Best Washington DC to Riverside Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Washington DC to Riverside and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,719 mile move from DC to California go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 42 Washington DC to Riverside moving companies and more than 15,000 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 - $10,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Washington DC compared to Riverside. 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 Washington DC to Riverside Moving Companies

RankCompany NameRating QuestionAffordability IndexLicenseContact
1Pure Moving9.649.49Authorized For HHGContact
2Bookstore Movers9.609.55Authorized For HHGContact
3Mic's Moving9.599.56Authorized For HHGContact
4Ap Pro Moving Llc9.439.39ActiveContact
5Terry Moving & Storage9.369.2Authorized For HHGContact
Phone (800) 787-5428

Cost to Move from Washington DC to Riverside

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,719 miles from Washington DC, DC to Riverside, CA will cost on average $4,093 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Washington DC to Riverside move is roughly $9,896. 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$2,744300 ft³9.15
1 Bedroom$4,093450 ft³9.10
2 Bedrooms$6,785750 ft³9.05
3 Bedrooms$9,8961100 ft³9.00
4 Bedrooms$14,3141600 ft³8.95
5+ Bedrooms$16,0141800 ft³8.90
*Please note: These DC to California moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from DC & California. 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 DC to CA mover.
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Riverside to Washington DC guide.

Compare the 5 Best Washington DC to Riverside 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
Bookstore Movers Logo

Bookstore Movers

Exceptional9.60/10
based on 6,631+ data points

5200 46th Ave

Hyattsville, MD, 20781

About Bookstore Movers

Locally owned and operated, Bookstore Movers was founded in 2005 with a dedication to customer service, personalization, and small business values....

Services

  • Local moving
  • Long-distance moving
  • Cross-country moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 9/15/2021)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2005212 / 707471

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans21
Registered Drivers21
Total Annual Miles Moved153,245 (2019)
View Full Review
2
Mic's Moving Logo

Mic's Moving

Exceptional9.59/10
based on 4,108+ data points

1250 9th st. nw

Washington DC, DC, 20011

About Mic's Moving

Mic's Moving is a locally owned and operated moving company that focuses on providing a personalized moving experience to residential and...

Services

  • Local Move
  • Long Distance Moving
  • Labor Only: Loading, Unloading and In-house moves

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 9/14/2021)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2474176 / 856657

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans7
Registered Drivers7
Total Annual Miles Moved40,000 (2019)
View Full Review
3
Ap Pro Moving Llc Logo

Ap Pro Moving Llc

Exceptional9.43/10
based on 361+ data points

5021 Seminary Rd # 822

Alexandria, VA, 22311

About Ap Pro Moving Llc

Ap Pro Moving LLC is a reliable and professional moving company based in Arlington, VA. They offer various services such as...

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Long Distance Moving
  • Packing Services

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 9/6/2022)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3338902 / -

Active

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved4,000 (2021)
View Full Review
4
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
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.

Washington DC vs. Riverside Neighborhood Comparison

If you're planning to move from Washington DC, DC to Riverside, CA, understanding how local neighborhoods compare can help you find your new home with ease. This guide is designed to compare Washington DC, DC & Riverside, CA local neighborhoods , helping you match familiar surroundings in DC with similar environments in Riverside. Let's explore top neighborhoods and find your new community.

Washington DCRiversideHow They're Similar
Dupont CircleWood StreetsHistoric charm, vibrant community
GeorgetownAlessandro HeightsUpscale, historic homes
Capitol HillHawarden HillsPolitical heart, historic
Logan CircleCanyon CrestTrendy, with a mix of urban and suburban
Adams MorganUniversityDiverse, vibrant nightlife
Columbia HeightsMagnolia CenterDiverse, family-friendly
Navy YardRiverside DowntownModern, riverside living
ShawEastsideCultural heart, historic
Foggy BottomOrangecrestConvenient, with a mix of residential and commercial
U Street CorridorLa SierraArtsy, community-focused

Imagine strolling through the historic streets of Georgetown, with its upscale boutiques and waterfront dining at places like Fiola Mare. You'll find a similar vibe in Riverside's Alessandro Heights, known for its breathtaking views and luxury estates, reminiscent of Georgetown's charm. If you've enjoyed the diverse, vibrant nightlife of Adams Morgan, University neighborhood in Riverside offers a comparable experience with cultural festivals and venues like The Box theater. For those who appreciate the modern, riverside living of Navy Yard, the Downtown area of Riverside provides an appealing alternative with its mix of stylish apartments and access to the Santa Ana River trail, ideal for morning runs or leisurely bike rides. Each Riverside neighborhood holds unique attractions and amenities that cater to a variety of lifestyles, ensuring you'll find a community that feels like home.

