Best Tacoma to Milwaukee Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Tacoma to Milwaukee and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 1,979 mile move from Washington to Wisconsin go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 29 Tacoma to Milwaukee moving companies and more than 20,000 movers nationwide to provide up-to-date and data-driven information about: which moving company to hire (our top recommendation is John Volken Academy Movers), how much the move costs (approximately $2,500 - $8,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Tacoma compared to Milwaukee. With a move this big, you want big data on your side and Great Guys Moving is your trusted ally to help you sift through the noise to make informed moving decisions.

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Best Tacoma to Milwaukee Moving Companies

Company
Score Question
Affordability IndexLicense
1John Volken Academy Movers9.349.65Authorized For HHG
2About Time Moving Systems LLC9.339.33Authorized For HHG
3Gorilla Movers Of Wisconsin Inc.9.319.31Authorized For Property, HHG
4First Due Movers9.269.06Authorized For Property, HHG
5People Movers9.179.54Authorized For Property
Phone (800) 787-5428

How Much Does it Cost to Move from Tacoma to Milwaukee?

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 1,979 miles from Tacoma, WA to Milwaukee, WI will cost on average $3,464 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Tacoma to Milwaukee move is roughly $8,358. See the chart below for a detailed breakdown by type of move and home size. Pricing will vary based upon the exact locations of pickup and dropoff as well as several other factors. The most important pricing component that is often overlooked is how far away the move date is. The earlier you can reserve movers, the better your pricing and options will be.

Home SizeMoving CostVolume of Packed Items (ft³)$/ft³
Studio$2,324300 ft³$7.75
1 Bedroom$3,464450 ft³$7.70
2 Bedrooms$5,736750 ft³$7.65
3 Bedrooms$8,3581100 ft³$7.60
4 Bedrooms$12,0771600 ft³$7.55
5+ Bedrooms$13,4971800 ft³$7.50
*Please note: These Washington to Wisconsin moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from Washington & Wisconsin. The volume listed here represents the estimated cubic footage of your household items when packed and loaded into a moving truck. To determine the exact costs associated with your move, get a quote from a licensed WA to WI mover.
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Milwaukee to Tacoma guide.

Compare the 5 Best Tacoma to Milwaukee Movers

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

John Volken Academy Movers Logo

John Volken Academy Movers

Exceptional9.34/10
based on 1,485+ data points

921 Central Ave N

Kent, WA, 98032

About John Volken Academy Movers

John Volken Academy Movers is a not-for-profit moving company that helps people move across Western and Eastern Washington. This local business...

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Commercial Moving
  • Residential Moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2261169 / 1666977

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans6
Registered Drivers8
Total Annual Miles Moved200 (2015)
View Full Review
1
About Time Moving Systems LLC Logo

About Time Moving Systems LLC

Exceptional9.33/10
based on 2,122+ data points

4909 8th Ave

Kenosha, WI, 53140

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 services. About Time...

Services

  • Local moving
  • Long-distance moving
  • Cross-country moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/9/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2525330 / 877057

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans4
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved50,000 (2022)
View Full Review
2
Gorilla Movers Of Wisconsin Inc. Logo

Gorilla Movers Of Wisconsin Inc.

Exceptional9.31/10
based on 1,857+ data points

310 Progress Way Suite 140

Sun Prairie, WI, 53590

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 commercial...

Services

  • Residential moves
  • Commercial moves
  • Local/statewide moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/9/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2627768 / 1031866

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans7
Registered Drivers14
Total Annual Miles Moved173,000 (2023)
View Full Review
3
First Due Movers Logo

First Due Movers

Exceptional9.26/10
based on 1,462+ data points

8126 304th Ave SE

Preston, WA, 98050

About First Due Movers

First Due Movers is based in Preston, Washington, but offers nationwide moving services. The company is actually owned by local Washington...

Services

  • Residential Moves
  • Commercial Moves
  • Long-Distance Moves

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1990914 / 865709

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans12
Registered Drivers20
Total Annual Miles Moved205,000 (2022)
View Full Review
4
People Movers Logo

People Movers

Exceptional9.17/10
based on 3,248+ data points

11808 NE 160th St

Bothell, WA, 98011

About People Movers

People Movers is a fully licensed moving company in Bothell, WA. It has relocated hundreds of happy customers in Greater Seattle...

Services

  • Local moving
  • Long-distance moving
  • Cross-country moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/9/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2895681 / 1597195

Authorized For Property

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved25,000 (2023)
View Full Review
5
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Dependable Rankings You Can Count On!

