Best Irvine to Richmond Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Irvine to Richmond and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,676 mile move from California to Virginia go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 25 Irvine to Richmond 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 Terry Moving & Storage), how much the move costs (approximately $2,500 - $10,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Irvine compared to Richmond. 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 Irvine to Richmond Moving Companies

RankCompany NameRating QuestionAffordability IndexLicenseContact
1Terry Moving & Storage9.369.2Authorized For HHGContact
2NorthStar Moving Company9.218.97Authorized For HHGContact
3Estes SureMove9.219.68Authorized For PropertyContact
4Trek Movers9.199.02Authorized For PropertyContact
5On The Fly Moving Guys, LLC - Richmond, VA9.199.58Authorized For HHGContact
Phone (800) 787-5428

Cost to Move from Irvine to Richmond

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,676 miles from Irvine, CA to Richmond, VA will cost on average $4,057 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Irvine to Richmond move is roughly $9,807. 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$2,720300 ft³9.07
1 Bedroom$4,057450 ft³9.02
2 Bedrooms$6,724750 ft³8.97
3 Bedrooms$9,8071100 ft³8.92
4 Bedrooms$14,1841600 ft³8.87
5+ Bedrooms$15,8671800 ft³8.82
*Please note: These California to Virginia moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from California & Virginia. 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 VA mover.
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Richmond to Irvine guide.

Compare the 5 Best Irvine to Richmond Movers

These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)

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
1
NorthStar Moving Company Logo

NorthStar Moving Company

Exceptional
claimed company icon
9.21/10
based on 10,283+ data points

633 W 5th St 26th floor

Los Angeles, CA, 90071

About NorthStar Moving Company

Founded in 1994, Los Angeles-based NorthStar Moving Company treats all its customers as VIPs when helping them with local, intrastate, interstate,...

Services

  • Local Moves
  • Long Distance Moves
  • International Moves

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/9/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1836576 / 665757

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans11
Registered Drivers10
Total Annual Miles Moved220,000 (2023)
View Full Review
2
Estes SureMove Logo

Estes SureMove

Exceptional9.21/10
based on 1,255+ data points

3901 W Broad St

Richmond, VA, 23230

About Estes SureMove

The most significant cause of stress when moving is the cost. Traditional full-service movers can take care of everything for you,...

Services

  • Home moving
  • Employee relocations
  • Add-ons (such as same-day pickup)

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/9/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

121018 / 97275

Authorized For Property

Carrier/Broker

Registered Trucks/Vans9,075
Registered Drivers8,573
Total Annual Miles Moved586,187,648 (2023)
View Full Review
3
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
4
On The Fly Moving Guys, LLC - Richmond, VA Logo

On The Fly Moving Guys, LLC - Richmond, VA

Exceptional9.19/10
based on 957+ data points

424 E Grace St # 92

Richmond, VA, 23219

About On The Fly Moving Guys, LLC - Richmond, VA

On The Fly Moving Guys, LLC is a family-owned and operated moving company based in Richmond, VA. They provide local and...

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Moving Helpers
  • Packing Services

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3865625 / 1413617

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans4
Registered Drivers7
Total Annual Miles Moved8,000 (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.

Irvine vs. Richmond Neighborhood Comparison

Discovering a new city can be daunting, but familiarizing yourself with your future neighborhood can make the transition smoother. We've created a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Irvine, CA & Richmond, VA to help you find a new home that feels like your old one. By comparing the top neighborhoods from each city, you can easily see where your lifestyle, preferences, and needs will fit best in your new environment.

