Best Milwaukee to San Jose Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Milwaukee to San Jose and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,221 mile move from Wisconsin to California go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 25 Milwaukee to San Jose 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 D&L Movers), how much the move costs (approximately $2,500 - $9,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Milwaukee compared to San Jose. 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 Milwaukee to San Jose Moving Companies

Company
Score Question
Affordability IndexLicense
1D&L Movers9.359.36Active
2About Time Moving Systems LLC9.339.33Authorized For HHG
3Careful Movers9.318.63Authorized For HHG
4Gorilla Movers Of Wisconsin Inc.9.319.31Authorized For Property, HHG
5The Go To Guys, LLC9.108.7Authorized For HHG
Phone (800) 787-5428

How Much Does it Cost to Move from Milwaukee to San Jose?

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,221 miles from Milwaukee, WI to San Jose, CA will cost on average $3,670 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Milwaukee to San Jose move is roughly $8,861. 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$2,462300 ft³$8.21
1 Bedroom$3,670450 ft³$8.16
2 Bedrooms$6,079750 ft³$8.11
3 Bedrooms$8,8611100 ft³$8.06
4 Bedrooms$12,8091600 ft³$8.01
5+ Bedrooms$14,3201800 ft³$7.96
*Please note: These Wisconsin to California moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from Wisconsin & California. 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 WI to CA mover.
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from San Jose to Milwaukee guide.

Compare the 5 Best Milwaukee to San Jose Movers

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

D&L Movers Logo

D&L Movers

Exceptional9.35/10
based on 1,583+ data points

1563 Bahama Way

Campbell, CA, 95008

About D&L Movers

Founded by Drew Sanchez and Leo Cervantes, D&L Movers is a local moving company that offers full-service relocations for homes and...

Services

  • Cheap moving
  • Local moving
  • Long-distance moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 7/23/2023)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2706648 / -

Active

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans3
Registered Drivers5
Total Annual Miles Moved20,000 (2017)
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
Careful Movers Logo

Careful Movers

Exceptional9.31/10
based on 4,143+ data points

3641 Haven Ave C

Menlo Park, CA, 94025

About Careful Movers

With almost two decades of expertise and experience in the moving industry, Menlo Park-based Careful Movers promises stress-free, on-time, and on-budget...

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Long Distance Moving
  • Office Moving

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1464935 / 553377

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans14
Registered Drivers14
Total Annual Miles Moved90,000 (2022)
View Full Review
3
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
4
The Go To Guys, LLC Logo

The Go To Guys, LLC

Exceptional9.10/10
based on 258+ data points

Bayside, WI, 53217

About The Go To Guys, LLC

The Go To Guys, LLC is a seasoned moving company with 30 years of experience in the industry. Based in the...

Services

  • Cheap moving
  • Local moving
  • Long-distance moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/11/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3760134 / 1338262

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans3
Registered Drivers3
Total Annual Miles Moved1 (2024)
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.

Milwaukee vs. San Jose Neighborhood Comparison

Moving to a new city can be daunting, especially when you're not familiar with local neighborhoods. To ease this transition, we've created a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Milwaukee, WI & San Jose, CA . This guide is designed to help you find a new neighborhood in San Jose that feels just like home, using Milwaukee's top neighborhoods as a baseline.

MilwaukeeSan JoseHow They're Similar
Third WardDowntown San JoseVibrant arts scene and trendy eateries
Bay ViewWillow GlenCommunity-oriented with a mix of dining options
East SideNorth San JoseTech hub with modern amenities
Walker's PointSoFA DistrictChic lofts and eclectic small businesses
WauwatosaAlmaden ValleyFamily-friendly with access to nature
RiverwestJapantownDiverse community with unique cultural experiences
Brewer's HillRose GardenHistoric homes and beautiful gardens
Historic Third WardDowntown San JoseSimilar reasons as above
ShorewoodLos GatosAffluent with a quaint downtown area
Washington HeightsWillow GlenSimilar reasons as above

