($1,549) Cost of Moving From Wisconsin to California

Quick answer: Moving from Wisconsin to California typically costs between $1,700 and $9,140 and usually takes six–17 days. Your final price depends on the size and timing of your move, and whether you choose professional movers or handle it on your own.

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  • Best overall value
  • Portion to charity
  • Veteran owned
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  • Certified crews
  • Flat-rate pricing
  • Family-owned
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  • Specialty packing services
  • White-glove reputation
  • 80+ years' experience

Moving the reverse route? We’ve got you covered with our moving from California to Wisconsin guide.

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The best Wisconsin to California full-service movers

Planning a move from Wisconsin to California? With endless movers to choose from, finding the right company can be stressful. We've made it easier by researching reviews, comparing pricing, and exploring services, so you can easily find the best interstate moving companies for your big move.

Start your move from Wisconsin to California with these top-rated long-distance movers in Wisconsin.

Best Overall Value
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.85 / 5
(855) 650-0657
At A Glance
  • GPS tracking en route
  • Veteran-owned
  • Dedicated move coordinator
  • Flat-rate pricing
  • Donates a portion of moves to charity
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(855) 650-0657
Most Experienced Mover
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
(866) 835-2392
At A Glance
  • Experienced & fully trained moving crews
  • Specializes in moving art & antiques
  • Competitive pricing
  • Can handle last-minute moves
  • Climate-controlled storage
read our full review
(866) 835-2392
Best for Contents Coverage
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.75 / 5
(866) 935-3437
At A Glance
  • Fragile packing
  • Storage options
  • 24/7 shipment tracking
  • Quick & efficient
  • Accurate quotes
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(866) 935-3437
Best for personalized service
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.9 / 5
(980) 217-6841
At A Glance
  • Family-owned, with locations covering the East Coast
  • Full refund if you cancel within 7 days of your move
  • Hands-on customer service
  • 24/7 support
  • Price-matching policy
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(980) 217-6841
Best customized Plans
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
(844) 950-2963
At A Glance
  • Custom crates for electronics & art
  • Satellite shipment tracking
  • 1,500 local agents covering all 50 states
  • Self-packing option
  • No deposit required
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(844) 950-2963

The best local moving companies in Wisconsin

With so many options, finding a dependable local moving company isn’t always easy. That’s why we’ve rounded up the top local movers in Wisconsin, including movers that are known for transparent pricing, strong customer reviews, and standout services to make your move smoother.

  1. Above Average Moving LLC: 4.86 out of 5 stars
  2. EC Moving & Storage, Inc.: 4.66 out of 5 stars
  3. Schroeder Moving Systems Inc.: 4.62 out of 5 stars
  4. TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.62 out of 5 stars
  5. Eric's Moving and Delivery Inc.: 4.62 out of 5 stars

Above Average Moving LLC

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar4.86 / 5

DOT #: 2595339

Years in Business: 9

1416 Parkside Drive, Madison, WI 53704 US

Above Average Moving LLC, a reputable local moving company based in Madison, WI, has been providing top-notch residential moving services since 2017. With high average ratings on Yelp (4.4) and Google My Business (4.8), alongside an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, clients consistently praise their reliability and professionalism. Unlike many nearby competitors, they offer a comprehensive range of services, including packing, unpacking, and office moving, and they stand out by not requiring a deposit and accepting credit cards. If you're looking for a trusted and efficient mover in Madison, Above Average Moving LLC is a dependable choice.

Get a Quote (608) 556-7980

Review Profiles

Services Offered

Move Distances

  • Local moves

Available services

  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Crating
  • Storage

Additional Information

Alternative Business Names

  • Above Average Moving LLC
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EC Moving & Storage, Inc.

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar4.66 / 5

DOT #: 125550

Years in Business: 31

3230 Hogarth St, Eau Claire, WI 54703

EC Moving & Storage, Inc. has been a trusted name in local residential moving services in and around Eau Claire, WI since 1993. This reputable company stands out among nearby movers with its comprehensive offerings, including packing and unpacking services, piano and art moving capabilities, and the convenience of accepting credit cards with no deposit required. Customers consistently praise their reliability and professionalism, reflected in their impressive 4.8 average rating on Google from 30 reviews and an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau. EC Moving & Storage, Inc. ensures a seamless moving experience for all local relocations.

