Best Riverside to Seattle Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Riverside to Seattle and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 1,256 mile move from California to Washington go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 43 Riverside to Seattle 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 $2,000 - $7,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Riverside compared to Seattle. 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 Seattle Moving Companies

RankCompany NameRating QuestionAffordability IndexLicenseContact
1Pure Moving9.649.49Authorized For HHGContact
2Seattle Moves & More9.549.39Authorized For HHGContact
3Terry Moving & Storage9.369.2Authorized For HHGContact
4John Volken Academy Movers9.339.65Authorized For HHGContact
5Trek Movers9.199.02Authorized For PropertyContact
Phone (800) 787-5428

Cost to Move from Riverside to Seattle

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 1,256 miles from Riverside, CA to Seattle, WA will cost on average $2,849 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Riverside to Seattle move is roughly $6,855. 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$1,915300 ft³6.38
1 Bedroom$2,849450 ft³6.33
2 Bedrooms$4,711750 ft³6.28
3 Bedrooms$6,8551100 ft³6.23
4 Bedrooms$9,8911600 ft³6.18
5+ Bedrooms$11,0371800 ft³6.13
*Please note: These California to Washington moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from California & Washington. 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 WA mover.
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Seattle to Riverside guide.

Compare the 5 Best Riverside to Seattle 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
S

Seattle Moves & More

Exceptional9.54/10
based on 1,243+ data points

4601 Shilshole Ave NW

Seattle, WA, 98107

About Seattle Moves & More

Based in Seattle, Seattle Moves & More is a licensed, insured, and premier moving company in Seattle, WA, known for its...

Services

  • Residential & Commercial Moving
  • Long-Distance Relocation
  • Furniture Packing and Unpacking

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2962927 / 5796

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers5
Total Annual Miles Moved31,000 (2023)
View Full Review
2
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
3
John Volken Academy Movers Logo

John Volken Academy Movers

Exceptional9.33/10
based on 1,571+ data points

921 Central Ave N

Kent, WA, 98032

About John Volken Academy Movers

John Volken Academy Movers is a not-for-profit moving company that helps people move across Western and Eastern Washington. This local business...

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Commercial Moving
  • Residential Moving

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2261169 / 1666977

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans6
Registered Drivers8
Total Annual Miles Moved200 (2015)
View Full Review
4
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
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. Seattle Neighborhood Comparison

Moving from one city to another can be daunting, especially when you're not familiar with your new locale. This comparison is designed to help you navigate the shift from Riverside, CA to Seattle, WA by examining similar neighborhoods . By using your current city as a reference point, you'll find comparable communities in Seattle, making your transition smoother and more exciting.

RiversideSeattleHow They're Similar
Wood StreetsBallardHistorical charm, vibrant community events
Canyon CrestMagnoliaScenic views, quiet residential areas
OrangecrestWest SeattleStrong community spirit, family-friendly
Mission GroveGreenwoodSuburban feel, plentiful parks and cafes
VictoriaQueen AnneUpscale, historic homes, cultural attractions
Alessandro HeightsMadronaQuiet streets, luxury homes, near water
Hawarden HillsLaurelhurstExclusive, waterfront access, beautiful parks
Downtown RiversideDowntown SeattleUrban center, entertainment, shopping
La SierraFremontEclectic, artsy vibe, lively nightlife
Mockingbird CanyonBeacon HillSpacious homes, natural surroundings, community focus

Those looking for a seamless transition from Riverside to Seattle will find comfort in knowing that comparable neighborhoods offer a blend of the familiar with new experiences to discover. For example, Ballard's historic charm and community events are a perfect match for residents of Wood Streets. If you loved the scenic views and the quiet, residential feel of Canyon Crest, Magnolia in Seattle delivers similar vibes with its breathtaking views of Puget Sound and tranquil streets. Downtown Riverside lovers will appreciate Downtown Seattle for its bustling urban center rich in entertainment and shopping options, but with the added experience of iconic sights like the Pike Place Market. Whether you're drawn to the eclectic, artsy vibe of Fremont, reminiscent of La Sierra, or the upscale, cultural richness of Queen Anne, akin to Victoria, each neighborhood showcases unique qualities that can make your move exciting and rewarding.