If you're drawn to Milwaukee's Third Ward for its vibrant arts scene and trendy eateries, you'll feel right at home in Downtown San Jose. Fans of Bay View's community-oriented vibe and dining diversity will find a similar atmosphere in Willow Glen. For those who appreciate the tech-driven and modern living in Milwaukee's East Side, North San Jose offers a comparable environment with a focus on innovation. Walker's Point, known for its chic lofts and varied small businesses, shares its entrepreneurial spirit with San Jose's SoFA District. Lastly, if the historic charm and beautiful gardens of Brewer's Hill are what you love, the Rose Garden area in San Jose mirrors that allure with its own storied homes and stunning floral displays.

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Pros and Cons of Moving from Milwaukee to San Jose

Moving across the country from Milwaukee, WI to San Jose, CA offers a unique opportunity to explore the contrasts and similarities between these two diverse locations. This guide is designed to provide a detailed comparison, highlighting the pros and cons of Milwaukee versus San Jose, ensuring you have a clear understanding of what to expect from this relocation.

CONs
PROs
Milwaukee, WI iconMilwaukee, WI
  • Colder winters
  • Less tech jobs
  • Smaller population
San Jose, CA iconSan Jose, CA
  • Mild climate
  • High tech hub
  • Diverse community
San Jose, CA iconSan Jose, CA
  • Higher expenses
  • Less historical sites
  • Urban density
Milwaukee, WI iconMilwaukee, WI
  • Lower cost of living
  • Rich heritage
  • More open space

When you move from Milwaukee, known for its vibrant beer culture and Harley-Davidson Museum, to San Jose, the heart of Silicon Valley, you're transitioning from a city with a rich heritage and a more laid-back lifestyle to one bustling with technological innovation and diversity. San Jose's mild climate and proximity to outdoor activities at places like Alum Rock Park provide a stark contrast to Milwaukee's cold winters. While Milwaukee offers more open spaces and a lower cost of living, San Jose counters with its diverse community and higher number of tech jobs, benefiting anyone looking to advance in the tech industry. However, it's also important to consider the higher expenses and urban density that come with life in San Jose.

Milwaukee vs. San Jose Food Guide

This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Milwaukee & San Jose, highlighting the significance of food in understanding the local culture and lifestyle of an area. This side-by-side look aims to provide insights into the culinary scene awaiting you in your new city.

Milwaukee
San Jose
Most iconic local food item
Beer Brats
Phở
Most popular meat dish
Fish Fry
Carne Asada
Most popular street food item
Cheese Curds
Tacos
Most popular vegan food
Roasted Vegetable Tacos
Phở Chay
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Mader's
  • SafeHouse
  • Leon's Frozen Custard
  • Falafel's Drive-In
  • Original Joe's San Jose
  • Din Tai Fung
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness
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Abundance of Food Trucks
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Foodie Scene
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🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly
🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱
🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

When moving from Milwaukee to San Jose, you'll notice a shift not just in scenery but also in the culinary landscape. Milwaukee's love for beer and cheese is evident, with beer brats and cheese curds being local favorites. Places like Mader's and SafeHouse give a traditional taste of the city. On the other hand, San Jose, nestled in the heart of Silicon Valley, offers a vibrant foodie scene influenced by its diverse population. The Vietnamese dish Phở and Mexican tacos are staples here, reflecting the city's multicultural fabric. San Jose's notable establishments like Falafel's Drive-In and Original Joe's highlight the city's eclectic dining options. With a higher health consciousness and more options for vegan diners, San Jose caters to a variety of dietary preferences, making it an exciting culinary adventure for newcomers.

Milwaukee vs. San Jose Restaurant Comparison

When relocating from Milwaukee to San Jose, it's not just about moving your belongings, but also finding places that make the new city feel like home. Food plays a crucial role in this transition. This comparison of top restaurants from Milwaukee to their San Jose equivalents will help bridge the familiarity gap, ensuring you find new favorite spots in no time. Whether you seek high-end dining, casual eats, or unique culinary experiences, this guide aims to recreate the flavors of Milwaukee in your new San Jose surroundings.

