Best Movers from Wisconsin to California (2025 Cost Data)
Quick answer: The average cost to move from Wisconsin to California ranges from $1,700 to $9,418 and takes six–17 days. The biggest cost factors are how much you’re moving, your move date, and whether you hire a company or do the move yourself.
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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: 4.9 out of 5 stars
- Schroeder Moving Systems Inc.: 4.72 out of 5 stars
- Eagle Moving & Storage Co: 4.66 out of 5 stars
- Eric's Moving and Delivery Inc.: 4.62 out of 5 stars
- EC Moving & Storage, Inc.: 4.62 out of 5 stars
Company Info
State license #: 26753
Years in Business: 9
DOT #: 2595339
Alternate Names: Above Average Moving LLC
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.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Crating
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
Years in Business: 78
DOT #: 514341
Alternate Names: Schroeder Moving Systems of Milwaukee
Schroeder Moving Systems Inc., a reputable moving company based in New Berlin, WI, has been offering outstanding local residential moving services since 1948. They stand out with an impressive array of services, including packing, unpacking, and crating, as well as the capability to move delicate items like pianos, hot tubs, and antiques. Consumer reviews are overwhelmingly positive, with an average rating of 5.0 on Yelp and 4.0 on Google, and an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. Unlike many competitors, Schroeder Moving Systems accepts credit cards and requires no deposit, making them a reliable and customer-friendly choice for local moves.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Shipment tracking
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
Years in Business: 94
DOT #: 689374
Eagle Moving & Storage Co, a trusted moving company in Milwaukee, WI, has been providing reliable local residential moving services since 1931. With a solid history and a high BBB rating of A+, they stand out among other nearby movers for their experience and reputation. Consumer feedback reveals a strong presence on Google with an average rating of 4.2 out of 127 reviews, and they offer a variety of services including packing, unpacking, and office moves. Known for their flexibility, they accept credit cards and require no deposit, ensuring a hassle-free moving experience for local customers.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
Years in Business: 8
DOT #: 3088976
Alternate Names: Eric's Moving and Delivery, Eric's Moving and Delivery Service, Kvamers Emergency Moving
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.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Shipment tracking
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
Years in Business: 31
DOT #: 125550
Alternate Names: Atlas Van Lines
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.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Shipment tracking
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
The best Wisconsin to California moving container companies
Moving containers are a budget-friendly option that lets you avoid doing all the work yourself. You pack and unpack your belongings, and the company takes care of the transport, picking up your container in Wisconsin and delivering it to your new place in California.
Here are our favorite moving container companies for a smooth, stress-free move:
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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:
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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?
Take a look at the table below for average moving cost estimates from Wisconsin to California. We’ve broken down prices by home size and type of moving service, so you can easily compare your choices.
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 Bedroom | $1,662 - $6,394 | $1,434 - $3,817 | $1,616 - $3,091 |
| 2 - 3 bedrooms | $4,524 - $9,418 | $2,765 - $5,323 | $1,700 - $3,504 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $8,156 - $13,922 | $3,611 - $7,274 | $2,041 - $4,380 |
*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 $1,662 and $6,394. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, expect costs to fall somewhere between $4,524 and $9,418 for the same journey (WI to CA). Moving four or five bedrooms? Typical prices range from $8,156 to $13,922.
Cost of moving containers from Wisconsin to California
If you're moving from Wisconsin to California, expect to pay between $1,434 and $3,817 for a small load. For a home with two or three bedrooms, prices typically range from $2,765 up to $5,323. Larger moves of four bedrooms or more can run between $3,611 and $7,274. 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
A moving rental truck is generally the cheapest option, but it requires you to do all of the driving and labor.
Moving a studio or one-bedroom apartment in a rental truck will cost around $1,616 to $3,091. A two to three-bedroom move will cost $1,700 to $3,504, and moving a home with four or more bedrooms or from Wisconsin to California costs around $2,041 to $4,380.
These quotes include the estimated fuel cost.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from WI to CA
Several factors influence the cost of moving from Wisconsin to California. Here’s what can impact your final bill:
- Move size: The larger your home is, the more you’ll pay compared to moving a small studio apartment.
