Best Riverside to Grand Rapids Movers + Moving Guide
Want help with the heavy lifting?
If you're moving from Riverside to Grand Rapids and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,202 mile move from California to Michigan go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 26 Riverside to Grand Rapids 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 Pure Moving), how much the move costs (approximately $2,500 - $9,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Riverside compared to Grand Rapids. 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 Grand Rapids Moving Companies
Rank | Company Name | Rating | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Pure Moving | 9.64 | 9.49 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
2 | Terry Moving & Storage | 9.36 | 9.2 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
3 | Trek Movers | 9.19 | 9.02 | Authorized For Property | Contact |
4 | MASS Movers | 9.01 | 9.15 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
5 | Kingsley Moving Systems | 8.97 | 9.19 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
Cost to Move from Riverside to Grand Rapids
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,202 miles from Riverside, CA to Grand Rapids, MI will cost on average $3,654 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Riverside to Grand Rapids move is roughly $8,821. 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 | $2,451 | 300 ft³ | 8.17 |
1 Bedroom | $3,654 | 450 ft³ | 8.12 |
2 Bedrooms | $6,052 | 750 ft³ | 8.07 |
3 Bedrooms | $8,821 | 1100 ft³ | 8.02 |
4 Bedrooms | $12,751 | 1600 ft³ | 7.97 |
5+ Bedrooms | $14,255 | 1800 ft³ | 7.92 |


Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Grand Rapids to Riverside guide.
Compare the 5 Best Riverside to Grand Rapids Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)

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) |

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) |

MASS Movers
Lansing, MI, 48910
About MASS Movers
MASS Movers is a leading moving company in Lansing, MI. Established in 2016, this family-owned and operated business specializes in creating...
Services
- Packing Service
- Large Item Moving
- Small to Medium Business Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3333210 / 1062576 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 2 |
Registered Drivers | 2 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 32,500 (2024) |

Kingsley Moving Systems
610 Detroit St
Lansing, MI, 48912
About Kingsley Moving Systems
Kingsley Moving Systems is an experienced moving company located in Lansing, Michigan with over 20 years in the moving industry. Its...
Services
- Local Moving
- Statewide Moving
- Interstate Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1890987 / 682343 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 7 |
Registered Drivers | 9 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 140,000 (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. Grand Rapids Neighborhood Comparison
Moving to a new city can be an exciting, yet daunting experience. To ease your transition, we've crafted a unique guide designed to compare local neighborhoods between Riverside, CA & Grand Rapids, MI . By drawing parallels between areas you already know and love in Riverside and their counterparts in Grand Rapids, you'll find yourself feeling right at home in no time.
Riverside | Grand Rapids | How They're Similar |
---|---|---|
Wood Streets | Eastown | Bohemian vibe, artsy |
Canyon Crest | Ottawa Hills | Upscale, family-oriented |
Mission Grove | East Grand Rapids | Suburban, great schools |
Orangecrest | Ada | Safe, tight-knit community |
Alessandro Heights | Cascade | Affluent, spacious lots |
La Sierra | Alger Heights | Diverse, community-focused |
Downtown Riverside | Heartside | Dynamic, historic charm |
Hawarden Hills | Heritage Hill | Historic homes, architectural diversity |
Magnolia Center | Fulton Heights | Centrally located, friendly |
Victoria | Forest Hills | Exclusive, premier schools |
In bringing together the vibes of Riverside's Wood Streets with Grand Rapid's Eastown, it's the artsy, localized culture and the plethora of unique, independently-owned shops like Wealthy Theatre in Eastown that resonate. The historic neighborhoods of Hawarden Hills and Heritage Hill share a love for preserved beauty, which can be seen in Heritage Hill's stunning architectural tours. A family-oriented atmosphere ties Canyon Crest and Ottawa Hills together, both offering upscale environments and access to quality education - a match for those prioritizing a nurturing, enriched community living. The transition from Riverside's bustling downtown to the dynamic streets of Heartside in Grand Rapids becomes seamless with venues like Grand Rapids Art Museum adding to the cultural richness. Understanding these parallels simplifies the finding of your new favorite spots, ensuring the change in scenery enriches rather than disrupts your lifestyle.

