Best Riverside to Phoenix Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Riverside to Phoenix and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 323 mile move from California to Arizona go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 40 Riverside to Phoenix moving companies and more than 20,000 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 Riverside compared to Phoenix. 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 Riverside to Phoenix 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 | 9.31 | 9.4 | Authorized For Property | Contact |
| 5 | Trek Movers | 9.19 | 9.02 | Authorized For Property | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Riverside to Phoenix
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 323 miles from Riverside, CA to Phoenix, AZ will cost on average $2,056 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Riverside to Phoenix move is roughly $4,916. 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 | $1,386 | 300 ft³ | 4.62 |
| 1 Bedroom | $2,056 | 450 ft³ | 4.57 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $3,389 | 750 ft³ | 4.52 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $4,916 | 1100 ft³ | 4.47 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $7,070 | 1600 ft³ | 4.42 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $7,864 | 1800 ft³ | 4.37 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Phoenix to Riverside guide.
Compare the 5 Best Riverside to Phoenix 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) |
Trek Movers
7225 Hollywood Blvd Unit 321
Los Angeles, CA, 90046
About Trek Movers
Trek Movers is a moving company based in Los Angeles, certified by the AMSA and accredited by the BBB with the...
Services
- Local Movers
- Long Distance Movers
- Office Movers
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3256910 / 1424894 Authorized For Property Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 3 |
| Registered Drivers | 2 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 15,000 (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.
Riverside vs. Phoenix Neighborhood Comparison
When relocating from one city to another, it's crucial to find a neighborhood that feels like home. To help you in your transition from Riverside, CA to Phoenix, AZ, we've created a comparison of the local neighborhoods between these two vibrant cities. This guide aims to familiarize you with the neighborhoods in Phoenix that closely resemble those you've come to love in Riverside, making your move smoother and more exciting.
| Riverside | Phoenix | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Wood Streets | Coronado | Historic homes, community feel |
| Alessandro Heights | Paradise Valley | Upscale, spacious lots |
| Canyon Crest | Ahwatukee Foothills | Family-friendly, scenic views |
| Victoria | North Central Phoenix | Classic charm, mature trees |
| Orangecrest | Desert Ridge | Modern amenities, great schools |
| La Sierra | South Mountain | Diverse, outdoor recreation |
| Woodcrest | Arcadia | Well-kept homes, lush landscapes |
| Downtown Riverside | Downtown Phoenix | Urban living, cultural attractions |
| Mission Grove | Deer Valley | Suburban comfort, convenient location |
| Hawarden Hills | Encanto | Historic significance, picturesque streets |
Moving from one beloved community to another doesn't have to mean sacrificing what you love about your current neighborhood. For instance, if you're captivated by the historic charm and tight-knit community of Riverside's Wood Streets, you'll find a similar vibe in Phoenix's Coronado neighborhood, renowned for its historic homes and vibrant local arts scene. Likewise, lovers of Riverside's Alessandro Heights, known for its upscale homes and spacious lots, will feel at home in Paradise Valley, Phoenix, where luxury living meets breathtaking landscapes. Each of these neighborhoods in Phoenix not only mirrors the physical attributes of their Riverside counterparts but also embodies a similar sense of community and lifestyle, ensuring you'll find more than just a house to make your home. Whether it’s the lush landscapes of Arcadia evoking the well-kept gardens of Woodcrest or the urban buzz of Downtown Phoenix reminding you of nights spent in Downtown Riverside, your new neighborhood awaits with open arms and new adventures.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Riverside to Phoenix
Moving from Riverside, CA to Phoenix, AZ is a significant change that necessitates a balanced comparison to make an informed decision. This guide aims to outline an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of this relocation, helping you weigh your options clearly.
Riverside, CA- Higher humidity
- Smaller cultural scene
- Less urban
- More expensive utilities
Phoenix, AZ- Drier climate
- Larger cultural opportunities
- More urban experiences
- Lower utility costs
Phoenix, AZ- More traffic
- Fewer parks
- Farther from beaches
- Fewer community gatherings
Riverside, CA- Less traffic
- More green spaces
- Close to LA
- Community events
While Riverside might boast less traffic and more green spaces, making weekend escapades to places like the Mount Rubidoux Park or the sprawling beauty of the Santa Ana River Trail appealing, Phoenix offers a contrasting but equally appealing urban flora. The Desert Botanical Garden in Phoenix is a stunning display of desert vegetation and a testament to the city's unique beauty. Furthermore, Phoenix's thriving cultural scene, exemplified by a vibrant array of restaurants such as Pizzeria Bianco and cultural institutions like the Phoenix Art Museum, presents new opportunities for exploration and enjoyment. Comparatively, while Riverside offers close proximity to LA's vast cultural and entertainment options, Phoenix's growing urban scene and lower cost of living, including utility costs, make it an attractive relocation choice for those seeking a change.
