Moving to Milwaukee: A Tech Worker’s Guide

Congratulations on making the decision to move! Milwaukee, a city where opportunities abound and Midwest hospitality shines, is not only known for its cultural events and culinary scene but is also rapidly becoming a hotspot for tech workers. With an increasing number of startups and established tech companies with their roots here, Milwaukee offers a vibrant community and a promising career landscape for tech professionals. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you navigate through the move and seamlessly transition into your new life in Milwaukee.

So, You’ve Decided to Move to MKE. What’s Next? 

Here’s a checklist of items to get you started with the moving process:  

Before the Move:

– Research: Start with understanding the city’s neighborhoods to find the one that suits your lifestyle and budget. Whether it’s the historic charm of the Third Ward or the bustling energy of the East Side, Milwaukee has a diverse range of areas to call home. If you’re relocating to be close to the office, chat with coworkers based in Milwaukee and get their take on what neighborhood aligns with your goals. Spend some time on Facebook and join Moving to Milwaukee, Milwaukee Resources, and other related groups for helpful tips, insights, and to make connections before you arrive.

– Budgeting: Factor in the cost of living and the expenses related to moving. Milwaukee has a lower cost of living compared to other major cities in the U.S., like Chicago, San Francisco, or New York. Tools like cost of living calculators can be helpful for making decisions about housing, transportation, schools, etc.

– Housing: Decide whether you’re renting or buying. Websites like Zillow, Redfin, and local real estate agents can be invaluable resources for finding your next home. Downtown Milwaukee offers several areas with a city vibe, from the eclectic East Side to the Historic Third Ward to the coastal beauty of Lake Drive and Bayview. But there are plenty of Milwaukee Suburbs just outside the city where you can enjoy a small town feel with solid school districts. Some of the best suburbs to raise a family in Milwaukee include Brookfield, Whitefish Bay, Elm Grove, River Hills, Shorewood, and Mequon.

– Moving Company: Consider booking a reputable moving company well in advance. Hiring movers will ease some of the stress of moving to a new place and will allow you to focus on other things that matter.

– Utilities and Services: Set up your utilities (electricity, water, internet) before moving, if possible, since it can take one week or more for utilities to get setup. Milwaukee’s local utility companies offer easy online registration. WeEnergies provides electric and gas service to areas of Wisconsin. Spectrum and AT&T are popular choices for internet and cable services. You’ll want to have high-speed internet for taking calls during work-from-home days. 

– Address Change: Don’t forget to update your address with the USPS and notify important parties like banks and subscriptions.

Upon Arrival:

– Local DMV: If you’re coming from out of state, you’ll need to update your driver’s license and vehicle registration within 60 days of becoming a resident in the state of Wisconsin.

– Explore: Get to know your new surroundings by playing tourist in your new city. Visit local markets, parks, museums, the beach, and community centers. Milwaukee is the City of Festivals and in the summertime there are countless opportunities to celebrate and meet new people at venues like Summerfest, Jazz in the Park, or one of the many cultural festivals along the lakefront. Check out local restaurants, breweries, and coffee shops to get a taste of Milwaukee. 

– Logistics: Milwaukee’s transportation system can be a blend of biking, public transport, and personal vehicles. The city is known for being bike-friendly, with many bike lanes and trails. For public transport, the Milwaukee County Transit System (MCTS) provides bus services, and there’s also The Hop, a modern streetcar system for getting around downtown, and rideshare apps like Uber and Lyft. For tech workers, commuting within the city is generally efficient and convenient.

–Work: Milwaukee’s tech scene is on the rise, with opportunities ranging from startups in the Third Ward’s creative hub to positions in multinational corporations in the downtown area. It’s worth exploring local job boards, LinkedIn, and industry meetups for opportunities if you’re job hunting. Engage with local tech hubs like MKE Tech, which can be great for networking, finding out about job openings, and upskilling.

Networking in Milwaukee

Networking is key to settling in and finding your community in Milwaukee. Here are some ways to meet people and build your network:

– Tech Meetups: Check out our Event Calendar for tech events in Milwaukee year-round. There are a number of groups for both men and women in tech where you can find a sense of belonging and community among others with similar interests.

– Professional Organizations: Consider joining organizations such as Choose MKE Tech and Milky Way Tech Hub to connect with peers and be in the know about Milwaukee Tech Week. 

– Social and Hobby Groups: The Midwest is known to be home to some of the friendliest people, and Milwaukee is no exception. But meeting people and making friends in a new place can be challenging no matter where you are. Thankfully, the digital age makes it a little easier for the tech-inclined to meet new people. Some online resources include MeetUp.com, MilwaukeeDowntown.com, SocialXMKE.com, NextDoor.com, FuelMilwaukee.com, and Facebook Groups specific to your interests.

– Volunteering: Giving back to your new community can also be a great way to meet people who share similar values, whether you enjoy being outside in nature doing clean ups, helping animals up for adoption, or working with children (and even teaching them computer science!) or offering support for older adults, there are countless ways to get involved in a cause that’s close to your heart.

Other Helpful Information

– Weather: Be prepared for all four seasons, with cold, snowy winters, and crisp, colorful autumns, to wet and flowery springs, everyone’s favorite warm, pleasant summers. This also means a variety of outdoor activities and events throughout the year.

– Cultural Scene: Milwaukee is home to a vibrant arts scene with plenty of music and theater venues, several museums, a lively sports scene around the Milwaukee Bucks and Brewers pro teams, and is famous for its summer festivals.

– Culinary Delights: Don’t miss out on the city’s culinary scene, from its famous cheese and bustling breweries to numerous fine dining restaurants to suit every taste.

Milwaukee Welcomes You 

Moving to a new city is a significant change, but it’s also an exciting opportunity for growth, both professionally and personally. Milwaukee offers a welcoming community for tech workers, with resources and networks to help you succeed in your career and find your place in the city. Welcome to Milwaukee, and here’s to the beginning of your new adventure!

For more detailed information about moving services and resources, be sure to visit the Discover Milwaukee Movers Guide. This guide is an excellent resource for anyone planning their move, offering insights into neighborhoods, services, and the essentials of making Milwaukee your new home.