Get a Quote (715) 832-8161

Review Profiles

Services Offered

Move Distances

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves

Available services

  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Shipment tracking
  • Storage
  • Safes

Additional Information

Alternative Business Names

  • Atlas Van Lines
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Schroeder Moving Systems Inc.

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar4.62 / 5

DOT #: 514341

Years in Business: 77

2720 E Winslow Ave, Appleton, WI 54911

Schroeder Moving Systems Inc. has been delivering reliable local residential moving services in and around Appleton, WI since 1948. While their Yelp reviews average at 2.4 stars, their Google My Business profile shines with an average rating of 4.2 stars, and they boast an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. Unlike many nearby competitors, Schroeder Moving Systems offers comprehensive packing and unpacking services, as well as specialty moving for items like pianos, hot tubs, and antiques. This seasoned mover accepts credit cards and provides full valuation insurance coverage, ensuring peace of mind for their clients.

Get a Quote (920) 739-5533

Review Profiles

Services Offered

Move Distances

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves

Available services

  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Shipment tracking
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing

Additional Information

Alternative Business Names

  • Schroeder Moving Systems of Milwaukee
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TWO MEN AND A TRUCK

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar4.62 / 5

DOT #: 2527384

Years in Business: 31

3817 Kipp Street, Madison, WI 53718 US

Two Men and a Truck has been providing local residential moving services in and around Madison, WI since 1994, establishing a solid reputation for reliability. Unlike some nearby competitors, they offer a comprehensive suite of services including packing, unpacking, and labor-only options, catering to diverse moving needs. They accept credit cards and require no deposit, ensuring a hassle-free payment experience. Consumer reviews vary, with an impressive 4.6 average rating on Google My Business from 553 reviews and a stellar A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, although Yelp reviews are more mixed.

Get a Quote (608) 340-1557

Review Profiles

Services Offered

Move Distances

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves

Available services

  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Pianos
  • Storage
  • Safes

Additional Information

Alternative Business Names

  • Lightner & Lightner, Inc.
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Eric's Moving and Delivery Inc.

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar4.62 / 5

DOT #: 3088976

Years in Business: 8

1501 St Andrew St #411, La Crosse, WI 54601

Eric's Moving and Delivery Inc., based in La Crosse, WI, has been serving local residents since 2018 with a reliable focus on residential moving services. With a strong presence in the area, they stand out among nearby moving companies by offering comprehensive packing, unpacking, and crating services, including specialized handling for pianos, art, and antiques. Customers appreciate their flexibility, notably the acceptance of credit cards and the absence of a required deposit. Consumer reviews reflect a generally positive sentiment with a stellar Google rating of 4.5 from 162 reviews and an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, though their Yelp rating averages at 3.5 from 10 reviews. This positions Eric's Moving and Delivery as a reputable and customer-friendly choice for local moves.

Get a Quote (608) 386-9787

Review Profiles

Services Offered

Move Distances

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves

Available services

  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Shipment tracking

Additional Information

Alternative Business Names

  • Eric's Moving and Delivery
  • Eric's Moving and Delivery Service
  • Kvamers Emergency Moving
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The best Wisconsin to California moving container companies

Moving containers are an affordable way to relocate without having to haul your stuff. You handle the packing and unpacking, while the company picks up your container in Wisconsin and drops it off at your new home in California.

We’ve rounded up the top moving container companies to make your move easy and hassle-free:

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.8 / 5
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  • Unlimited storage
  • 3 container sizes
  • 10% discount
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 5 / 5
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  • Fast delivery
  • Nationwide
  • 100+ miles moves
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
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  • Affordable pricing
  • Offers car shipping
  • No hidden fees

The best Wisconsin to California moving truck rentals

If you want to save money moving from Wisconsin to California, renting a moving truck is your best bet. Just keep in mind, you’ll be putting in the sweat, doing the loading, unloading, and driving yourself.

