Best Durham to Milwaukee Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Durham to Milwaukee and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 873 mile move from North Carolina to Wisconsin go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 31 Durham to Milwaukee moving companies and more than 15,000 movers nationwide to provide up-to-date and data-driven information about: which moving company to hire (our top recommendation is Raleigh Moving Company), how much the move costs (approximately $1,500 - $6,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Durham compared to Milwaukee. With a move this big, you want big data on your side and Great Guys Moving is your trusted ally to help you sift through the noise to make informed moving decisions.

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Best Durham to Milwaukee Moving Companies

RankCompany NameRating QuestionAffordability IndexLicenseContact
1Raleigh Moving Company9.429.6ActiveContact
2Athens Moving Experts9.349.49Authorized For HHGContact
3About Time Moving Systems LLC9.339.33Authorized For HHGContact
4Gorilla Movers Of Wisconsin Inc.9.309.31Authorized For Property, HHGContact
5Capital Moving & Storage9.269.47Authorized For HHGContact
Phone (800) 787-5428

Cost to Move from Durham to Milwaukee

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 873 miles from Durham, NC to Milwaukee, WI will cost on average $2,524 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Durham to Milwaukee move is roughly $6,059. See the chart below for a detailed breakdown by type of move and home size. Pricing will vary based upon the exact locations of pickup and dropoff as well as several other factors. The most important pricing component that is often overlooked is how far away the move date is. The earlier you can reserve movers, the better your pricing and options will be.

Home SizeMoving CostVolume of Packed Items (ft³)$/ft³
Studio$1,697300 ft³5.66
1 Bedroom$2,524450 ft³5.61
2 Bedrooms$4,169750 ft³5.56
3 Bedrooms$6,0591100 ft³5.51
4 Bedrooms$8,7331600 ft³5.46
5+ Bedrooms$9,7341800 ft³5.41
*Please note: These North Carolina to Wisconsin moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from North Carolina & Wisconsin. The volume listed here represents the estimated cubic footage of your household items when packed and loaded into a moving truck. To determine the exact costs associated with your move, get a quote from a licensed NC to WI mover.
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Milwaukee to Durham guide.

Compare the 5 Best Durham to Milwaukee Movers

These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)

Raleigh Moving Company Logo

Raleigh Moving Company

Exceptional9.42/10
based on 954+ data points

Raleigh, NC, 27609

About Raleigh Moving Company

Raleigh Moving Company is a locally owned and operated moving company offering residential and commercial services for local and long-distance moves...

Services

  • Free estimates
  • Full Value Protection (FVP)
  • Fully licensed and insured

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 9/14/2021)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3344628 / -

Active

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved-
View Full Review
1
Athens Moving Experts Logo

Athens Moving Experts

Exceptional
claimed company icon
9.34/10
based on 4,516+ data points

6601 Hillsborough St # 111

Raleigh, NC, 27606

About Athens Moving Experts

Since 2015, Athens Moving Experts has helped Raleigh, Chapel Hill, Holly Springs, and communities across North Carolina with their residential and...

Services

  • Local Moving Services
  • Long Distance Moving Services
  • Commercial Moving Services

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/9/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3205320 / 204920

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans5
Registered Drivers5
Total Annual Miles Moved25,000 (2021)
View Full Review
2
About Time Moving Systems LLC Logo

About Time Moving Systems LLC

Exceptional9.33/10
based on 2,396+ data points

4909 8th Ave

Kenosha, WI, 53140

About About Time Moving Systems LLC

This locally owned and operated moving company serves the Milwaukee, WI, area with high-quality residential and commercial relocation services. About Time...

Services

  • Local moving
  • Long-distance moving
  • Cross-country moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/9/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2525330 / 877057

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans4
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved50,000 (2022)
View Full Review
3
Gorilla Movers Of Wisconsin Inc. Logo

Gorilla Movers Of Wisconsin Inc.

Exceptional9.30/10
based on 2,029+ data points

310 Progress Way Suite 140

Sun Prairie, WI, 53590

About Gorilla Movers Of Wisconsin Inc.

As a locally owned and operated moving company, Gorilla Movers has over 20 years of experience performing high-quality residential and commercial...

Services

  • Residential moves
  • Commercial moves
  • Local/statewide moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/9/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2627768 / 1031866

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans7
Registered Drivers14
Total Annual Miles Moved173,000 (2023)
View Full Review
4
Capital Moving & Storage Logo

Capital Moving & Storage

Exceptional9.26/10
based on 1,596+ data points

3450 Bush St Suite 245

Raleigh, NC, 27609

About Capital Moving & Storage

Capital Moving & Storage, a family-owned company based in Raleigh, NC, has been providing high-quality moving services for over 20 years....

