milwaukee to az

---
title: "Moving from Milwaukee to Arizona: Costs, Top Movers & What to Expect"
description: "Real cost estimates, top-rated Milwaukee movers, and a straight Milwaukee vs. Arizona breakdown to help you plan a smarter long-distance move."
author: Sean Sullivan
keywords: ["moving from Milwaukee to Arizona", "Milwaukee to Arizona movers", "Milwaukee to Arizona moving cost", "Milwaukee moving companies", "cost of living Arizona vs Milwaukee", "Wisconsin long distance movers", "Milwaukee AZ relocation"]
---

# Moving from Milwaukee to Arizona

If you're moving from Milwaukee to Arizona, you're committing to roughly 1,700 miles — enough to flip your seasons, cut your income tax bill, and trade 45 inches of annual snow for about 6. It's a big change. This guide covers what the move will actually cost, which Milwaukee-area movers handle the route well, and what the financial and lifestyle trade-offs look like so you're not surprised on either end.

## Local Moving Companies in Milwaukee for Your Arizona Move

Out of 11 Milwaukee-area movers that handle interstate work, these five come out on top for a Milwaukee to Arizona relocation.

1. Eagle Moving & Storage Co — 4.5 / 5
2. Schroeder Moving Systems Inc. — 4.48 / 5
3. TWO MEN AND A TRUCK — 4.36 / 5
4. Brothers Moving & Storage — 4.34 / 5
5. Hernia Movers Inc — 4.26 / 5

---

### Eagle Moving & Storage Co

**929 West Bruce Street, Milwaukee, WI 53204**
76% positive | 22% negative
[Yelp (18 reviews)](https://www.yelp.com/biz/eagle-movers-milwaukee-2) | [Google (127 reviews)](https://www.google.com/search?q=eagle+moving+%26+storage+co+milwaukee%2C+wi&oq=eagle+moving+%26+storage+co+milwaukee%2C+wi#lrd=0x88051991ff5999e9:0xb51422b1076ced65,1,,,,) | [BBB: A+](https://www.bbb.org/us/wi/milwaukee/profile/moving-companies/eagle-movers-inc-0694-23001694)

Ninety-four years in the moving business is a meaningful signal. Eagle's 76% positive review rate is consistently driven by professionalism, careful handling, and efficient crews — and the number of repeat clients and referrals backs that up. For a long haul to Arizona, that track record matters.

The common complaints are about damaged items and slow claims handling. If something breaks, getting resolution can be frustrating. Go in knowing that, and document everything on moving day.

**Get a Quote:** (414) 383-1776 | DOT #: 689374 | Years in business: 94

**Services:** Local, interstate, packing, unpacking, offices, pianos, storage, credit card accepted

---

### Schroeder Moving Systems Inc.

**15700 W Lincoln, New Berlin, WI 53151**
75% positive | 21% negative
[Yelp (11 reviews)](https://www.yelp.com/biz/schroeder-moving-systems-new-berlin-2) | [Google (73 reviews)](https://www.google.com/search?q=schroeder+moving+systems+new+berlin+wi#lrd=0x8805089fdee24cb5:0x266bb8c4d102f0e4,1,,,,) | [BBB: A+](https://www.bbb.org/us/wi/appleton/profile/moving-companies/schroeder-moving-systems-inc-0694-16000159)

Schroeder has been operating for 78 years and carries one of the more complete service menus you'll find from a regional mover — hot tubs, pool tables, art, antiques, crating, full-valuation coverage, shipment tracking. If you have specialty items making the trip to Arizona, that range of capability matters. Customer feedback across 92 reviews is solid, with consistent praise for communication and careful handling.

The negatives are surprise charges and slow damage claims — common complaints in the industry, but worth flagging for a move this long. Get the full pricing in writing before signing.

