Sioux Falls, SD to Milwaukee, WI Movers (NEW 2026 Costs)
Quick answer: Moving from Sioux Falls to Milwaukee typically costs $2,600–$6,700 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home (about 501 miles). Use our moving cost calculator below to get an instant estimate.
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Cost to move from Sioux Falls to Milwaukee
Moving from Sioux Falls, SD to Milwaukee, WI typically costs $2,600–$6,700 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home.
The price ranges below are estimates for a 501-mile move from Sioux Falls to Milwaukee, based on moveBuddha pricing data as of Mar 20, 2026. Pricing is updated monthly to reflect seasonality and market changes.
Studio / 1 bedroom
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2-3 bedrooms
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4+ bedrooms
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Recent moving quotes for similar moves
- Safeway Moving recently quoted $2,524 for a studio apartment using professional movers.
- Colonial Van Lines recently quoted $5,469 for a 3 bedroom using professional movers.
- 1-800-Pack-Rat recently quoted $1,311 for a 1 bedroom (small) using a moving container.
Studio apartment
Feb 22, 2026
3 Bedrooms
Jan 30, 2026
1 Bedroom (small)
Jan 29, 2026
2 Bedrooms
Jan 21, 2026
1 Bedroom (small)
Jan 18, 2026
1 Bedroom (small)
Jan 13, 2026
1 Bedroom (small)
Jan 08, 2026
3 Bedrooms
Dec 24, 2025
Studio apartment
Dec 16, 2025
4 Bedrooms
Dec 11, 2025
Major factors affecting moving costs from Sioux Falls to Milwaukee
Your total cost will depend on:
- Move size: The cost of your move depends on how much you’re bringing. A one-bedroom from Sioux Falls to Milwaukee might be as low as $1,600, while a four-bedroom could reach $10,500.
- When you move: Moving in summer often costs more, since it’s the busiest season for movers in Sioux Falls.
- DIY moves vs. full-service help: Truck rentals cost less — around $500 to $1,200 — but you’ll handle all the labor vs. letting professionals do it.
Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from Milwaukee, WI to Sioux Falls, SD guide.
Best Sioux Falls to Milwaukee movers by type
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Labor Only
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Best professional movers from Sioux Falls to Milwaukee
When it comes to handling your interstate move from Sioux Falls to Milwaukee, entrusting professionals with the details is often the best decision. Full-service movers are equipped to manage everything, allowing you to concentrate on settling into your new place.
Want a deeper breakdown of the top long-distance movers? See our best interstate movers guide.
- Safeway Moving: 4.9 out of 5 stars
- American Van Lines: 4.9 out of 5 stars
- Allied Van Lines: 4.2 out of 5 stars
- Mayzlin Relocation: 4.8 out of 5 stars
- North American Van Lines: 4.8 out of 5 stars
Best overall value
How we chose the best SD→WI movers
moveBuddha's expert team analyzed moving rates from 15 South Dakota movers and listed the top movers based on customer satisfaction, reviews, and cost.
- Customer satisfaction (40%): The organization reliably provides services punctually, maintains clear communication, and stays within the anticipated budget.
- Dispute resolution (20%): Since mistakes are inevitable in moving, we value movers that accept responsibility and work hard to correct issues when they occur.
- Industry reputation (15%): The organization is recognized in the industry and takes part in professional gatherings and associations.
- Online reputation (15%): The company’s reputation online is supported by a well-maintained website and prompt, professional engagement with customer questions.
- Service options (10%): We look for companies with a deep breadth of services including full packing, storage, specialty item handling, and expedited delivery.
Here is our full moving company rating methodology.
What to know before moving from Sioux Falls to Milwaukee
Expect a bump in monthly expenses after the move - Milwaukee runs about 14% higher for singles and 9% higher for families than Sioux Falls.
Singles spend around $2,022 in Milwaukee versus $1,770 in Sioux Falls; families pay $4,963 compared with $4,542.
