Moving from Wisconsin to Minnesota?

6 Best WI to MN Movers and Your Ultimate Moving Guide

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WI to MN Moving Specialists

Embarking on a state-to-state move is nothing short of an exhilarating life transition, marking the beginning of a new chapter. While you prepare to leave the Dairy State with its famed cheese and serene landscapes behind for Minnesota's Land of 10,000 Lakes, bustling cities, and vibrant community spirit, it's crucial to ensure your journey is smooth and stress-free. Understanding this, we emphasize the importance of entrusting your move to reliable professional movers, as selecting the right team can make all the difference in transitioning seamlessly between these two beloved states.

Wisconsin iconArrow iconMinnesota icon
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Minnesota to Wisconsin guide.

6 Best Wisconsin to Minnesota 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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top 3 ranked movers in appleton 2023 a smooth move llc image
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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
Madison Smooth Moves Logo
Exceptional

based on 894+ data points

Madison, WI
Residential Moves, Local Moves, Long-distance Moves See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/5/2024)

USDOT: 3350934 Verify

About Madison Smooth Moves

Founded in 2018, Madison Smooth Moves operates based on the principles of affordability, efficiency, preparation, and satisfaction. As a loc...Read More >>

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#4
Metro Movers Logo
Exceptional

based on 1,008+ data points

Hopkins, MN
Residential Moving, Business Moving, Long Distance Residential Moving See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/4/2024)

USDOT: 3742268 Verify

About Metro Movers

Metro Movers, a licensed and insured transport and logistics company in Minnesota, was founded by two childhood friends with a shared vision...Read More >>

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#5
MACS Moving and Storage Logo
Exceptional

based on 1,047+ data points

Lake Geneva, WI
Local Moves, Long Distance Moves, Packing See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/6/2024)

USDOT: 2386699 Verify

About MACS Moving and Storage

Lake Geneva-based MACS Moving and Storage is a full-service moving company that has served Southeastern Wisconsin and Northern Illinois for ...Read More >>

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#6
General Expert Moving Service LLC Logo
Exceptional

based on 528+ data points

Minneapolis, MN
Cheap moving, Local moving, Long-distance moving See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/5/2024)

USDOT: 2846187 Verify

About General Expert Moving Service LLC

General Expert Moving Service LLC is a family-owned moving company based in Minnesota. It started with two brothers and a pickup truck back ...Read More >>

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Pros and Cons of Moving from Wisconsin to Minnesota

Moving from one state to another can be a transformative experience, shaping your lifestyle, career, and personal happiness. To help you weigh your decision, we've created some comparisons to show an honest reflection of Wisconsin vs. Minnesota : the good and the bad attributes of this relocation. Let's dive into how each state holds up against the other.

CONs
PROs
Wisconsin iconWisconsin
  • Higher taxes
  • Less outdoor activities
  • Smaller metro areas
  • Colder winters
Minnesota iconMinnesota
  • Lower taxes
  • More outdoor activities
  • Larger metro areas
  • Milder winters
Minnesota iconMinnesota
  • Less sports fervor
  • Less dairy prominence
  • More urban
  • Higher cost of living
Wisconsin iconWisconsin
  • Loyal sports culture
  • Rich dairy industry
  • Friendly small towns
  • Lower cost of living

While each state has its unique charm, Minnesota boasts a vibrant outdoor scene with destinations like the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness and numerous city parks such as Minneapolis’ Minnehaha Park. These areas offer limitless opportunities for adventures, from kayaking and camping to enjoying scenic walks and waterfalls. Minnesota's larger metropolitan areas, including the Twin Cities of Minneapolis and St. Paul, provide a rich tapestry of cultural experiences, with a plethora of restaurants, theaters, and museums, such as the Walker Art Center. Meanwhile, Wisconsin's passionate sports culture is embodied in iconic venues like Lambeau Field, home of the Green Bay Packers, offering a communal spirit that's hard to find elsewhere. Yet, despite its smaller metro areas, Wisconsin’s friendly small towns and the rich dairy industry, including famous cheese destinations like Wisconsin Cheese, hold a charm that many find irresistible.

