Best Phoenix to Riverside Movers + Moving Guide
Want help with the heavy lifting?
Trusted. Licensed. Insured.
If you're moving from Phoenix to Riverside and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 322 mile move from Arizona to California go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 43 Phoenix to Riverside 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 Sterling Interstate LLC), how much the move costs (approximately $1,500 - $5,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Phoenix compared to Riverside. 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.
Best Phoenix to Riverside Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Sterling Interstate LLC | 9.75 | 9.64 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 2 | Pure Moving | 9.64 | 9.49 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 3 | Terry Moving & Storage | 9.36 | 9.2 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 4 | New Beginnings Moving Solutions | 9.32 | 9.4 | Authorized For Property | Contact |
| 5 | Creative Moving and Packing, LLC | 9.30 | 9.18 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Phoenix to Riverside
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 322 miles from Phoenix, AZ to Riverside, CA will cost on average $2,055 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Phoenix to Riverside move is roughly $4,913. 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 Size | Moving Cost | Volume of Packed Items (ft³) | $/ft³ |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio | $1,385 | 300 ft³ | 4.62 |
| 1 Bedroom | $2,055 | 450 ft³ | 4.57 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $3,388 | 750 ft³ | 4.52 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $4,913 | 1100 ft³ | 4.47 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $7,067 | 1600 ft³ | 4.42 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $7,860 | 1800 ft³ | 4.37 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Riverside to Phoenix guide.
Compare the 5 Best Phoenix to Riverside Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
Sterling Interstate LLC
This listing has been claimed by Sterling Interstate LLCPhoenix, AZ, 85022
About Sterling Interstate LLC
Established in 2017, Sterling Interstate opened with the intention to change the stigma around the moving industry by providing reliable, customizable...
Services
- Local moving services
- Long-distance moving services
- Packing services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3006713 / 26956 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 6 |
| Registered Drivers | 7 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 115,000 (2022) |
Pure Moving
1450 2nd St ste 225
Santa Monica, CA, 90401
About Pure Moving
Pure Moving has six locations across California, including an office in Los Angeles. This locally operated business moves over 10,000 clients...
Services
- Residential moving
- Commercial moving
- Long-distance moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3207734 / 1115049 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
| Registered Drivers | 1 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 100,000 (2022) |
Terry Moving & Storage
25958 Commercentre Dr
Lake Forest, CA, 92630
About Terry Moving & Storage
Terry Moving & Storage offers full-service moves locally and throughout the 11 Western States. This Lake Forest-based business has helped thousands...
Services
- Local Move
- Interstate Move
- Packing Services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 649215 / 306297 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 11 |
| Registered Drivers | 11 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 315,000 (2022) |
New Beginnings Moving Solutions
6757 W Charter Oak Rd
Peoria, AZ, 85381
About New Beginnings Moving Solutions
New Beginnings Moving Solutions is a full-service moving company specializing in long-distance moves. It is locally-owned and operated and has been...
Services
- Long Distance Moves
- Local Moves
- Business Relocation
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3656946 / 1262843 Authorized For Property Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
| Registered Drivers | 8 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 500 (2021) |
Creative Moving and Packing, LLC
This listing has been claimed by Creative Moving and Packing, LLC4012 W Turney Ave
Phoenix, AZ, 85019
About Creative Moving and Packing, LLC
Since 2008, Creative Moving and Packing has served the Phoenix, AZ, area with high-quality local and long-distance relocation services. This company's...
Services
- Local Moving Services
- Long-Distance Moving Services
- Commercial Moving Services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1877603 / 1173916 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 10 |
| Registered Drivers | 11 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 150,000 (2023) |
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.
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.