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Things to Do in Seattle

  • Visit the Space Needle for iconic city views.
  • Explore Pike Place Market's unique shops.
  • Relax at Green Lake Park.
  • Discover art at Seattle Art Museum.
  • Enjoy a ferry ride to Bainbridge Island.
  • Watch a Mariners baseball game at T-Mobile Park.
  • Hike in Mount Rainier National Park.

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Pros and Cons of Moving from Riverside to Seattle

Moving from one city to another presents an array of changes, both challenging and rewarding. This comparison offers an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Riverside, CA to Seattle, WA. Understanding both the pros and cons will equip you with a balanced viewpoint, facilitating a smoother transition. Let's delve into how the living experiences differ between these two vibrant cities.

CONs
PROs
Riverside, CA iconRiverside, CA
  • High heat
  • Less green space
  • Smaller tech hub
  • Less cultural diversity
Seattle, WA iconSeattle, WA
  • Milder climate
  • Abundant parks
  • Larger tech community
  • More cultural diversity
Seattle, WA iconSeattle, WA
  • Higher living costs
  • More rainy days
  • Smaller living spaces
  • Far from desert landscapes
Riverside, CA iconRiverside, CA
  • Lower living costs
  • Sunnier days
  • Spacious suburbs
  • Access to deserts

The transition from Riverside to Seattle is like swapping the sun-drenched, spacious landscapes of Southern California for the lush, verdant parks and a stronger sense of community within a bustling tech scene. Seattle’s public green spaces, such as the expansive Discovery Park or the tranquil Washington Park Arboretum, offer a verdant retreat within the city. Dining in Seattle is an elevated experience with rich culinary diversity; places like Pike Place Market provide fresh, local seafood that's hard to match elsewhere. Meanwhile, living in Riverside offers a more laid-back, desert-adjacent lifestyle with significantly more sunny days per year, allowing outdoor activities almost year-round. Each city boasts its unique charm, catering to different lifestyles and preferences. Embracing what each has to offer will be key to enjoying life in the Pacific Northwest or Southern California.

Riverside vs. Seattle Food Guide

Food significantly influences the local culture and living experience in any area. With that in mind, we're presenting a comparison of the local cuisine between Riverside & Seattle to help you understand the food scene in your new home. This guide aims to make your transition flavorful and informed.

RiversideSeattle
Most iconic local food itemAvocado ToastSeafood Chowder
Most popular meat dishCarne AsadaSalmon
Most popular street food itemTacosTeriyaki
Most popular vegan foodVegan BurritosQuinoa Salad
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • The Mission Inn Restaurant
  • The Salted Pig
  • Tio's Tacos
  • Canlis
  • Pike Place Chowder
  • The Pink Door
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

In the heart of Riverside, you can enjoy a vibrant street food scene featuring tacos from local favorites like Tio’s Tacos. Meanwhile, the transition to Seattle introduces you to a whole new world of flavors. The city is renowned for its seafood chowder, often enjoyed at local landmarks like Pike Place Chowder. For those seeking healthier or plant-based options, Seattle's quinoa salad and the city's overall vegan-friendliness stand out. Both cities boast an exciting range of restaurants, but you'll discover Seattle's Canlis and The Pink Door offer unique dining experiences that are hard to find elsewhere. Each city's food scene reflects its culture and lifestyle, offering a mixture of healthy options and hearty comfort food.

Riverside vs. Seattle Restaurant Comparison

Finding comfort in a new city often starts with discovering great places to dine. This guide draws parallels between popular Riverside eateries and their Seattle counterparts, aiming to ease your transition from Riverside to Seattle by comparing top restaurants . Whether you're in search of a high-end dining experience, a casual bite, or something uniquely iconic, this comparison will help you find your next favorite spot, making Seattle feel a little more like home.

