Best Aurora to Riverside Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Aurora to Riverside and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,005 mile move from Illinois to California go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 34 Aurora 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 - $8,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Aurora 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 Aurora to Riverside Moving Companies

RankCompany NameRating QuestionAffordability IndexLicenseContact
1Pure Moving9.649.49Authorized For HHGContact
2Terry Moving & Storage9.369.2Authorized For HHGContact
3606 Movers, Inc.9.369.27Authorized For Property, HHGContact
4A1 Movers, Inc9.339.57Authorized For HHGContact
5Murphy Family Movers9.299.35Authorized For Property, HHGContact
Phone (800) 787-5428

Cost to Move from Aurora to Riverside

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,005 miles from Aurora, IL to Riverside, CA will cost on average $3,486 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Aurora to Riverside move is roughly $8,412. 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$2,339300 ft³7.80
1 Bedroom$3,486450 ft³7.75
2 Bedrooms$5,773750 ft³7.70
3 Bedrooms$8,4121100 ft³7.65
4 Bedrooms$12,1561600 ft³7.60
5+ Bedrooms$13,5851800 ft³7.55
*Please note: These Illinois to California moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from Illinois & 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 IL to CA mover.
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Riverside to Aurora guide.

Compare the 5 Best Aurora 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
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
606 Movers, Inc. Logo

606 Movers, Inc.

Exceptional9.36/10
based on 1,152+ data points

159 N Sangamon St Suite 300

Chicago, IL, 60607

About 606 Movers, Inc.

606 Movers, Inc. has been serving the Chicagoland area for over 12 years. This professional moving company offers quality, eco-friendly moving...

Services

  • Residential Movers
  • Commercial Movers
  • Packing & Unpacking Services

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3476069 / 1139300

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans4
Registered Drivers4
Total Annual Miles Moved1 (2021)
View Full Review
3
A1 Movers, Inc Logo

A1 Movers, Inc

Exceptional9.33/10
based on 776+ data points

315 S Harrison St

Geneva, IL, 60134

About A1 Movers, Inc

A1 Movers, Inc. is a leading moving company in the Aurora, IL area providing residential moving services. This Aurora moving company...

Services

  • LOCAL MOVES
  • LONG DISTANCE MOVES
  • PACKING SERVICES

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3309154 / 1055273

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved6,800 (2024)
View Full Review
4
Murphy Family Movers Logo

Murphy Family Movers

Exceptional9.29/10
based on 1,271+ data points

4N951 Old Lafox Rd Unit C

St. Charles, IL, 60175

About Murphy Family Movers

Murphy Family Movers has over 25 years of combined moving experience in Aurora, Illinois. This Aurora, IL mover promises the highest...

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Interstate Moving
  • Professional Packing

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2965334 / 7122

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans4
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved30,000 (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.

Aurora vs. Riverside Neighborhood Comparison

Whether you're moving for a new job, adventure, or a change in scenery, acclimating to a new city can feel overwhelming. One way to make this transition smoother is by finding a neighborhood similar to what you're used to. In this guide, we've created a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Aurora, IL & Riverside, CA to help you find your new home sweet home away from home.

AuroraRiversideHow They're Similar
StonebridgeHawarden Hillshigh-end homes, tranquil ambience
Lakeside Sans SouciVictoriahistoric area, family-friendly
GeorgetownWood Streetstight-knit community, classic feel
Orchard ValleyCanyon Crestdiverse amenities, golf courses
Savannah CrossingOrangecrestnewer construction, community-focused
Tanner Historic DistrictDowntown Riversiderich history, vibrant life
OakhurstAlessandro Heightsspacious lots, scenic views
Barrington RidgeMission Grovefamily-oriented, well-planned
Amber FieldsLa Sierraaffordable, diverse community
Prairie VillageSycamore Canyon Parkoutdoor activities, nature nearby

In your transition from Aurora to Riverside, these neighborhood pairings highlight the richness of both cities' communities. If you're drawn to the historic charm and vibrant community life of Tanner Historic District, Downtown Riverside will captivate you with its eclectic mix of culture, dining, and arts symbolized by landmarks such as the Mission Inn. Fans of outdoor activities who appreciate Prairie Village's proximity to nature will find a semblance of ambience in Sycamore Canyon Park, a neighborhood cherished for its ample recreational spaces like Sycamore Canyon Wilderness Park. This seamless blend of community attributes ensures that, regardless of where you're coming from or your lifestyle, Riverside, CA, offers a neighborhood that feels like home.

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Pros and Cons of Moving from Aurora to Riverside

Moving from one city to another can be daunting, yet exciting. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad aspects of relocating from Aurora, IL to Riverside, CA. By examining the pros and cons , you'll have a clearer view to make an informed decision about this significant change in your life.

CONs
PROs
Aurora, IL iconAurora, IL
  • Harsh winters
  • Smaller job market
  • Lower diversity
  • Less cultural venues
Riverside, CA iconRiverside, CA
  • Mild winters
  • Larger job market
  • Higher diversity
  • More cultural venues
Riverside, CA iconRiverside, CA
  • Higher cost of living
  • Less personal
  • Less green space
  • More traffic congestion
Aurora, IL iconAurora, IL
  • Lower cost of living
  • Close-knit community
  • Abundant green space
  • Less traffic congestion

Moving to Riverside, CA, opens a door to a vibrant cultural scene and a larger job market, perfect for career growth. The city's diverse atmosphere is evident in its wide variety of cultural venues and eateries, such as the renowned Mission Inn Hotel & Spa for history enthusiasts and Fairmount Park for outdoor lovers. While Aurora, IL, prides itself on its close-knit community and abundant green spaces, such as Phillips Park, Riverside boasts more opportunities for professional development and cultural exploration. However, it's vital to consider the increased cost of living and traffic congestion in Riverside compared to the more laid-back lifestyle and affordability of Aurora.

Aurora vs. Riverside Food Guide

This comparison of the local cuisine between Aurora & Riverside is crafted to help you understand the food culture in each area. Food plays a vital role in the local culture and living experience. With this comparison, you'll be better informed about what culinary delights await you in your new home.

AuroraRiverside
Most iconic local food itemChicago-style deep-dish pizzaCalifornia burrito
Most popular meat dishItalian BeefCarne Asada
Most popular street food itemHot DogsTacos
Most popular vegan foodDeep-Dish Vegan PizzaAvocado Toast
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Two Brothers Roundhouse
  • Basil's Greek Dining
  • Jake's Bagels & Deli
  • Mission Inn Restaurant
  • Tio's Tacos
  • Salted Pig
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

In Riverside, California, you'll discover a vibrant food scene underscored by its love for fresh, local ingredients, showcased notably in dishes like the California burrito and Carne Asada tacos. Locales such as the Historic Mission Inn Restaurant offer more than just dining; they provide a unique glimpse into the city's heritage. Riverside's commitment to health and fitness is reflected in its high rating for health conscientiousness and an abundance of food trucks and vegan options, making it a paradise for food lovers. The vegan scene is particularly robust, with innovative offerings like avocado toast being a staple. Dive into Riverside's eclectic food scene, and you'll find a community that celebrates diversity and creativity at every meal.

Aurora vs. Riverside Restaurant Comparison

Finding comfort in a new city often starts with discovering great places to eat. This guide helps bridge the transition from Aurora, IL to Riverside, CA, showcasing comparable top restaurants from Aurora to Riverside, aiming to make the move feel more like coming home. