Best Riverside to Charleston Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Riverside to Charleston and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,332 mile move from California to West Virginia go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 20 Riverside to Charleston 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 Charleston. 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 Charleston 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
4Ready Set Movers9.169.22Authorized For HHGContact
5Central Van Lines8.168.11Authorized For Property, HHGContact
Phone (800) 787-5428

Cost to Move from Riverside to Charleston

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,332 miles from Riverside, CA to Charleston, WV will cost on average $3,764 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Riverside to Charleston move is roughly $9,092. 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$2,525300 ft³8.42
1 Bedroom$3,764450 ft³8.37
2 Bedrooms$6,236750 ft³8.32
3 Bedrooms$9,0921100 ft³8.27
4 Bedrooms$13,1441600 ft³8.22
5+ Bedrooms$14,6971800 ft³8.17
*Please note: These California to West Virginia moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from California & West 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 WV mover.
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Charleston to Riverside guide.

Compare the 5 Best Riverside to Charleston 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
Ready Set Movers Logo

Ready Set Movers

Exceptional9.16/10
based on 902+ data points

454 Deanna Ln

Charleston, SC, 29492

About Ready Set Movers

As a locally owned and operated moving company, Ready Set Movers provides relocation services for both local and long-distance moves. Since...

Services

  • Local and interstate moves
  • Full-service moving
  • Accurate and detailed estimates

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2150739 / 756179

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers4
Total Annual Miles Moved10,000 (2022)
View Full Review
4
Central Van Lines Logo

Central Van Lines

Very Good8.16/10
based on 347+ data points

37 Jacobson Dr

Poca, WV, 25159

About Central Van Lines

Whether you’re moving across the street or across the globe, Central Van Lines knows how to get your belongings safely where...

Services

  • Local and long-distance moving services
  • Residential moving services
  • Commercial moving services

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 9/16/2021)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1243887 / 11266

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans44
Registered Drivers35
Total Annual Miles Moved487,000 (2019)
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. Charleston Neighborhood Comparison

Comparing neighborhoods between Riverside, CA & Charleston, WV can help you familiarize yourself with an unknown city by using your existing city as a baseline. We'll compare popular neighborhoods in Riverside with the closest similar neighborhood in Charleston.

RiversideCharlestonHow They're Similar
downtown riversideEast EndVibrant cultural scene, galleries
Arlington HeightsEast EndResidential community
La SierraSouth HillsSuburban feel, close to parks
Canyon CrestSouth HillsGolf courses, family-friendly
OrangecrestKanawha CitySchools, suburban living
Mission GroveFort HillShopping and dining areas
VictoriaSouth HillsHistorical charm, family-oriented
Casa BlancaWest SideDiverse, community-oriented
Wood StreetsEdgewoodHistoric homes, community events
EastsideKanawha CityCulturally diverse, educational centers

Exploring the neighborhoods of Riverside can set an exciting precedent for your new adventures in Charleston. If you enjoy the vibrant cultural scene and art galleries of Downtown Riverside, you'll find a lively counterpart in Charleston’s East End, which is dotted with similar artistic enclaves. For those used to the suburban feel and park proximity of La Sierra, South Hills in Charleston offers an equally appealing landscape with its backdrop of lush parks and greenery. Residents coming from the family-friendly Canyon Crest will appreciate South Hills' recreational options and golf courses, providing ample opportunities for outdoor enjoyment. Alternatively, if you’re fond of the educational and culturally diverse settings of Riverside's Eastside, you’ll feel right at home in Kanawha City with its dense educational community flanked by a similar cultural tapestry.

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Things to Do in Charleston

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Pros and Cons of Moving from Riverside to Charleston

Moving can be a daunting endeavor, particularly when contrasting two distinct locales. This comparison will present an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Riverside, CA to Charleston, WV . Understanding these differences will help you make a knowledgeable decision about your move.

CONs
PROs
Riverside, CA iconRiverside, CA
  • High cost of living
  • Traffic congestion
  • Summer heat
Charleston, WV iconCharleston, WV
  • Affordable housing
  • Less traffic
  • Mild summers
Charleston, WV iconCharleston, WV
  • Fewer cultural events
  • Limited restaurant choices
  • Less green space
Riverside, CA iconRiverside, CA
  • Vibrant cultural scene
  • Diverse dining options
  • Numerous parks

Relocating from Riverside, CA, with its rich tapestry of cultural experiences and bustling Restaurant Row, to a quieter Charleston, WV, offers both challenges and opportunities. In Riverside, you might be used to visiting the scenic Mt. Rubidoux Park or dining at the diverse range of eateries at Riverwalk Dining. Charleston, however, provides a different charm with its affordability and less congested streets, perfect for leisurely strolls in parts of the city like Municipal Golf Course or a relaxed meal at a neighborhood favorite. Embrace a change of pace while discovering hidden gems like the Capitol Market and local dining spots.