IrvineRichmondHow They're Similar
WoodbridgeThe FanHistoric charm, community-focused
Turtle RockWindsor FarmsElite, residential, green spaces
University ParkWesthamptonYoung professionals, amenities
Quail HillGinter ParkQuiet, family-friendly, historic homes
NorthwoodChurch HillVibrant, historic, community events
WestparkCarytownShopping, dining, cultural events
WoodburyScott's AdditionCraft breweries, lofts, artsy
Shady CanyonCountry Club of VirginiaExclusive, estates, private
Great ParkByrd ParkOutdoor activities, community focus
Portola SpringsShort PumpModern, shopping, family-oriented

If you've loved the community spirit and historic charm of Woodbridge in Irvine, you'll find a similar vibe in The Fan, Richmond, known for its Victorian homes and lively streets. For those from Turtle Rock, living near Windsor Farms offers an elegant, serene environment with expansive properties and lush parks, much like Turtle Rock's own green retreats. Foodies and shopaholics moving from Westpark will feel right at home in Carytown, Richmond's answer to boutique shopping, unique eateries, and cultural festivities, mirroring Westpark's bustling community and diverse cuisine offerings. In essence, each Richmond neighborhood presents its own unique charm and amenities that closely match those of Irvine's beloved communities, ensuring you'll find a new place to call home without giving up what you loved about your old one.

Things To Do background image

Things to Do in Richmond

  • Explore the historical Richmond National Battlefield Park.
  • Stroll through the lush Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden.
  • View contemporary art at the ICA at VCU.
  • Attend a concert at The National venue.
  • Paddleboarding on James River.
  • Family fun at the Children's Museum of Richmond.
  • Experience the vibrant Downtown Richmond nightlife.

Ready to start your move?

Pros and Cons of Moving from Irvine to Richmond

Moving from one city to another is a significant life change that entails weighing both the good and the bad aspects of such a decision. This comparison seeks to offer an honest reflection of moving from Irvine, CA to Richmond, VA by highlighting the disadvantages and advantages of both locations. By understanding these factors, you can make a more informed decision about your relocation.

CONs
PROs
Irvine, CA iconIrvine, CA
  • High living costs
  • Heavy traffic
  • Less historical sites
  • Minimal seasonal changes
Richmond, VA iconRichmond, VA
  • Lower living costs
  • Less traffic congestion
  • Rich history
  • Distinct seasons
Richmond, VA iconRichmond, VA
  • Older infrastructure
  • Humid summers
  • Far from beaches
  • Fewer tech opportunities
Irvine, CA iconIrvine, CA
  • Modern amenities
  • Mild winters
  • Beach proximity
  • Tech job hub

While Irvine, known for its pristine parks and modern amenities, offers a laid-back California lifestyle with mild winters and close proximity to beaches, Richmond brings its own charm with a rich historical tapestry and a diverse culinary scene symbolized by establishments like Mama J's Kitchen. The transition to Richmond's distinct seasonal changes offers a new array of activities, from enjoying the spring blooms in Maymont Park to experiencing the fall colors along the James River. However, those accustomed to Irvine's vibrant tech scene may find the job market in Richmond is more diversified, turning their professional focus towards thriving industries like finance, government, and healthcare. Regardless, Richmond's lower cost of living allows for a quality of lifestyle that can be very appealing for those moving from higher cost areas like Irvine.

Irvine vs. Richmond Food Guide

This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Irvine, CA, and Richmond, VA, highlighting an essential aspect of relocating – the food scene. Understanding the culinary differences can enrich your relocation experience, making you more acquainted with what each city has to offer.

IrvineRichmond
Most iconic local food itemTacosPimento Cheese
Most popular meat dishKorean BBQBBQ Brisket
Most popular street food itemFood TrucksHot Dogs
Most popular vegan foodAcai BowlSeitan Wings
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Habana
  • Din Tai Fung
  • Portola Coffee Roasters
  • Mama J’s Kitchen
  • L’Opossum
  • Stella’s
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

When you move from Irvine to Richmond, you'll notice a shift in the culinary landscape. Irvine, with its vibrant immigrant communities, offers an eclectic mix of cuisines, best represented by its love for tacos and Korean BBQ. Specific neighborhoods like Diamond Jamboree are a foodie's paradise, hosting establishments like Din Tai Fung. On the other hand, Richmond has deep roots in Southern cuisine, with pimento cheese and BBQ brisket being staples, often enjoyed in historic neighborhoods such as The Fan. Richmond's food scene is also characterized by a strong sense of community and tradition, visible in the popularity of family-owned establishments like Mama J’s Kitchen. Whether you're sampling coffee at Portola Coffee Roasters in Irvine or exploring Richmond’s vegan scene with seitan wings, each city offers distinctive dining experiences that reflect their unique cultural and historical backgrounds.

