Best Milwaukee to Portland Movers + Moving Guide

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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.

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Best Milwaukee to Portland Moving Companies

Company
Score Question
Affordability IndexLicense
1About Time Moving Systems LLC9.339.33Authorized For HHG
2Gorilla Movers Of Wisconsin Inc.9.319.31Authorized For Property, HHG
3You Move Me Portland9.289.4Authorized For HHG
4SC Moving Services9.219.35Active
5The Go To Guys, LLC9.108.7Authorized For HHG
Phone (800) 787-5428

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 SizeMoving CostVolume of Packed Items (ft³)$/ft³
Studio$1,886300 ft³$6.29
1 Bedroom$2,807450 ft³$6.24
2 Bedrooms$4,640750 ft³$6.19
3 Bedrooms$6,7511100 ft³$6.14
4 Bedrooms$9,7401600 ft³$6.09
5+ Bedrooms$10,8671800 ft³$6.04
*Please note: These Wisconsin to Maine moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from Wisconsin & Maine. 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 ME mover.
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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 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
1
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
2
You Move Me Portland Logo

You Move Me Portland

Exceptional9.28/10
based on 1,494+ data points

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

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 9/14/2021)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2388358 / 820850

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans10
Registered Drivers8
Total Annual Miles Moved45,000 (2020)
View Full Review
3
SC Moving Services Logo

SC Moving Services

Exceptional9.21/10
based on 594+ data points

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

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 9/5/2023)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2324405 / -

Active

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans3
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved10,000 (2016)
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. 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.

MilwaukeePortlandHow They're Similar
East SideMunjoy HillArtsy, vibrant community
Bay ViewEast EndTrendy, waterfront access
Historic Third WardOld PortHistoric, lively nightlife
Walker's PointWest EndIndustrial, creative vibe
RiverwestDeering CenterEclectic, community-focused
ShorewoodBaysideFamily-friendly, suburban feel
WauwatosaRosemontCozy, residential atmosphere
Brewer's HillNorth DeeringQuiet, picturesque setting
Lower East SideParksideCultural, green spaces
West AllisNorthgateCommunity-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.

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Things to Do in Portland

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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.

CONs
PROs
Milwaukee, WI iconMilwaukee, WI
  • Harsh winters
  • Heavy traffic
  • Limited ocean access
  • Factory-based economy
  • High crime rates
Portland, ME iconPortland, ME
  • Mild winters
  • Less congestion
  • Coastal scenery
  • Diverse job market
  • Lower crime rates
Portland, ME iconPortland, ME
  • Higher cost of living
  • Fewer beer options
  • Colder ocean water
  • Fewer urban events
  • Smaller food scene
Milwaukee, WI iconMilwaukee, WI
  • 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.

Milwaukee
Portland
Most iconic local food item
Cheese Curds
Lobster Roll
Most popular meat dish
Bratwurst
Steamed Clams
Most popular street food item
Fish Fry
Food Truck Tacos
Most popular vegan food
Vegan Chili
Tofu Scramble
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Buck Bradley's
  • Kopp's Frozen Custard
  • The Pfister Hotel
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness (out of 10)
💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks (out of 10)
🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene (out of 10)
🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly (out of 10)
🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱
🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

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.

MilwaukeePortlandWhat You'll Love
Supreme Sauce BBQSalvage BBQKnown for its rich, smoky meats and laid-back vibe
Sanford RestaurantFore StreetBoth offer fine dining experiences with locally-sourced ingredients
Lakefront BreweryShipyard Brewing CompanyOffers a similar experience of locally crafted brews
Café BeneluxBayside American CaféOffers a friendly, brunch-centric atmosphere
Odd DuckCentral ProvisionsShared small plates and culinary creativity
Balzac Wine BarMJ’s Wine BarBoth emphasize an extensive wine list and cozy ambiance
Comet CafeHot SuppaComfort food with a local twist
Pizzeria PiccolaFlatbread CompanyHandcrafted, wood-fired pizzas
Kopp’s Frozen CustardMount Desert Island Ice CreamOffers similarly rich and creamy delights
BelAir CantinaEl Rayo TaqueriaOffers 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.

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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 .

Milwaukee
Portland
Typical Architecture Style
Craftsman, Victorian
New England Colonial
Walkability
👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing
Front porch, fireplace
Ocean view, cape-style home

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 background image

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.

Milwaukee
Portland
Days of Sunshine per Year
☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. Annual Humidity
💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦
💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦
Avg. UV Index
🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Natural Disasters
Floods, Tornadoes
Hurricanes, Ice Storms
Air Quality
Moderate
Good
Summer icon

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

81 / 63
78 / 59
Winter icon

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

33 / 20
35 / 16


Rainfall icon

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

34
47
Snowfall icon

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

47
61


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.

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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.

Milwaukee
Portland
Avg. Household Income
$46,637
$70,244
Cost of Living Index
101.9
116.5
State Income Tax
6.27
7.15
Avg. Property Tax
2.53
1.30
Avg. Sales Tax
5.60
5.50
Top 3 Industries
Manufacturing, Healthcare, Finance
Healthcare, Education, Retail
Affluence
Moderate
High
Poverty
Moderate
Low
Homelessness
Moderate
Moderate

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.

Milwaukee
Portland
Political Make-up
Democratic-leaning
Liberal and Progressive
Local Politics
Milwaukee City Government
Portland City Government
Religion
Diverse, with Catholic presence
Secular, with varied spiritual beliefs

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.

Milwaukee
Portland
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)
23
22
Traffic Congestion
5 out of 10
3 out of 10
Availability of Public Transit
7 out of 10
6 out of 10
Can you get by without car?
Possibly
Yes

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.

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