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Pros and Cons of Moving from Washington DC to Riverside

Moving from one city to another comes with its blend of challenges and opportunities. This guide is designed to offer an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Washington DC, DC to Riverside, CA . By comparing the cons with the pros and vice versa, you'll gain a nuanced understanding of what to expect from your new home while acknowledging what you'll leave behind.

CONs
PROs
Washington DC, DC iconWashington DC, DC
  • High cost of living
  • Heavy traffic
  • Harsh winters
  • Political-centric culture
Riverside, CA iconRiverside, CA
  • More affordable housing
  • Less congested roads
  • Milder winters
  • Diverse economy
Riverside, CA iconRiverside, CA
  • Fewer historic sites
  • Car-dependent lifestyle
  • Smaller job market
  • Quieter nightlife
Washington DC, DC iconWashington DC, DC
  • Cultural landmarks
  • Public transit options
  • Abundant career opportunities
  • Vibrant nightlife

Relocating from Washington DC to Riverside, CA, introduces you to a city teeming with lifestyle adjustments and new opportunities. While you might miss the vibrant streets lined with landmarks like the National Mall or the eclectic dining options in neighborhoods such as Georgetown, Riverside offers a respite with its serene landscape, notably the beautiful parks like Mount Rubidoux Park and the historic Mission Inn Hotel & Spa. Riverside's diverse economy spans sectors, offering job opportunities in education, healthcare, and more, albeit on a smaller scale than DC's expansive job market. Embracing Riverside means enjoying spacious homes and engaging in outdoor activities amidst a backdrop of milder winters, setting the stage for a fulfilling lifestyle away from the political whirlwind and congested traffic of DC.

Washington DC vs. Riverside Food Guide

Food is an essential aspect of local culture, offering a glimpse into what life is like in a new area. To help you transition smoothly, we’ve prepared a comparison focusing on the local cuisine between Washington DC and Riverside . This should provide you with a good understanding of each city's food scene, helping you to feel right at home in no time.

Washington DCRiverside
Most iconic local food itemHalf-SmokeAvocado Toast
Most popular meat dishMumbo Sauce Chicken WingsCarne Asada
Most popular street food itemJumbo Slice PizzaTacos
Most popular vegan foodImpossibly Good Veggie BurgersJackfruit Tacos
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Ben's Chili Bowl
  • Rosa's Thai Cafe
  • Zaytinya
  • The Mission Inn Restaurant
  • Tio's Tacos
  • Mario's Place
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

When diving deeper into the local cuisine, you'll discover that Washington DC is known for its diverse culinary scene, offering everything from American classics like Mumbo Sauce Chicken Wings to a wide array of international cuisines. The Jumbo Slice Pizza has become a significant part of DC's late-night culture. Meanwhile, Riverside takes pride in its use of fresh, locally-sourced ingredients, especially evident in dishes like Avocado Toast and Carne Asada. Tacos, a staple in the Riverside food scene, can be found in numerous iterations throughout the city, particularly in vibrant neighborhoods like Mission Grove and Downtown Riverside. Jackfruit Tacos emerge as a star in the growing vegan scene, embodying Riverside’s embrace of innovative and healthy food options.

Washington DC vs. Riverside Restaurant Comparison

Embarking on a move from Washington DC to Riverside, California introduces a new landscape, culture, and most importantly, a fresh dining scene. Finding comfort in culinary delights is essential to feeling at home in a new city. This restaurant comparison between Washington DC and Riverside aims to ease your transition by pinpointing local eateries in Riverside that echo the quality and atmosphere of your Washington DC favorites. Now, let's dive into the tastes that make a place feel like home.

