Moving from Milwaukee to San Diego?

5 Best Movers and Your Ultimate Moving Guide

Want help with the heavy lifting?

Milwaukee to San Diego Movers

Moving from the vibrant, bustling streets of Milwaukee, known for its creamy beer and hearty festivals, to the sun-kissed shores and laid-back lifestyle of San Diego, aptly nicknamed "America's Finest City," signifies an exhilarating leap into a whole new chapter of life. Transitioning from the Midwest's charismatic warmth to Southern California's perpetual vacation vibe is no small feat, and it underscores the importance of embarking on this journey with trusted and reliable professional movers. At Great Guys Moving, we understand the magnitude of relocating coast to coast, which is why we meticulously rank the best movers in the country, ensuring your adventure to San Diego begins on the right note.

Wisconsin iconArrow iconCalifornia icon
U-turn icon

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

5 Best Milwaukee to San Diego Movers

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

#1
Coast 2 Coast Moving, Inc. Logo
Exceptional

based on 477+ data points

San Diego, CA
Local Moves, Long-Distance Moves, Packing Services See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/11/2024)

USDOT: 3177184 Verify

About Coast 2 Coast Moving, Inc.

Coast 2 Coast Moving, Inc. is a professional moving company based in San Diego, California. Founded by Donal and Jessica O'Neill, the compan...Read More >>

top 10 san diego 2024 coast 2 coast moving inc image
#2
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 >>

top 10 milwaukee 2024 about time moving systems llc image
top ranked movers in milwaukee 2023 about time moving systems llc image
top ranked movers in milwaukee 2022 about time moving systems llc image
#3
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 >>

top 10 milwaukee 2024 gorilla movers of wisconsin inc image
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
#4
M
Exceptional

based on 1,080+ data points

San Diego, CA
Cheap moving services, Local moving services, Long-distance moving services See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/11/2024)

USDOT: 2403743 Verify

About Motivated Military Movers

Motivated Military Movers is a veteran-owned moving company founded in 2008 by a Navy Corpsman, based in San Diego, California. With over 13...Read More >>

top wagner 2024 motivated military movers image
top 3 ranked movers in wagner 2023 motivated military movers 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 >>

top 10 milwaukee 2024 big dog movers of madison llc image
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 San Diego Neighborhood Guide

Preparing to transition from Milwaukee, WI to San Diego, CA can be intriguing yet daunting. To ease this move, we've crafted a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Milwaukee, WI & San Diego, CA, aligning Milwaukee's top neighborhoods with their San Diego counterparts. This guide aims to familiarize you with your new city by leveraging what you know and love about your current one.

MilwaukeeSan Diego
Third WardGaslamp Quarter

Vibrant nightlife & arts

Bay ViewNorth Park

Eclectic shops, craft beer

East SideHillcrest

Diverse, LGBTQ+-friendly

Walker's PointLittle Italy

Rich culinary scene

WauwatosaKensington

Family-friendly, historic homes

ShorewoodLa Jolla

Upscale, beachfront community

Historic Third WardOld Town

Culture-rich, historic sites

West AllisClairemont

Suburban, diverse dining options

Whitefish BayDel Mar

Oceanfront living, family-friendly

Washington HeightsNorth Clairemont

Quiet, community-focused

If you're captivated by the artistic and nightlife pulse of Milwaukee's Third Ward, you'll find a similar vibe in San Diego's Gaslamp Quarter, known for its lively entertainment scene and cultural events. Admirers of Bay View's unique blend of eclectic local shops and burgeoning craft beer spots will feel right at home in North Park, where indie boutiques and microbreweries abound. For those who cherish the diverse and inclusive atmosphere of the East Side, Hillcrest offers an LGBTQ+-friendly environment coupled with a rich array of dining options. Finally, if the historical and gastronomic allure of Walker's Point has been a staple of your Milwaukee experience, Little Italy in San Diego awaits with its vibrant culinary scene and cultural festivals, not forgetting the must-visit Mercato Farmers' Market.

Things To Do background image

Things to Do in San Diego

  • Visit the San Diego Zoo
  • Explore Balboa Park
  • Relax at Coronado Beach
  • Dine in Little Italy
  • Experience SeaWorld San Diego
  • Play golf at Torrey Pines

Ready to start your move?

Pros and Cons of Moving from Milwaukee to San Diego

Moving from one city to another can be life-changing. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Milwaukee, WI to San Diego, CA. By weighing the cons against the pros, you'll get a clearer picture of what awaits in both cities, enabling you to make an informed decision.