Check out our favorite picks for rental moving trucks:

We like these rental moving trucks:

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.3 / 5
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  • Affordable pricing
  • Online pricing
  • Several discounts
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4 / 5
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  • Most expensive
  • 4 truck sizes
  • Unlimited mileage
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.15 / 5
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  • Greatest coverage
  • 7 truck sizes
  • One way rentals

The best Wisconsin to California labor-only movers

If you’re just looking for some help loading your stuff into a rental truck or storage container, labor-only movers are the way to go. You can choose the crew size that fits your needs, and you only pay for the time they end up taking.

When planning a move from Wisconsin to California, check out these top-rated moving labor companies for a hassle-free experience.

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.62 / 5
  • Years in Business: 31
  • Yelp: 2.4 / 5
  • BBB: A+
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.62 / 5
  • Years in Business: 8
  • Yelp: 3.3 / 5
  • BBB: A+
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.52 / 5
  • Years in Business: 94
  • Yelp: 2.9 / 5
  • BBB: A+

How we chose the best moving companies for your WI to CA movetoggle

moveBuddha’s expert team analyzed moving rates from 29 Wisconsin movers and listed the top movers based on customer satisfaction, reviews, and cost.

Customer satisfaction (40%): The company consistently delivers services in a timely matter with good communication and within the estimated cost.

Dispute resolution (20%): Mistakes cannot be avoided in the moving industry. We look for companies that own their mistakes and make genuine efforts to fix any issues that arise during a move.

Industry reputation (15%): The company is well-regarded within the moving industry and participates in industry conferences and organizations.

Online reputation (15%): The company maintains a professional website with accurate information. The company promptly and professionally responds to online customer inquiries.

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.

How much does it cost to move from Wisconsin to California?

The table below lays out average cost ranges to move from Wisconsin to California with different moving services depending on the size of your home.

Move size Moving company Moving container Rental truck
Studio / 1 Bedroom $1,549 - $6,397 $1,481 - $3,558 $1,601 - $2,974
2 - 3 bedrooms $4,262 - $9,140 $2,606 - $5,547 $1,700 - $3,401
4+ bedrooms $8,490 - $13,789 $3,649 - $7,279 $2,168 - $4,123

*These price ranges are a rough estimate based on 2,163 miles and historical averages. The actual size of your move, additional services required, truck parking access, market conditions, and availability can greatly affect your final costs.

Cost to hire movers from Wisconsin to California

Planning a move from Wisconsin to California? For a studio or one-bedroom, you’ll likely pay between $1,549 and $6,397. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, expect costs to fall somewhere between $4,262 and $9,140 for the same journey (WI to CA). Moving four or five bedrooms? Typical prices range from $8,490 to $13,789.

Cost of moving containers from Wisconsin to California

If you're moving from Wisconsin to California, expect to pay between $1,481 and $3,558 for a small load. For a home with two or three bedrooms, prices typically range from $2,606 up to $5,547. Larger moves of four bedrooms or more can run between $3,649 and $7,279. Check out our guide on PODS cost for more details.

Check out the most affordable moving container companies for your move from Wisconsin.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Wisconsin to California

Renting a moving truck is usually your cheapest option, but keep in mind you’ll be handling all the loading, unloading, and driving yourself.

If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck, expect to spend between $1,601 and $2,974. For two to three bedrooms, rates typically fall between $1,700 and $3,401. Planning a move from Wisconsin to California or relocating a four-bedroom (or bigger) home? You’re likely looking at anywhere from $2,168 up to $4,123 for your rental truck.

These quotes include estimated fuel costs.

Factors affecting the cost of moving from WI to CA

A few key things can affect how much it costs to move from Wisconsin to California. Here’s what might influence your total price:

  • Move size: Bigger homes cost more to move than small studios.
  • Time of year: Rates go up during summer, the peak moving season in Wisconsin.
  • DIY vs. professional mover: Moving yourself is more affordable, but letting professionals handle the move saves you time and effort.

What to know before moving from WI to CA

If you’re making the move from Wisconsin to California, it’s worth checking out how life in your new state stacks up.