Our rankings are data-driven — movers cannot purchase a spot on our list. Here's why you can have confidence in our recommendations:

  • No Paid Placements: Every company earns its spot through merit, not payment.
  • Extensive Analysis: Evaluated over 24,000 movers across the country for our rankings.

Tacoma vs. Milwaukee Neighborhood Comparison

When relocating, it's essential to find a community that feels like home. To help you in your move from Tacoma, WA to Milwaukee, WI, this guide offers a comparison of local neighborhoods between these two cities. By identifying the top neighborhoods in Tacoma and their Milwaukee counterparts, you'll be able to better envision your new surroundings and find a place where you can thrive.

TacomaMilwaukeeHow They're Similar
North EndShorewoodHistoric character, strong community feel
Proctor DistrictWauwatosaShopping/dining hub, family-friendly
Old TownThird WardArtsy, with waterfront access
HilltopWalker's PointDiverse, vibrant nightlife
Stadium DistrictBay ViewStrong sense of community, local events
Central TacomaWashington HeightsCharming homes, tight-knit
South TacomaLincoln VillageAffordable, family-oriented
EastsideRiverwestCreative vibe, diverse population
West EndBayshoreModern amenities, near water
Point DefianceGrant ParkNatural beauty, outdoor activities

If you're drawn to the historic charm and bustling local businesses of Tacoma's Old Town, Milwaukee's Third Ward will capture your heart with its artsy vibe and waterfront views. Premier destinations like the Milwaukee Public Market in the Third Ward offer unique dining and shopping experiences akin to those you loved in Tacoma. Similarly, the vibrant, community-oriented spirit of Tacoma's North End finds a parallel in Shorewood, where historical character melds with a strong community feel. For those who enjoy Tacoma's blend of urban convenience and natural beauty in the Stadium District, Milwaukee's Bay View neighborhood provides an ideal mix of local events, community engagement, and scenic charm. Milwaukee's neighborhoods offer a diverse array of environments and cultures, ensuring that everyone can find their perfect fit.

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Pros and Cons of Moving from Tacoma to Milwaukee

Moving from one city to another involves a careful consideration of both the advantages and disadvantages. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Tacoma, WA to Milwaukee, WI , ensuring you make an informed decision.

CONs
PROs
Tacoma, WA iconTacoma, WA
  • Higher cost of living
  • Less snowy winters
  • More rainfall
  • Far from Midwest
Milwaukee, WI iconMilwaukee, WI
  • Lower cost of living
  • White winters
  • Less annual rainfall
  • Central Midwest location
Milwaukee, WI iconMilwaukee, WI
  • No mountains
  • Colder winters
  • Far from Seattle
  • Less seafood variety
Tacoma, WA iconTacoma, WA
  • Mountain views
  • Milder winters
  • Proximity to Seattle
  • Seafood cuisine

Choosing between Tacoma, WA, and Milwaukee, WI, involves considering factors such as the climate, cost of living, and lifestyle preferences. In Milwaukee, you’ll enjoy a significant cost of living advantage, which might mean more disposable income to explore local gems like the Milwaukee Art Museum or to indulge in the city's renowned beer scene at places like Lakefront Brewery. The winter season in Milwaukee offers a picturesque snowy landscape, perfect for winter sports enthusiasts. Although Milwaukee lacks the mountainous terrain and proximity to the Pacific Ocean that Tacoma boasts, its central location in the Midwest makes road trips to other major cities feasible. Furthermore, Milwaukee's culinary scene, while less focused on seafood, is rich with diverse international cuisines and famous for its cheese and dairy products.

Tacoma vs. Milwaukee Food Guide

This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Tacoma & Milwaukee, highlighting how food is an integral part of local culture and everyday living. Whether you're a foodie or just curious about your new home's dining scene, this comparison will give you a taste of what to expect.

Tacoma
Milwaukee
Most iconic local food item
Dungeness Crab
Beer Brats
Most popular meat dish
Pacific Northwest Salmon
Bratwurst
Most popular street food item
Tacoma Dogs
Curds
Most popular vegan food
Tempeh Reuben
Vegan Beer Brats
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Harbor Lights
  • En Rama
  • MSM Deli
  • Sobelman's
  • Mader's
  • The Safe House
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness
💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks
🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene
🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly
🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱
🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

In Tacoma, the blend of coastal seafood and vibrant international influence marks its culinary map. Dungeness Crab and Pacific Northwest Salmon are not just dishes; they represent Tacoma's connection to its natural surroundings. The city’s food scene thrives with an array of food trucks and eateries, like the beloved MSM Deli, offering unique flavors in neighborhoods such as Proctor and the Ruston waterfront. Milwaukee presents a hearty Midwestern charm with its iconic Beer Brats and a selection of vegan-friendly alternatives that cater to all. The historical Mader's and spirited Sobelman's illustrate Milwaukee’s rich culinary heritage and modern innovation, located in buzzing areas like the Historic Third Ward and Marquette University campus, promising a fulfilling gastronomic journey.