Irvine vs. Richmond Restaurant Comparison

Food is an essential component of feeling at home in a new city. This Irvine to Richmond restaurant comparison will aid in discovering new favorite dining spots, making the transition smoother and more flavorful. From high-end to casual, let's explore how culinary scenes in Irvine, California and Richmond, Virginia align.

IrvineRichmondWhat You'll Love
HiroNori Craft RamenTenka RamenSimilar focus on rich, flavorful broths and handmade noodles
Din Tai FungPeter ChangRenowned for authentic Chinese cuisine, particularly dim sum
North ItaliaMama ZuClassic Italian dishes with a strong commitment to flavors and quality ingredients
HabanaCuban Island RestaurantOffers a vibrant Cuban culinary experience, much like Habana
Mastro's SteakhouseBuckhead's Chop HouseHigh-end dining with a focus on premium steaks and seafood
Bosscat Kitchen & LibationsThe RooseveltKnown for its innovative American cuisine and extensive whiskey selection
Urban SeoulJ KogiA meeting point for those who love a twist on traditional Korean dishes
Plush Karaoke LoungeSwitch Pop-up BarUnique theme and entertainment, offering a fun dining experience
Taiko Japanese RestaurantNinja KombuchaOffers a Japanese-inspired eating experience with a focus on quality
Square One Pizza Cafe8 1/2Casual yet high-quality Italian dining, known for its pizza

For those who have enjoyed the eclectic and authentic flavors at HiroNori Craft Ramen in Irvine, Tenka Ramen in Richmond promises a similar dedication to the craft of noodles and broth. Diners who cherished the delicate artistry of Din Tai Fung's dim sum can find a new home at Peter Chang's, where each dish is a testament to authentic Chinese culinary traditions. Meanwhile, if the vibrant atmosphere and rich flavors of Habana captured your heart, Cuban Island Restaurant in Richmond awaits to enfold you in a similarly warm and flavorful embrace. Through these connections, the journey from Irvine to Richmond doesn't have to mean leaving your favorite flavors behind; rather, it's an opportunity to expand your culinary horizons and make new food memories.

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Ready to start your move?

Irvine vs. Richmond Real Estate & Living Facts

Real estate significantly impacts your moving experience. Comparing Irvine, CA , and Richmond, VA helps you understand crucial aspects like cost and lifestyle. This comparison dives deep into the essentials such as housing affordability, architectural style, and urban living to aid in your decision-making process.

ComparisonIrvineRichmond
Typical Architecture StyleModernColonial
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingOpen floor plans, Smart homesHistorical charm, Large yards

When comparing Irvine and Richmond, you'll find Irvine boasts modern architecture with a focus on open floor plans and smart home features, reflecting its status as a hub for innovation. On the other hand, Richmond's real estate market is steeped in history, with many homes featuring colonial architecture and large yards, contributing to the city's unique charm. While Irvine offers a more suburban feel with its lower walkability and bikeability scores, Richmond provides a more vibrant urban lifestyle, making it an appealing choice for those who value accessibility and historical character. Both cities offer distinct living experiences tailored to different preferences and lifestyles.

Pet-friendly neighborhoods background image

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Richmond, VA

1. The Fan: Famed for its high walkability scores, dog-friendly restaurants like City Dogs, and numerous pet boutiques, The Fan ensures your furry friend will be well-catered to.

2. Shockoe Bottom: With access to places like Chimney Park, a dedicated dog park, and a plethora of pet-friendly housing options, Shockoe Bottom offers a bustling, pet-friendly environment.

3. Museum District: Known for its tree-lined, walkable streets, the Museum District combines convenience for you and quality of life for your pets with places like Barky's, a popular pet store.

Irvine vs. Richmond Weather Considerations

When considering a move from one city to another, it's crucial to understand how aspects like the weather will change. This comparison between Irvine, CA, and Richmond, VA, aims to highlight the differences in climate you'll experience, helping you prepare for your relocation.