Things to Do in Grand Rapids
- Explore the Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park
- Visit the Grand Rapids Public Museum
- Enjoy a show at DeVos Performance Hall
- Sample beer on the Beer City Ale Trail
- Stroll through Eastown neighborhood
- Attend a Grand Rapids Griffins hockey game
- Canoe on the Grand River
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Riverside to Grand Rapids
Moving between cities is a significant decision that involves weighing various factors. This comparison is aimed at providing an honest reflection of Riverside, CA to Grand Rapids, MI relocation, highlighting both the good and the bad. Through carefully designed charts, we explore how the cons stack up against the pros and vice versa, helping you make an informed decision about your move.
- Higher living costs
- Smog and pollution
- Heavy traffic
- Hot summers
- Less seasonal variation
- Lower living costs
- Cleaner air
- Less traffic
- Mild summers
- Distinct seasons
- Harsh winters
- Less diversity
- Fewer entertainment options
- Far from major cities
- Less outdoor variety
- Sunshine year-round
- Vibrant Latino culture
- Broad entertainment options
- Close to LA
- Outdoor activities
Riverside, CA and Grand Rapids, MI, offer distinct living experiences influenced by their unique climates, cultures, and local amenities. Riverside boasts year-round sunshine, allowing residents to enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking in the nearby Box Springs Mountain Reserve. The city's vibrant Latino culture is evident in its festivals and cuisine, with restaurants like The Tamale Factory offering authentic flavors. In contrast, Grand Rapids greets newcomers with a kaleidoscope of seasons, from colorful fall leaves in parks like Riverside Park to snowy winter scenes ideal for cozy evenings. Though it might have fewer entertainment options than Riverside, Grand Rapids boasts a growing arts scene, with spots like UICA (Urban Institute for Contemporary Arts) providing creative outlets and entertainment. While each city has its pros and cons, these differences complement personal preferences and priorities, making either city an appealing choice for different reasons.
Riverside vs. Grand Rapids Food Guide
This comparison of the local cuisine between Riverside & Grand Rapids is essential as food plays a pivotal role in understanding the cultural fabric and lifestyle of a new city. By examining the culinary scene, you'll gain insights into what your new home offers, from street food to high-end dining experiences.
Riverside | Grand Rapids | |
---|---|---|
Most iconic local food item | Avocado Toast | Dutch Apple Pie |
Most popular meat dish | Carne Asada | Beer Braised Beef |
Most popular street food item | Tacos | Hot Dogs |
Most popular vegan food | Jackfruit Tacos | Vegan Chili |
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In Riverside, you'll find a vibrant street food scene, with tacos from Tio's Tacos making a significant mark. Avocado toast, a staple Californian delight, showcases the state's love for avocados. Moving to Grand Rapids, the city surprises newcomers with its Dutch influence, notably through its famous Dutch Apple Pie. A thriving beer culture is present, with establishments like Founders Brewing Co. serving beer braised beef that's a local favorite. Both cities offer unique dining experiences reflective of their local culture and tastes, from health-conscious eats in Riverside to hearty, comfort foods in Grand Rapids.
Riverside vs. Grand Rapids Restaurant Comparison
Moving to a new city can be an adventure, especially when it comes to finding your new favorite eating spots. Food plays a crucial role in making an area feel like home. This restaurant comparison between Riverside, CA, and Grand Rapids, MI, is designed to ease your transition by guiding you to dining establishments that echo your current culinary favorites.
Riverside | Grand Rapids | What You'll Love |
---|---|---|
Mario's Place | Grove | Offering an upscale dining experience with a focus on local ingredients |
The Salted Pig | HopCat | Known for its extensive beer selection and creative pub fare |
Simple Simon's | Real Food Café | Casual eatery specializing in hearty breakfast and lunch options |
Tio's Tacos | Donkey Taqueria | Offers an innovative approach to traditional Mexican dishes |
Mi Tortilla Mexican Grill | Taqueria San Jose | Authentic Mexican food with a focus on fresh ingredients |
Woodfire Cafe | Brick Road Pizza | Eco-conscious establishment with a variety of vegan options |
Market Broiler | Fish Lads | Renowned for its fresh seafood dishes and market |
Joe's Italian Restaurant | Amore Trattoria Italiana | Celebrates the rich flavors of Italy with house-made dishes |
Anchos Southwest Grill & Bar | Lindo Mexico Restaurante Mexicano | A vibrant spot for Mexican cuisine with a festive atmosphere |
Phood on Main | Maru Sushi & Grill | A modern take on sushi and Japanese dishes |
In comparing Riverside's beloved Mario's Place with Grand Rapids' Grove, both spots shine with their upscale dining experiences and commitment to local ingredients, curating menus that resonate with food enthusiasts seeking innovation in traditional dishes. For those who relish the vibrant flavors of Mexican cuisine, Tio's Tacos in Riverside finds its parallel in Grand Rapids' Donkey Taqueria, where the emphasis on inventiveness within the realm of traditional Mexican dishes aligns closely with Tio's creative offerings. Moreover, the varied vegan options at Riverside's Woodfire Cafe seem reminiscent in spirit to Grand Rapids' Brick Road Pizza, where the extensive vegan menu not only caters to dietary preferences but also underscores a shared commitment to environmental consciousness.

