Factors that influence moving costs from Milwaukee to Memphistoggle

The cost of Milwaukee movers will depend on:

  • Move size: How much you're moving directly affects the cost. A one-bedroom move from Milwaukee to Memphis might cost as little as $1,494, while a four-bedroom home could reach up to $7,869.
  • Time of year: Summer is considered peak moving season in Milwaukee, 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 $585 to $1,344. Just keep in mind these options involve more hands-on work than hiring professionals.

What to know before moving from Milwaukee to Memphis

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

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

Milwaukee Memphis
Average rent cost $1,250 $1,299
Average home value $200,685 $143,715
Average income (per capita) $49,733 $48,090
Cost of living (single person) $2,022 $1,842
Cost of living (family of 4) $4,963 $4,402
Unemployment rate 7.4% 8.0%
Sales tax 4.9% 9.75%
State income tax 7.65% 0.0%
  • Rent prices in Memphis are 4% higher than in Milwaukee, 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 Memphis.
    Home prices in Memphis are 28.4% lower than in Milwaukee.
  • Income in Memphis is 3.3% lower than in Milwaukee, so you could earn less for doing the same job. The top employers in Memphis include FedEx, AutoZone, and International Paper.
  • The cost of living for a single person in Memphis is 8.9% lower than in Milwaukee. This includes routine expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transportation.
  • The cost of living for a family in Memphis is 11.3% lower than in Milwaukee.
  • The unemployment rate in Memphis is 8.11% higher than in Milwaukee.
  • Youโ€™ll spend more on retail and restaurants in Memphis, since the cityโ€™s sales taxes in Memphis are 98.98% higher than in Milwaukee.
  • One perk of moving to Memphis is paying less in state income taxes, which are 100.00% lower than in Milwaukee.

To put this in perspective, you would need around $2,732.94 in Memphis to maintain the same standard of life that you can have with $3,000.00 in Milwaukee.

How life is different in Milwaukee vs. Memphis

Memphis Milwaukee
Population 633,104 577,222
AllTransit Transportation Performance Score 4 8
Walkability score 35 62
Bike friendliness score 41 58
Crime Index 77.49 66.76
Safety Index 22.51 33.24
Air Quality Good Good
  • Memphis's population is about 10% greater than Milwaukee.
  • Memphis's public transportation has a score of 4 out of 10 versus Milwaukee's higher score of 8.
  • Memphis is less walkable than Milwaukee with a score of 35 out of 100 vs Milwaukee's 62 out of 100.
  • Memphis has a bike-friendliness score 41 out of 100, which means it isn't as accessible to and safe for cyclists as Milwaukee, which has a score of 58 out of 100.
  • Memphis's crime rate is higher than Milwaukee with a score of 77.49 compared to Milwaukee's 66.76. This means that Memphis neighborhoods are safer than 77.49% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Milwaukee neighborhoods are safer than 66.76%.
  • Memphis is considered to be less safe than Milwaukee with a score of 22.51 vs Milwaukee's 33.24.
  • Air quality in Memphis is good, and in Milwaukee it's good.

Other things to consider for your Milwaukee vs. Memphis move

  • Weather: Winter weather comes alternately from the upper Great Plains and the Gulf of Mexico, which can lead to drastic swings in temperature. Summer weather may come from Texas (very hot and humid) or the Gulf (hot and very humid). Severe thunderstorms can occur at any time of the year though mainly during the spring months. Large hail, strong winds, flooding and frequent lightning can accompany these storms. 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: Although a local license is not required in Tennessee, make sure the moving company youโ€™ll be hiring is registered with U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT). To verify if youโ€™re dealing with a legal and licensed mover, you may ask them their USDOT registration number. Before booking, ensure the moving company is officially licensed to handle your move.
  • State regulator: To confirm a moving companyโ€™s license in Tennessee, visit the state's public utilities commission
  • Moving permits: While Tennessee 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 Memphis 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. When it comes to movers' insurance in Tennessee, most moving companies offer Released Value Protection at no extra charge. This basic coverage extends to 60 cents per pound per item. For increased protection, consider discussing Full Value Protection options with the moving company. Additionally, exploring third-party insurance providers is a viable choice for tailored plans. Prioritize understanding coverage limits, potential extra costs, and read reviews to make an informed decision about your moving insurance in Tennessee.
  • Moving checklist: Our moving checklist gives you the peace of mind that comes with being fully prepared.

Where to live in Memphis

With your sights set on "Bluff City", these are some of the most popular neighborhoods to consider in Memphis.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • Binghampton
  • Cooper-Young
  • Crosstown
  • Downtown
  • Midtown

Best neighborhoods for families

  • Bartlett
  • Cordova
  • East Memphis
  • Germantown
  • River Oaks-Kirby-Balmoral

Things to do in Memphis

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

  • Arts and culture: Memphis features a variety of museums and cultural arts centers, including the Graceland, National Civil Rights Museum - Lorraine Motel, Stax Museum of American Soul Music, Memphis Rock 'n' Soul Museum, and Slave Haven / Burkle Estate Museum.
  • Outdoor recreation: The cityโ€™s Shelby Farms Park, Mud Island River Park, Tom Lee Park, and Levitt Shell 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 Memphis Grizzlies (NBA) and Memphis Hustle (NBA G League) game.

FAQ

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

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

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

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

The 621-mile journey from Milwaukee, WI to Memphis, TN typically takes one to six days. Some movers in Milwaukee offer expedited services if you're on a tight schedule, and if you need extra time, be sure to ask about storage options in Memphis.

Helpful moving resources