($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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Moving the reverse route? We’ve got you covered with our moving from California to Wisconsin guide.
Our track record
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.
- Safeway Moving: Best overall value
- American Van Lines: Most experienced mover
- Allied Van Lines: Best for contents coverage
- Mayzlin Relocation: Best for personalized service
- North American Van Lines: Best customized plans
- GPS tracking en route
- Veteran-owned
- Dedicated move coordinator
- Flat-rate pricing
- Donates a portion of moves to charity
- Experienced & fully trained moving crews
- Specializes in moving art & antiques
- Competitive pricing
- Can handle last-minute moves
- Climate-controlled storage
- Fragile packing
- Storage options
- 24/7 shipment tracking
- Quick & efficient
- Accurate quotes
- 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
- Custom crates for electronics & art
- Satellite shipment tracking
- 1,500 local agents covering all 50 states
- Self-packing option
- No deposit required
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.
- Above Average Moving LLC: 4.86 out of 5 stars
- EC Moving & Storage, Inc.: 4.66 out of 5 stars
- Schroeder Moving Systems Inc.: 4.62 out of 5 stars
- TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.62 out of 5 stars
- Eric's Moving and Delivery Inc.: 4.62 out of 5 stars
Above Average Moving LLC

DOT #: 2595339
Years in Business: 9
1416 Parkside Drive, Madison, WI 53704 USAbove 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.
Review Profiles
Services Offered
Move Distances
- Local moves
Available services
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Crating
- Storage
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 2595339
- State license #: 26753
Alternative Business Names
- Above Average Moving LLC
EC Moving & Storage, Inc.

DOT #: 125550
Years in Business: 31
3230 Hogarth St, Eau Claire, WI 54703EC 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.
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
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 125550
Alternative Business Names
- Atlas Van Lines
Schroeder Moving Systems Inc.

DOT #: 514341
Years in Business: 77
2720 E Winslow Ave, Appleton, WI 54911Schroeder 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.
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
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 514341
Alternative Business Names
- Schroeder Moving Systems of Milwaukee
TWO MEN AND A TRUCK

DOT #: 2527384
Years in Business: 31
3817 Kipp Street, Madison, WI 53718 USTwo 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.
Review Profiles
Services Offered
Move Distances
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
Available services
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Pianos
- Storage
- Safes
Additional Information
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 2527384
Alternative Business Names
- Lightner & Lightner, Inc.
Eric's Moving and Delivery Inc.

DOT #: 3088976
Years in Business: 8
1501 St Andrew St #411, La Crosse, WI 54601Eric'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.
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
- Pay by credit card
- DOT #: 3088976
Alternative Business Names
- Eric's Moving and Delivery
- Eric's Moving and Delivery Service
- Kvamers Emergency Moving
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:
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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:
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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.
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How we chose the best moving companies for your WI to CA move
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 | |
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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