Cost of living: Wisconsin vs. California

Before you move, it’s a good idea to compare living expenses in Wisconsin and California. This simple side-by-side overview highlights key factors like housing, income, taxes, and unemployment, so you can see how your budget might change. Take a look at how these two states measure up when it comes to the essentials that impact your cost of living:

Wisconsin California
Average rent cost $1,100 $1,856
Average home cost $306,566 $771,057
Average income (per capita) $72,458 $91,905
Cost of Living Index 99 134
Unemployment rate 2.9% 5.4%
Average Sales Tax 5.43% 8.68%
State Income Tax 7.65% 13.3%
  • Rent in California is about 69% higher than in Wisconsin. Be sure to factor this into your monthly budget planning.
  • Prepare for a higher monthly mortgage. Home prices in California are typically about 152% higher than in Wisconsin.
  • Great news—you’re likely to make about 27% more in California compared to Wisconsin. That boost could translate to extra savings or new investment opportunities every month.
  • Moving to California means you’ll be spending 35% more than you did in Wisconsin. Be sure to budget for the higher cost of living.
  • Unemployment in California is about 86% higher than in Wisconsin. With more people looking for work, employers have a bigger talent pool to choose from, which can make your job search more competitive.
  • Sales taxes are 60% higher in California than in Wisconsin, meaning you'll spend more on everyday essentials like clothes, electronics, dining out, and household goods.
  • Income taxes in California are 74% higher than in Wisconsin, so you’ll be paying more in state taxes and taking home a bit less pay.

How life is different in California vs. Wisconsin

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 California and Wisconsin compares across key lifestyle indicators:

California Wisconsin
Population 39,029,342 5,910,955
Political leaning Democratic 59-41 Republican 51-49
Summer high 87ºF 81ºF
Winter low 59ºF 7ºF
Annual rain 22" 34"
Annual snow 7" 48"
Crime index 28.43 16.82
  • The population of California is approximately 560% greater than the population of Wisconsin. With more people often comes better-developed infrastructure, including healthcare, education, public transportation, and entertainment opportunities.
  • In the last presidential election, California voted Democratic and Wisconsin voted Republican.
  • The average high in the summertime in California is 87ºF and in Wisconsin, it’s 81ºF. A hotter summer climate can offer more sunshine and outdoor opportunities, but it may take some getting used to and cost more to stay cool, especially if you’re used to milder weather.
  • During the coldest part of the year, California reaches the temperature of 59ºF while Wisconsin gets down to 7ºF. A move to California with milder winters offers greater day-to-day convenience, lower costs, and more freedom to explore outdoors. It’s a great fit for those who prefer sun over snow and fewer weather-related interruptions.
  • You can expect only about 22 inches of annual rainfall in California versus 34 inches of rainfall in Wisconsin. Less annual rainfall means more sunshine and outdoor experiences, and fewer weather hassles. It can be a rewarding and energizing climate for many movers.
  • In California, it only snows about 7 inches annually while Wisconsin gets 48 inches of snow. Moving to California, with less snow, means easier winters, less maintenance, and fewer weather-related hassles, making it a great fit for those seeking a milder winter climate.
  • California has a higher crime rate than Wisconsin with a crime index of 28.43 vs. 16.82. A higher state-level crime rate shouldn’t be a dealbreaker, but it should prompt you to dig deeper into local safety conditions, choose your neighborhood wisely, and consider the impact on your lifestyle.

Comparing the pros of Wisconsin vs. California

Getting a fresh start in a new location is exciting. Here’s a side-by-side look at the perks of living in California compared to Wisconsin.

Pros of living in Wisconsin Pros of living in California
Low cost of living Ample economic opportunity
High quality of life Pleasant weather
Abundant outdoor recreational activities Abundant recreational options
Unique tasty food High quality of life
Borders great lakes Fresh and healthy foods

Comparing the cons of living in Wisconsin vs. California

Life can be unpredictable, no matter where you are. As you get ready to move from Wisconsin to California, keep these tips in mind.