CONs
PROs
Milwaukee, WI iconMilwaukee, WI
  • Colder Winters
  • Smaller City Vibe
  • Less Diverse Cuisine
  • Fewer Beaches
San Diego, CA iconSan Diego, CA
  • Milder Climate
  • Larger City Feel
  • Varied Dining Options
  • Beaches Everywhere
San Diego, CA iconSan Diego, CA
  • Higher Cost of Living
  • Fewer Festivals
  • Less Personal
  • Heavier Traffic
Milwaukee, WI iconMilwaukee, WI
  • More Affordable
  • Rich Cultural Festivals
  • Smaller Community
  • Easy Navigability

Moving to San Diego from Milwaukee introduces you to a vibrant lifestyle with milder climates and an expansive coastline offering numerous beaches such as La Jolla Shores and Coronado Beach. The dining scene in San Diego is notably diverse with spots like Cucina Urbana and Lolita's Mexican Food, showcasing a wider variety of cuisines than what's typically found in Milwaukee. However, the transition also comes with its set of challenges, including adapting to a higher cost of living and busier city life. While Milwaukee's community events like Summerfest provide a unique local flavor, San Diego counters with its own set of attractions like Balboa Park and the Gaslamp Quarter, offering a blend of cultural, historical, and recreational activities.

Food Scene Guide When Moving from Milwaukee to San Diego

This comparison of the local cuisine between Milwaukee & San Diego is essential for understanding the food scene that integrates deeply with local culture and the living experience in these cities. By examining culinary aspects, you'll be better informed about what to expect from your new home's food environment.

MilwaukeeSan Diego

Most iconic local food item

Beer BratsCalifornia Burrito

Most popular meat dish

Fried Cheese CurdsCarne Asada

Most popular street food item

PretzelsFish Tacos

Most popular vegan food

Vegan ChiliJackfruit Tacos

Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city

    1. Maderas Steak & Ribs
    2. Lakefront Brewery
    3. Sobelman's Pub & Grill
    1. George's at the Cove
    2. Las Cuatro Milpas
    3. Phil's BBQ

Fitness/Health Conscientiousness

79

Abundance of Food Trucks

68

Foodie Scene

79

Vegan Friendly

69

When comparing the culinary scenes of Milwaukee and San Diego, you'll notice significant differences influenced by their cultural and geographical contexts. Milwaukee’s rich beer history is reflected in its love for beer brats, while San Diego’s coastal location makes fish tacos a common street food staple. In Milwaukee, vegan chili captures the essence of hearty, comforting meals even for those on a plant-based diet, whereas San Diego’s vegan scene leans into the rich flavors of Mexican cuisine with innovations like jackfruit tacos. Iconic restaurants such as Lakefront Brewery in Milwaukee offer a taste of the city’s brewing heritage, while George's at the Cove provides panoramic views and fresh seafood in San Diego. San Diego also scores higher in health conscientiousness and has a vibrant food truck scene, indicative of a city that values fresh, diverse, and innovative meals.

Restaurant Guide for Moving from Milwaukee to San Diego

When moving from Milwaukee, WI, to San Diego, CA, finding new favorite dining spots is crucial for feeling at home. This restaurant comparison between Milwaukee and San Diego will guide you in discovering your next go-to eateries, blending the familiar with the new.

Bartolotta’s Lake Park BistroCafé Chloe

European-inspired bistro with a similar ambiance and exquisite French cuisine

Sanford RestaurantJuniper & Ivy

High-end dining with innovative and meticulously prepared dishes

ArdentAddison

Offering a comparable gourmet experience with creative and seasonal tasting menus

La MerendaBracero Cocina

Focus on international small plates and an inviting atmosphere

Leon's Frozen CustardBing Haus

Known for their unique approach to frozen desserts and similar cult following for quality

Odd DuckKettner Exchange

Creative small plates and craft cocktails in a trendy setting

Honeypie CaféGreat Maple

Modern dinette serving high-quality comfort food with a whimsical twist

Zaffiro’s PizzaBuona Forchetta

Authentic, award-winning Neapolitan pizzas in a neighborhood setting

Three BrothersPomegranate

Eastern European flavors with a homey vibe, keeping traditional cooking alive

Conejito's PlaceLas Cuatro Milpas

Homestyle Mexican eats that mirror Conejito’s authenticity and charm

When you find yourself missing Ardents' intimate dining experience and innovative cuisine, Addison in San Diego promises a similar escape through its seasonal tasting menus and luxury dining ambiance. Similarly, while the homey and internationally inspired small plates of La Merenda might be hard to leave behind, Bracero Cocina in San Diego offers a comparable vibe, focusing on craft and community through its diverse menu. And for those late-night cravings for Leon's Frozen Custard, Bing Haus steps up with its unique frozen treats, ensuring the sweet moments continue even after the move. These comparisons embody how familiar favorites can be re-discovered, weaving the culinary tapestries of Milwaukee and San Diego together in your dining adventures.

CTA Banner background image

Ready to start your move?

Real Estate Facts to Know Before Moving from Milwaukee to San Diego

Real estate greatly influences the dynamics of relocating, hence understanding the comparative aspects of housing between Milwaukee and San Diego is crucial. This comparison sheds light on factors like cost, style, and livability, directly impacting your decision and lifestyle in your new city.

