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($1,262) Cost to Move From Milwaukee, WI to Oakland, CA

Easily compare and book your next move with moveBuddha
Estimated cost & time: If you’re moving 2,162 miles from Milwaukee to Oakland, expect to pay between $1,291 and $7,821. The journey should take about six–17 days. Costs can vary due to distance, the date of the move, home size, and your choice between DIY and professional assistance.
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Best movers from Milwaukee to Oakland

Best overall value
Safeway Moving Logo Safeway Moving
checkmark Best overall value
checkmark Veteran owned
checkmark Portion to charity
4.9
  • checkmarkBest overall value
  • checkmarkVeteran owned
  • checkmarkPortion to charity
American Van Lines Logo American Van Lines
checkmark Certified crews
checkmark Flat-rate pricing
checkmark Family-owned
4.5
  • checkmarkCertified crews
  • checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
  • checkmarkFamily-owned
North American Van Lines Logo North American Van Lines
checkmark 1,800 trucks
checkmark Storage available
checkmark Customized moving plans
4.5
  • checkmark1,800 trucks
  • checkmarkStorage available
  • checkmarkCustomized moving plans
Allied Van Lines Logo Allied Van Lines
checkmark Specialty packing services
checkmark White-glove reputation
checkmark 80+ years’ experience
4.8
  • checkmarkSpecialty packing services
  • checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
  • checkmark80+ years’ experience
Mayzlin Relocation Logo Mayzlin Relocation
checkmark Family owned
checkmark East coast focus
checkmark Affordable pricing
4.9
  • checkmarkFamily owned
  • checkmarkEast coast focus
  • checkmarkAffordable pricing

Best movers by type

Professional Icon
Professional
Container Icon
Container
Rental Truck Icon
Rental Truck
Freight Icon
Labor Only

Best professional movers from Milwaukee to Oakland

For a stress-free interstate move from Milwaukee to Oakland, selecting a full-service mover is a wise choice. These professionals cover all aspects of the move, freeing you to focus on the excitement of your new adventure.

With 7 interstate moving companies in Milwaukee, we’re here to highlight the best options for a seamless transition to Oakland.

Safeway Moving
checkmark Best overall value
checkmark Veteran owned
checkmark Portion to charity
American Van Lines
checkmark Certified crews
checkmark Flat-rate pricing
checkmark Family-owned
Allied Van Lines
checkmark Specialty packing services
checkmark White-glove reputation
checkmark 80+ years’ experience
Mayzlin Relocation
checkmark Family owned
checkmark East coast focus
checkmark Affordable pricing
North American Van Lines
checkmark 1,800 trucks
checkmark Storage available
checkmark Customized moving plans

Estimated cost to move from Milwaukee to Oakland

These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 2,162-mile move from Milwaukee to Oakland using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 07, 2025. moveBuddha compiles thousands of validated rates from movers across the U.S., with monthly updates to reflect seasonality and market conditions. Your end price may shift due to load size, service add-ons, access or parking limitations, fuel costs, and your move date. We recommend obtaining several quotes to get a reliable estimate.
Studio Icon

Studio / 1 bedroom

  • Moving Company $2,512 – $5,662
  • Moving Container $1,722 – $3,187
  • Rental Truck $1,205 – $2,350
Two Three Bed Icon

2-3 bedrooms

  • Moving Company $3,366 – $7,821
  • Moving Container $2,101 – $4,471
  • Rental Truck $1,291 – $2,854
Four Bed Icon

4+ bedrooms

  • Moving Company $6,644 – $10,890
  • Moving Container $3,029 – $5,691
  • Rental Truck $1,647 – $3,291
Recent Moving Price Estimates
The following are real, anonymized quotes requested by moveBuddha readers in the past 48 hours. Prices change with dates and availability; use these as a ballpark, not a guarantee.
Allied Van Lines
Hales Corners, WI Black Point-Green Point, CA
5+ Bedrooms
Oct 13, 2025
1-800-Pack-Rat
Delafield, WI Pacifica, CA
1 Bedroom (small)
Oct 10, 2025
Mayflower Transit
Rochester, WI San Leandro, CA
2 Bedrooms
Oct 03, 2025
Roadway Moving
Brown Deer, WI Martinez, CA
Studio apartment
Sep 07, 2025
North American Van Lines
Fox Point, WI Emeryville, CA
3 Bedrooms
Sep 07, 2025
Mayzlin Relocation
Menomonee Falls, WI Shell Ridge, CA
3 Bedrooms
Aug 28, 2025
Budget Truck Rental
Burlington, WI Vallejo, CA
5+ Bedrooms
Aug 25, 2025
Safeway Moving
Caledonia, WI Colma, CA
1 Bedroom (large)
Aug 24, 2025
BLVD Moving
Muskego, WI Belvedere, CA
1 Bedroom (large)
Aug 21, 2025
United Van Lines
Fredonia, WI Dublin, CA
3 Bedrooms
Aug 18, 2025

Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from Oakland, CA to Milwaukee, WI guide.