Washington DCRiversideWhat You'll Love
Le DiplomateMario's PlaceOffers a European dining experience reminiscent of Parisian cafes.
Bad SaintKamayan FiestaAuthentic Filipino dishes that capture the essence of Bad Saint's menu.
ZaytinyaCafe SevillaMediterranean and Spanish cuisine that mirrors Zaytinya's mezze-style dining.
Ben's Chili BowlSimple Simon'sIconic sandwiches and American diner fare reflecting the casual vibe of Ben's Chili Bowl.
RasikaPunjab PalaceOffers a fine dining Indian cuisine experience akin to Rasika's modern twist.
Blue Duck TavernProAbitionModern American dishes served in an upscale environment echoing Blue Duck Tavern's ambiance.
Rose’s LuxuryThe Salted PigA gastropub with innovative dishes that foster a sense of community similar to Rose’s Luxury.
Fiola MareLas CampanasOffers a gourmet Mexican seafood experience comparable to the Italian seafood delicacies at Fiola Mare.
The DabneyWoodfire CafeKnown for its locally-sourced ingredients and wood-fired dishes, mirroring The Dabney's approach.
Thip KhaoSticky RiceAuthentic Lao cuisine providing a culinary journey similar to Thip Khao's adventurous menu.

Each of these recommended Riverside restaurants has been selected for its unique ability to echo the dining experience found in popular Washington DC eateries. For instance, Mario's Place in Riverside mirrors the sophisticated, European charm of Le Diplomate, offering an escape to a Parisian cafe without the need for a passport. Meanwhile, fans of the adventurous and bold flavors at Bad Saint will find a kindred spirit in Kamayan Fiesta, where traditional Filipino dishes take center stage. These Riverside establishments not only offer a taste of home for those relocating from Washington DC but also promise to become new favorites in their own right, blending the best of both culinary worlds.

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Washington DC vs. Riverside Real Estate & Living Facts

Real estate significantly influences the moving process, making it crucial to understand how Washington DC and Riverside compare in terms of housing. This includes aspects such as cost, architecture, and walkability. Learn which city matches your lifestyle and budget through our detailed comparison.

ComparisonWashington DCRiverside
Typical Architecture StyleVictorian and ColonialSpanish Mission and Ranch
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingHistoric landmarks, proximity to MetroMountain views, spacious yards

When it comes to housing, both Washington DC and Riverside offer unique benefits depending on your preferences. Washington DC's proximity to significant historic landmarks and the Metro makes it ideal for those looking for a bustling urban atmosphere with convenient transportation options. Architecture in DC tends towards the Victorian and Colonial, reflecting the city's historical significance. On the other hand, Riverside presents a more laid-back setting with Spanish Mission and Ranch-style homes that embrace California’s heritage. The city boasts of having more spacious yards and picturesque mountain views, which might be preferable for those valuing outdoor space and a connection with nature. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on your lifestyle preferences and whether walkability, architecture, or living space are your priority.

Pet-friendly neighborhoods background image

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Riverside, CA

1. Downtown Riverside: Known for its welcoming environment, Downtown Riverside boasts multiple dog-friendly establishments like Lakeside to Brambles, a specialized pet spa that offers grooming, therapy, and consultation services for your furry friends.

2. Wood Streets: This neighborhood is perfect for those who love to take regular strolls with their pets, thanks to its peaceful streets, beautiful architecture, and Wood Streets Green Team's community garden that includes dog-friendly spaces.

3. Canyon Crest: Canyon Crest stands out with its City of Riverside parks and recreational facilities such as Sycamore Canyon Wilderness Park, known for pet-friendly walking paths and trails where you can enjoy outdoor activities with your pets.

Washington DC vs. Riverside Weather Considerations

Moving can be a big adjustment, especially when it comes to weather. Understanding the climatic differences between Washington DC and Riverside is crucial for a smooth transition. This guide compares essential weather aspects to help you prepare for your new environment.