Cons of living in Wisconsin Cons of living in California
High tax burden High cost of living
Extreme seasonal weather Heavy tax burdens
Lack of diversity Natural disasters
Poor roads Terrible traffic
High rate of alcoholism Strange laws

Other things to consider for your Wisconsin to California move

  • Weather: California has a great Mediterranean climate throughout most of the state. In the Southeast, you may experience colder winters and hotter summers. The northern part of California experiences more rain than the rest of the state. Before your move be sure to check for rain or very hot days.
  • HOA rules: Take a moment to review your neighborhood or community guidelines before moving day to ensure everything goes off without a hitch and you don’t run into any unexpected issues.
  • Elevator reservation: Book your building’s elevator early and check any moving day rules ahead of time.
  • Parking permits: Some cities expect you to have a parking permit for moving trucks, so double-check your new area’s rules before moving day to prevent any last-minute headaches.
  • State licensing: When contacting a local moving company for an estimate in California, make sure each has a “T Number” issued by the California Public Utilities Commission (CAPUC). Moving companies with valid T Numbers have met state requirements for insurance, safety, and financial stability and have passed criminal clearance checks conducted by the California Department of Justice. Before you book, double-check that your moving company is properly licensed.
  • State regulator: Quickly check the status of a California moving license anytime on the official state regulator’s website, here.
  • Moving permits: You won’t need a moving permit in California, but it’s a good idea to review local parking rules ahead of your move.
  • 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 California right on time. Get started here.
  • Mover's insurance: By law, interstate movers have to give you basic insurance known as “released value protection” at no extra cost. Opt for Released Value Protection – a cost-free choice provided by movers with minimal coverage. The liability is capped at 60 cents per pound per article. For instance, if a 50-inch TV weighing 25 pounds is lost or damaged, your reimbursement is only $15 (60 cents x 25 pounds). To ensure comprehensive coverage for your items' full value, consult with your chosen moving company or consider third-party insurance options.
  • Moving checklist: Keep moving day simple with our easy-to-use moving checklist. Make this your go-to guide to ensure you don’t miss a thing.

Things to do in California

While you’re in California, you won’t be bored. These are some of the coolest places to visit in your new home state:

Museums in California

  • The Getty Center
  • USS Midway Museum
  • Hess Persson Estates
  • California State Railroad Museum
  • The Getty Villa

Parks in California

  • La Jolla Cove
  • Heisler Park
  • Sonoma Plaza
  • Mount Rubidoux Park
  • Redwood Regional Park

Sports Teams in California

  • Anaheim Ducks (NHL)
  • Los Angeles Kings (NHL)
  • San Jose Sharks (NHL)
  • Los Angeles Angels (MLB)
  • Los Angeles Dodgers (MLB)

Universities in California

  • Stanford University
  • University of California, Berkeley
  • University of California, Los Angeles
  • University of Southern California
  • University of California, San Diego

FAQs

What is the cheapest way to move from Wisconsin to California? toggle

Opting for a full-service Wisconsin moving company might mean a higher upfront cost, but it lets you relax while the pros tackle all the details. Want to be more budget-friendly? You can rent a moving truck or choose a moving container. Just keep in mind you’ll be taking on more of the work yourself. If you’re keen to cut costs even further, check out our guide to the cheapest ways to move out of state.

Do movers transport your car from Wisconsin to California? toggle

Many full-service movers offer auto transport for an extra fee. If you'd rather take care of it yourself, you can easily arrange vehicle shipping from Wisconsin to California with a leading car transport company.

What are the benefits of moving from Wisconsin to California? toggle

More and more people are making the move from Wisconsin to California to take advantage of everything California has to offer, including: ample economic opportunity and pleasant weather.

Is it cheaper to live in Wisconsin or California? toggle

Living in Wisconsin usually costs less than in California. Housing is much more affordable in Wisconsin, with average rent about 41% less and home prices 60% lower than in California. Taxes are also lower in Wisconsin, most notably income taxes, which are more than 40% less than those paid by California residents.

How much should you make a year to live comfortably in California? toggle

If you’re planning to live on your own in California, aim for an income of around $74,410 to live comfortably. Expect monthly expenses to be about $3,208 if you’re flying solo, or $8,077 for a family of four. Your actual costs will vary depending on where you live. Bigger cities like Los Angeles and Bakersfield usually come with higher housing prices than smaller towns.

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