Riverside vs. Phoenix Food Guide
This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Riverside, CA, and Phoenix, AZ, focusing on how food plays a crucial role in a region's culture and living experience. By examining the culinary scene in both areas, you'll gain insights into what awaits your taste buds in your new home.
| Riverside | Phoenix | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Tamales | Chimichanga |
| Most popular meat dish | Carne Asada | Barbecue Brisket |
| Most popular street food item | Street Tacos | Sonoran Hot Dog |
| Most popular vegan food | Vegan Tacos | Vegan Burritos |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In Riverside, the local cuisine is highlighted by the rich flavors of tamales and carne asada, staples which reflect the city’s Mexican-American heritage. Street tacos provide a delicious insight into the area's street food scene, often found in vibrant areas like Downtown Riverside. On the other hand, Phoenix offers a different culinary adventure with its famed chimichangas and Sonoran Hot Dogs, a testament to its unique Southwestern flavors. Phoenix’s food scene shines in neighborhoods like Roosevelt Row and Downtown Phoenix, where establishments like Pizzeria Bianco and Barrio Café introduce you to the city’s top-tier dining experiences. Both cities offer a variety of vegan options, although Phoenix slightly leads with its vegan-friendly establishments. Whether you’re exploring Riverside’s historic Mission Inn Restaurant or Phoenix's iconic Durant's, your move promises a diverse and exciting culinary journey.
Riverside vs. Phoenix Restaurant Comparison
Food plays a crucial role in making a place feel like home. Whether you're craving a fancy dinner or a casual bite, finding a new favorite restaurant can make all the difference in settling into a new area. This guide aims to ease the transition from Riverside to Phoenix by comparing top restaurants, so you can discover comparable dining experiences in your new city.
| Riverside | Phoenix | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| The Salted Pig | Bitter & Twisted Cocktail Parlour | High-quality gastropub fare with a twist |
| Mario's Place | Cibo | Authentic Italian dining experience in a cozy setting |
| Simple Simon's | Lux Central | Casual, eclectic eats with a bustling atmosphere |
| Tio's Tacos | Barrio Café | Innovative Mexican cuisine and colorful decor |
| Woodfire Cafe | Pizzeria Bianco | Wood-fired pizzas known for their artisanal approach |
| Market Broiler | Buck & Rider | Fresh seafood dishes with a sophisticated vibe |
| Mission Inn Restaurant | Different Pointe of View | Breathtaking views with fine dining |
| Anchos Southwest Grill & Bar | Los Dos Molinos | Spicy Southwestern dishes in a vibrant atmosphere |
| Le Chat Noir | FnB | Seasonal and locally sourced ingredients with a creative menu |
| Heroes Restaurant & Brewery | OHSO Brewery- North Arcadia | Craft beers and hearty meals |
For those who enjoy exploring the diversity of flavors and dining experiences, the transition from Riverside to Phoenix offers an exciting culinary journey. If you've appreciated the unique blend of innovative and traditional Mexican cuisine at Tio's Tacos, you'll find Barrio Café in Phoenix a delightful new favorite with its creative dishes and vibrant atmosphere. Similarly, those missing the rustic charm and artisanal pizzas of Woodfire Cafe will find solace in the renowned Pizzeria Bianco, where the commitment to quality ingredients and traditional techniques mirrors your old haunt. This comparison not only highlights the variety of dining options available but also showcases how new experiences in Phoenix can reflect the familiar comfort of Riverside's beloved eateries.
Ready to start your move?
Riverside vs. Phoenix Real Estate & Living Facts
When planning a move, comparing the real estate markets of Riverside, CA, and Phoenix, AZ, is crucial. These insights help highlight the cost of living, architectural preferences, and lifestyle available in each city, guiding your decision on where to lay down roots.
| Comparison | Riverside | Phoenix |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Spanish Colonial | Ranch-style |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Backyard, Pool | Patio, Pool |
While Phoenix and Riverside share similar walkability and bikeability scores, the real differences shine through in housing costs and preferred architecture styles. Riverside's love for Spanish Colonial architecture contrasts with Phoenix's preference for Ranch-style homes. The cost of living in Riverside is slightly higher regarding home prices and rents, reflecting its proximity to Los Angeles. This is complemented by its residents' preference for backyards and pools in listings, highlighting a suburban lifestyle that values private outdoor spaces. Phoenix, while more affordable, leans towards a more urban lifestyle, as evidenced by its slightly higher urban lifestyle score and the popular inclusion of patios alongside pools in listings, encouraging outdoor living in a city environment.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Phoenix, AZ
1. Midtown Phoenix: Known for its walkable streets and numerous pet-friendly patios, your furry friends will love the welcoming atmosphere and Rosie McCaffrey’s Irish Pub for a bite where pets are happily seen on the patio.