Summer icon
87°F / 71°F

Washington DC, DC

94°F / 64°F

Riverside, CA

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
47°F / 29°F

Washington DC, DC

68°F / 43°F

Riverside, CA

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
39.74"

Washington DC, DC

10.71"

Riverside, CA

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
15.4"

Washington DC, DC

0"

Riverside, CA

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonWashington DCRiverside
Air QualityGood to ModerateModerate to Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups
Natural DisastersHurricanes, SnowstormsEarthquakes, Wildfires
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

Comparing weather between Washington, DC, and Riverside, CA, reveals significant changes that might impact your daily life. Riverside enjoys more sunny days and milder winters than Washington, DC, which could mean swapping your heavy coat for lighter jackets. However, Riverside's summer highs are often accompanied by low humidity, creating a different comfort level than the muggy heat of the East Coast. Air quality and natural disaster risks also shift, with Riverside facing challenges like wildfires and earthquakes, contrasting with DC's snowstorms and hurricanes. Adapting your wardrobe and staying aware of seasonal allergies and natural disaster preparedness will be key in making your transition as smooth as possible.

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

When considering a move from one city to another, it's crucial to understand how your financial situation might change. This guide compares the finance and economy aspects of Washington DC and Riverside , offering a clear view of what to expect in your new home. Whether it's taxes or income, getting to grips with these differences is key to a smooth transition.

ComparisonWashington DCRiverside
Avg. Household Income$90,088$76,558
Cost of Living Index140.1112.5
State Income Tax4.0 - 8.951.0 - 13.3
Avg. Property Tax0.560.79
Avg. Sales Tax6.007.75 - 8.25
Top 3 IndustriesGovernment, Professional Services, EducationManufacturing, Education, Healthcare
AffluenceVery HighModerate
PovertyModerateHigher
HomelessnessHighModerate

Moving from Washington DC to Riverside, you're likely to experience a lower cost of living, including a decrease in the cost of housing, which is reflected in the lower Cost of Living Index for Riverside. However, it's important to note the potential for a higher state income tax in California, depending on your income bracket. While the average household income is lower in Riverside compared to Washington DC, the savings in daily and housing expenses could offset this difference. The economic landscape also shifts, with opportunities in Manufacturing, Education, and Healthcare industries waiting in Riverside, contrasting with the government and professional services sectors that dominate in Washington DC.

Washington DC vs. Riverside Political & Religious Comparison

Considering a move from this is a comparison of the politics between Washington DC & Riverside? Get a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents in both cities to help you understand your potential new community better.

Washington DCRiverside
Political Make-upHeavily DemocraticLean Democratic
Local PoliticsProgressive PoliciesModerately Progressive
ReligionDiverse, with a notable presence of Christian and non-religious communitiesDiverse, with a strong presence of Christian denominations

While both Washington DC and Riverside lean Democratic in terms of political makeup, DC is known for its heavily Democratic voting base and progressive policies. This might mean you'll notice more liberal discussions and political events there. Riverside also leans Democratic but tends to be more moderate in its politics. When it comes to religion, both cities boast a diversity of faiths, though you might find a stronger visible presence of Christian churches in Riverside, such as the Harvest Christian Fellowship. This difference reflects the broader religious landscape in which both cities operate, offering a variety of places of worship and community for new residents. Understanding these nuances will help you navigate your new home more comfortably.

Washington DC vs. Riverside Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving from Washington DC to Riverside, CA requires an understanding of the differences in traffic and transportation options between these two cities to better manage your expectations about the daily commute and traffic conditions.

ComparisonWashington DCRiverside
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)34.431.2
Traffic Congestion 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦
Availability of Public Transit 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇
Can you get by without car?YesNo

The commute and daily life in Washington DC and Riverside, CA, offer distinct experiences primarily due to differences in public transit systems and the necessity of owning a car. In Washington DC, the Metro system and various bus services make it quite feasible to navigate the city without a personal vehicle. The high availability of public transit in DC contrasts sharply with Riverside, where public transit options are significantly limited, making a car almost essential for daily commutes and errands. This difference fundamentally influences how residents of each city plan their daily movements, affecting everything from the choice of housing to leisure activities.

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