Phoenix vs. Riverside Neighborhood Comparison
When moving cities, finding a new neighborhood that feels like home is crucial. This guide aims to compare local neighborhoods between Phoenix, AZ & Riverside, CA, helping you find your next perfect community. We'll explore the top neighborhoods in Phoenix and pair them with their Riverside counterparts based on vibe, amenities, and lifestyle.
| Phoenix | Riverside | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Arcadia | Wood Streets | Historical charm, community feel |
| Roosevelt Row | Downtown Riverside | Arts and culture hub |
| Paradise Valley | Alessandro Heights | Upscale, scenic views |
| Encanto | Victoria | Family-friendly, historical sites |
| Biltmore Area | Canyon Crest | Affluent, with golf courses |
| Desert Ridge | Orangecrest | Modern homes, good schools |
| North Central Phoenix | Woodcrest | Spacious lots, rural feel |
| Coronado | Mission Grove | Diverse, active community |
| Willo District | The Greenbelt | Historic homes, lush landscapes |
| Downtown Phoenix | University | Vibrant, close to education centers |
For those fond of Arcadia's blend of lush landscaping and well-kept estates, Riverside's Wood Streets area offers a similar historical charm with a tight-knit community vibe, complete with Craftsman-style homes. Fans of Roosevelt Row's vibrant arts scene and walkability will feel right at home in Downtown Riverside, where the Mission Inn and the Riverside Art Museum anchor a lively cultural milieu. Meanwhile, Paradise Valley's luxury living and panoramic views find a counterpart in Alessandro Heights, known for its spacious, high-end homes and breathtaking city vistas. Each Riverside neighborhood provides unique parks, dining, and entertainment options—such as the lush Fairmount Park in Downtown Riverside or the prestigious Victoria Club in Victoria—ensuring you'll find a community that mirrors the lifestyle you cherish.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Phoenix to Riverside
Moving can be a complex endeavor, especially when it involves relocating from Phoenix, AZ to Riverside, CA. To help you make a well-informed decision, we've developed comparisons to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of this relocation. Through these insights, gain a balanced perspective on what awaits you in your new city.
Phoenix, AZ- Intense summer heat
- Less greenery
- Lower air quality
Riverside, CA- Milder summers
- More parks
- Better air quality
Riverside, CA- Higher living expenses
- Less desert landscape
- More urban density
Phoenix, AZ- Lower cost of living
- Expansive desert scenery
- Greater suburban sprawl
Choosing Riverside, CA, introduces you to a city rich in parks and green spaces, such as the Mount Rubidoux Park and the Fairmount Park, offering residents ample outdoor recreation areas not as readily found in Phoenix, AZ. The transition to Riverside might come with higher living expenses, but it also opens the door to a community with better air quality and environmental consciousness. Riverside boasts a variety of dining options, including local favorites like Tio's Tacos and Simple Simon's, providing a rich culinary scene that's reflective of the city's diverse culture.
Phoenix vs. Riverside Food Guide
Understanding the local cuisine is a vital part of embracing the culture of a new city. In this guide, we compare the local cuisine between Phoenix & Riverside to give you a better sense of what to expect in terms of dining options and food culture in your new home.
| Phoenix | Riverside | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Sonoran Hot Dog | California Burrito |
| Most popular meat dish | Carne Asada | Tri-tip Steak |
| Most popular street food item | Tacos | Tacos |
| Most popular vegan food | Vegan Tacos | Avocado Toast |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
When moving from Phoenix to Riverside, you'll notice some exciting changes in your culinary surroundings. Phoenix is famous for its Sonoran Hot Dogs, a testament to the city's rich Mexican-inspired food scene, which can be best experienced in neighborhoods like Roosevelt Row. Riverside, on the other hand, takes pride in its California Burritos, embodying the state's love for using fresh local ingredients. You'll quickly discover Riverside's foodie gems, such as Tio's Tacos in the Downtown area, which offers a taste of local flavors with a creative twist. Both cities boast a vibrant street food culture, focusing on tacos but with their unique local interpretations, ensuring your taste buds never get bored.
