How we chose the best moving companies for your MI to WI move
Our analysts at moveBuddha reviewed rates from 84 Michigan moving companies, highlighting the best performers for satisfaction, reviews, and overall value.
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Customer satisfaction (40%): Reliable timelines, steady communication, and final bills that match the quote.
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Dispute resolution (20%): Addresses issues transparently and fixes them without dragging feet.
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Industry reputation (15%): Positive standing with industry pros and ongoing involvement in trade circles.
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Online reputation (15%): The company maintains a professional website with accurate information. The company promptly and professionally responds to online customer inquiries.
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Service options (10%): Offers a broad menu—packing, storage, specialty item care, and expedited delivery.
Here is our full moving company rating methodology.
How much does it cost to move from Michigan to Wisconsin?
Take a look at the table below for average
moving cost estimates from Michigan to Wisconsin.
Costs are organized by home size and the type of moving service you choose.
| Move size |
Moving company |
Moving container |
Rental truck |
| Studio / 1 bedroom |
$763 – $2,701 |
$515 – $1,271 |
$231 – $392 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$1,325 – $4,179 |
$938 – $1,716 |
$232 – $449 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$1,781 – $5,219 |
$1,242 – $2,235 |
$301 – $529 |
*These price ranges represent estimates for a 206-mile move from MI to
WI using moveBuddha data as
of Dec 11, 2025. Our database includes thousands of verified prices from moving companies nationwide
and is refreshed each month to account for seasonal patterns and market trends. Your total may differ
based on volume, selected services, access or parking challenges, fuel costs, and timing. Getting quotes
from multiple movers is the best way to dial in a precise price.
Cost to hire movers from Michigan to Wisconsin
If you’re packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move from Michigan to Wisconsin,
you can expect prices to land between $763
and $2,701.
For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from
$1,325 to
$4,179 for the trip from MI
to WI. If you’re moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you’re likely looking at a price tag between
$1,781 and
$5,219.
Cost of moving containers from Michigan to Wisconsin
Moving containers from Michigan to Wisconsin
will cost you $515 to
$1,271 for a small move.
For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $938
to $1,716. A four-bedroom move or bigger will
cost $1,242 to
$2,235.
Learn more about PODS cost.
Here are the cheapest moving container companies
when moving out of Michigan.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Michigan to Wisconsin
Renting a moving truck typically costs the least, but you’ll be responsible for both the heavy lifting and all the driving.
Expect to pay between
$231
and $392
to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move,
prices usually range from $232
to $449.
If you’re relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you’ll likely spend anywhere from
$301
to $529.
These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from MI to WI
Several factors influence the cost of moving from Michigan to Wisconsin. Here’s what can impact your final bill:
-
Size of your move: Relocating a large home comes with higher costs than moving a small apartment or studio.
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Timing of your move: Relocating during peak summer months in Michigan generally comes with a higher price tag.
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DIY vs. professional mover: DIY moving services are cheaper but you do all the heavy lifting compared to letting the pros handle your move.
What to know before moving from MI to WI
Making the move from Michigan to Wisconsin means weighing what day-to-day life will look like once you settle in.
Cost of living: Michigan vs. Wisconsin
A clear look at the cost differences between Michigan and Wisconsin helps set expectations. From employment trends to housing costs, taxes, and earnings, this comparison outlines what may matter most for your wallet and lifestyle:
|
Michigan |
Wisconsin |
| Average rent |
$1,037 |
$1,100 |
| Average home cost |
$245,716 |
$306,566 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$68,505 |
$72,458 |
| Cost of living index |
92 |
99 |
| Unemployment rate |
4.7% |
2.9% |
| Average sales tax |
6.0% |
5.43% |
| State income tax |
4.25% |
7.65% |
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Rent in Wisconsin is about 6% higher than in Michigan. Be sure to factor this into your monthly budget planning.
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Get ready for a bigger monthly payment. Home prices in Wisconsin are usually around 25% higher than what you’ll find in Michigan.
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Exciting news here, the average income is about 6% higher in Wisconsin than in Michigan, so you should have more to save or invest each month.
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Living in Wisconsin costs 8% more than in Michigan. If you’re relocating to Wisconsin, be sure to budget carefully so your finances can handle the higher expenses.
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With an unemployment rate around 38% lower than Michigan, Wisconsin offers a healthier job market and a thriving local economy, which is excellent news if you’re considering relocating.
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Sales tax in Wisconsin is 10% lower than in Michigan. If you tend to spend more or have a big family, this lower rate in Wisconsin could make a noticeable difference in your monthly expenses.
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State income taxes in Wisconsin are 80% higher than in Michigan, which means you’ll owe more in state taxes and take home slightly less pay.
How life is different in Wisconsin vs. Michigan
Moving to a new state isn’t just about jobs and housing, it’s about how daily life will feel.
From weather patterns and crime rates to political culture and population size, these factors can shape your overall experience.
Here’s how life in Wisconsin and Michigan compares across key lifestyle indicators:
|
Wisconsin |
Michigan |
| Population |
5,910,955 |
10,037,261 |
| Political leaning |
Republican 51-49 |
Republican 49.7-48.3 |
| Summer high |
81ºF |
81ºF |
| Winter low |
7ºF |
14ºF |
| Annual rain |
34″ |
34″ |
| Annual snow |
48″ |
64″ |
| Crime index |
16.82 |
19.98 |
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The population of Wisconsin is about 41% smaller than that of Michigan.