RiversideSeattleWhat You'll Love
Mario's PlaceCanlisKnown for its fine dining and scenic lake views, mirroring Mario's upscale offerings.
The Salted PigLarkOffers a similar focus on farm-to-table American cuisine with a sophisticated twist.
Tio's TacosEl CamiónAuthentic Mexican flavors and an eclectic atmosphere that echoes Tio's vibrant charm.
Simple Simon'sPike Place ChowderThough known for chowder, offers a selection of sandwiches and salads that cater to the lunch crowd like Simple Simon's.
Mission Inn RestaurantThe Pink DoorItalian-American cuisine in an iconic location with unique ambiance similar to Mission Inn.
Woodfire CafeTutta Bella Neapolitan PizzeriaBoth specialize in wood-fired pizzas, offering a taste of authenticity in every slice.
Pho VinamPho Bac Sup ShopRepresents the best of Vietnamese comfort food in Seattle, much like Pho Vinam does in Riverside.
Backstreet RestaurantSkillet DinerRetro vibe diner offering hearty, upscale comfort food, similar to Backstreet's homestyle offerings.
Market BroilerRay's BoathouseBoth specialize in seafood, with Ray's offering stunning views and fresh, local catches reminiscent of Market Broiler's fare.
La Gare Coffee RoastersSeattle Coffee WorksBoth are beloved local coffee shops focusing on quality roasts and a cozy atmosphere for coffee aficionados.

While Riverside and Seattle might be miles apart, their culinary scenes offer parallels that can make any food enthusiast feel right at home. If you're missing the unique, wine-country-inspired flavors of Mario's Place in Riverside, Canlis in Seattle provides an unmatched fine dining experience with stunning views that are sure to impress. Seekers of casual yet sophisticated American cuisine will find solace in Lark, reminiscent of the farm-to-table ethos at The Salted Pig. For those craving a touch of Mexican flair, El Camión delivers a vibrant and authentic dining experience akin to Tio's Tacos. And when the longing for a cozy coffee shop moment hits, Seattle Coffee Works's commitment to quality and community echoes the ambiance and offerings of La Gare Coffee Roasters, ensuring your caffeine fix is in good hands.

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Riverside vs. Seattle Real Estate & Living Facts

Understanding the differences in real estate between Riverside, CA and Seattle, WA is crucial when planning a move. This comparison highlights key aspects such as housing costs, architecture, and lifestyle to help you make an informed decision.

ComparisonRiversideSeattle
Typical Architecture StyleRanch-styleCraftsman
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingSpacious yards, solar panelsViews, eco-friendly features

When diving deeper into the housing characteristics of Riverside and Seattle, the contrasts become even more apparent. Riverside's real estate often emphasizes spacious outdoor living areas, reflecting its warmer climate and the preference for ranch-style homes that typically include generous yards. Solar panels are a common feature, pointing to the abundant sunshine and a growing interest in sustainable living. On the other hand, Seattle's real estate listings frequently highlight views of the natural scenery, including mountains and water. The city's preference for Craftsman-style homes and eco-friendly features reflects its residents' appreciation for quality craftsmanship and environmental consciousness. With a higher walkability score, Seattle offers a more urban lifestyle, making it easier to explore the city's vibrant districts like Pike Place Market and Gas Works Park on foot.

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Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Seattle, WA

1. Ballard: With its numerous off-leash dog parks, Ballard is ideal for your furry friends to run free and socialize.

2. Green Lake: Known for the pet-friendly Green Lake Park, you and your pet will enjoy the scenic 2.8-mile trail and ample green space for play.

3. Queen Anne: This neighborhood is packed with pet-friendly cafes and shops, plus it offers easy access to Kinnear Park's off-leash area, making it a perfect spot for pet owners.

Riverside vs. Seattle Weather Considerations

Moving from one location to another requires understanding the differences in weather, especially when transitioning from Riverside, CA to Seattle, WA. This comparison will give you a clear perspective on what to expect and how best to prepare for your new climate.