Dig into the side-by-side details here:
| Sioux Falls | Milwaukee | |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1 BR rent | $1,265 | $1,612 |
| Average 3 BR rent | $2,250 | $2,880 |
| Average home value | $318,982 | $200,685 |
| Average income (per capita) | $58,538 | $49,733 |
| Cost of living (single) | $1,770 | $2,022 |
| Cost of living (family of four) | $4,542 | $4,963 |
| Unemployment rate | 3.2% | 7.4% |
| Sales tax | 6.5% | 4.9% |
| State income tax | 0.0% | 7.65% |
- Consider this before moving: Rent can be about 14% higher in Milwaukee than in Sioux Falls, which may impact your monthly finances.
- With home prices being nearly 37% cheaper in Milwaukee, your mortgage budget will remain the same without any significant changes.
- Be sure to look over your budget before making the move. The average income is about 15% lower in Milwaukee than in Sioux Falls.
- Anticipate increased living expenses in Milwaukee, as the cost of living for a single person in Milwaukee is 14% greater than in Sioux Falls. This covers typical expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transport.
- As you plan your move to Milwaukee, consider the possibility of increased living costs. The cost of living for a family there is 9% more than it is in Sioux Falls.
- The unemployment rate in Milwaukee exceeds that of Sioux Falls by about 131%, resulting in a larger pool of potential workers and thus more hiring competition.
- Sales taxes are 25% lower in Milwaukee than Sioux Falls, a factor that could decrease expenditure on taxable items if your consumption is higher.
- Wisconsin has a state income tax, while South Dakota does not. That means you’ll owe more in taxes after your move, reducing your take-home pay compared to what you’re used to.
Take a detailed look at how everyday expenses stack up between Sioux Falls and Milwaukee, from monthly bills to routine purchases:
| Living Expense | Sioux Falls | Milwaukee |
|---|---|---|
| Basic utilities | $205.37 | $167.94 |
| Cell phone plan | $44.20 | $43.50 |
| Dozen eggs | $4.28 | $4.23 |
| Loaf of bread | $3.60 | $3.40 |
| Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) | $12.50 | $16.00 |
| Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) | $67.50 | $70.00 |
| Gym membership | $43.88 | $53.38 |
- Basic utilities tend to be more expensive in Sioux Falls than in Milwaukee.
- Cell phone plans typically cost more in Sioux Falls than in Milwaukee.
- Eggs cost more in Sioux Falls than in Milwaukee.
- Bread is more expensive in Sioux Falls than in Milwaukee.
- A quick meal is cheaper in Sioux Falls than in Milwaukee.
- A mid-range dinner for two costs less in Sioux Falls than in Milwaukee.
- Gym memberships are more affordable in Sioux Falls than in Milwaukee.
How life is different in Sioux Falls vs. Milwaukee
| Sioux Falls | Milwaukee | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 202,600 | 577,222 |
| Transportation score | 2 | 8 |
| Walkability score | 38 | 62 |
| Bike friendliness score | 46 | 58 |
| Crime index | 42.83 | 66.76 |
| Safety index | 57.17 | 33.24 |
| Air quality | Good | Good |
- Milwaukee's population is about 185% greater than Sioux Falls.
- Milwaukee's public transportation score of 8 out of 10 is higher than Sioux Falls's score of 2.
- Milwaukee is more walkable than Sioux Falls with a score of 62 out of 100 vs Sioux Falls's 38 out of 100.
- With a score of 58 out of 100, Milwaukee is more bike-friendly than Sioux Falls, which has a score of 46 out of 100. The higher a city's score, the more suited it is to safely accommodating cyclists.
- Milwaukee's crime rate is higher than Sioux Falls with a score of 66.76 compared to Sioux Falls's 42.83. This means that Milwaukee neighborhoods are safer than 66.76% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Sioux Falls neighborhoods are safer than 42.83%.
- Milwaukee is considered to be less safe than Sioux Falls with a score of 33.24 vs Sioux Falls's 57.17.
- Air quality in Milwaukee is Good, and in Sioux Falls it's Good.