Top-rated local movers that handle Milwaukee to Oakland moves

When planning a move from Milwaukee to Oakland, finding a local mover that also handles long-distance relocations can be tricky. We’ve taken care of the research for you — reviewing 11 local movers in Milwaukee who provide long-distance services, and scoring them on price, customer reviews, and reliability.

Here are the top local moving companies to ensure a smooth transition from Milwaukee to Oakland.

  1. Eagle Moving & Storage Co: 4.48 out of 5 stars
  2. Schroeder Moving Systems Inc.: 4.44 out of 5 stars
  3. Hernia Movers Inc: 4.34 out of 5 stars
  4. Brothers Moving & Storage: 4.3 out of 5 stars
  5. TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.34 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
76.3% of all reviews were positive
22.4% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Top-rated service stands out at Eagle Moving & Storage Co, with 76% of feedback sharing satisfaction and frequent praise for the team’s professionalism, polite attitude, and prompt handling of belongings. Customers report efficient, quick moves, careful treatment of items, and transparent prices, even during complex or large moves. Repeat clients and referrals underline a dependable experience—an advantage compared to moving companies with inconsistent performance. On the critical side, problems include item damage, lost possessions, and some delays, and a few customers describe customer service as unresponsive during claims or after property issues. Most feedback shows Eagle sets a higher bar for reliability, though occasional mistakes in handling or communication may occur.
Get a Quote (414) 383-1776

Company Info

Years in Business: 94

DOT #: 689374

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
75.0% of all reviews were positive
20.7% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving with Schroeder Moving Systems Inc. means reliable service and a professional team. Analyzing 92 pieces of feedback, about 75% rated their move positively. Customers mention the movers’ polite approach, careful treatment of belongings, and smooth, consistent communication. Many praised efficient handling and said they would highly recommend Schroeder to friends and family. Some noted fast, stress-free service and clear organization throughout the process. On the other hand, negative input points to issues such as items damaged during moves, sudden extra charges, and rare cases of misplaced property. Delayed or mishandled claims and confusing reimbursement for damage reported by a few set Schroeder apart from the top tier of national movers. Still, their strong rate of satisfied customers stands out compared to many moving companies.
Get a Quote (262) 784-1717

Company Info

Years in Business: 78

DOT #: 514341

Alternate Names: Schroeder Moving Systems of Milwaukee

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
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
84.3% of all reviews were positive
13.7% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving stress melts away with Hernia Movers, as 204 customer accounts reveal remarkable speed, efficiency, and courtesy. 84% of input praised the swift, professional service, with feedback often highlighting how efficiently teams tackled moves, handled possessions carefully, and maintained polite, helpful attitudes. Customers appreciated clear communication and often noted cost estimates matched the final bill, a rarity among comparable companies. Negative input (14%) focused on damaged items, delayed arrivals, or weak communication—especially regarding repairs or lateness. These issues, though less frequent, sometimes led to frustration about inadequate resolution. A mere 2% of feedback was neutral, often mentioning hiccups with scheduling or truck size, but noting pleasant staff. Compared to other movers, Hernia stands out for reliability, hustle, and consistent professionalism, though the occasional mishap suggests vigilance when valuables are involved.
Get a Quote (414) 263-6402

Company Info

Years in Business: 49

DOT #: 246074

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Offices
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
67.1% of all reviews were positive
31.5% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
When it comes to making a move easier, Brothers Moving & Storage stands out for their friendly, professional movers who consistently demonstrate care with customers’ belongings. Of the 73 reviews examined, 67% reflected positive feedback. People mention polite staff, efficient service, and quick, careful moving, while many note helpful attitudes throughout the process. Fast turnaround and respectful handling of property often appear in comments, setting this mover above typical expectations. Still, some customers report damaged items, unexpected charges, and communication gaps—issues that should not be overlooked. The most frequent complaint involves damage to goods, with several citing lost or broken property. Unanticipated fees and slow or unresponsive follow-up are other sources of disappointment. While most clients are glad to recommend Brothers, the negative feedback makes clear that outcomes may differ, especially regarding item safety and billing accuracy. This company receives praise for its work ethic and professionalism but falls short for some when it comes to handling delicate possessions and transparent costs.
Get a Quote (414) 815-6683