Summer icon
94°F / 64°F

Riverside, CA

75°F / 55°F

Seattle, WA

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
68°F / 43°F

Riverside, CA

47°F / 37°F

Seattle, WA

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
11

Riverside, CA

38

Seattle, WA

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
0

Riverside, CA

5

Seattle, WA

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonRiversideSeattle
Air QualityGood to ModerateGood to Moderate
Natural DisastersWildfires, EarthquakesEarthquakes, Landslides
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

In transitioning from the sunny, arid climate of Riverside to the cooler, more humid environment of Seattle, you'll notice significant changes. Seattle's higher humidity and frequent cloud cover lead to fewer sunny days, emphasizing the importance of layering and always having a rain jacket handy. Additionally, while Riverside enjoys more sunshine and higher temperatures throughout the year, Seattle offers a respite from the heat with its milder summers and more considerable precipitation, leading to a lush, green landscape that's a stark contrast to Southern California's dryer terrain.

Ready to start your move?

Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Riverside to Seattle

When considering a move from one city to another, comparing the cost of living and financial implications between Riverside and Seattle is critical. This comparison will help you gauge how your expenses, income, and overall financial health might change with your new location.

ComparisonRiversideSeattle
Avg. Household Income$76,558$110,781
Cost of Living Index112.5121.4
State Income Tax13.3 max0
Avg. Property Tax0.810.99
Avg. Sales Tax7.7510.1
Top 3 IndustriesEducation, Healthcare, RetailTechnology, Aerospace, Healthcare
AffluenceModerateHigh
PovertyModerateLow
HomelessnessHighVery High

In comparing Riverside and Seattle, it's evident that while Seattle boasts a higher average household income, it also presents a significantly higher cost of living. Notably, Seattle's substantial technology and aerospace industries contribute to its affluence yet, it sees a higher rate of homelessness, a complex issue tied to various socio-economic factors including housing affordability. Despite Washington's lack of state income tax, Seattle's hefty sales tax somewhat offsets this benefit. Conversely, Riverside offers a more moderate cost of living but also grapples with its own challenges including higher state income taxes which could affect your net income.

Riverside vs. Seattle Political & Religious Comparison

In planning your move from Riverside, CA, to Seattle, WA, understanding the comparison of the politics between Riverside & Seattle along with the religious landscape offers invaluable insights. This quick, at-a-glance snapshot will help you gauge the socio-political and religious environment you're moving into.

RiversideSeattle
Political Make-upModerately ConservativeLiberal
Local PoliticsMix of Democratic and Republican representationHeavily Democratic representation
ReligionDiverse religious communityLess religiously affiliated, diverse spiritual practices

When diving deeper into these topics, it's fascinating to observe the nuanced differences in political and religious makeups between Riverside and Seattle. Riverside presents a more balanced political atmosphere with both major parties having significant representation. However, Seattle leans considerably towards liberal ideologies, reflecting in its local governance and community initiatives. Religion in Riverside has a visible presence with diverse communities including Harvest Christian Fellowship among others, catering to a variety of faiths. Conversely, Seattle showcases a trend towards less traditional religious affiliation, with many residents identifying as spiritual but not religious, or prioritizing secular viewpoints. This transition could represent a distinct cultural shift for newcomers, influencing community engagement, social norms, and personal networks.

Riverside vs. Seattle Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

This guide provides a comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Riverside & Seattle to better understand what the daily commute and traffic is like. This allows you to prepare for the differences you'll encounter when moving from Riverside, CA, to Seattle, WA.

ComparisonRiversideSeattle
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)3028
Traffic Congestion 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦
Availability of Public Transit 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇
Can you get by without car?DifficultEasier

In Riverside, you'll find that having a car is almost a necessity, given its public transit system scores only a 4 out of 10 in availability. The average commute time is around 30 minutes, and traffic congestion can be problematic, albeit slightly less so than in Seattle. Moving to Seattle, however, you'll notice an improvement in public transit options, with an availability score of 8 out of 10, making it easier to get around without a car. Despite this, Seattle experiences a higher level of traffic congestion, but with a more efficient public transportation system, your daily commute might actually feel more manageable compared to Riverside.

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