Services

  • Residential & Commercial Moving
  • Local & Long Distance Moving
  • Packing

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3623752 / 1238777

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans3
Registered Drivers4
Total Annual Miles Moved120,504 (2023)
View Full Review
5
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Dependable Rankings You Can Count On!

Our rankings are data-driven — movers cannot purchase a spot on our list. Here's why you can have confidence in our recommendations:

  • No Paid Placements: Every company earns its spot through merit, not payment.
  • Extensive Analysis: Evaluated over 24,000 movers across the country for our rankings.

Durham vs. Milwaukee Neighborhood Comparison

Embarking on a move can feel like stepping into the unknown, but understanding how your new city compares to your current one can ease the transition. This guide is designed to help you familiarize yourself with Milwaukee by drawing comparisons with Durham. We’ll compare neighborhoods between Durham, NC & Milwaukee, WI to help you find a new community that feels like home.

DurhamMilwaukeeHow They're Similar
Trinity ParkHistoric Third WardVibrant arts scene, historic buildings
American Tobacco DistrictWalker's PointRepurposed industrial spaces, lively nightlife
Brightleaf SquareEast TownBustling shopping and dining, cultural landmarks
Duke ParkRiverwestDiverse community, eclectic local shops
Old West DurhamBay ViewStrong sense of community, historic homes
RockwoodWashington HeightsArchitectural charm, family-friendly vibe
Forest HillsShorewoodUpscale homes, walkable shopping districts
WoodcroftWauwatosaGreen spaces, charming neighborhoods
Hope ValleyElm GroveQuiet, luxurious living, sprawling estates
Ninth StreetBrady StreetEclectic eateries, unique boutiques

The essence of a neighborhood goes beyond its name; it's about the culture, community, and the unique local spots that give it its vibrancy. For instance, Trinity Park's rich artsy ambiance finds a parallel in Milwaukee's Historic Third Ward, where the renovated warehouses now house an impressive array of studios and galleries. If you're fond of the lively entertainment and urban renewal characteristic of Durham's American Tobacco District, Walker's Point in Milwaukee will captivate you with its innovative repurposing of industrial spaces into bustling spots for nightlife and dining. Similarly, the cozy cafes and unique shops of Ninth Street bear a resemblance to the lively atmosphere of Brady Street in Milwaukee, where each establishment tells a part of the neighborhood's eclectic story. Whether it’s enjoying a meal at a trendy restaurant like DanDan in the Third Ward or catching a local band at Cactus Club in Bay View, Milwaukee offers a rich tapestry of communities akin to the cherished local haunts of Durham.

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Pros and Cons of Moving from Durham to Milwaukee

Moving can be a daunting yet exciting decision, specifically if you're considering relocating from Durham, NC to Milwaukee, WI. This guide offers an honest reflection of the attributes associated with this move. Understanding the pros and cons in detail will aid in making an informed decision.

CONs
PROs
Durham, NC iconDurham, NC
  • Hotter summers
  • Less diverse food scene
  • Smaller arts scene
  • Fewer water activities
Milwaukee, WI iconMilwaukee, WI
  • Cooler summers
  • Rich culinary variety
  • Vibrant arts community
  • Lakeside lifestyle
Milwaukee, WI iconMilwaukee, WI
  • Smaller tech scene
  • Harsher winters
  • Slower population growth
  • Fewer college sports events
Durham, NC iconDurham, NC
  • Thriving tech hub
  • Lush green spaces
  • Rapid city growth
  • Lively college sports

Milwaukee, with its vibrant arts community, shores along Lake Michigan, and rich diversity of cuisines, entices many. Renowned establishments like Milwaukee Art Museum and historical brewers embody the city's cultural and gastronomical richness. Conversely, Durham is celebrated for its booming tech scene, epitomized by the Research Triangle Park, and extensive green spaces like the Sarah P. Duke Gardens. However, Milwaukee’s allure with its renowned festivals like Summerfest and the ethnic culinary scene in neighborhoods like the Historic Third Ward tips the balance for many. The transition from Durham's warmth to Milwaukee's cooler summers and lakeside lifestyle introduces a refreshing change, albeit with a trade-off of experiencing harsher winters.

Durham vs. Milwaukee Food Guide

This comparison of the local cuisine between Durham & Milwaukee highlights how food is an integral part of each city's culture and everyday life. Understanding these culinary landscapes will offer you a richer perspective on what living in your new city will be like.

