Best Riverside to Grand Rapids Movers + Moving Guide

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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.

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Best Riverside to Grand Rapids Moving Companies

RankCompany NameRating QuestionAffordability IndexLicenseContact
1Pure Moving9.649.49Authorized For HHGContact
2Terry Moving & Storage9.369.2Authorized For HHGContact
3Trek Movers9.199.02Authorized For PropertyContact
4MASS Movers9.019.15Authorized For Property, HHGContact
5Kingsley Moving Systems8.979.19Authorized For HHGContact
Phone (800) 787-5428

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 SizeMoving CostVolume of Packed Items (ft³)$/ft³
Studio$2,451300 ft³8.17
1 Bedroom$3,654450 ft³8.12
2 Bedrooms$6,052750 ft³8.07
3 Bedrooms$8,8211100 ft³8.02
4 Bedrooms$12,7511600 ft³7.97
5+ Bedrooms$14,2551800 ft³7.92
*Please note: These California to Michigan moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from California & Michigan. 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 CA to MI mover.
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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 Logo

Pure Moving

Exceptional9.64/10
based on 8,688+ data points

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

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3207734 / 1115049

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers1
Total Annual Miles Moved100,000 (2022)
View Full Review
1
Terry Moving & Storage Logo

Terry Moving & Storage

Exceptional9.36/10
based on 2,308+ data points

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

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

649215 / 306297

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans11
Registered Drivers11
Total Annual Miles Moved315,000 (2022)
View Full Review
2
Trek Movers Logo

Trek Movers

Exceptional9.19/10
based on 6,965+ data points

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

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3256910 / 1424894

Authorized For Property

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans3
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved15,000 (2023)
View Full Review
3
MASS Movers Logo

MASS Movers

Superb9.01/10
based on 503+ data points

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

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3333210 / 1062576

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved32,500 (2024)
View Full Review
4
Kingsley Moving Systems Logo

Kingsley Moving Systems

Superb8.97/10
based on 592+ data points

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

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1890987 / 682343

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans7
Registered Drivers9
Total Annual Miles Moved140,000 (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.

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.

RiversideGrand RapidsHow They're Similar
Wood StreetsEastownBohemian vibe, artsy
Canyon CrestOttawa HillsUpscale, family-oriented
Mission GroveEast Grand RapidsSuburban, great schools
OrangecrestAdaSafe, tight-knit community
Alessandro HeightsCascadeAffluent, spacious lots
La SierraAlger HeightsDiverse, community-focused
Downtown RiversideHeartsideDynamic, historic charm
Hawarden HillsHeritage HillHistoric homes, architectural diversity
Magnolia CenterFulton HeightsCentrally located, friendly
VictoriaForest HillsExclusive, 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.

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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.

CONs
PROs
Riverside, CA iconRiverside, CA
  • Higher living costs
  • Smog and pollution
  • Heavy traffic
  • Hot summers
  • Less seasonal variation
Grand Rapids, MI iconGrand Rapids, MI
  • Lower living costs
  • Cleaner air
  • Less traffic
  • Mild summers
  • Distinct seasons
Grand Rapids, MI iconGrand Rapids, MI
  • Harsh winters
  • Less diversity
  • Fewer entertainment options
  • Far from major cities
  • Less outdoor variety
Riverside, CA iconRiverside, CA
  • 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.

RiversideGrand Rapids
Most iconic local food itemAvocado ToastDutch Apple Pie
Most popular meat dishCarne AsadaBeer Braised Beef
Most popular street food itemTacosHot Dogs
Most popular vegan foodJackfruit TacosVegan Chili
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • The Mission Inn Restaurant
  • Tio's Tacos
  • Simple Simon's
  • Sanchez Bistro
  • Founders Brewing Co.
  • The Rowster
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.

RiversideGrand RapidsWhat You'll Love
Mario's PlaceGroveOffering an upscale dining experience with a focus on local ingredients
The Salted PigHopCatKnown for its extensive beer selection and creative pub fare
Simple Simon'sReal Food CaféCasual eatery specializing in hearty breakfast and lunch options
Tio's TacosDonkey TaqueriaOffers an innovative approach to traditional Mexican dishes
Mi Tortilla Mexican GrillTaqueria San JoseAuthentic Mexican food with a focus on fresh ingredients
Woodfire CafeBrick Road PizzaEco-conscious establishment with a variety of vegan options
Market BroilerFish LadsRenowned for its fresh seafood dishes and market
Joe's Italian RestaurantAmore Trattoria ItalianaCelebrates the rich flavors of Italy with house-made dishes
Anchos Southwest Grill & BarLindo Mexico Restaurante MexicanoA vibrant spot for Mexican cuisine with a festive atmosphere
Phood on MainMaru Sushi & GrillA 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.

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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.

ComparisonRiversideGrand Rapids
Typical Architecture StyleSpanish RevivalPrairie Style/Ranch
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingNearby parks, Open layoutGreen 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 background image

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.

Summer icon
94°F / 64°F

Riverside, CA

83°F / 63°F

Grand Rapids, MI

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
68°F / 43°F

Riverside, CA

34°F / 20°F

Grand Rapids, MI

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
11

Riverside, CA

38

Grand Rapids, MI

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
0

Riverside, CA

75

Grand Rapids, MI

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonRiversideGrand Rapids
Air QualityModerate to Unhealthy for Sensitive GroupsGood to Moderate
Natural DisastersEarthquakes, WildfiresSnowstorms, 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.

ComparisonRiversideGrand Rapids
Avg. Household Income$76,558$59,596
Cost of Living Index112.590.7
State Income Tax13.34.25
Avg. Property Tax1.11.58
Avg. Sales Tax8.256
Top 3 IndustriesHealthcare, Retail, ManufacturingManufacturing, Healthcare, Information Technology
AffluenceModerateModerate to High
PovertyModerateLow
HomelessnessHighModerate

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.

RiversideGrand Rapids
Political Make-upLean DemocraticSwing city with conservative leanings
Local PoliticsProgressive on environmental issuesLocal governance with a mix of conservative and progressive policies
ReligionMulticultural belief systems with Christian majorityStrong 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.

ComparisonRiversideGrand Rapids
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)3121
Traffic Congestion 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦
Availability of Public Transit 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇
Can you get by without car?ChallengingMore 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.

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