Tacoma vs. Milwaukee Restaurant Comparison

Finding a new favorite dining spot can be a delicious way to make a new city feel like home. This restaurant comparison is designed to ease your move by comparing top restaurants in Tacoma to their equivalents in Milwaukee , guiding you to your next culinary adventure.

TacomaMilwaukeeWhat You'll Love
Indo Asian Street EateryBambooOffers a mix of Asian street food inspired by various cultures, similar to Indo's focus.
Moshi MoshiScreaming TunaBoth specialize in sushi, with a commitment to sustainable seafood.
The TableArdentUpscale dining with a focus on locally sourced ingredients and creative dishes.
Over The Moon CafeSanfordIntimate dining experience with a focus on innovative American cuisine.
Pacific GrillBuckley’sBoth are beloved for their elevated comfort food and welcoming atmosphere.
En RamaOdd DuckKnown for a wide range of small plates that encourage sharing and discovery.
WildFin American GrillHarbor HouseBoth offer stunning waterfront views and a selection of fresh seafood.
Boathouse 19Potawatomi Hotel & Casino’s The Fire Pit’s Side BarCasual yet tasty dining options with a lively atmosphere.
Stanley & Seafort'sBartolotta's Lake Park BistroBoth offer impressive city views and a menu of classic American cuisine.
El BorrachoConejito's PlaceBoth are known for their laid-back vibe and authentic, affordable Mexican dishes.

In Milwaukee, Bamboo reaches out to food enthusiasts with diverse Asian street food inspired by flavors reminiscent of Tacoma's Indo Asian Street Eatery. Meanwhile, Screaming Tuna offers a sushi experience in Milwaukee that mirrors Moshi Moshi's dedication to sustainable seafood in Tacoma. Sharing dishes is part of the dining experience at Odd Duck in Milwaukee, similar to the way En Rama in Tacoma encourages interactive meals with their small plates. These comparisons not only highlight the culinary diversity found in both cities but also suggest Milwaukee can satisfy similar tastes and cravings one had back in Tacoma, making the transition to a new city a little easier and certainly more delicious.

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Tacoma vs. Milwaukee Real Estate & Living Facts

When planning a move, understanding the real estate landscape is crucial. This comparison between Tacoma, WA and Milwaukee, WI highlights key aspects of housing, offering insight into costs, styles, and lifestyles. It aims to help you make an informed decision about your next home.

Tacoma
Milwaukee
Typical Architecture Style
Victorian and Craftsman
Bungalow and Victorian
Walkability
👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing
Views of Mt. Rainier, Waterfront
Proximity to Lake Michigan, Urban Amenities

The disparity in median home prices and rent between Tacoma and Milwaukee is significant, making Milwaukee an attractive option for those seeking a more affordable housing market. In Tacoma, the architecture often highlights Victorian and Craftsman styles, providing a unique and historical aesthetic. Milwaukee's housing, on the other hand, leans towards bungalow and Victorian styles, with an added emphasis on urban amenities and the proximity to Lake Michigan. These differences paint a vivid picture of the living experience in each city, from Tacoma's picturesque views of Mt. Rainier and waterfront properties to Milwaukee's vibrant urban lifestyle and lakeside living.

Pet-friendly neighborhoods background image

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Milwaukee, WI

1. Bay View : You'll love Bay View for its abundance of dog-friendly parks and patios, making it easy to enjoy the outdoors with your pet.

2. East Side : The East Side is perfect for pet owners, with its walkable streets and proximity to pet services and local pet-friendly businesses.

3. Third Ward : In the Third Ward, you'll find numerous pet-friendly shops and cafes, creating a welcoming environment for you and your furry friend.

Tacoma vs. Milwaukee Weather Considerations

When contemplating a move from Tacoma, WA, to Milwaukee, WI, it's crucial to understand how the weather compares. This insight can greatly influence your adaptation to your new locale. We've compiled a comparative analysis focusing on weather variations between Tacoma and Milwaukee to provide a clear picture of what to expect weather-wise.

