Factors that influence moving costs from Kansas City to Milwaukeetoggle

The cost of Kansas City movers will depend on:

  • Move size: How much you're moving directly affects the cost. A one-bedroom move from Kansas City to Milwaukee might cost as little as $1,377, while a four-bedroom home could reach up to $7,476.
  • Time of year: Summer is considered peak moving season in Kansas City, 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 $523 to $1,228. Just keep in mind these options involve more hands-on work than hiring professionals.

What to know before moving from Kansas City to Milwaukee

Moving from Kansas City 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 Kansas City than in Milwaukee, making the move an opportunity for many to enjoy a lower cost of living.

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

Kansas City Milwaukee
Average rent cost $1,300 $1,250
Average home value $233,378 $200,685
Average income (per capita) $64,551 $49,733
Cost of living (single person) $2,473 $2,022
Cost of living (family of 4) $6,361 $4,963
Unemployment rate 5.3% 7.4%
Sales tax 8.4% 4.9%
State income tax 4.8% 7.65%
  • Rent prices in Milwaukee are 4% lower than in Kansas City, which means youโ€™ll have more money in your pocket each month.
  • In terms of homeownership, youโ€™ll be able to get more for your money in Milwaukee.
    Home prices in Milwaukee are 14.0% lower than in Kansas City.
  • Income in Milwaukee is 23.0% lower than in Kansas City, 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 in Milwaukee is 18.2% lower than in Kansas City. This includes routine expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transportation.
  • The cost of living for a family in Milwaukee is 22.0% lower than in Kansas City.
  • The unemployment rate in Milwaukee is 39.62% higher than in Kansas City.
  • Youโ€™ll spend less on retail and restaurants in Milwaukee, since the cityโ€™s sales taxes in Milwaukee are 41.67% lower than in Kansas City.
  • State income taxes in Milwaukee are 59.38% higher than in Kansas City.

To put this in perspective, you would need around $2,452.89 in Milwaukee to maintain the same standard of life that you can have with $3,000.00 in Kansas City.

How life is different in Kansas City vs. Milwaukee

Milwaukee Kansas City
Population 577,222 508,090
AllTransit Transportation Performance Score 8 4
Walkability score 62 35
Bike friendliness score 58 35
Crime Index 66.76 58.4
Safety Index 33.24 42.6
Air Quality Good Good
  • Milwaukee's population is about 14% greater than Kansas City.
  • Milwaukee's public transportation has a score of 8 out of 10 versus Kansas City's lower score of 4.
  • Milwaukee is more walkable than Kansas City with a score of 62 out of 100 vs Kansas City's 35 out of 100.
  • With a score of 58 out of 100, Milwaukee is more bike-friendly than Kansas City, which has a score of 35 out of 100. The higher a city's score, the more suited they are to safely accommodating cyclists.
  • Milwaukee's crime rate is higher than Kansas City with a score of 66.76 compared to Kansas City's 58.4. This means that Milwaukee neighborhoods are safer than 66.76% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Kansas City neighborhoods are safer than 58.4%.
  • Milwaukee is considered to be less safe than Kansas City with a score of 33.24 vs Kansas City's 42.6.
  • Air quality in Milwaukee is good, and in Kansas City it's good.

Other things to consider for your Kansas City 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: Be sure to review your community or HOA guidelines before moving day to avoid any surprises or delays.
  • Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator, make sure to find out how to reserve it ahead of your move.
  • Truck parking permits: Many cities require special permits for parking large moving trucks. Check in advance to see if one is needed for your move.
  • 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.Double-check that the moving company is properly licensed before you hire them.
  • State regulator: You can check the status of a Wisconsin moving license through the state's public utilities commission.
  • Moving permits: Wisconsin doesn\โ€™t require moving permits, but it\โ€™s still a good idea to check local parking rules before your move-in day.
  • Change of address: We suggest filing your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move. Youโ€™ll be able to set your official move date, helping ensure your mail is forwarded correctly to Milwaukee. Start the process here.
  • Moving company insurance: Each state has its own requirements for the level of insurance moving companies must carry.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: Use our moving checklist to stay on top of every detail and reduce last-minute stress.

Where to live in Milwaukee

Ready to relocate to "Cream City"? Here are some of the top neighborhoods to consider 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

Once youโ€™re settled into your new home in Wisconsin, itโ€™s time to get out and discover what Milwaukee has to offer. No matter your interests, thereโ€™s something for everyone here:

  • Arts and culture: Milwaukee features a variety of museums and cultural arts centers, including 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 spots โ€” perfect for hiking, biking, or simply soaking up the outdoors.
  • Sports: Grab a seat and root for the home team during 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 Kansas City to Milwaukee?

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

When is the cheapest time to move from Kansas City to Milwaukee?

Since spring and fall are the most popular times to move from Kansas City 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 Kansas City to Milwaukee take?

The 567-mile journey from Kansas City, MO to Milwaukee, WI typically takes one to six days. Some movers in Kansas City 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