DurhamMilwaukee
Most iconic local food itemCarolina-style BBQBeer Brats
Most popular meat dishPulled PorkBeer Brats
Most popular street food itemTacosPretzels
Most popular vegan foodBBQ JackfruitVegetarian Chili
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Backyard BBQ Pit
  • Pizzeria Toro
  • Mateo Bar de Tapas
  • Mader's
  • Sanford Restaurant
  • Leon's Frozen Custard
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness (out of 10)💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks (out of 10)🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene (out of 10)🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly (out of 10)🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

In Durham, the food scene is markedly influenced by its Southern roots, with Carolina-style BBQ leading as the most iconic local food item. Notably, the Pulled Pork at places like Backyard BBQ Pit and the vegan BBQ Jackfruit options across the city reflect Durham's ability to both honor traditions and embrace inclusivity. Milwaukee, on the other hand, is renowned for its German influence, notably through its Beer Brats and the historic Mader's restaurant. This city also celebrates its rich brewing history, which is intertwined with its culinary scene. Both cities have bustling food truck scenes and a growing interest in health and fitness, though Durham slightly edges out with its vegan options and overall foodie scene. Whether you're moving to Durham, with its vibrant street food scene and health-conscious options, or Milwaukee, where traditional dishes and a love for beer define the locale, you're in for a delightful culinary adventure.

Durham vs. Milwaukee Restaurant Comparison

When moving to a new city, finding your next go-to spots for dining out is crucial for feeling at home. This restaurant comparison aims to ease the transition from Durham, NC, to Milwaukee, WI , by suggesting similar dining experiences in your new city. Whether you’re seeking upscale dining, casual eateries, or unique culinary adventures, we’ve got you covered.

DurhamMilwaukeeWhat You'll Love
NanaSteakCarnevorBoth offer a stylish, upscale steakhouse experience with a focus on prime cuts and fine wines.
Pizzeria ToroZaffiro's PizzaKnown for their thin-crust pizza, providing a similar artisan approach to pizza making.
Mateo Bar de TapasAmilindaOffering a cozy atmosphere with a focus on Spanish-inspired dishes, echoing Mateo's tapas experience.
Dame's Chicken & WafflesMaxie'sTheir Southern-inspired comfort food, especially the chicken and waffles, makes it a close match.
Mothers & Sons TrattoriaRistorante BartolottaBoth specialize in authentic Italian dishes made with fresh, high-quality ingredients.
GuasacaCafé CorazónWhile Guasaca focuses on Venezuelan arepas, Café Corazón offers a Latin twist with fresh, local ingredients, capturing a similar spirit of innovation.
Joe Van GoghColectivo CoffeeBoth are local coffee shop chains with a strong emphasis on community and high-quality, artisanal coffee.
Elmo's DinerBlue's EggBoth offer a classic American diner experience with a modern twist, focusing on breakfast and brunch.
Saltbox Seafood JointSt. Paul Fish CompanyOffering fresh, high-quality seafood dishes in a laid-back setting, mirroring Saltbox's focus on coastal flavors.
Vin RougeLa MerendaBoth restaurants emphasize a farm-to-table approach, offering a fine dining experience with a focus on local and seasonal ingredients.

Among the gems on this list, Carnevor in Milwaukee stands out for its dedication to serving meticulously sourced steaks, much like Durham's NanaSteak, making it a paradise for meat lovers. For those who can't resist the charm of a good thin-crust pizza, Zaffiro's Pizza in Milwaukee will not disappoint, offering a taste reminiscent of Pizzeria Toro's celebrated pies. Transitioning from the vibrant tapas scene in Durham with a visit to Mateo Bar de Tapas, Milwaukee's Amilinda offers a similarly warming and inviting environment, with a menu that pays homage to the rich flavors of Spain. This guide not only points you towards familiar dining experiences but also invites you to discover the unique culinary character of Milwaukee.

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Ready to start your move?

Durham vs. Milwaukee Real Estate & Living Facts

Real estate is a pivotal factor when planning a move. It's crucial for you to understand how Durham, NC and Milwaukee, WI stack up in terms of housing costs, architectural styles, walkability, and urban lifestyle. This comparison will assist in making an informed decision.

ComparisonDurhamMilwaukee
Typical Architecture StyleColonial RevivalCraftsman
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingHardwood floors, open floor plansHardwood floors, spacious yards

When considering a move from Durham to Milwaukee, the real estate market shows significant differences. Median home prices in Milwaukee are more affordable, making it an attractive option for homebuyers. While the median monthly rent is lower in Milwaukee, both cities offer a comparable urban lifestyle score, indicating a vibrant city life. Milwaukee edges out Durham slightly in terms of bikeability, which reflects in the city's infrastructure and support for cyclists. Architecture styles also vary between the two, with Milwaukee’s Craftsman style offering a distinct character compared to Durham’s Colonial Revival homes. This diversity in housing and lifestyle offerings makes each city unique and appealing in its own right.

Pet-friendly neighborhoods background image

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Milwaukee, WI

1. Bay View: Known for its community feel, you'll find an abundance of pet-friendly cafes and a popular dog park, ensuring your furry friend will always feel welcome.