MilwaukeeSan JoseWhat You'll Love
SanfordLe PapillonBoth offer high-end dining with a focus on local, seasonal ingredients
ArdentPlumed HorseUpscale, innovative American cuisine with exceptional wine lists at both
HoneyPieBill's CafeComfort food with a homey feel, perfect for breakfast and brunch lovers
Zaffiro's PizzaGiorgio's Italian Food & PizzeriaClassic, family-friendly pizza places beloved by locals
Odd DuckOrchard City KitchenA casual yet trendy spot, famous for small plates and innovative dishes
La MerendaMezcalBoth specialize in international small plates, perfect for adventurous eaters
The VanguardSmoking Pig BBQFor those who appreciate hearty meals with a focus on smoked meats
Blue's EggScrambl'zBoth offer a twist on traditional breakfast fare with a focus on fresh, local produce
BraiseManresaFocuses on farm-to-table dining, showcasing the best of what local farmers have to offer
Transfer Pizzeria CaféPizza My HeartBoth are great for a casual pizza night out, featuring unique and classic toppings

Among the highlighted transitions from Milwaukee to San Jose, stands out the leap from HoneyPie to Bill's Cafe, two establishments that epitomize their city's approach to comfort food. At Bill's Cafe, you'll discover a menu that comforts the soul with hearty portions and a laid-back atmosphere, closely mirroring the beloved dining experience at HoneyPie. Similarly, the move from Sanford's sophisticated offerings to Le Papillon's exquisite French-American cuisine ensures that aficionados of fine dining have a place to continue indulging their palates. Both destinations are renowned for their meticulous attention to ingredient quality and innovative menus, promising an exquisite dining experience in your new city. Through these matches, you can continue to savor the tastes you love while embracing the culinary landscape of San Jose.

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Milwaukee vs. San Jose Real Estate & Living Facts

Real estate is a key factor in your move to a new city. Understanding how housing costs, style, and lifestyle compare between Milwaukee, WI and San Jose, CA can help you make an informed decision. This comparison aims to highlight the differences and similarities to expect.

Milwaukee
San Jose
Typical Architecture Style
Craftsman, Bungalow
Modern, Ranch
Walkability
👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing
Lake views, Historic details
Technology upgrades, Energy efficiency

When moving from Milwaukee to San Jose, one of the most striking differences is the cost of housing - with median home prices in San Jose being significantly higher. This is reflective of the tech-driven economy in San Jose, leading to higher living costs but also offering modern housing options with technology upgrades and a focus on energy efficiency. Despite the cost, San Jose offers a more vibrant urban lifestyle with better walkability and bikeability, catering to those who prefer a dynamic city life. Milwaukee, with its charming Craftsman and Bungalow style homes, provides a more affordable option with its own cultural benefits, including historic details and picturesque lake views in real estate listings.

Pet-friendly neighborhoods background image

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in San Jose, CA

1. Willow Glen : You’ll love walking your pet through the tree-lined streets and enjoying the welcoming community parks.

2. Rose Garden : Your furry friend will have plenty of space to roam and socialize in this neighborhood's expansive park areas.

3. West San Jose : This area offers numerous pet-friendly amenities and spacious parks, making it ideal for your pet-friendly lifestyle.

Milwaukee vs. San Jose Weather Considerations

Moving from one climate to another can be a significant change. This comparison highlights the key weather differences you'll experience when relocating from Milwaukee, WI to San Jose, CA. Understanding these variations will help you prepare for your new environment.