- Time of year: Prices tend to spike during summer, the busiest moving season in Wisconsin.
- DIY vs. professional mover: Doing it yourself is cheaper, but hiring pros saves you effort and heavy lifting.
What to know before moving from WI to CA
If you’re moving from Wisconsin to California, take a moment to see how your new state compares to your current one.
Cost of living: Wisconsin vs. California
Before moving, make sure to compare the cost of living in Wisconsin and California. This easy side-by-side breakdown covers important factors like housing, income, taxes, and unemployment, giving you a clear picture of how your budget could be affected. Check out how these two states stack up on the essentials that shape your living expenses:
| 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 is about 69% higher in California than in Wisconsin. Keep this in mind when planning your monthly budget.
- Get ready for a higher monthly mortgage. You can expect home prices in California to be about 152% more than what you'll find in Wisconsin.
- Good news—you can expect to earn about 27% more in California than in Wisconsin. That extra income could mean more savings or investment opportunities each month.
- Moving to California means you’ll be paying 35% more than you did in Wisconsin. Make sure to plan your budget so you’re prepared for the increased cost of living.
- Unemployment in California is roughly 86% higher than in Wisconsin. That means there are more job seekers, giving employers more options but making it harder for you to land a job.
- Sales taxes are 60% higher in California than in Wisconsin. So, expect to pay more for everyday essentials like clothing, electronics, dining out, and household items.
- Income taxes in California are 74% higher than in Wisconsin. This means you’ll pay more in state taxes and bring home 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 |
- If you’re relocating from Wisconsin to California, you’ll notice that California has about 560% more residents. With a larger population comes improved infrastructure—think better hospitals, schools, public transportation, and more entertainment options.
- In the last presidential election, California leaned Democratic, while Wisconsin supported Republican.
- Summer temperatures in California can soar to 87ºF, noticeably hotter than Wisconsin, where highs typically reach 81ºF. Get ready for more sunshine, outdoor fun, and potentially higher cooling costs as you adjust to the warmer climate.
- Winter lows in California stay around 59ºF, while Wisconsin can plunge to a brisk 7ºF. Moving to California means you’ll get to experience milder winters, making day-to-day life simpler and often saving you money. With fewer icy days and less snow, you can spend more time outside and less time bundled up.
- In California, you’ll get about 22 inches of rain each year—less than the 34 inches you’re used to in Wisconsin. That means more sunshine, more time outside, and fewer weather concerns.
- In California, you can expect about 7 inches of snow each year, much less than the 48 inches you’d deal with in Wisconsin. So, if you’re moving to California, get ready for milder winters, less shoveling, and fewer extreme winter weather events.
- California has a higher crime rate than Wisconsin, with crime indexes at 28.43 and 16.82, respectively. While state averages aren’t everything, it’s a good idea to look into specific neighborhoods, follow local safety updates, and consider how this could impact your day-to-day routine.
Comparing the pros of Wisconsin vs. California
There’s something exciting about a fresh start. Here’s a quick look at how life in California stacks up against 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
No matter your location, life isn’t always perfect. Keep these points in mind as you make the move from Wisconsin to California.
| 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: Check ahead with any neighborhood or community rules on moving to ensure a smooth move.
- Elevator reservation: One common issue you should handle ahead of your move is reserving the building's elevator and finding out their rules for using the elevator.
- Parking permits: Some cities require parking permits for large vehicles. Find out about your new local rules ahead of time.
- 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. Make sure the moving company you use has proper licensing before hiring them.
- State regulator: You can verify a California moving license and its status on the state regulator's official website.
- Moving permits: California does not require any moving permits, but it is helpful to check local parking restrictions before moving into the state.
- Change of address: We recommend submitting your change of address form with USPS at least a week prior to your move. You can set an official move date on the form so that all your mail will get properly forwarded to California. Get started here.
- Mover's insurance: Interstate moving companies are required under federal law to provide basic insurance, also called “released value protection,” free of charge to all moving customers. 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: Peace of mind is priceless. Our moving checklist will help you ensure you’ve got everything covered.
Things to do in California
Get ready to discover all that California has to offer. Here are some must-see places to check out in your new 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