Riverside vs. Charleston Food Guide

Comparing Riverside, CA to Charleston, WV local cuisine offers a glimpse into the culinary culture of each city. Food is an integral part of local culture and provides insight into what it's like to live there. This comparison will help you better understand the food scene where you are moving.

RiversideCharleston
Most iconic local food itemCalifornia BurritoHot Dog
Most popular meat dishCarne AsadaCountry Ham
Most popular street food itemTacosPepperoni Roll
Most popular vegan foodAcai BowlVegetable Soup
Top 3 iconic restaurants
  • Tidewater Grill
  • Tricky Fish
  • Bluegrass Kitchen
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness (out of 10)💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks (out of 10)🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene (out of 10)🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly (out of 10)🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

When moving to Charleston, make time to explore distinct culinary highlights. You won't want to miss the famous pepperoni rolls, common at local bakeries such as Mountaineer Marketplace in bustling areas like the downtown district. For an iconic dining experience, Bluegrass Kitchen offers a taste of the local farm-to-table movement right in the heart of Charleston. While the city may not have as many food trucks as Riverside, the growing Tidewater Grill reflects the city's evolving and charming food scene. Embrace the cozy charm of vegetarian and traditional southern dishes, as you indulge in a new chapter of your culinary journey.

Riverside vs. Charleston Restaurant Comparison

Food is an integral part of making any area feel like home. This restaurant comparison between Riverside, CA and Charleston, WV will help you discover new favorite eateries by using your current hometown as a guide.

RiversideCharlestonWhat You'll Love
The Salted PigBluegrass KitchenKnown for creative comfort food in a rustic-chic setting
Mission Inn RestaurantBridge Road BistroOffers an exquisite dining experience with elegant decor
Simple Simon's Bakery & BistroSwiftwater CaféEnjoy a relaxed atmosphere with a focus on fresh ingredients
Tio's TacosTidewater GrillBoth have a coastal vibe with a focus on fresh seafood
Anchos Southwest Grill & BarMi Cocina de AmorFeatures authentic Southwestern dishes with a fiery twist
Café SevillaBricks & BarrelsShares a lively atmosphere with an emphasis on community dining
Goodwin's Organic Foods & DrinksLola’s PizzaOrganic ingredients used in creative pizzas
Mario's PlaceLaury's RestaurantOffers upscale Italian cuisine in an intimate setting
The Tamale FactoryGonzoburgerKnown for local, inventive takes on classic dishes
ProAbition Kitchen & CocktailsThe Red Carpet LoungeOffers craft cocktails in a speakeasy-style setting

As you explore Charleston, you'll discover that Bluegrass Kitchen captures much of the magic that makes Riverside's The Salted Pig beloved—a commitment to locally sourced ingredients and inventive dishes. For intimate and elegant dining experiences, Bridge Road Bistro echoes the sophistication of Riverside's Mission Inn Restaurant with its fine attention to detail and ambiance. If you enjoy a vibrant social dining spot, Bricks & Barrels offers a communal atmosphere akin to Café Sevilla's, complete with shared plates and engaging gatherings. These options in Charleston ensure you're never far from finding a meal that resonates with your culinary past.

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Riverside vs. Charleston Real Estate & Living Facts

Real estate is one of the most important aspects of a move. Understanding how Riverside and Charleston compare helps you make an informed decision. This guide highlights the differences in housing cost , style, and urban lifestyle , offering a comprehensive insight into both cities.

ComparisonRiversideCharleston
Typical Architecture StyleSpanish ColonialColonial Revival
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingSwimming PoolsLarge Gardens

When you consider relocating, you'll find significant differences between Riverside and Charleston's housing market. Riverside offers a vibrant urban lifestyle with a Spanish Colonial architecture style, often featuring amenities like swimming pools. Although median home prices are higher in Riverside, the city's urban flair may appeal to those seeking a more dynamic living experience. On the other hand, Charleston boasts more affordable housing options, allowing you to enjoy properties with large gardens and a distinct Colonial Revival style. While Charleston might lack the same walkability and bikeability as Riverside, it offers a charming, more laid-back atmosphere ideal for those preferring a slower-paced lifestyle amid beautiful landscapes.