Summer icon
83°F / 64°F

Irvine, CA

89°F / 71°F

Richmond, VA

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
68°F / 47°F

Irvine, CA

48°F / 29°F

Richmond, VA

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
14 inches

Irvine, CA

43 inches

Richmond, VA

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
0

Irvine, CA

10 inches

Richmond, VA

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonIrvineRichmond
Air QualityGoodModerate
Natural DisastersWildfires, EarthquakesHurricanes, Flooding
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

While Irvine is known for its mild weather and an abundance of sunny days, moving to Richmond introduces a shift to more varied seasons, including more humid summers and colder winters. You’ll see a significant increase in annual rainfall in Richmond, which contributes to its lush landscapes, as well as the experience of all four seasons with a moderate amount of snowfall in winter. Understanding these differences is key to preparing for a move, allowing you to adjust your wardrobe and lifestyle accordingly.

Ready to start your move?

Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Irvine to Richmond

When moving from one city to another, understanding the differences in the cost of living and economic conditions between Irvine, CA and Richmond, VA can provide insight into what financial adjustments you may need to consider. This comparison aims to highlight these financial aspects.

ComparisonIrvineRichmond
Avg. Household Income$105,774$51,770
Cost of Living Index136.4104.5
State Income Tax13.35.75
Avg. Property Tax0.720.80
Avg. Sales Tax7.755.3
Top 3 IndustriesTechnology, Education, Health ServicesGovernment, Finance, Manufacturing
AffluenceHighModerate
PovertyLowModerate
HomelessnessMinimalModerate

While Irvine boasts a higher average household income and is perceived as more affluent, it also has a significantly higher cost of living compared to Richmond. The state income tax is noticeably higher in California than in Virginia, a factor that significantly impacts disposable income. However, Richmond's moderate affluence level, when coupled with lower taxes and cost of living, might offer a more balanced economic environment. Understanding these financial nuances can help you make an informed decision about relocating and managing your finances in a new city.

Irvine vs. Richmond Political & Religious Comparison

Moving from Irvine, CA to Richmond, VA involves adapting to new communities. This guide offers a comparison of the politics between Irvine & Richmond , providing a quick snapshot of the political and religious landscape in both cities to assist with your transition.

IrvineRichmond
Political Make-upLean DemocraticStrongly Democratic
Local PoliticsFocus on tech and business growthHistorical emphasis with progressive values
ReligionVaried, with significant Asian religious influencesDiverse, historically rich in Christian denominations

In terms of political makeup, both Irvine and Richmond are Democratic, but Richmond tends to be more strongly aligned with the Democratic party. This could reflect in the day-to-day values and priorities within the community, from policy decisions to local initiatives. Irvine's local politics often revolve around technological advancement and business development, which mirrors its status as a tech hub. On the other hand, Richmond values its history and takes a progressive stance on social issues. Religious diversity is prominent in both cities. However, while Irvine showcases significant Asian religious influences due to its diverse population, Richmond offers a wide spectrum of Christian denominations, bearing testimony to its long historical roots. Understanding these facets will help you acclimate to your new city's social fabric.

Irvine vs. Richmond Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving from Irvine, CA to Richmond, VA ? This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Irvine & Richmond will help you better understand what your daily commute and traffic experience might look like in your new city. Let's dive into the specifics.

ComparisonIrvineRichmond
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)2524
Traffic Congestion 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦
Availability of Public Transit 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇
Can you get by without a car?ChallengingModerately Feasible

Moving from Irvine to Richmond, you'll notice some differences in your daily commute. Irvine, with its slightly higher traffic congestion, makes a compelling case for the convenience a car brings, particularly for reaching local destinations efficiently. Richmond, while less congested, has a score of public transit availability that suggests an improvement but still indicates a partial dependency on car transportation. Being able to get by without a car in Richmond is deemed moderately feasible, thanks to its more compact urban layout and investments in public transport systems. Nonetheless, both cities present unique challenges and benefits, shaping your daily commute and overall lifestyle in new and exciting ways.

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