Phoenix vs. Riverside Restaurant Comparison
When relocating, discovering local dining spots can transform a new city into your home. This comparison targets the transition from Phoenix, AZ to Riverside, CA by paralleling top restaurants, guiding you to new favorites based on your current gastronomical loves. Let's dive in and find where your next memorable meal awaits.
| Phoenix | Riverside | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Binkley's Restaurant | Mario's Place | upscale dining with a creative menu |
| Pizzeria Bianco | Woodfire Cafe | authentic wood-fired pizzas |
| FnB | The Salted Pig | farm-to-table dining, local ingredients |
| Durant's | Mission Inn Restaurant | historic setting with a high-quality steak selection |
| Matt's Big Breakfast | Simple Simon's | hearty, homemade breakfasts and baked goods |
| Barrio Café | Tio's Tacos | artful setting with authentic Mexican flavors |
| Nobuo at Teeter House | Ooka Japanese Restaurant | top-notch sushi and Japanese delicacies |
| Lux Central | Augie's Coffee House | a trendy spot for coffee and light bites |
| The Duce | ProAbition | vintage ambiance with a modern menu |
| Roosevelt Tavern | W. Wolfskill | craft cocktails with a cozy gastropub vibe |
For those who have cherished dining at Pizzeria Bianco in Phoenix, discovering Woodfire Cafe in Riverside offers a seamless transition with its authentic, wood-fired pizzas that conjure up the bespoke charm and detailed approach to Italian cuisine similar to what you've experienced before. Matt's Big Breakfast enthusiasts will find a comforting echo in Simple Simon’s, where the dedication to hearty, homemade breakfast options and a warm, welcoming atmosphere mirrors the Phoenix favorite. Each Riverside establishment provides not just meals, but experiences that capture the essence of their Phoenix counterparts, ensuring your culinary transition is as fulfilling and tantalizing as your love for dining out has always been. Mission Inn Restaurant in particular, with its historic ambiance and quality steaks, showcases how Riverside complements Phoenix's dining scene, inviting you to indulge in new flavors while reminiscing fondly about your old haunts.
Ready to start your move?
Phoenix vs. Riverside Real Estate & Living Facts
When planning your move, comparing real estate between Phoenix, AZ, and Riverside, CA is crucial. This comparison will highlight the differences in housing costs, architectural styles, and the lifestyle you can expect in both cities. Understanding these factors is key to making an informed decision about your relocation.
| Comparison | Phoenix | Riverside |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Ranch, Pueblo | Spanish Revival, Ranch |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Desert landscaping, pools | Historic homes, views |
In both Phoenix and Riverside, the sun shines most days of the year, but each city brings its unique flavor to the Southwest. Phoenix's real estate market highlights include desert landscaping and private pools, catering to those who love the outdoors despite the heat. In contrast, Riverside's market often spotlights its historic homes and scenic views thanks to its diverse landscape. While Phoenix offers a slightly more affordable entry point into homeownership, Riverside's premium is met with its richer historical offerings and somewhat better walkability and bikeability scores. Whether you prefer Phoenix’s expansive ranch-style homes or Riverside’s Spanish Revival charm, both cities offer a glimpse into the vibrant culture and lifestyle of the southwestern United States.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Riverside, CA
1. Downtown Riverside: Known for its welcoming environment, Downtown Riverside boasts multiple dog-friendly establishments like Lakeside to Brambles, a specialized pet spa that offers grooming, therapy, and consultation services for your furry friends.
2. Wood Streets: This neighborhood is perfect for those who love to take regular strolls with their pets, thanks to its peaceful streets, beautiful architecture, and Wood Streets Green Team's community garden that includes dog-friendly spaces.
3. Canyon Crest: Canyon Crest stands out with its City of Riverside parks and recreational facilities such as Sycamore Canyon Wilderness Park, known for pet-friendly walking paths and trails where you can enjoy outdoor activities with your pets.
Phoenix vs. Riverside Weather Considerations
Moving from one location to another means adapting to new weather conditions. Understanding how the weather in Phoenix, AZ compares to Riverside, CA can help set your expectations and prepare you for the transition.
