Factors that influence moving costs from Dallas to Milwaukeetoggle

The cost of Dallas movers will depend on:

  • Move size: How much you're moving directly affects the cost. A one-bedroom move from Dallas to Milwaukee might cost as little as $1,488, while a four-bedroom home could reach up to $8,218.
  • Time of year: Summer is considered peak moving season in Dallas, 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 $772 to $1,999. Just keep in mind these options involve more hands-on work than hiring professionals.

What to know before moving from Dallas to Milwaukee

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

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

Dallas Milwaukee
Average rent cost $1,774 $1,250
Average home value $303,900 $200,685
Average income (per capita) $68,291 $49,733
Cost of living (single person) $2,828 $2,022
Cost of living (family of 4) $7,793 $4,963
Unemployment rate 3.6% 7.4%
Sales tax 8.25% 4.9%
State income tax 0.0% 7.65%
  • Rent prices in Milwaukee are 30% lower than in Dallas, 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 34.0% lower than in Dallas.
  • Income in Milwaukee is 27.2% lower than in Dallas, 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 28.5% lower than in Dallas. This includes routine expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transportation.
  • The cost of living for a family in Milwaukee is 36.3% lower than in Dallas.
  • The unemployment rate in Milwaukee is 105.56% higher than in Dallas.
  • Youโ€™ll spend less on retail and restaurants in Milwaukee, since the cityโ€™s sales taxes in Milwaukee are 40.61% lower than in Dallas.
  • State income taxes in Milwaukee are 7.65% higher than in Dallas.

To put this in perspective, you would need around $2,144.98 in Milwaukee to maintain the same standard of life that you can have with $3,000.00 in Dallas.

How life is different in Dallas vs. Milwaukee

Milwaukee Dallas
Population 577,222 1,304,379
AllTransit Transportation Performance Score 8 6
Walkability score 62 46
Bike friendliness score 58 49
Crime Index 66.76 51.4
Safety Index 33.24 48.6
Air Quality Good Good
  • Milwaukee's population is about 56% less than Dallas.
  • Milwaukee's public transportation has a score of 8 out of 10 versus Dallas's lower score of 6.
  • Milwaukee is more walkable than Dallas with a score of 62 out of 100 vs Dallas's 46 out of 100.
  • With a score of 58 out of 100, Milwaukee is more bike-friendly than Dallas, which has a score of 49 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 Dallas with a score of 66.76 compared to Dallas's 51.4. This means that Milwaukee neighborhoods are safer than 66.76% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Dallas neighborhoods are safer than 51.4%.
  • Milwaukee is considered to be less safe than Dallas with a score of 33.24 vs Dallas's 48.6.
  • Air quality in Milwaukee is good, and in Dallas it's good.

Other things to consider for your Dallas 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: Itโ€™s a good idea to look into your HOA or community regulations before moving day arrives.
  • Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator, itโ€™s a good idea to secure a reservation before your moving day.
  • Truck parking permits: To avoid fines or delays, check whether a parking permit is needed for your moving truck.
  • 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. Before booking, ensure the moving company is officially licensed to handle your move.
  • State regulator: To confirm a moving companyโ€™s license in Wisconsin, visit the state's public utilities commission
  • Moving permits: While Wisconsin doesnโ€™t mandate moving permits, checking local parking guidelines before your move-in day is still a good idea.
  • Change of address: We recommend submitting your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move to ensure your mail gets forwarded to Milwaukee without delay. You can select your official move date when completing the form. Start the process here.
  • Moving company insurance: Every state sets its own rules for what insurance moving companies need to maintain. 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 gives you the peace of mind that comes with being fully prepared.

Where to live in Milwaukee

With your sights set on "Cream City", these are some of the most popular 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

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 Dallas to Milwaukee?

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

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

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

The 1,004-mile journey from Dallas, TX to Milwaukee, WI typically takes two to eight days. Some movers in Dallas 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