Tacoma
Milwaukee
Days of Sunshine per Year
☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. Annual Humidity
💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦
💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦
Avg. UV Index
🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Natural Disasters
Earthquakes, Volcanoes
Severe Winter Storms
Air Quality
Good
Moderate
Summer icon

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

75°F / 53°F
80°F / 62°F
Winter icon

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

47°F / 37°F
30°F / 18°F


Rainfall icon

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

39.5
34.8
Snowfall icon

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

4.6
52


Moving from Tacoma to Milwaukee, you'll notice significant differences in seasonal weather patterns, especially during winter. While Tacoma enjoys relatively mild winters with minimal snowfall, Milwaukee experiences harsher winters with significant snowfall, which might require you to invest in winter gear and learn snow-driving techniques. The summer in Milwaukee is slightly warmer and more humid than in Tacoma, affecting those sensitive to higher temperatures and humidity levels. Additionally, the increase in sunny days could be a pleasant change for those moving from the typically cloudier Tacoma. Understanding these differences will help you better prepare for your new home in Milwaukee.

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

When planning a move from one city to another, such as Tacoma, WA to Milwaukee, WI , it’s crucial to understand the financial implications . This comparison aims to give you a clear picture of the cost of living, taxes, and economic environment you’ll be stepping into, helping you make an informed decision.

Tacoma
Milwaukee
Avg. Household Income
$77,141
$46,637
Cost of Living Index
109.5
101.9
State Income Tax
0
7.65 (highest bracket)
Avg. Property Tax
1.1
2.17
Avg. Sales Tax
10.1
5.6
Top 3 Industries
Aerospace, Healthcare, Technology
Manufacturing, Healthcare, Education
Affluence
Generally affluent
Mixed
Poverty
Moderate
High
Homelessness
Moderate
Significant

Moving from Tacoma to Milwaukee, you'll immediately notice differences in economic environments. Although Tacoma's average household income is higher, Milwaukee offers a lower cost of living. State and property taxes present a significant contrast, with Tacoma residents enjoying a 0% state income tax rate, whereas Milwaukee residents face higher tax burdens. The average sales tax in Tacoma is almost double that of Milwaukee, potentially impacting day-to-day expenses. Industry strengths also differ notably between the two cities, pointing towards distinct job market landscapes. Understanding these financial nuances will be crucial in planning your move and adapting to your new home.

Tacoma vs. Milwaukee Political & Religious Comparison

When planning your move from Tacoma, WA to Milwaukee, WI, understanding the communities you're transitioning between can help smooth the process. This guide offers a quick, at-a-glance snapshot to compare the political and religious makeup of the residents between Tacoma & Milwaukee . By delving into these aspects, you’ll gain insight into the cultural and social landscape of your new home.

Tacoma
Milwaukee
Political Make-up
Liberal/Democratic
Liberal/Democratic
Local Politics
Progressive policies on environment & social issues
Historic labor & civil rights movements influence
Religion
Diverse; Christianity dominates with growing non-affiliated residents
Christianity prevalent; significant Catholic & Lutheran communities

In both Tacoma and Milwaukee, you'll find a political landscape that leans liberal and Democratic, supporting progressive policies and showing a strong commitment to social justice and environmental initiatives. However, while Tacoma's recent focus has been on environmental and social issues, Milwaukee's political scene is deeply influenced by its rich history of labor and civil rights movements. Religion in both cities is dominated by Christianity, though Tacoma has a notable portion of residents identifying as non-affiliated, reflecting wider trends of religious diversity and secularism. Understanding these nuances will help you acclimate to your new surroundings, embracing the political activism and religious plurality that your new community offers.

Tacoma vs. Milwaukee Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving from Tacoma, WA, to Milwaukee, WI, requires understanding the differences in daily commutes and traffic. This comparison of traffic and transportation options between Tacoma & Milwaukee will help you adapt to your new city more seamlessly.

Tacoma
Milwaukee
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)
29
23
Traffic Congestion
6 out of 10
4 out of 10
Availability of Public Transit
5 out of 10
6 out of 10
Can you get by without car?
Possible but challenging
More feasible

While Tacoma offers picturesque commutes with its scenic views, its average commute time is slightly longer than Milwaukee's, and experiencing traffic congestion is more common. Although both cities have public transit systems, Milwaukee edges out with a higher availability rating, making it comparatively easier to navigate without a car. Living in Milwaukee might mean you'll rely less on personal vehicles and more on public transportation options. This transition could lead to not only time savings but also potential cost benefits and a different lifestyle adjustment focused on community and connectivity within the city.

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