**Get a Quote:** (262) 784-1717 | DOT #: 514341 | Years in business: 78

**Services:** Local, interstate, packing, unpacking, offices, pianos, hot tubs, pool tables, art, antiques, crating, shipment tracking, full-valuation coverage, storage, fragile-only packing, credit card accepted

---

### Brothers Moving & Storage

**4396 S Kansas Ave, Saint Francis, WI 53235**
67% positive | 32% negative
[Google (25 reviews)](https://www.google.com/search?q=Brothers+Moving+%26+Storage+Saint+Francis%2C+WI#lrd=0x8805178251bdf9dd:0x1f66c391af2091c,1,,,,) | [BBB: A+](https://www.bbb.org/us/wi/milwaukee/profile/moving-and-storage-companies/brothers-moving-storage-0694-1000011978)

Brothers is a younger company at 12 years old, and the crew earns marks for being friendly and efficient. That said, 32% negative is one of the higher complaint rates on this list, mostly around damaged items, unexpected fees, and communication gaps after problems occur. One practical note: Brothers doesn't list interstate moves as an official service. Confirm they'll actually take on a Milwaukee-to-Arizona job before getting too far into the quoting process.

**Get a Quote:** (414) 815-6683 | DOT #: 2301274 | Years in business: 12

**Services:** Local, packing, unpacking, offices, crating, storage, cash and credit card accepted

---

### TWO MEN AND A TRUCK

**11800 West Burleigh Street, Wauwatosa, WI 53222**
66% positive | 33% negative
[Yelp (81 reviews)](https://www.yelp.com/biz/two-men-and-a-truck-milwaukee-wauwatosa) | [Google (445 reviews)](https://www.google.com/search?q=two+men+and+a+truck+milwaukee#lrd=0x880505a39c42ef35:0xc2528462ee588c8d,1,,,) | [BBB: A+](https://www.bbb.org/us/wi/wauwatosa/profile/moving-companies/two-men-and-a-truck-0694-1000042988)

With 445 Google reviews and 32 years in the business, there's enough data here to evaluate honestly. The crew's speed and courtesy show up reliably in positive feedback. Repeat customers are a real data point — people do come back. But about a third of reviewers flag damaged items, delayed arrivals, or poor follow-through from office staff on complaints. For a long-distance move to Arizona, ask about their delivery window commitment and claims process before you book.

**Get a Quote:** (414) 220-0994 | DOT #: 2527384 | State license #: 877973 | Years in business: 32

**Services:** Local, interstate, packing, unpacking, pianos, storage, safes, credit card accepted

---

### Hernia Movers Inc

**3210 North Pierce Street, Milwaukee, WI 53212**
84% positive | 14% negative
[Yelp (66 reviews)](https://www.yelp.com/biz/hernia-movers-milwaukee) | [Google (119 reviews)](https://www.google.com/search?q=Hernia+Movers+Inc#lrd=0x8805192d17e09ca7:0x99aef7c3bda4e3b6,1,,,) | [BBB: A+](https://www.bbb.org/us/wi/milwaukee/profile/moving-companies/hernia-movers-inc-0694-11000175)

The strongest satisfaction rate on this list — 84% positive across 204 reviews is genuinely good. What I find especially telling: customers repeatedly mention that the final bill matched the estimate. In the moving industry, that's rarer than it should be, and it's worth real credit. They've been around 49 years and the hustle and professionalism come through consistently. 

The catch: their service menu skews local. No interstate move is listed as an official offering. If you're planning a full-service door-to-door haul to Arizona, confirm that directly before you get attached to the idea.

**Get a Quote:** (414) 263-6402 | DOT #: 246074 | Years in business: 49

**Services:** Local, offices, storage, credit card accepted

---

## Local Moving Services in Milwaukee, WI

Here's what the Milwaukee mover market looks like across key specialty services:

| Service | # of Movers | % of Market |
|---|---|---|
| Interstate moves | 7 | 63.64% |
| Small moves | 6 | 54.55% |
| Pianos | 5 | 45.45% |
| Antiques | 2 | 18.18% |
| Art | 2 | 18.18% |
| Fragile-only packing | 2 | 18.18% |

## Cost to Move from Milwaukee to Arizona

Before you commit to any company, [use the moving cost calculator](/calculator) to get a range based on your specific home size and timeline. The table below gives you a working baseline for the roughly 1,696-mile trip.

| Move Size | Moving Company | Moving Container | Rental Truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 BR | $1,274 – $4,749 | $1,034 – $2,598 | $902 – $1,879 |
| 2–3 BR | $2,904 – $6,893 | $1,772 – $3,652 | $1,057 – $2,191 |
| 4+ BR | $5,480 – $9,441 | $2,516 – $4,994 | $1,320 – $2,733 |

*Estimates based on a 1,696-mile move from Milwaukee, WI to Arizona using pricing data as of January 2026. Final costs vary based on access, add-ons, fuel, and timing. Get multiple quotes before committing.*

### Cost to Hire Movers from Milwaukee to Arizona

For a studio or one-bedroom, budget $1,274–$4,749 for a full-service mover. Two- or three-bedroom homes typically land in the $2,904–$6,893 range. Larger households — four bedrooms and up — run $5,480–$9,441.

