Factors that influence moving costs from Columbus to Milwaukeetoggle

The cost of Columbus movers will depend on:

  • Move size: How much you're moving directly affects the cost. A one-bedroom move from Columbus to Milwaukee might cost as little as $1,450, while a four-bedroom home could reach up to $8,269.
  • Time of year: Summer is considered peak moving season in Columbus, which often leads to higher prices from moving companies.
  • DIY vs. full-service: Renting a truck or using a container can be more affordable, with truck rentals ranging from $744 to $1,916. Just keep in mind these options involve more hands-on work than hiring professionals.

What to know before moving from Columbus to Milwaukee

Moving from Columbus to Milwaukee means adjusting to a different pace of life โ€” and a different price tag. On average, it costs significantly more to live in Columbus than in Milwaukee, making the move an opportunity for many to enjoy a lower cost of living.

Check out how Columbus compares to Milwaukee so you know what to expect before you relocate:

Columbus Milwaukee
Average rent cost $1,100 $1,250
Average home value $157,861 $200,685
Average income (per capita) $50,542 $49,733
Cost of living (single person) $2,041 $2,022
Cost of living (family of 4) $3,834 $4,963
Unemployment rate 5.3% 7.4%
Sales tax 9.0% 4.9%
State income tax 5.49% 7.65%
  • Rent prices in Milwaukee are 14% higher than in Columbus, which means youโ€™ll have less money in your pocket each month.
  • In terms of homeownership, youโ€™ll be able to get more for your money in Columbus.
    Home prices in Milwaukee are 27.1% higher than in Columbus.
  • Income in Milwaukee is 1.6% lower than in Columbus, so you could earn less for doing the same job. The top employers in Milwaukee include Johnson Controls, Aurora Health Care, and ManpowerGroup.
  • The cost of living for a single person is the same in Milwaukee and Columbus. This includes routine expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transportation.
  • If youโ€™re moving your family to Milwaukee, keep in mind that your living expenses could increase. The cost of living for a family in Milwaukee is 29.4% higher than in Columbus.
  • The unemployment rate in Milwaukee is 39.62% higher than in Columbus.
  • Youโ€™ll spend less on retail and restaurants in Milwaukee, since the cityโ€™s sales taxes in Milwaukee are 45.56% lower than in Columbus.
  • State income taxes in Milwaukee are 39.34% higher than in Columbus.

To put this in perspective, you would need around $2,972.07 in Milwaukee to maintain the same standard of life that you can have with $3,000.00 in Columbus.

How life is different in Columbus vs. Milwaukee

Milwaukee Columbus
Population 577,222 206,922
AllTransit Transportation Performance Score 8 2
Walkability score 62 25
Bike friendliness score 58 31
Crime Index 66.76 72.18
Safety Index 33.24 27.82
Air Quality Good Good
  • Milwaukee's population is about 179% greater than Columbus.
  • Milwaukee's public transportation has a score of 8 out of 10 versus Columbus's lower score of 2.
  • Milwaukee is more walkable than Columbus with a score of 62 out of 100 vs Columbus's 25 out of 100.
  • With a score of 58 out of 100, Milwaukee is more bike-friendly than Columbus, which has a score of 31 out of 100. The higher a city's score, the more suited they are to safely accommodating cyclists.
  • Milwaukee's crime rate is lower than Columbus with a score of 66.76 compared to Columbus's 72.18. This means that Milwaukee neighborhoods are safer than 66.76% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Columbus neighborhoods are safer than 72.18%.
  • Milwaukee is considered to be safer than Columbus with a safety index of 33.24 vs Columbus's 27.82.
  • Air quality in Milwaukee is good, and in Columbus it's good.

Other things to consider for your Columbus vs. Milwaukee move

  • Weather: Milwaukee's location in the Great Lakes Region often has rapidly changing weather, producing a humid continental climate, with cold, snowy winters, and hot, humid summers. Thunderstorms in the region can be dangerous and damaging, bringing hail and high winds. In rare instances, they can bring a tornado. Be sure to check your weather app to avoid inclement weather during your move.
  • HOA rules: Check ahead with any neighborhood or community rules on moving to ensure a smooth move.
  • Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator you'll want to check on how to reserve it for move 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: Movers providing in-state relocation services in the Badger State must register with the Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT), but strictly speaking, itโ€™s not a regulated state. However, movers must comply with individual insurance, licensing, and other state laws and regulations. Make sure the moving company you use has a license before hiring.
  • State regulator: You can verify a Wisconsin moving license and its status through the state's public utilities commission.
  • Moving permits: Wisconsin 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 and this way all of your mail will get properly forwarded to Milwaukee. Get started here.
  • Moving company insurance: Every state requires moving companies to carry different levels of insurance.For a secure move in Wisconsin, explore movers' insurance options to safeguard your belongings. Many moving companies offer Released Value Protection at no extra cost, covering items at 60 cents per pound. Elevate your protection with discussions on Full Value Protection or explore customized plans from third-party insurance providers. Understand coverage limits, potential extra costs, and read reviews to make an informed decision on your Wisconsin state moving insurance. Ensure a smooth and protected relocation experience with the right insurance coverage.
  • Moving checklist: Our moving checklist will help you have the peace of mind that you've got everything covered.

Where to live in Milwaukee

Now that you've decided to make the move to "Cream City", these are the best neighborhoods to move to in Milwaukee.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • Bay View
  • Brewerโ€™s Hill
  • Historic Third Ward
  • Lower East Side
  • Riverwest

Best neighborhoods for families

  • Bay View
  • Historic Third Ward
  • Juneau Town
  • Lower East Side
  • Northpoint

Things to do in Milwaukee

After settling into your new Wisconsin home, youโ€™ll want to branch out and explore your new city. Luckily, Milwaukee has lots to offer, no matter what youโ€™re interested in:

  • Arts and culture: Milwaukee is home to museums and cultural arts centers like the Harley-Davidson Museum, Milwaukee Art Museum, Milwaukee Public Museum, Discovery World, and Chudnow Museum of Yesteryear.
  • Outdoor recreation: The cityโ€™s Henry Maier Festival Park, Mitchell Park Horticultural Conservatory (The Domes), Veteran's Park, and Lake Park โ€” among other sites โ€” are great places to hike, ride bikes, or just enjoy nature.
  • Sports: Catch a live game and cheer on the home team at an Milwaukee Bucks (NBA), Milwaukee Brewers (MLB), Marquette Golden Eagles (NCAA), or Milwaukee Admirals (AHL) game.

FAQ

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

Spring and fall are the ideal times to move from Columbus to Milwaukee. Youโ€™ll benefit from more comfortable weather and avoid the higher prices that come with peak moving season in Columbus.

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

Since spring and fall are the most popular times to move from Columbus to Milwaukee, moving in the winter could help you save money. Check out our guide on moving discounts for more tips.

How long does a move from Columbus to Milwaukee take?

The 917-mile journey from Columbus, GA to Milwaukee, WI typically takes two to seven days. Some movers in Columbus offer expedited services if you're on a tight schedule, and if you need extra time, be sure to ask about storage options in Milwaukee.

Helpful moving resources