Food Scene Guide When Moving from Wisconsin to Minnesota

Understanding the local food scene is a vital part of getting to know your new home. With that in mind, we’ve put together a comparison to help you grasp the flavors and culinary experiences awaiting in comparison of the local cuisine between Wisconsin & Minnesota . This insight will help you navigate the vibrant food scenes in these locations more effectively.

WisconsinMinnesota

Most iconic local food item

Cheese CurdsHotdish

Most popular meat dish

BratwurstWalleye

Most popular street food item

Fried Cheese CurdsJucy Lucy

Most popular vegan food

Grain BowlsWild Rice Dishes

Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the state

  • Lake Geneva Country Meats
  • Mader's
  • The Farmhouse
  • Spoon and Stable
  • Matt's Bar
  • Café Alma

Fitness/Health Conscientiousness

78

Abundance of Food Trucks

67

Foodie Scene

78

Vegan Friendly

67

When settling into your new home in Minnesota, you'll discover a unique blend of traditions and tastes reflective of the local culture. For instance, the iconic Hotdish can be found throughout the state, offering comfort in a casserole dish, particularly in cozy neighborhood diners across Minneapolis. For a more upscale dining experience, Spoon and Stable in the vibrant North Loop draws locals and visitors alike with its innovative, locally-sourced cuisine. Don't overlook the state's love for the Jucy Lucy, a deliciously stuffed cheeseburger that has gained legendary status, especially at places like Matt's Bar in South Minneapolis. Whether you're exploring the parks, shops, or the bustling food truck scene, Minnesota’s culinary offerings are as rich and varied as its landscapes.

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Real Estate Facts to Know Before Moving from Wisconsin to Minnesota

Real estate is one of the most crucial elements when considering a move. Understanding the differences in housing between Wisconsin and Minnesota can significantly impact your decision. This comparison will illuminate the distinct advantages each state offers in terms of cost , statistics , architecture , walkability , and more, helping you make an informed choice.


Upon reviewing the comparison, certain differences between Wisconsin and Minnesota become more pronounced, particularly when it comes to median home price and median monthly rent, indicating Minnesota, on average, is somewhat more expensive. However, this increase in cost also correlates with better scores in walkability and bikeability in Minnesota, suggesting a more active and accessible urban lifestyle. The typical architecture indicates a contrast in historical preference and modern designs, with Wisconsin favoring Craftsman and Farmhouse styles, whereas Minnesota leans towards Victorian and Modern. The popular real estate mentions, like land and lake access in Wisconsin versus green spaces and park proximity in Minnesota, reflect the residents’ values and lifestyles in each state. These distinctions can deeply influence your living experience, depending on what you prioritize in your everyday life.

Weather Considerations for Moving from Wisconsin to Minnesota

When planning a move from one state to another, understanding how the weather varies between your current and future home is crucial. This comparison between Wisconsin and Minnesota weather aims to highlight the key differences and similarities you'll experience, ensuring you're well-prepared for your new environment.

Summer icon
82°F / 62°F

Wisconsin

83°F / 63°F

Minnesota

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
28°F / 13°F

Wisconsin

24°F / 7°F

Minnesota

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
34"

Wisconsin

30"

Minnesota

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
48"

Wisconsin

55"

Minnesota

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

In moving from Wisconsin to Minnesota, you'll find similarities in summer temperatures and UV index levels, but winters in Minnesota are notably colder and bring more snowfall. This increased snowfall emphasizes the need for preparedness for blizzard conditions, especially if you're not accustomed to heavy winter weather. Additionally, Minnesota's air quality generally rates better than Wisconsin's, which could be a significant factor if you have respiratory issues or are sensitive to pollution. Understanding these differences can help in making an informed decision and ensuring a smooth transition to your new home.

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

When you're moving from Wisconsin to Minnesota, it's crucial to understand how your financial life will shift. This comparison will illuminate the differences in cost of living, income, taxes, and economic opportunities between Wisconsin and Minnesota, providing you with a clear picture of what to expect.

In transitioning from Wisconsin to Minnesota, you'll encounter differences in financial aspects that may influence your daily life and long-term financial planning. For instance, although Minnesota has a higher average household income and boasts more affluence, it also has a slightly higher cost of living and sales tax. This means that while your income potential might be higher, the cost of everyday goods and services will also be slightly more. The property tax rate in Minnesota is notably lower than Wisconsin, providing some relief to homeowners. By comparing these financial markers, you can better prepare for the economic environment you'll be stepping into and plan accordingly for your move.

