How we chose the best moving companies for your WI to MN move
Our analysts at moveBuddha reviewed rates from 39 Wisconsin 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 Wisconsin to Minnesota?
Take a look at the table below for average
moving cost estimates from Wisconsin to Minnesota.
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 |
$1,057 – $3,028 |
$605 – $1,480 |
$342 – $615 |
| 2-3 bedrooms |
$1,863 – $4,663 |
$1,163 – $2,142 |
$360 – $744 |
| 4+ bedrooms |
$3,068 – $6,804 |
$1,452 – $2,790 |
$494 – $883 |
*These price ranges represent estimates for a 424-mile move from WI to
MN 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 Wisconsin to Minnesota
If you’re packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move from Wisconsin to Minnesota,
you can expect prices to land between $1,057
and $3,028.
For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from
$1,863 to
$4,663 for the trip from WI
to MN. If you’re moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you’re likely looking at a price tag between
$3,068 and
$6,804.
Cost of moving containers from Wisconsin to Minnesota
Moving containers from Wisconsin to Minnesota
will cost you $605 to
$1,480 for a small move.
For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $1,163
to $2,142. A four-bedroom move or bigger will
cost $1,452 to
$2,790.
Learn more about PODS cost.
Here are the cheapest moving container companies
when moving out of Wisconsin.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Wisconsin to Minnesota
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
$342
and $615
to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move,
prices usually range from $360
to $744.
If you’re relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you’ll likely spend anywhere from
$494
to $883.
These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.
Factors affecting the cost of moving from WI to MN
Several factors influence the cost of moving from Wisconsin to Minnesota. 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 Wisconsin 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 WI to MN
Making the move from Wisconsin to Minnesota means weighing what day-to-day life will look like once you settle in.
Cost of living: Wisconsin vs. Minnesota
A clear look at the cost differences between Wisconsin and Minnesota helps set expectations. From employment trends to housing costs, taxes, and earnings, this comparison outlines what may matter most for your wallet and lifestyle:
|
Wisconsin |
Minnesota |
| Average rent |
$1,100 |
$1,178 |
| Average home cost |
$306,566 |
$334,119 |
| Average income (per capita) |
$72,458 |
$84,313 |
| Cost of living index |
99 |
94 |
| Unemployment rate |
2.9% |
3.4% |
| Average sales tax |
5.43% |
8.03% |
| State income tax |
7.65% |
9.85% |
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Rent in Minnesota is about 7% higher than in Wisconsin. Be sure to factor this into your monthly budget planning.
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Get ready for a bigger monthly payment. Home prices in Minnesota are usually around 9% higher than what you’ll find in Wisconsin.
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Exciting news here, the average income is about 16% higher in Minnesota than in Wisconsin, so you should have more to save or invest each month.
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Since living costs in Minnesota and Wisconsin are pretty similar, you can focus less on your budget and more on finding the right lifestyle and environment for you.
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Unemployment in Minnesota is roughly 17% 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.
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Sales taxes are 48% higher in Minnesota than in Wisconsin, meaning you’ll spend more on everyday essentials like clothes, electronics, dining out, and household goods.
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State income taxes in Minnesota are 29% higher than in Wisconsin, which means you’ll owe more in state taxes and take home slightly less pay.
How life is different in Minnesota 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 Minnesota and Wisconsin compares across key lifestyle indicators:
|
Minnesota |
Wisconsin |
| Population |
5,737,915 |
5,910,955 |
| Political leaning |
Democratic 51.1-46.9 |
Republican 51-49 |
| Summer high |
81ºF |
81ºF |
| Winter low |
2ºF |
7ºF |
| Annual rain |
29″ |
34″ |
| Annual snow |
47″ |
48″ |
| Crime index |
22.47 |
16.82 |
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Both Minnesota and Wisconsin have similar population sizes, so you can expect a comparable level of resources and opportunities.
What really shapes your daily life, though, is each state’s unique vibe, economy, and culture.
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In the latest presidential election, Minnesota voted Democratic, while Wisconsin chose Republican.
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Summer highs average 81°F in Minnesota, compared to 81°F in Wisconsin.
The difference is minimal, so you won’t see major changes, though humidity and energy costs still matter.
-
Winter lows in Minnesota hover around 2°F, while Wisconsin averages 7°F.
When temperatures are this close, your move won’t bring big seasonal surprises.
-
You can expect about 29 inches of annual rainfall in Minnesota and 34 inches in Wisconsin.