While Milwaukee offers more affordable housing, highlighted by its lower median home price and monthly rent, San Diego captivates with its higher urban lifestyle score, indicative of a vibrant city life. The typical architectural styles reflect each city's unique culture and history—Milwaukee with its cozy Victorian and Bungalow homes versus San Diego's breezy Spanish Revival and Modern designs. San Diego promises a slightly better walkability and bikeability, catering to those who prefer active and outdoor lifestyles, with a notable mention of outdoor living spaces in its real estate listings, a nod to the city's favorable climate. This contrast underlines the significant lifestyle adjustment when moving from the Midwest to the Pacific coast, encompassing differences in living costs, housing styles, and city vibes.

Pet-friendly neighborhoods background image

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in San Diego, CA

1. Ocean Beach: Known for its laid-back vibe, Ocean Beach features Dog Beach, where your furry friends can play off-leash in the surf and sand.

2. North Park: A neighborhood that embraces pet owners, North Park offers several pet-friendly dining options and the Morley Field Dog Park for off-leash fun.

3. Little Italy: This vibrant neighborhood not only has multiple pet-friendly patios for dining but also hosts the annual Little Italy Doggie Street Festival, celebrating pets and their families.

Weather Considerations for Moving from Milwaukee to San Diego

Moving from one city to another can bring significant changes, including to the weather you’ll experience. Comparing the climates of your current and future homes can greatly aid in your preparation. This chart aims to illustrate the weather contrasts between Milwaukee and San Diego, helping you understand what to expect year-round.

Summer icon
79°F / 61°F

Milwaukee, WI

76°F / 67°F

San Diego, CA

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
30°F / 18°F

Milwaukee, WI

66°F / 50°F

San Diego, CA

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
34.76"

Milwaukee, WI

10.34"

San Diego, CA

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
46.9"

Milwaukee, WI

0"

San Diego, CA

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

When considering a move from Milwaukee to San Diego, you'll find a significant shift in weather patterns. San Diego offers a much milder and drier climate compared to Milwaukee’s cold winters and humid summers. With over 266 days of sunshine per year, San Diego invites outdoor activities nearly all year round. Additionally, while Milwaukee residents battle snowstorms, San Diego's major natural disaster concerns include earthquakes and wildfires. This contrast in seasonal weather brings a different set of preparations for each city, from wardrobe choices to emergency preparedness plans.

Ready to start your move?

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

When contemplating a move from one city to another, grasping the financial implications is crucial. This comparison aims to illuminate how Milwaukee's cost factors stack up against San Diego's, helping you to gauge what changes in expenses you might expect.

Moving from Milwaukee to San Diego, you'll face a different economic landscape. The average household income in San Diego is higher, but this is coupled with a significantly increased cost of living, driven in part by housing costs. Although California's state income tax is higher, San Diego benefits from a lower average property tax rate, potentially offsetting some of the increased living expenses. It's also important to factor in the shift in predominant industries, which may impact job opportunities aligned with your expertise. Understanding these dynamics can aid in making an informed decision for a smooth transition.

Political & Religious Comparison between Milwaukee, WI and San Diego, CA

Considering a move from Milwaukee, WI, to San Diego, CA? It's crucial to have a clear understanding of the community you'll be joining. This quick glance provides a comparison of the political and religious makeup between Milwaukee & San Diego , providing a snapshot of what the typical makeup of the population is like in each city.

MilwaukeeSan Diego

Political Make-up

Leans DemocraticLeans Democratic

Local Politics

Strong Union InfluenceProgressive Trends

Religion

Lutheran and CatholicCatholic and Nonreligious

When you're moving from Milwaukee to San Diego, you'll find both cities share a Democratic-leaning political environment. However, the local political scene has its unique flavors; Milwaukee is known for its strong union influence reflecting its industrial history, while San Diego has progressive trends likely influenced by its diverse population and coastal location. Religion plays a significant role in the community life of both cities, with Milwaukee having a strong Lutheran and Catholic presence, and San Diego displaying a mix of Catholic believers and a considerably large nonreligious community. This diversity contributes to the rich, inclusive cultures of both cities, providing a vibrant backdrop to your new life.

Traffic and Public Transit Considerations for Moving from Milwaukee to San Diego

Moving from Milwaukee, WI, to San Diego, CA, requires adapting to new daily commutes and understanding the traffic and transportation options in each city. This comparison will help you navigate the changes with ease.

MilwaukeeSan Diego
2226

Avg Commute Time (in minutes)

47

Traffic Congestion (out of 10)

68

Availability of Public Transit (out of 10)

Possible, but challengingMore feasible, especially in downtown areas

Can you get by without car?

In Milwaukee, the average commute time is slightly shorter than in San Diego, reflecting less severe traffic congestion. However, San Diego offers a more robust public transit system, making it easier to get around without a car, particularly if you live and work in highly urbanized areas. San Diego's higher traffic congestion rating reflects its larger population and greater concentration of vehicles on the road, especially during peak hours. Adaptation might include planning for longer commutes and exploring various public transit options like the San Diego Trolley or buses, which can offer a more relaxed alternative to driving.

CTA Banner background image
Connect with one of our Certified Moving Partners.
Best Milwaukee to San Diego Movers Featured Image