Ready to start your move?
Riverside vs. Grand Rapids Real Estate & Living Facts
When planning your move, it's crucial to weigh the real estate dynamics of your current city against those of your future home. This comparison will illuminate what you can expect in terms of housing costs, style, and lifestyle between Riverside, CA, and Grand Rapids, MI.
Comparison | Riverside | Grand Rapids |
---|---|---|
Typical Architecture Style | Spanish Revival | Prairie Style/Ranch |
Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Nearby parks, Open layout | Green spaces, Energy efficiency |
Moving from Riverside to Grand Rapids could mean a significant reduction in both housing costs and monthly rent for you, possibly allowing for a comfortable adjustment to a new lifestyle with financial breathing room. While Riverside boasts the charming Spanish Revival architecture, Grand Rapids leans towards the practical yet inviting Prairie Style or Ranch homes - a testament to its varied architectural landscape. Moreover, Grand Rapids provides a slightly higher urban lifestyle score, which may appeal to you if walkability, bikeability, and access to urban amenities are top priorities. Notably, Grand Rapids' commitment to green spaces and energy efficiency reflects in its real estate listings, signaling a community keen on sustainability.

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Grand Rapids, MI
1. Eastown: Known for its vibrant community and walkability, you'll find pet-friendly cafes and a welcoming atmosphere in Eastown, making it a perfect place for pet owners.
2. Heritage Hill: With its spacious parks and historic charm, Heritage Hill offers plenty of green space for your pets to explore, alongside pet-friendly housing options.
3. Heartside: A bustling downtown neighborhood, Heartside stands out for its pet-friendly apartments and proximity to dog parks, ensuring your furry friends are always welcome.
Riverside vs. Grand Rapids Weather Considerations
Moving from one city to another means adapting to new weather conditions. Understanding how the climate in Riverside, CA compares to Grand Rapids, MI is essential for a smooth transition. This comparison will highlight the key weather differences you'll experience.
Riverside, CA
Grand Rapids, MI
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Riverside, CA
Grand Rapids, MI
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Riverside, CA
Grand Rapids, MI
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Riverside, CA
Grand Rapids, MI
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Comparison | Riverside | Grand Rapids |
---|---|---|
Air Quality | Moderate to Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups | Good to Moderate |
Natural Disasters | Earthquakes, Wildfires | Snowstorms, Tornadoes |
Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
While Riverside boasts a warm, arid climate with plenty of sunshine, Grand Rapids experiences a more varied climate with distinct seasons, including cold, snowy winters and warm summers. Your wardrobe will need an overhaul—away from lightweight fabrics and into layers capable of keeping you warm against Grand Rapids' chills. Be prepared for Grand Rapids' higher humidity and significant snowfall, which contrast sharply with Riverside's dry heat and rare rains. Adjusting to the difference in natural disaster risks, such as snowstorms instead of wildfires, will also be crucial.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Riverside to Grand Rapids
When considering a move from Riverside, CA to Grand Rapids, MI, it's crucial to understand how the cost of living, taxes, and economic climate in your new home will compare to what you're accustomed to. This comparison will give you a comprehensive outlook on Riverside's and Grand Rapids' financial landscapes, helping you to make an informed decision.
Comparison | Riverside | Grand Rapids |
---|---|---|
Avg. Household Income | $76,558 | $59,596 |
Cost of Living Index | 112.5 | 90.7 |
State Income Tax | 13.3 | 4.25 |