Pet-friendly neighborhoods background image

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Charleston, WV

1. South Hills: This neighborhood offers plenty of green spaces and parks like South Hills Park for your pets to enjoy and explore.

2. Kanawha City: Known for its friendly community and pet-friendly businesses such as the Pet Valu store, making it easy for you to find everything your pet needs.

3. East End: With amenities like the Kanawha County Public Library offering pet-friendly events, it's a vibrant area where both you and your pet can feel at home.

Riverside vs. Charleston Weather Considerations

When relocating from one city to another, understanding how the weather differs between Riverside, CA and Charleston, WV helps in preparing for new experiences in daily life and adapting to climate changes in your new home.

Summer icon
95°F / 62°F

Riverside, CA

86°F / 65°F

Charleston, WV

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
68°F / 42°F

Riverside, CA

46°F / 26°F

Charleston, WV

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
11.5

Riverside, CA

45.0

Charleston, WV

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
0

Riverside, CA

28.5

Charleston, WV

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonRiversideCharleston
Air QualityModerateGood
Natural DisastersEarthquakesFloods
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

Moving from Riverside to Charleston means facing a different set of climatic challenges. In Charleston, snowfall is a significant part of the winter season, unlike Riverside where you may never see a flake of snow. Rainfall is also drastically higher in Charleston, with nearly four times the annual precipitation of Riverside, so investing in some reliable rain gear will be a wise decision. On sunny days, you will notice that the UV index is lower in Charleston, meaning less exposure to harmful rays compared to Riverside. Lastly, if you are sensitive to seasonal allergies, note that ragweed is more prevalent in Charleston, which is quite different from the pollen-dominated allergy season you may be used to in Riverside.

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

If you're moving from Riverside, CA to Charleston, WV , it's crucial to grasp how the cost of living and financial aspects will compare to your current experience. This comparison will help you budget effectively and make informed financial decisions in your new home.

ComparisonRiversideCharleston
Avg. Household Income$76,558
Cost of Living Index112.592.7
State Income Tax9.3%6.5%
Avg. Property Tax0.79%0.59%
Avg. Sales Tax7.75%6.00%
Top 3 IndustriesHealthcare, Education, ManufacturingEnergy, Healthcare, Education
AffluenceModerateModest
PovertyManageableHigher
HomelessnessNoticeableLimited

When moving from Riverside to Charleston, one of the most noticeable differences is the cost of living, which is significantly lower in Charleston. This more affordable environment can provide financial relief despite a lower average household income. Property taxes and sales taxes are also moderately lower in Charleston, allowing you further savings. Understanding these differences will help you adjust your financial expectations and spending habits as you settle into your new locale. Moreover, while Riverside has a slightly higher affluence rate, Charleston offers more affordable living conditions, balancing the modest income levels there.

Riverside vs. Charleston Political & Religious Comparison

The purpose of this comparison is to provide a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents in Riverside, CA, and Charleston, WV. This will help you understand the difference in political dynamics between Riverside & Charleston , and how it might affect your lifestyle as you move.

RiversideCharleston
Political Make-upMixed, Leaning DemocraticLean Republican
Local PoliticsCity of Riverside is known for progressive policiesCity of Charleston often more conservative
ReligionDiverse, with a strong representation of ChristianityPredominantly Christian

Moving from Riverside to Charleston will likely expose you to a different political atmosphere. Riverside's mixed but Democratic-leaning political scene contrasts with Charleston's more Republican tendencies, which can affect local policies ranging from social issues to business regulations. Additionally, both cities have a strong Christian presence, but Charleston leans more towards uniformity in its religious makeup. This shift might influence the social and cultural activities available in the community, providing a unique atmosphere in each city.

Riverside vs. Charleston Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

To better understand what the daily commute and traffic is like, this guide offers a comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Riverside & Charleston . It will help you gauge the differences in commuting experiences between both cities.

ComparisonRiversideCharleston
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)3020
Traffic Congestion 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦
Availability of Public Transit 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇
Can you get by without car?NoYes

The driving experience in Riverside can be substantially different from that in Charleston. In Riverside, you'll find a more extensive public transit system, which is quite reliable if you prefer not to drive. Although traffic congestion can be a significant aspect of Riverside daily life, having a vehicle remains convenient due to the city's sprawling nature. Conversely, in Charleston, you might appreciate shorter commute times and less congestion, potentially making owning a car less necessary. Local amenities, such as restaurants or shops, are often within walking distance or a short drive. Exploring each city will give you a first-hand look and feel of these variances, helping you decide what suits your lifestyle best.

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