Company Info

Years in Business: 12

DOT #: 2301274

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
65.6% of all reviews were positive
32.5% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving experiences with TWO MEN AND A TRUCK stand out for efficient service and staff who are polite, professional, and careful with belongings. Over 65% of 302 customer feedback entries rated their experiences positively, noting quick moves and helpful teams. Customers highlight the movers’ attention to detail and their ability to handle complex or heavy items without incident. Despite these strengths, some customers report substantial problems. About 33% of feedback reflects concerns over items damaged during moves, delayed arrivals, or long wait times for claim resolution. Pricing transparency gets mixed input, and a number of users mention issues with complaint handling or lack of follow-up from office staff. Compared to other moving companies, commentary shows that customers regularly return for repeat service, indicating reliability in execution, but some find communication and claims processes less responsive than industry peers. For those valuing speed and courtesy in a move, this company delivers, but vigilance is advised to ensure property protection and prompt service responses.
Get a Quote (414) 220-0994

Company Info

State license #: 877973

Years in Business: 32

DOT #: 2527384

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Pianos
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card

How much does it cost to move from Milwaukee to Oakland?

Movers in Wisconsin charge per hour on average. Here are average prices for a full-service moving company, moving container, or truck:

Move size Moving company Moving container Rental
truck
Studio / 1 bedroom $1,262 – $5,105 $1,170 – $2,988 $1,156 – $2,256
2 – 3 bedrooms $3,366 – $7,821 $2,101 – $4,471 $1,291 – $2,854
4+ bedrooms $6,644 – $10,890 $3,029 – $5,691 $1,647 – $3,291
*The figures shown represent approximate costs for a 2,162-mile relocation from Milwaukee to Oakland, derived from moveBuddha pricing data current as of Nov 07, 2025. moveBuddha aggregates thousands of verified prices from moving companies across the country and updates the data each month to capture seasonal fluctuations and market dynamics. Final pricing may vary based on shipment size, optional services, parking or access challenges, fuel costs, and schedule. For accuracy, collect quotes from several movers.

Cost to hire movers from Milwaukee to Oakland

If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Milwaukee to Oakland, you can expect to spend between $1,262 and $5,105. For a two- or three-bedroom place, prices usually range from $3,366 to $7,821 on the same route. Got a larger household? Moving a four- or five-bedroom home from Milwaukee to Oakland typically runs between $6,644 and $10,890.

Cost of moving containers from Milwaukee to Oakland

When moving from Milwaukee to Oakland, for a small load, you’ll likely pay between $1,170 and $2,988. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, costs usually range from $2,101 to $4,471. Got a big family or a four-plus bedroom house? Expect prices ranging anywhere from $3,029 up to $5,691. 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 Wisconsin.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Milwaukee to Oakland

Renting a moving truck in Milwaukee is usually your cheapest option to get to Oakland. 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 $1,156 and $2,256. For two- or three-bedroom moves, prices typically land between $1,291 and $2,854. Dealing with a four-bedroom-plus home? Expect rental truck costs to be somewhere between $1,647 and $3,291.

These cost ranges already include estimated fuel costs.

Factors that impact moving costs from Milwaukee to Oakland

The cost of Milwaukee movers will depend on:

  • The size of your move: Costs rise with more belongings. A small one-bedroom move can start at $2,544, but larger homes can run up to $10,873.
  • Seasonal timing: Demand peaks in summer — expect premium rates during moving season in Milwaukee.
  • Whether you hire pros or do it yourself: Choosing DIY with a truck ($1,156–$3,221) is cheaper, though tougher, than using movers.

What to know before moving from Milwaukee to Oakland

Expect a bump in monthly expenses after the move – Oakland runs about 56% higher for singles and 73% higher for families than Milwaukee.

Singles spend around $3,146 in Milwaukee versus $2,022 in Milwaukee; families pay $8,584 compared with $4,963.

Dig into the side-by-side details here:

Milwaukee Oakland
Average 1 BR rent $1,612 $1,969
Average 3 BR rent $2,880 $4,450
Average home value $200,685 $736,156
Average income (per capita) $49,733 $94,389
Cost of living (single) $2,022 $3,146
Cost of living (family of four) $4,963 $8,584
Unemployment rate 7.4% 4.5%
Sales tax 4.9% 10.25%
State income tax 7.65% 13.3%
  • As you consider relocating to Oakland, note that rent can be roughly 76% more expensive than it is in Milwaukee; adjust your financial plans to accommodate this change.
  • Be sure to budget for a higher monthly mortgage payment, as home prices are about 267% higher in Oakland than in Milwaukee.
  • Great news! You’ll find the average income is about 90% higher in Oakland compared to Milwaukee, giving you some extra room for savings or investments.
  • Plan for higher expenses in Oakland, since the cost of living for a single person is 56% more than in Milwaukee. This encompasses usual costs like utilities, groceries, apparel, and transit.
  • If your journey leads to Oakland, be prepared for higher living expenditures. The cost of living for a family in Oakland is 73% more than it is in Milwaukee.
  • Oakland experiences an unemployment rate that is about 39% lower than that of Milwaukee. This is generally a positive sign for those considering a move here, as it reflects a healthy economy.
  • Sales taxes are 109% higher in Oakland than in Milwaukee. This means you’ll likely pay more out-of-pocket for everyday purchases on taxable goods like clothing, electronics, dining out, and household items.
  • Income taxes are 74% higher in California compared to Wisconsin. 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.

