Best Milwaukee to Portland Movers + Moving Guide
Want help with the heavy lifting?
If you're moving from Milwaukee to Portland and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 1,206 mile move from Wisconsin to Maine go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 21 Milwaukee to Portland 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 About Time Moving Systems LLC), how much the move costs (approximately $2,000 - $7,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Milwaukee compared to Portland. 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.

Best Milwaukee to Portland Moving Companies
Rank | Company | Affordability Index | License | |
---|---|---|---|---|
1 | About Time Moving Systems LLC | 9.33 | 9.33 | Authorized For HHG |
2 | Gorilla Movers Of Wisconsin Inc. | 9.31 | 9.31 | Authorized For Property, HHG |
3 | You Move Me Portland | 9.28 | 9.4 | Authorized For HHG |
4 | SC Moving Services | 9.21 | 9.35 | Active |
5 | The Go To Guys, LLC | 9.10 | 8.7 | Authorized For HHG |
How Much Does it Cost to Move from Milwaukee to Portland?
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 1,206 miles from Milwaukee, WI to Portland, ME will cost on average $2,807 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Milwaukee to Portland move is roughly $6,751. 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 Size | Moving Cost | Volume of Packed Items (ft³) | $/ft³ |
---|---|---|---|
Studio | $1,886 | 300 ft³ | $6.29 |
1 Bedroom | $2,807 | 450 ft³ | $6.24 |
2 Bedrooms | $4,640 | 750 ft³ | $6.19 |
3 Bedrooms | $6,751 | 1100 ft³ | $6.14 |
4 Bedrooms | $9,740 | 1600 ft³ | $6.09 |
5+ Bedrooms | $10,867 | 1800 ft³ | $6.04 |


Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Portland to Milwaukee guide.
Compare the 5 Best Milwaukee to Portland Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)

About Time Moving Systems LLC
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
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2525330 / 877057 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 4 |
Registered Drivers | 2 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 50,000 (2022) |

Gorilla Movers Of Wisconsin Inc.
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
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2627768 / 1031866 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 7 |
Registered Drivers | 14 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 173,000 (2023) |

You Move Me Portland
9442 SW Barbur Blvd
Portland, OR, 97219
About You Move Me Portland
You Move Me Portland is the mover your neighbors trust and recommend. In terms of reliability, customer service, and professionalism, this...
Services
- Local moving services
- Long-distance moving services
- Packing services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2388358 / 820850 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 10 |
Registered Drivers | 8 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 45,000 (2020) |

SC Moving Services
25 Augusta St
South Portland, ME, 04106
About SC Moving Services
SC Moving Services is a family-owned and operated business located in South Portland, offering a wide range of services to Southern...
Services
- Cheap moving services
- Local moving services
- Long-distance moving services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2324405 / - Active Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 3 |
Registered Drivers | 2 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 10,000 (2016) |

The Go To Guys, LLC
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
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3760134 / 1338262 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 3 |
Registered Drivers | 3 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 1 (2024) |

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.

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. Portland Neighborhood Comparison
Moving to a new city can be daunting, especially when you don't know where to start. By examining and comparing neighborhoods, this guide will help you use your familiarity with Milwaukee, WI & Portland, ME as a starting point.
Milwaukee | Portland | How They're Similar |
---|---|---|
East Side | Munjoy Hill | Artsy, vibrant community |
Bay View | East End | Trendy, waterfront access |
Historic Third Ward | Old Port | Historic, lively nightlife |
Walker's Point | West End | Industrial, creative vibe |
Riverwest | Deering Center | Eclectic, community-focused |
Shorewood | Bayside | Family-friendly, suburban feel |
Wauwatosa | Rosemont | Cozy, residential atmosphere |
Brewer's Hill | North Deering | Quiet, picturesque setting |
Lower East Side | Parkside | Cultural, green spaces |
West Allis | Northgate | Community-driven, diverse offerings |
If you're drawn to the creative spirit and artsy flair of Milwaukee's East Side, with its eclectic shops and vibrant nightlife, you'll find Munjoy Hill in Portland shares a similar energy. It boasts stunning views and a thriving arts scene. Those who relish the historic and bustling ambience of the Historic Third Ward, brimming with chic boutiques and lively bars, will feel right at home in Portland's Old Port, which offers a rich maritime heritage and cobblestone charm. For a more family-oriented experience, Shorewood's suburban appeal with its friendly community vibe might remind you of Portland's Bayside area, where you can enjoy serene parks and quiet streets perfect for a relaxing stroll.

