Transit Considerations for Moving from Milwaukee to Oakland

As you consider the move from Milwaukee, WI to Oakland, CA, understanding the differences in daily commute and traffic is crucial. This comparison of traffic and transportation options between Milwaukee & Oakland will guide you in adjusting to your new city.

MilwaukeeOakland
2232

Avg Commute Time (in minutes)

68

Traffic Congestion (out of 10)

57

Availability of Public Transit (out of 10)

ChallengingEasier

Can you get by without car?

In Milwaukee, your average commute time may be shorter, but the city’s public transit options are not as robust as in Oakland. With a traffic congestion score of 6 out of 10, Milwaukee has its share of traffic, but it's generally more manageable than Oakland’s 8 out of 10. While it may be challenging to navigate Milwaukee without a car, Oakland presents a different story. Thanks to a higher availability and diversity of public transit options — including buses, BART, and bike sharing programs — getting around Oakland without a vehicle is definitely easier. This reflects Oakland’s commitment to a more sustainable and accessible urban transport system.

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