On a route this long, I'd look beyond local Milwaukee reputation and compare [long-distance moving companies](/best/long-distance-movers) that specialize in interstate hauls. [SafeShip Moving](/company/safe-ship-moving) handles routes like this regularly and is worth pulling a quote from.

### Cost of Moving Containers from Milwaukee to Arizona

[Moving containers](/best/moving-containers) split the difference between full-service movers and doing everything yourself. You load at your own pace; the company drives the container to Arizona. A small load runs $1,034–$2,598, a two- or three-bedroom home is $1,772–$3,652, and a larger household falls in the $2,516–$4,994 range.

### Cost of Moving Truck Rentals from Milwaukee to Arizona

[Renting a truck](/best/truck-rentals) is the lowest-cost option on paper — but driving 1,700 miles yourself is a genuine commitment. Plan for $902–$1,879 for a studio or one-bedroom, $1,057–$2,191 for two or three bedrooms, and $1,320–$2,733 for a larger home. Those ranges include estimated fuel. Factor in your time, physical effort, and the reality of navigating an unfamiliar route before deciding this is the right call.

## Factors That Affect Your Milwaukee to Arizona Moving Cost

Three variables do most of the work:

- **Move size:** More rooms, more cubic footage, higher cost. No way around it.
- **Time of year:** Summer is peak moving season across [Wisconsin](/movers/wisconsin) — rates climb from June through August, and availability gets tight. If you can move in the fall or spring, you'll likely see better pricing and more flexibility.
- **Service level:** Full-service movers cost more upfront but handle labor, liability, and delivery logistics. DIY saves money if you're able-bodied and have time to drive. Containers are the middle ground worth considering for longer hauls.

## What to Know Before Moving from Milwaukee to Arizona

This isn't a neutral-cost move. [Arizona](/movers/arizona) runs higher than Milwaukee on most financial measures — though the income and tax picture partially offset the gap. Plan your budget before you load the truck.

### Cost of Living: Milwaukee vs. Arizona

| | Milwaukee, WI | Arizona |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent | $1,250 | $1,308 |
| Average home cost | $200,685 | $428,711 |
| Average income (per capita) | $49,733 | $72,581 |
| Cost of living index | 88 | 107 |
| Unemployment rate | 7.4% | 3.6% |
| State income tax | 7.65% | 2.5% |

*Milwaukee sources: World Population Review, Zillow, US Census Bureau, US BLS, Tax Foundation. Arizona sources: Zumper, Zillow, Numbeo.*

What those numbers actually mean for your wallet:

- **Rent** is close — Arizona is about 5% higher, which won't surprise you.
- **Home prices** are a different story. Arizona averages about 114% more than Milwaukee. If you're buying, run the numbers carefully before you start shopping.
- **Income** averages roughly 46% higher in Arizona, which helps close the cost-of-living gap.
- **Overall cost of living** is about 22% higher. Build that into your first-year budget.
- **Unemployment** in Arizona is about 51% lower than in Milwaukee — the job market is meaningfully more active.
- **State income tax** drops from 7.65% in Wisconsin to 2.5% in Arizona. That's real take-home money every paycheck.

### How Life Differs Between Milwaukee and Arizona

| | Milwaukee, WI | Arizona |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 577,222 | 7,431,344 |
| Political leaning | Democratic 51–46 | Democrat 56–44 |
| Summer high | 83°F | 99°F |
| Winter low | 14°F | 34°F |
| Annual rain | 35" | 12" |
| Annual snow | 45" | 6" |
| Crime index | 66.76 | 24.89 |

*Milwaukee sources: US Census Bureau, 270toWin, NeighborhoodScout, BestPlaces. Arizona sources: Wikipedia, AllTransit, Walk Score, NeighborhoodScout, AirNow.*

A few things worth thinking through:

- **Summer heat.** Arizona peaks at 99°F versus Milwaukee's 83°F. That's not just uncomfortable — it changes how you exercise, commute, and schedule outdoor activity. Air conditioning costs will go up noticeably.
- **Winter.** Arizona's lows hover around 34°F; Milwaukee's drop to 14°F. You're trading 45 inches of annual snowfall for about 6. If shoveling has been a fact of your life, this part of the move will feel like a reward.
- **Rain.** Arizona gets 12 inches per year versus Milwaukee's 35. More sun, easier outdoor planning, drier air.
- **Crime.** Arizona's crime index (24.89) is considerably lower than Milwaukee's (66.76). For most people, that's a meaningful quality-of-life factor.
- **Politics.** Both lean Democratic, though Arizona is a larger and more politically diverse state overall.