Milwaukee
San Jose
Days of Sunshine per Year
☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. Annual Humidity
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Avg. UV Index
🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Natural Disasters
Blizzards, Extreme Cold
Earthquakes, Wildfires
Air Quality
Good to Moderate
Good to Moderate
Summer icon

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

79°F / 61°F
82°F / 58°F
Winter icon

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

30°F / 18°F
60°F / 42°F


Rainfall icon

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

34.76"
15.82"
Snowfall icon

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

45"
0"


When moving from Milwaukee to San Jose, you’ll enjoy more days of sunshine and milder winters, making it an attractive destination for those seeking less harsh winter months. However, the increased UV index in San Jose means you’ll need to consider additional sun protection. Also, while Milwaukee residents brace for blizzards, San Jose residents must be prepared for earthquakes and wildfires. These factors contribute significantly to lifestyle changes and the type of home maintenance you'll need to consider in San Jose.

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

When considering a move, it's vital to compare how your financial situation will shift. Understanding the differences in cost of living and income between Milwaukee and San Jose is crucial for a smooth transition. This comparison will offer insights into finances, housing, and the economic landscape of both cities.

Milwaukee
San Jose
Avg. Household Income
$46,637
$126,377
Cost of Living Index
101.9
156.1
State Income Tax
5.3%
9.3%
Avg. Property Tax
2.17%
0.79%
Avg. Sales Tax
5.6%
9.25%
Top 3 Industries
Manufacturing, Healthcare, Retail
Technology, Education, Healthcare
Affluence
Moderate
High
Poverty
Noticeable
Lower
Homelessness
Concerning
Significant

Moving from Milwaukee to San Jose means preparing for a significant change in your financial landscape. San Jose's average household income is more than double that of Milwaukee, highlighting the wealthier demographic and high tech-industry salaries. However, this increase comes alongside a stratospheric rise in the cost of living index—San Jose's index sits at a whopping 214 out of 100, compared to Milwaukee's more modest 84. Despite the higher income, taxes also see an uptick in San Jose, especially the state income and sales taxes, which might eat into the larger salaries. The economic climates of these cities are polar opposites, driven by their dominant industries; manufacturing and healthcare in Milwaukee versus technology in San Jose. However, despite their affluence, both cities face challenges with homelessness, a critical issue that underscores the complexity of urban economic landscapes.

Milwaukee vs. San Jose Political & Religious Comparison

In your journey from Milwaukee to San Jose, it's crucial to understand the communities you're leaving and entering. This comparison aims to give a quick snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents between Milwaukee & San Jose. Gain insights into where your beliefs and values might align or differ.

Milwaukee
San Jose
Political Make-up
More Democratically Leaning
Strongly Democratic
Local Politics
Progressive on local issues
Liberal, with strong tech industry influence
Religion
Diverse; includes Catholic, Lutheran
Diverse; includes Catholic, Buddhist, Hindu

Moving from Milwaukee to San Jose will immerse you in distinct political atmospheres, despite both cities leaning Democratic. Milwaukee's progressive stance on local issues becomes more pronounced in San Jose, where the tech industry heavily influences liberal policies. Religious diversity is a common thread, yet San Jose introduces a broader spiritual palette, reflecting its rich cultural tapestry. This transition offers an exciting opportunity to engage with new perspectives and communities.

Milwaukee vs. San Jose Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving from Milwaukee, WI, to San Jose, CA, it's essential to understand the differences in daily commute and traffic. This comparison of traffic and transportation options between Milwaukee & San Jose will help you adapt to your new city more smoothly.

Milwaukee
San Jose
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)
22
30
Traffic Congestion
4 out of 10
7 out of 10
Availability of Public Transit
6 out of 10
8 out of 10
Can you get by without a car?
Challenging
Possible

Milwaukee offers a quicker average commute time compared to San Jose, but experiences less traffic congestion. While Milwaukee's public transit is decent, San Jose provides more extensive options, making it easier to navigate without a car. This could be particularly appealing if you're looking to reduce your environmental impact or avoid the costs associated with car ownership. San Jose's higher rating in public transit availability underscores its investment in providing accessible and convenient transportation options for its residents.

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