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 Minnesota, you can expect about 47 inches of snow each year, while Wisconsin sees around 48 inches annually.
Since snowfall is pretty comparable in both places, your winter should feel pretty similar.
-
Minnesota has a higher crime rate than Wisconsin, with crime indexes at 22.47 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. Minnesota
Getting a fresh start in a new location is exciting.
Here’s a side-by-side look at the perks of living in Minnesota compared to Wisconsin:
| Pros of living in Wisconsin |
Pros of living in Minnesota |
| Low cost of living |
Ample economic opportunity |
| High quality of life |
Bountiful recreational outdoor opportunities |
| Abundant outdoor recreational activities |
Multitudinous lakes |
| Unique tasty food |
Diverse festivals |
| Borders great lakes |
Friendly people |
Comparing the cons of living in Wisconsin vs. Minnesota
Life isn’t always perfect, no matter where you are.
Here are a few things to keep in mind when making the move from Wisconsin to Minnesota:
| Cons of living in Wisconsin |
Cons of living in Minnesota |
| High tax burden |
Bland food |
| Extreme seasonal weather |
Cold snowy winters |
| Lack of diversity |
Terrible traffic |
| Poor roads |
High tax burden |
| High rate of alcoholism |
Thick accents |
Other things to consider for your Wisconsin to Minnesota 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.
-
State licensing:
To operate legally within the state, Minnesota household goods movers must have a current permit from the Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT).
Before being granted operating authority, each moving company must file a public tariff, provide proof of insurance and submit a Certificate of Compliance to MnDOT. Make sure the moving company you use has proper licensing before hiring them.
-
State regulator:
You can quickly check a Minnesota moving license and its current status on the state regulator’s official website here.
-
Moving permits:
You don’t need a moving permit in Minnesota, but it’s smart to check local parking regulations before moving day.
-
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 Minnesota 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. In Minnesota, opt for the budget-friendly Released Value Protection provided by movers at no extra charge. While economical, it offers minimal coverage at 60 cents per pound per article. For full value coverage of your items, consult with your chosen moving company for alternatives or consider a third-party insurance provider.
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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 Minnesota
You’ll have plenty to explore in Minnesota! Check out these top spots to visit in your new home state:
Museums in Minnesota
- Minneapolis Institute of Art
- Science Museum of Minnesota
- Mill City Museum
- Minnesota History Center
- Paisley Park
Parks in Minnesota
- Minnehaha Park
- Teddy Bear Park
- Enger Park and Tower
- Canal Park
- Minnesota Valley State Recreation Area
Sports teams in Minnesota
- Minnesota Lynx (WNBA)
- Minnesota Timberwolves (NBA)
- Minnesota Twins (MLB)
- Minnesota United FC (MLS)
- Minnesota Vikings (NFL)
Universities in Minnesota
- University of Minnesota-Twin Cities
- Carleton College
- Rasmussen College
- University of St. Thomas
- Minnesota State University, Mankato
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to move from Wisconsin to Minnesota?
Do movers transport your car from Wisconsin to Minnesota?
What are the benefits of moving from Wisconsin to Minnesota?
Plenty of movers are choosing to leave Wisconsin for Minnesota, drawn by advantages like ample economic opportunity and bountiful recreational outdoor opportunities that make life in the new state more appealing.
Is it cheaper to live in Wisconsin or Minnesota?
Living in Wisconsin usually costs less than in Minnesota.
Housing
is more affordable in Wisconsin,
with average rent about 7% less and home prices 8% lower than in Minnesota.
Taxes are also
lower in Wisconsin, most notably income taxes, which are more than 20% less than those paid by Minnesota residents.
How much should you make a year to live comfortably in Minnesota?
To live comfortably as a single adult in Minnesota, you should aim to make around $73,783.
On average, expect to spend about $3,552 per month, or $5,174 monthly for a family of four.
Your actual expenses can vary depending on your location within the state. Bigger cities like Minneapolis and St. Paul generally come with higher housing costs than smaller towns.
Which discounts can you find from movers in Wisconsin?
Many movers in Wisconsin publish special-rate programs:
1 honor AAA member discounts;
2 provide student pricing;
Eligibility and amounts may change, so confirm with each mover before booking.
Helpful moving resources
Wisconsin moving services
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For a move from Wisconsin to Minnesota, budget between $1,863–$4,663 for full-service movers, around
$1,652 if you choose a moving container, and approximately
$552
for a rental truck.
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