### Other Considerations When Moving to Arizona

A few practical details worth handling before move day:

- **HOA rules:** Many Arizona neighborhoods have HOAs with specific move-in policies. Check them ahead of time to avoid complications on moving day.
- **Elevator reservation:** If you're moving into or out of a building with a shared elevator, reserve it in advance.
- **Truck parking permits:** Some Arizona cities require permits for large moving vehicles parked on the street. Check with the local municipality before your move.
- **State licensing:** Arizona is largely unregulated for movers, but companies should hold the required Arizona Department of Public Safety and Department of Weights and Measures licenses. Verify before you book.
- **Moving permits:** No statewide moving permit is required in Arizona, but local parking rules vary by city.
- **Change of address:** Submit your USPS change-of-address form at least a week before your move date so there's no gap in mail delivery.
- **Moving insurance:** Released Value Protection is included with most movers at no charge — but it only covers 60 cents per pound per item. A 25-pound TV that gets destroyed nets you $15. If you have anything you'd actually miss, ask about full-value protection or look into a third-party policy.
- **Moving checklist:** Our [moving checklist](/resources/moving-checklist) covers the details that tend to slip through the cracks when you're focused on the big logistics.

## Things to Do in Arizona

### Museums in Arizona
- Musical Instrument Museum
- Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum
- Commemorative Air Force Museum
- Yuma Territorial Prison State Historic Park
- Jerome State Historic Park

### Parks in Arizona
- Canyon de Chelly National Monument
- Sunset Crater & Wupatki National Monuments
- Petrified Forest National Park
- Walnut Canyon National Monument
- Saguaro National Park

### Sports Teams in Arizona
- Arizona Cardinals (NFL)
- Phoenix Suns (NBA)
- Arizona Diamondbacks (MLB)
- Arizona Coyotes (NHL)
- Arizona Rattlers (IFL)

### Universities in Arizona
- Arizona State University
- Northern Arizona University
- University of Arizona
- American Indian College
- Carrington College

## FAQ

### How long does a move from Milwaukee to Arizona take?

Four to 15 days is the typical range, depending on the service type and time of year. Summer moves tend to stretch toward the longer end — demand is high, and companies are stretched thin. Ask for a written delivery window before booking. If a company won't commit to one, that tells you something.

### What's the availability of custom crating among Milwaukee movers?

Three Milwaukee-area movers can build custom crates for art, antiques, and sensitive electronics. Confirm that the materials and dimensions actually fit your specific items — don't assume standard crating covers specialty pieces.

### What's the best way to get a car from Milwaukee to Arizona?

Professional [auto transport](/best/car-shipping) is the right call for a move this distance. Driving it yourself adds miles to your vehicle and another 1,700 miles to your trip. Get quotes from a few carriers and check their FMCSA registration before you hand over the keys.

### Why are people moving from Milwaukee to Arizona?

The combination of a stronger job market, lower income taxes, higher average wages, and dramatically better winter weather covers most of it. The cost-of-living bump is real, but for many people the financial picture still comes out ahead — especially if you're moving for a job.

### Where can I find long-distance movers for this route?

Our roundup of [long-distance movers](/best/long-distance-movers) covers the companies best set up for interstate hauls at this distance, with notes on pricing, reliability, and what to watch for.

### Can I pay a Milwaukee mover in cash?

One Milwaukee mover currently accepts cash. It's not the norm — most companies prefer traceable payment methods. Expect to put down a deposit to hold your date, with the balance due at pickup or on delivery. Get the payment schedule confirmed in writing before anything is signed.

---

Pull quotes from at least three companies before you lock anything in, and [estimate your move cost](/calculator) first so you know whether the numbers you're getting are reasonable.