Choosing a less crowded state can mean more space, lower costs, and a simpler lifestyle, but you might need to adjust to fewer services or a slower job market.
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Michigan and Wisconsin both voted Republican in the last election.
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Summer highs average 81°F in Wisconsin, compared to 81°F in Michigan.
The difference is minimal, so you won’t see major changes, though humidity and energy costs still matter.
-
In winter, Wisconsin reaches lows near 7°F, colder than 14°F in Michigan.
Colder winters call for preparation, higher heating use, and adapting to brisker conditions — but they also bring a classic winter atmosphere.
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You can expect about 34 inches of annual rainfall in Wisconsin and 34 inches in Michigan.
Your overall experience with precipitation is unlikely to change much, but how that rain shows up throughout the year can still impact your daily life.
-
In Wisconsin, you’ll get about 48 inches of snow each year, far less than Michigan.
That means moving to Wisconsin will bring milder winters with less shoveling and fewer weather headaches.
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Moving to Wisconsin means choosing a safer place to call home.
With a lower crime index of 16.82 versus Michigan’s 19.98, you’ll enjoy safer neighborhoods, a tighter-knit community, and more peace of mind.
Comparing the pros of Michigan vs. Wisconsin
Getting a fresh start in a new location is exciting.
Here’s a side-by-side look at the perks of living in Wisconsin compared to Michigan:
| Pros of living in Michigan |
Pros of living in Wisconsin |
| Scenic beauty |
Low cost of living |
| Good higher education |
High quality of life |
| Bountiful recreational opportunities |
Abundant outdoor recreational activities |
| Low cost of living |
Unique tasty food |
| Beautiful lakes |
Borders great lakes |
Comparing the cons of living in Michigan vs. Wisconsin
Life isn’t always perfect, no matter where you are.
Here are a few things to keep in mind when making the move from Michigan to Wisconsin:
| Cons of living in Michigan |
Cons of living in Wisconsin |
| Cold snowy winters |
High tax burden |
| Spotty economic opportunity |
Extreme seasonal weather |
| Poor transportation infrastructure |
Lack of diversity |
| Expensive education |
Poor roads |
| Thick accents |
High rate of alcoholism |
Other things to consider for your Michigan to Wisconsin move
-
HOA rules:
Check your neighborhood or community rules ahead of moving day to avoid any last-minute surprises and keep your move running smoothly.
-
Elevator reservation:
Book your building’s elevator early and check any moving day rules ahead of time.
-
Parking permits:
Some cities require a parking permit for moving trucks, so check your new neighborhood’s rules ahead of time to avoid last-minute hassles.
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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 proper licensing before hiring them.
-
State regulator:
You can quickly check a Wisconsin moving license and its current status on the state regulator’s official website here.
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Moving permits:
You don’t need a moving permit in Wisconsin, but it’s smart to check local parking regulations before moving day.
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Change of address:
Be sure to submit your USPS change of address form at least a week before your move. This way, once you’ve picked your moving date, your mail will start forwarding to Wisconsin right on time. Get started here.
-
Mover’s insurance:
Federal law requires interstate moving companies to provide you with basic insurance, called “released value protection,” free of charge. 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.
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Moving checklist:
Peace of mind is priceless. Our moving checklist will help you ensure you’ve got everything covered.
Things to do in Wisconsin
You’ll have plenty to explore in Wisconsin! Check out these top spots to visit in your new home state:
Museums in Wisconsin
- Harley-Davidson Museum
- Milwaukee Art Museum
- Civil War Museum
- Hearthstone Historic House Museum
- Green Bay Packer Hall of Fame
Parks in Wisconsin
- Wisconsin Deer Park
- Cave Point County Park
- Timbavati Wildlife Park
- Carson Park
- Petrifying Springs Park
Sports teams in Wisconsin
- Green Bay Packers (NFL)
- Milwaukee Bucks (NBA)
- Milwaukee Brewers (MLB)
- Wisconsin Herd (NBA G League)
- Wisconsin Badgers (NCAA)
Universities in Wisconsin
- University of Wisconsin-Madison
- University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee
- Marquette University
- University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire
- University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to move from Michigan to Wisconsin?
Do movers transport your car from Michigan to Wisconsin?
What are the benefits of moving from Michigan to Wisconsin?
Plenty of movers are choosing to leave Michigan for Wisconsin, drawn by advantages like low cost of living and high quality of life that make life in the new state more appealing.
Is it cheaper to live in Michigan or Wisconsin?
Living in Michigan usually costs less than in Wisconsin.
Housing
is much more affordable in Michigan,
with average rent about 6% less and home prices 20% lower than in Wisconsin.
Taxes are also
lower in Michigan, most notably income taxes, which are more than 40% less than those paid by Wisconsin residents.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in Wisconsin?
To live comfortably as a single adult in Wisconsin, you should aim to make around $58,399.
On average, expect to spend about $2,391 per month, or $5,463 monthly for a family of four.
Your actual expenses can vary depending on your location within the state. Bigger cities like Milwaukee and Madison generally come with higher housing costs than smaller towns.
Which discounts can you find from movers in Michigan?
Many movers in Michigan publish special-rate programs:
1 honor AAA member discounts;
6 offer military-specific savings;
7 extend deals for seniors;
1 provide student pricing;
Eligibility and amounts may change, so confirm with each mover before booking.
Helpful moving resources
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For a move from Michigan to Wisconsin, budget between $1,325–$4,179 for full-service movers, around
$1,327 if you choose a moving container, and approximately
$340
for a rental truck.
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