2. Third Ward: This neighborhood boasts stylish pet-friendly apartments and several boutiques like Third Ward Dog, where you can pamper your pooch with the latest trends.

3. Wauwatosa: Offering numerous parks and green spaces, such as the spacious Hart Park, it's a paradise for pets who love the outdoors, making walks and playdates a part of your daily routine.

Durham vs. Milwaukee Weather Considerations

When relocating, understanding the change in weather you'll experience is crucial. Weather comparisons between Durham and Milwaukee inform you of what to anticipate climate-wise. Adjusting your lifestyle and preparations for the move become easier when you grasp these differences.

Summer icon
89/69

Durham, NC

81/63

Milwaukee, WI

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
50/30

Durham, NC

30/18

Milwaukee, WI

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
41

Durham, NC

34.76

Milwaukee, WI

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
4

Durham, NC

46.9

Milwaukee, WI

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonDurhamMilwaukee
Air QualityGoodModerate
Natural DisastersHurricanes, TornadoesSnowstorms, Tornadoes
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

Moving from Durham to Milwaukee, you'll experience a notable change in winter temperatures and snowfall. Milwaukee's winters are significantly colder with more snow, a stark contrast to Durham's milder cold season. This may necessitate investing in winter gear and possibly a car that handles well in snow. Another point of interest is the summer climate; Milwaukee offers cooler summers, which might be a pleasant change from Durham's hotter, more humid summers. Awareness of these variations can help you plan better for your relocation, ensuring a smoother transition to your new home.

Ready to start your move?

Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Durham to Milwaukee

When planning your move from Durham, NC to Milwaukee, WI, understanding the financial implications, the cost of living, and how other money-related matters will affect you is crucial. By comparing these two cities, you'll grasp what to expect in terms of expenses and economic environment.

ComparisonDurhamMilwaukee
Avg. Household Income$71,343$46,637
Cost of Living Index96.6101.9
State Income Tax5.257.65
Avg. Property Tax0.862.17
Avg. Sales Tax7.55.6
Top 3 IndustriesEducation, Healthcare, TechnologyManufacturing, Healthcare, Education
AffluenceModerateLower-moderate
PovertyLowerHigher
HomelessnessModerateModerate to high

The financial landscape significantly differs between Durham and Milwaukee. In Durham, the average household income is notably higher, which aligns with a somewhat higher cost of living index. Despite this, Milwaukee presents a lower cost of living advantage, though it is paired with a higher state income tax rate that might offset some savings. Additionally, potential homeowners should consider Milwaukee's substantially higher average property tax rate. The top industries in both cities suggest diverse economic opportunities, though Durham leans more towards tech and academia, whereas Milwaukee has a strong manufacturing base. Understanding these nuances can help you prepare financially for your move.

Durham vs. Milwaukee Political & Religious Comparison

When contemplating a move from Durham, NC to Milwaukee, WI, understanding the local ambience is crucial. Specifically, this quick glimpse focuses on a comparison of the politics between Durham & Milwaukee , alongside the religious landscape, offering a neat insight into what to expect from your new neighborhood.

DurhamMilwaukee
Political Make-upLiberalLiberal
Local PoliticsDiverse representation, progressive policiesHistorical labor roots, progressive with strong Democratic presence
ReligionVaried, with a strong presence of Christian churches Durham ChurchesDiverse, including Lutheran and Catholic majorities Milwaukee Churches

Moving from Durham to Milwaukee, you'll find both cities share a liberal political makeup, which might make the transition smoother for you. Durham and Milwaukee also both boast a diverse religious landscape; however, Milwaukee has a significant presence of Lutheran and Catholic communities, reflecting its European immigrant roots. Local politics in Milwaukee has been shaped by its historical labor movement which might differ from Durham's more recent progressive wave. Exploring these facets will help you feel right at home in Milwaukee's vibrant community.

Durham vs. Milwaukee Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving from Durham, NC, to Milwaukee, WI, presents a unique set of changes, not least in how you'll navigate daily commutes. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Durham & Milwaukee is designed to help you quickly adapt to your new environment, understanding differences in commute times, traffic congestion, and public transit availability.

ComparisonDurhamMilwaukee
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)2223
Traffic Congestion 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦
Availability of Public Transit 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇
Can you get by without car?ChallengingFeasible

In Durham, your daily commute might feel slightly easier in terms of traffic compared to Milwaukee, with a slightly lower average commute time and congestion rating. However, Milwaukee offers better public transit options, making it easier for you to get around without a car. This is a significant difference if you're looking to reduce your reliance on a vehicle. While Durham’s public transit score suggests that living without a car can be challenging, Milwaukee's higher score indicates a more robust public transit system, including buses and a streetcar system, potentially making your transition to a car-less lifestyle smoother.

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