Avg. Property Tax | 1.1 | 1.58 |
Avg. Sales Tax | 8.25 | 6 |
Top 3 Industries | Healthcare, Retail, Manufacturing | Manufacturing, Healthcare, Information Technology |
Affluence | Moderate | Moderate to High |
Poverty | Moderate | Low |
Homelessness | High | Moderate |
In comparing Riverside and Grand Rapids, you'll find that while Riverside has a higher average household income, the cost of living in Grand Rapids is significantly lower. This is particularly noteworthy when considering the state and sales tax differences, with Grand Rapids offering a more favorable tax environment for residents. Another key aspect to consider is the housing market; despite Grand Rapids having a higher average property tax rate, the overall cost of living index makes it a potentially more affordable place to live. Additionally, both cities boast diverse economies, though the leading industries vary, reflecting the unique job opportunities available in each location. Understanding these financial nuances is crucial for anyone planning to make this interstate move.
Riverside vs. Grand Rapids Political & Religious Comparison
When considering a move from Riverside, CA to Grand Rapids, MI, it's crucial to understand the community you'll be joining. This guide offers a comparison of the politics and religious makeup between Riverside & Grand Rapids, providing insights into the typical population characteristics of both cities. Whether you're interested in local political leanings or the prevalent religious communities, this comparative snapshot aims to aid in your transition.
Riverside | Grand Rapids | |
---|---|---|
Political Make-up | Lean Democratic | Swing city with conservative leanings |
Local Politics | Progressive on environmental issues | Local governance with a mix of conservative and progressive policies |
Religion | Multicultural belief systems with Christian majority | Strong Protestant heritage with diverse religious communities |
In moving from Riverside to Grand Rapids, you'll find yourself transitioning from a city with a predominantly Democratic lean to a community where political opinions are more divided, reflecting the city's historical swing status. Grand Rapids has a notable conservative presence, especially in local governance, which blends conservative and progressive policies. This contrasts with Riverside's strong progressive stance on environmental issues. Religious life in Grand Rapids is deeply rooted in its Protestant heritage, yet like Riverside, it embraces a range of beliefs within its vibrant community. Understanding these dynamics will help ease your transition and connect with your new neighborhood.
Riverside vs. Grand Rapids Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from one city to another can be a daunting task, especially when considering how your daily commutes and traffic experience may change. To help you compare the traffic and transportation options between Riverside & Grand Rapids, we have compiled some key differences. Understanding these variances can significantly ease your transition and daily routines in your new home.
Comparison | Riverside | Grand Rapids |
---|---|---|
Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 31 | 21 |
Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
Can you get by without car? | Challenging | More feasible |
When considering the move from Riverside to Grand Rapids, you'll notice a significant drop in your average commute time, reflecting the lesser traffic congestion in Grand Rapids. Although both cities offer public transit options, Riverside scores slightly higher in terms of availability. However, Grand Rapids presents itself as a city where getting by without a car is more feasible, largely due to its compact size and efficient public transportation system. This contrast in urban mobility can influence not just how you plan your daily commutes but also your decision on maintaining a vehicle.



Additional Resources
Riverside Moving Services
Popular Riverside to Michigan Routes
Popular Moving Resources