($525) Cost to Move From Chicago, IL to Milwaukee, WI

1. New City Moving: 4.72 out of 5 stars
2. STI Moving & Storage Inc.: 4.78 out of 5 stars
3. The Professionals Moving Specialists: 4.66 out of 5 stars
4. H2H Movers Inc: 4.64 out of 5 stars
5. Move-tastic: 4.64 out of 5 stars

Cost to hire movers from Chicago to Milwaukee

If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Chicago to Milwaukee, you can expect to spend between $525 and $2,088. For a two- or three-bedroom place, prices usually range from $997 to $3,074 on the same route. Got a larger household? Moving a four- or five-bedroom home from Chicago to Milwaukee typically runs between $1,398 and $3,913.

Cost of moving containers from Chicago to Milwaukee

When moving from Chicago to Milwaukee, for a small load, you’ll likely pay between $465 and $1,074. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, costs usually range from $894 to $1,476. Got a big family or a four-plus bedroom house? Expect prices ranging anywhere from $1,078 up to $1,791. For detailed pricing info, take a look at our complete PODS cost guide.

Check out the most affordable moving container companies to help with your move from Illinois.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Chicago to Milwaukee

Renting a moving truck in Chicago is usually your cheapest option to get to Milwaukee. Just keep in mind that you’ll handle all the lifting, packing, and driving yourself.

If you’re moving out of a studio or one-bedroom and renting a truck, plan to spend between $99 and $158. For two- or three-bedroom moves, prices typically land between $115 and $182. Dealing with a four-bedroom-plus home? Expect rental truck costs to be somewhere between $124 and $198.

These cost ranges already include estimated fuel costs.

• Experience a potentially easier financial adjustment with rent being about 39% lower in Milwaukee than in Chicago, giving you more disposable income monthly.
• Your monthly mortgage budget shouldn’t take a hit, with home prices being about 32% lower in Milwaukee than in Chicago.
• It’s important to evaluate your finances first. The average income is around 31% less in Milwaukee than in Chicago.
• Anticipate lower daily expenses, including food, gas, and utilities in Milwaukee, where the cost of living for a single person is 45% less than in Chicago.
• Moving to Milwaukee could be an economically beneficial choice, reducing your family’s regular costs such as groceries, transport, and utilities. The cost of living for a family is 46% less than in Chicago.
• Milwaukee experiences an unemployment rate that is about 18% lower than that of Chicago. This is generally a positive sign for those considering a move here, as it reflects a healthy economy.
• Sales taxes are 52% lower in Milwaukee than in Chicago. If you have a larger family or higher consumption habits, the lower sales tax in Milwaukee can reduce your overall living expenses.
• Income taxes are 55% higher in Wisconsin compared to Illinois. As a result, you might notice a larger bite taken out of your salary by the state’s tax system, which could affect your net income.

• Milwaukee’s population is about 79% less than Chicago.
• Milwaukee’s public transportation score of 8 out of 10 is lower than Chicago’s score of 9.
• Milwaukee is less walkable than Chicago with a score of 62 out of 100 vs Chicago’s 77 out of 100.
• Milwaukee has a bike-friendliness score of 58 out of 100, which means it isn’t as accessible or safe for cyclists as Chicago, which has a score of 72.
• Milwaukee’s crime rate is higher than Chicago with a score of 66.76 compared to Chicago’s 35.19. This means that Milwaukee neighborhoods are safer than 66.76% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Chicago neighborhoods are safer than 35.19%.
• Milwaukee and Chicago have a similar safety level, with scores of 33.24 and 33.87.
• Air quality in Milwaukee is Good, and in Chicago it’s Good.

• HOA rules: It’s a good idea to look into your HOA or community regulations before moving day arrives.
• Elevator reservation: Reserve elevator access early if your building requires it, to avoid delays on moving day.
• Truck parking permits: Some cities require parking permits for large vehicles and moving trucks. Find out if you need any parking permits ahead of time.
• 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. Double-check that the moving company is properly licensed before you hire them.
• State regulator: You can verify a Wisconsin moving company’s license by visiting the state’s public utilities commission.
• Moving Permits: While Wisconsin doesn’t mandate moving permits, checking local parking guidelines before your move-in day is still a good idea.
• Change of address: File your USPS change of address about a week before moving so mail reaches Milwaukee smoothly. Start the process here.
• Moving company insurance: Every state requires moving companies to carry different levels of 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: Use our moving checklist to stay on top of every detail and reduce last-minute stress.

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

After getting comfortable in your new Wisconsin home, it’s time to see what Milwaukee is all about. Whether you’re into food, art, nature, or nightlife — there’s plenty to check out:

• Arts and culture: From historic museums to vibrant art centers, Milwaukee offers cultural landmarks like the Harley-Davidson Museum, Milwaukee Art Museum, Milwaukee Public Museum, and Discovery World.
• Outdoor recreation: The city’s Henry Maier Festival Park, Mitchell Park Horticultural Conservatory (The Domes), Veteran’s Park, and Lake Park — among other sites — are great places to hike, ride bikes, or just enjoy nature.
• Sports: Grab a seat and root for the home team during an Milwaukee Bucks (NBA)Milwaukee Brewers (MLB)Marquette Golden Eagles (NCAA)Milwaukee Admirals (AHL) game.