The breakdown below shows how typical living costs and monthly expenses line up when comparing Milwaukee with Oakland:

Living Expense Milwaukee Oakland
Basic utilities $167.94 $277.25
Cell phone plan $43.50 $53.00
Dozen eggs $4.23 $6.71
Loaf of bread $3.40 $5.09
Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) $16.00 $30.00
Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) $70.00 $140.00
Gym membership $53.38 $54.28
  • Basic utilities cost less in Milwaukee than in Oakland, helping trim your monthly bills.
  • Cell phone plans are cheaper in Milwaukee than in Oakland.
  • Eggs are less expensive in Milwaukee than in Oakland.
  • Bread costs less in Milwaukee than in Oakland.
  • A quick meal is cheaper in Milwaukee than in Oakland.
  • A mid-range dinner for two costs less in Milwaukee than in Oakland.
  • Gym memberships are more affordable in Milwaukee than in Oakland.

How life is different in Milwaukee vs. Oakland

Milwaukee Oakland
Population 577,222 440,646
Transportation score 8 8
Walkability score 62 75
Bike friendliness score 58 65
Crime index 66.76 68.62
Safety index 33.24 31.38
Air quality Good Good
  • Oakland’s population is about 24% less than Milwaukee.
  • Oakland’s public transportation score is within about 5% of Milwaukee, making them very similar.
  • Oakland is more walkable than Milwaukee with a score of 75 out of 100 vs Milwaukee’s 62 out of 100.
  • With a score of 65 out of 100, Oakland is more bike-friendly than Milwaukee, which has a score of 58 out of 100. The higher a city’s score, the more suited it is to safely accommodating cyclists.
  • Oakland and Milwaukee have a similar crime rate with scores of 68.62 and 66.76, respectively.
  • Oakland is considered to be less safe than Milwaukee with a score of 31.38 vs Milwaukee’s 33.24.
  • Air quality in Oakland is Good, and in Milwaukee it’s Good.

Other things to consider for your Milwaukee to Oakland move

  • 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: 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. Double-check that the moving company is properly licensed before you hire them.
  • State regulator: You can verify a California moving company’s license by visiting the state’s public utilities commission.
  • Moving Permits: While California 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 Oakland smoothly. Start the process here.
  • Moving company insurance: Every state requires moving companies to carry different levels of insurance. 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: Use our moving checklist to stay on top of every detail and reduce last-minute stress.

Where to live in Oakland

Now that you’ve chosen The Town as your next home, here are a few of the best neighborhoods in Oakland to check out.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • Downtown
  • Grand Lake
  • Piedmont Avenue
  • Rockridge
  • Temescal

Best neighborhoods for families

  • Fairview Park
  • Rockridge
  • Bushrod
  • Upper Rockridge
  • Lakeshore

Things to do in Oakland

After getting comfortable in your new California home, it’s time to see what Oakland 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, Oakland offers cultural landmarks like the Oakland Museum of California, Chabot Space & Science Center, USS Potomac, and Oakland Aviation Museum.
  • Outdoor recreation: The city’s Redwood Regional Park, Joaquin Miller Park, East Bay Regional Park District, and Lakeside Park and Garden Center — 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 Oakland Athletics (MLB)Oakland Roots DC (USLC) game.

FAQ

When is the best time to move from Milwaukee to Oakland?

The most budget-friendly and comfortable times to move from Milwaukee to Oakland are in the spring or fall, when the weather is mild and moving rates in Milwaukee are lower.

When is the cheapest time to move from Milwaukee to Oakland?

Because spring and fall moves from Milwaukee to Oakland are so common, winter can be a great time to move if you’re looking for lower prices. Read our moving discounts guide to see how.

How long does a move from Milwaukee to Oakland take?

A move of 2,162 miles from Milwaukee, WI to Oakland, generally takes six to 17 days. Movers in Milwaukee sometimes provide expedited service, while storage in Oakland is a good fallback if you need extra time.

Which movers in Milwaukee offer piano or antique moving?

Some moving jobs call for extra care and expertise. 5 movers in Milwaukee have the skills and equipment for piano transport. 2 specialize in safely moving antiques. Across WI, there are 25 piano movers and 13 antique movers, while nationwide the numbers reach 2,303 and 1,466.

Because not every mover offers these services, ask about specialty experience and insurance coverage when you request quotes.

Helpful moving resources

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