Phoenix, AZ
Riverside, CA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Phoenix, AZ
Riverside, CA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Phoenix, AZ
Riverside, CA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Phoenix, AZ
Riverside, CA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Phoenix | Riverside |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Poor | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Heat waves, Dust storms | Earthquakes, Wildfires |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
While Phoenix and Riverside share similarities in weather patterns, there are notable differences that could affect your daily life. Phoenix, known for its extreme summer heat, sees higher temperatures and less humidity compared to Riverside. This dry heat contrasts with Riverside's slightly cooler and more humid climate, which can be more comfortable for some. Both cities enjoy plenty of sunshine throughout the year, offering ample opportunities for outdoor activities. However, each city has its own set of natural disaster risks – heat waves and dust storms in Phoenix versus earthquakes and wildfires in Riverside. These factors are crucial to consider for your health, home maintenance, and emergency preparedness plans.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Phoenix to Riverside
When planning to move, understanding the financial landscape of your new home compared to your current one is crucial. This comparison between Phoenix, AZ and Riverside, CA aims to highlight key economic factors that could influence your decision and prepare you for the financial adjustments needed.
| Comparison | Phoenix | Riverside |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $68,435 | $76,558 |
| Cost of Living Index | 100.7 | 112.5 |
| State Income Tax | 4.50 | 9.30 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.62 | 0.79 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 8.6 | 8.75 |
| Top 3 Industries | Healthcare, Retail, Manufacturing | Manufacturing, Education, Healthcare |
| Affluence | Moderate | Moderately High |
| Poverty | Moderate | Low to Moderate |
| Homelessness | Significant | Considerable |
Moving from Phoenix to Riverside, you'll encounter differences in living costs and taxes that are essential to understand. The cost of living index in Riverside is higher, indicating that your daily expenses might increase. This change is compounded by California's higher state income tax rate, which can impact your disposable income. However, the average household income is also a bit higher in Riverside, which might help offset some of these costs. Additionally, the industries dominating these cities differ slightly, suggesting potential career opportunities or shifts. Understanding these dynamics will help you financially plan for your move and transition more smoothly.
Phoenix vs. Riverside Political & Religious Comparison
Considering a move from Phoenix, AZ, to Riverside, CA? It’s essential to get a quick glimpse of the local atmosphere you're transitioning into. This section offers a comparison of the politics between Phoenix & Riverside , focusing on the political and religious makeup of residents, providing a snapshot of the community you'll be joining.
| Phoenix | Riverside | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Lean towards Democratic | Lean towards Democratic |
| Local Politics | Progressive in urban areas | Mix of progressive & traditional views |
| Religion | Christianity dominant, diverse religious presence | Christianity dominant, significant diversity in religious beliefs |
Both Phoenix and Riverside lean towards Democratic in their political makeup, reflecting a somewhat progressive stance on various issues. However, while Phoenix demonstrates more uniform progressive leanings, especially in its urban areas, Riverside presents a more nuanced picture with a blend of progressive and traditional views, possibly due to its diverse demographic and economic landscape. In terms of religion, both cities have a strong Christian presence while also being home to a variety of faiths, offering a rich tapestry of religious communities. Joining either city means becoming part of a vibrant mix of political and religious backgrounds.
Phoenix vs. Riverside Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Phoenix, AZ to Riverside, CA, it's important to compare the traffic and transportation options between Phoenix & Riverside to better understand what your daily commute and traffic experience will be like. This guide is designed to help you adjust to your new environment smoothly.
| Comparison | Phoenix | Riverside |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 25 | 30 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Challenging | Difficult |
In comparing the daily commutes between Phoenix and Riverside, you'll find both cities present unique challenges and conveniences. Phoenix, with its slightly lower average commute time and traffic congestion, suggests a somewhat less stressful driving experience than Riverside. Yet, both cities rank relatively low in public transit availability, indicating a strong reliance on personal vehicles for getting around. While managing without a car is deemed challenging in Phoenix, it might feel just a tad more difficult in Riverside due to its layout and public transportation options. Understanding these dynamics can help you plan your commute more effectively and adjust your expectations upon moving.
Additional Resources
Phoenix Moving Services
Popular Phoenix to California Routes
Popular Moving Resources