Things to Do in Portland
- Walk along the Eastern Promenade
- Explore Portland Museum of Art
- Shop at Portland Farmers' Market
- Catch a show at State Theatre
- Dine in the Old Port District
- Visit Children's Museum & Theatre
- Bike the Greenbelt Walkway
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Milwaukee to Portland
When considering a move from Milwaukee, WI to Portland, ME, it's essential to engage in an honest reflection of your potential new home. Weighing the cons of Milwaukee, WI against the pros of Portland, ME can provide clarity, while flipping the chart highlights how Milwaukee's pros might become cons in Portland, ME. This comparison helps highlight personal priorities and expectations.
- Harsh winters
- Heavy traffic
- Limited ocean access
- Factory-based economy
- High crime rates
- Mild winters
- Less congestion
- Coastal scenery
- Diverse job market
- Lower crime rates
- Higher cost of living
- Fewer beer options
- Colder ocean water
- Fewer urban events
- Smaller food scene
- Vibrant arts scene
- Craft breweries
- Lake Michigan beaches
- Cultural festivals
- Diverse food options
While moving to Portland, ME from Milwaukee, WI offers the promise of milder winters and captivating coastal scenery, you may miss Milwaukee's vibrant arts scene and its abundant craft breweries. Consider visiting Portland Museum of Art to dive into local culture, or bask in the ocean views at Crescent Beach State Park for some of that much-desired coast time. On the downside, be prepared for a higher cost of living in Portland and possibly a smaller variety of craft breweries. Explore dining options in Portland's Old Port district to find your new favorite spots and dive into Maine's iconic seafood offerings.
Milwaukee vs. Portland Food Guide
Food is an essential aspect of local culture, shaping the experience of living in an area. This comparison of the local cuisine between Milwaukee & Portland will help you better understand the food scene where you are moving to, enriching your culinary journey ahead.
- Buck Bradley's
- Kopp's Frozen Custard
- The Pfister Hotel
Portland boasts a lively food scene characterized by its abundance of food trucks, particularly in neighborhoods like Old Port and East End, where you can enjoy a diverse array of cuisines. Eventide Oyster Co. offers a quintessential Maine experience, famed for their lobster rolls. Meanwhile, Milwaukee is renowned for its hearty fare, with iconic restaurants like Kopp's Frozen Custard serving up classic dishes, such as delicious bratwurst, in vibrant spots around Milwaukee's East Side. Portland's focus on health is evident in its higher fitness and health conscientiousness, offering a range of vegan options in popular areas like the West End.
Milwaukee vs. Portland Restaurant Comparison
Food is vital in making a new place feel like home. By comparing the culinary scenes of Milwaukee and Portland , this guide will help you transition smoothly by identifying your new favorite eateries based on your current hometown delights.
Milwaukee | Portland | What You'll Love |
---|---|---|
Supreme Sauce BBQ | Salvage BBQ | Known for its rich, smoky meats and laid-back vibe |
Sanford Restaurant | Fore Street | Both offer fine dining experiences with locally-sourced ingredients |
Lakefront Brewery | Shipyard Brewing Company | Offers a similar experience of locally crafted brews |
Café Benelux | Bayside American Café | Offers a friendly, brunch-centric atmosphere |
Odd Duck | Central Provisions | Shared small plates and culinary creativity |
Balzac Wine Bar | MJ’s Wine Bar | Both emphasize an extensive wine list and cozy ambiance |
Comet Cafe | Hot Suppa | Comfort food with a local twist |
Pizzeria Piccola | Flatbread Company | Handcrafted, wood-fired pizzas |
Kopp’s Frozen Custard | Mount Desert Island Ice Cream | Offers similarly rich and creamy delights |
BelAir Cantina | El Rayo Taqueria | Offers vibrant Mexican flavors with a local flair |
For those who love indulging in fine dining with local flavors, Sanford Restaurant in Milwaukee compares well to Portland's Fore Street, both offering delectable dishes crafted with the freshest ingredients. Beer enthusiasts will find familiarity at Lakefront Brewery and Shipyard Brewing Company, where local brews are celebrated in both vibrant cities. If you adore creative small plates, exchanging Odd Duck for Central Provisions will satisfy your palate with a shared passion for innovative culinary experiences. Finally, those searching for a touch of sweetness in their new city will appreciate the creamy offerings of Kopp's Frozen Custard and the equally rich delights at Mount Desert Island Ice Cream.