Other things to consider for your Sioux Falls to Milwaukee move
- HOA rules: To keep things running smoothly, make sure you're familiar with any HOA or community moving policies before the big day.
- Elevator reservation: If there is an elevator in your building, it's a good idea to secure a reservation before your moving day.
- Truck parking permits: Research parking requirements in your destination city to ensure your truck won’t run into restrictions.
- State licensing: Movers providing in-state relocation services in the Badger State must register with the Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT), but strictly speaking, it’s not a regulated state. However, movers must comply with individual insurance, licensing, and other state laws and regulations. Make sure the moving company you use has a license before hiring.
- State regulator: You can check the status of a Wisconsin moving license through the state's public utilities commission.
- Moving Permits: You won't need a moving permit in Wisconsin, though it's smart to double-check any local parking restrictions ahead of your move.
- Change of address: We recommend submitting your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move to ensure your mail gets forwarded to Milwaukee without delay. You can select your official move date when completing the form. Start the process here.
- Moving company insurance: State laws differ on mover insurance. For a secure move in Wisconsin, explore movers' insurance options to safeguard your belongings. Many moving companies offer Released Value Protection at no extra cost, covering items at 60 cents per pound. Elevate your protection with discussions on Full Value Protection or explore customized plans from third-party insurance providers. Understand coverage limits, potential extra costs, and read reviews to make an informed decision on your Wisconsin state moving insurance. Ensure a smooth and protected relocation experience with the right insurance coverage.
- Moving checklist: Our moving checklist will help you have the peace of mind that you've got everything covered.
Where to live in Milwaukee
Ready to relocate to Cream City? Here are some of the top neighborhoods to consider in Milwaukee.
Best neighborhoods for singles
- Bay View
- Brewer’s Hill
- Historic Third Ward
- Lower East Side
- Riverwest
Best neighborhoods for families
- Bay View
- Historic Third Ward
- Juneau Town
- Lower East Side
- Northpoint
Things to do in Milwaukee
Now that you've made the move to Wisconsin, it's the perfect time to explore Milwaukee. From local hotspots to hidden gems, there's something to enjoy for every lifestyle:
- Arts and culture: Cultural attractions in Milwaukee include museums and art centers like the Harley-Davidson Museum, Milwaukee Art Museum, Milwaukee Public Museum, and Discovery World.
- Outdoor recreation: Outdoor lovers will appreciate Henry Maier Festival Park, Mitchell Park Horticultural Conservatory (The Domes), Veteran's Park, and Lake Park, along with many other spots perfect for walking, cycling, and fresh air adventures.
- Sports: Catch a live game and cheer on the home team at an Milwaukee Bucks (NBA)Milwaukee Brewers (MLB)Marquette Golden Eagles (NCAA)Milwaukee Admirals (AHL) game.
FAQ
When is the best time to move from Sioux Falls to Milwaukee?
Spring and fall are the ideal times to move from Sioux Falls to Milwaukee. You'll benefit from more comfortable weather and avoid the higher prices that come with peak moving season in Sioux Falls.
When is the cheapest time to move from Sioux Falls to Milwaukee?
With many people choosing to move from Sioux Falls to Milwaukee in spring or fall, winter moves often come with better rates. Take a look at our moving discounts guide to find out how to save.
How long does a move from Sioux Falls to Milwaukee take?
Covering 501 miles, the move from Sioux Falls, SD to Milwaukee, WI typically takes one to six days. Some Sioux Falls movers may offer faster options, and if your timing is flexible, storage services in Milwaukee can help bridge the gap.
How many movers in Sioux Falls can handle specialty items for my move to Milwaukee?
Specialty moving services aren’t offered by every company. In Sioux Falls, 4 movers can handle pianos. 3 offer antique moving services. Compared to the rest of SD, there are 9 piano movers and 3 antique movers, while nationwide the numbers are 2,294 and 1,462 respectively.
If you need these services, it’s best to book early — availability can be limited, especially during peak moving months.