2. Arcadia: This neighborhood is a paradise for pets with spacious backyards and close proximity to Camelback Mountain for adventurous walks and hikes, making it perfect for active dogs.
3. Roosevelt Row: This artsy district not only welcomes pets in many galleries and cafes but also hosts pet-centric events like the annual Phoestivus market, making it an incredibly fun and engaging community for pet lovers.
Riverside vs. Phoenix Weather Considerations
When planning a move from one city to another, understanding the climatic differences is crucial. This comparison between Riverside and Phoenix weather will highlight what changes you can expect. Knowing these differences will help you prepare for your new environment.
Riverside, CA
Phoenix, AZ
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Riverside, CA
Phoenix, AZ
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Riverside, CA
Phoenix, AZ
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Riverside, CA
Phoenix, AZ
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Riverside | Phoenix |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Moderate | Poor |
| Natural Disasters | Earthquakes, Wildfires | Heatwaves, Dust Storms |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
When moving from Riverside to Phoenix, be prepared for a notable increase in temperature during the summer, where the average highs can surpass 100°F. Additionally, the humidity levels in Phoenix are significantly lower, which means the air is drier. This, along with a higher UV index, underscores the importance of staying hydrated and protecting yourself from the sun. Despite Phoenix having more days of sunshine and less rainfall annually, both cities enjoy relatively mild winters and virtually no snow, ensuring that outdoor activities can be enjoyed year-round.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Riverside to Phoenix
When contemplating a move from one city to another, understanding how your finances will be impacted is crucial. Comparing Riverside, CA to Phoenix, AZ , this chart highlights key economic factors that could influence your decision. From average household income to sales tax rates, see how these cities stack up against each other.
| Comparison | Riverside | Phoenix |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $76,558 | $68,435 |
| Cost of Living Index | 112.5 | 100.7 |
| State Income Tax | 9.3% | 4.5% |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.79% | 0.62% |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 8% | 8.6% |
| Top 3 Industries | Manufacturing, Education, Health Services | Technology, Healthcare, Tourism |
| Affluence | Moderate | Varied |
| Poverty | Moderate | High |
| Homelessness | Significant | Widespread |
Moving from Riverside to Phoenix, you'll notice several financial adjustments. The average household income in Phoenix is slightly lower than in Riverside, but the cost of living in Phoenix is significantly more affordable, with a cost of living index of 103 compared to Riverside's 140. Additionally, while the state income tax in Arizona is more favorable than in California, Phoenix has a marginally higher sales tax. These differences exemplify the importance of considering the broader financial landscape — not just income but also taxes and living expenses — when relocating.
Riverside vs. Phoenix Political & Religious Comparison
Considering a move from Riverside, CA to Phoenix, AZ? This quick guide provides an insight into the comparison of the politics between Riverside & Phoenix , as well as the religious landscape. It offers a glimpse into the community you're considering calling home.
| Riverside | Phoenix | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Lean Democratic | Lean Democratic |
| Local Politics | Community-focused, with initiatives on sustainability | Diverse, with a strong emphasis on economic development |
| Religion | Mixed, with a strong presence of Christian churches Local Churches | Multicultural religious scene, including various faiths Faith Centers |
In both Riverside and Phoenix, you'll find a political environment that leans Democratic, indicating a potentially smoother transition for you if your views align. However, the emphasis of local politics does vary: Riverside tends to focus on community-centric sustainable projects, while Phoenix places more importance on economic development, reflecting their respective local priorities and challenges. The religious landscape in each city is inclusive, offering a wide array of worship options that cater to diverse faith communities. This diversity in both political and religious spheres enriches the cultural fabric of each city, providing a welcoming environment for newcomers.
Riverside vs. Phoenix Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Riverside, CA, to Phoenix, AZ, calls for an understanding of the differences in their traffic and transportation options. This comparison aims to give you a clearer picture of what your daily commute and traffic experience might be like in each city.
| Comparison | Riverside | Phoenix |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 31 | 25 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | No | Challenging |
When moving from Riverside to Phoenix, you'll notice a difference in daily commutes; Phoenix generally has shorter travel times thanks to lighter traffic congestion. However, while both cities share the challenge of being spread out, necessitating the use of a car for most activities, Phoenix offers slightly better public transportation options. This includes the Valley Metro rail and bus services, making it somewhat easier to navigate the city without a car compared to Riverside, where public transit is less developed and less integrated into the fabric of daily commute options.
Additional Resources
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