Political & Religious Comparison between Wisconsin and Minnesota

This comparison offers a quick snapshot highlighting the political and religious makeup between Wisconsin & Minnesota . It's designed to provide insight into the local culture you’re stepping into, through a lens focusing on the political leanings, local politics, and religious landscapes of each state.

WisconsinMinnesota

Political Make-up

Mixed; Lean towards swing state in national electionsSlightly more Democratic-leaning

Local Politics

Varied; rural areas tend to lean Republican, urban areas lean DemocraticSimilar pattern, but with stronger Democratic strongholds in cities like Minneapolis

Religion

Christian majority; Diverse religious communitiesChristian majority; Notable diversity including larger Muslim communities

In moving from Wisconsin to Minnesota, you'll find similar, yet distinct cultural landscapes. Politically, while both states share a blend of urban Democratic and rural Republican influences, Minnesota has seen a stronger tendency towards Democratic candidates in recent years, particularly in its bustling urban centers like Minneapolis. On the religious front, both states host a majority Christian population but with noteworthy differences in diversity. Minnesota, for instance, is home to a larger Muslim population, reflected in the establishment of significant cultural centers such as Dar Al-Farooq Mosque. This fabric of diversity contributes to a vibrant community, adding layers to the local culture you're about to join.

Education Guide When Moving from Wisconsin to Minnesota

When considering a move from Wisconsin to Minnesota, it's important to explore how the educational landscape compares between the two states. To help you make an informed decision, we've created a comparison chart to better understand the differences between school options in Wisconsin and Minnesota .

WisconsinMinnesota

Where most Seniors go to college (top 3)

University of Wisconsin-Madison
University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee
Marquette University
University of Minnesota-Twin Cities
Minnesota State University-Mankato
University of St. Thomas

Top 3 Elementary Schools

Swallow School
Hartland; Elm Lawn Elementary
Middleton; Lakeview Elementary
Neenah
Scenic Heights Elementary
Minnetonka; Deephaven Elementary
Minnetonka; St. Croix Preparatory Academy Lower
Stillwater

Top 3 Middle Schools

Whitefish Bay Middle
Whitefish Bay; Kromrey Middle
Middleton; Lake Shore Middle
Mequon
Minnetonka Middle School East
Minnetonka; Wayzata East Middle School
Plymouth; St. Croix Preparatory Academy Middle
Stillwater

Top 3 High Schools

Brookfield East High
Brookfield; Cedarburg High
Cedarburg; Whitefish Bay High
Whitefish Bay
Minnetonka High
Minnetonka; Eden Prairie High
Eden Prairie; Edina High
Edina

Top 3 private high schools

University School of Milwaukee
Milwaukee; Marquette University High
Milwaukee; Brookfield Academy
Brookfield
Breck School
Minneapolis; St. Paul Academy
St. Paul; The Blake School
Minneapolis

Top 3 private K-12 schools

University School of Milwaukee
Milwaukee; Brookfield Academy
Brookfield; Prairie School
Racine
The Blake School
Minneapolis; Breck School
Minneapolis; St. Paul Academy and Summit School
St. Paul

Top 3 School Districts

Elmbrook School District
Brookfield; Whitefish Bay School District
Whitefish Bay; Middleton-Cross Plains Area School District
Middleton
Minnetonka Public School District
Minnetonka; Eden Prairie School District
Eden Prairie; Edina Public School District
Edina

In comparing the top educational institutions between Wisconsin and Minnesota, it becomes clear that both states offer a variety of high-quality options for students at all levels. Whether you're intrigued by the multiple nationally recognized public schools within the Minnetonka Public School District in Minnesota or the strong academic performance of students in the Elmbrook School District in Wisconsin, each state boasts unique opportunities that cater to diverse educational needs. Furthermore, the emphasis on higher education in both states is evident with renowned universities such as the University of Wisconsin-Madison and the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities, ensuring that students have access to excellent post-secondary options. Ultimately, your choice between Wisconsin and Minnesota may hinge on specific programs or school cultures that best fit your educational philosophy and your children's needs.

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