Ready to start your move?
Milwaukee vs. Portland Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is one of the most important aspects of a move. It's crucial to understand how Milwaukee and Portland compare regarding housing costs, styles, and community features. This comparison helps in making an informed decision for your move .
When thinking about moving, you might consider that Milwaukee offers more affordable housing options, with a median home price almost half that of Portland. Meanwhile, Portland, with its classic New England Colonial architecture, might tempt you with unique cultural and lifestyle perks, like higher bikeability scores. The appeal of an ocean view is also significant in Portland's real estate market, enticing those who seek homes with waterfront charm. If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, you'll find Portland's emphasis on cycling infrastructure convenient, while Milwaukee's combination of cozy facades and historical designs may feel particularly inviting.

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Portland, ME
1. East End: You and your pet will love the scenic Eastern Promenade with its expansive green space and off-leash hours, perfect for dog walking and socializing.
2. West End: This charming neighborhood offers pet-friendly parks and trails, as well as a welcoming atmosphere for pet owners with its dog-friendly cafes and shops.
3. Munjoy Hill: Known for its walkability and proximity to pet-friendly parks, you’ll find plenty of places to explore with your furry companion near the waterfront.
Milwaukee vs. Portland Weather Considerations
If you're moving from Milwaukee to Portland , understanding the weather differences is crucial. By comparing these two locations, you can adequately prepare for what to expect, from temperature to rainfall, ensuring a smoother transition into your new environment.
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
As you transition from Milwaukee to Portland, you'll notice some differences in the seasonal weather patterns. Despite both locations experiencing snowy winters, Portland receives slightly more snowfall each year. Summers in Portland tend to be slightly cooler and less humid compared to Milwaukee, so you may find the climate more comfortable. While both cities experience a decent amount of sunshine, Portland typically enjoys a few more sunny days annually. You might also appreciate the better air quality in Portland, which can be particularly beneficial if you have respiratory sensitivities.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Milwaukee to Portland
If you're moving from Milwaukee to Portland , it's essential to understand the cost of living differences. A comparison of key money and finance metrics can help you make informed decisions and adapt to the economic landscape in your new city.
When comparing the financial landscapes of Milwaukee and Portland, you will notice distinct differences. Portland's average household income is notably higher, suggesting a generally more affluent population. However, it also comes with a higher cost of living index. Interestingly, while property and sales taxes are lower in Portland, the state income tax is slightly higher. Understanding these differences can help you gauge potential budget adjustments as you settle into your new environment.
Milwaukee vs. Portland Political & Religious Comparison
This guide provides a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of residents in Milwaukee & Portland . This comparison helps anticipate potential lifestyle changes when moving cities.
The political and social scene you're moving to in Portland, ME, offers a unique mix of liberal and progressive values compared to Milwaukee's traditionally Democratic-leaning electorate. This shift might introduce you to more progressive policies and community programs. Portland's local government maintains strong ties with the community, promoting eco-friendly and sustainable lifestyles through initiatives like the Portland Sustainability Program. Additionally, while Milwaukee's religious community includes a significant Catholic presence, Portland's spirituality is more diverse and leans towards secularism, possibly influencing a more relaxed community atmosphere.
Milwaukee vs. Portland Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Understanding the daily commute and traffic in a new city is crucial when planning a move. This comparison will help you better understand the transportation differences between Milwaukee, WI, & Portland, ME , from commute times to public transit options.
When considering a move, it’s important to recognize that both cities offer relatively low commute times, though Portland edges out slightly. Milwaukee is rated higher in terms of public transit availability, which means accessing areas within the city can be more convenient. However, Portland's less congested roads make driving a more stress-free option if you choose not to rely on public transportation. Despite Milwaukee's higher traffic congestion, the vibrant culture and establishments such as the Milwaukee Public Market offer unique commuting experiences. Meanwhile, Portland's compact layout and excellent walkability allow for the independence of not owning a car, with landmarks like the Old Port being easily accessible.



Additional Resources
Milwaukee Moving Services
Popular Milwaukee to Maine Routes
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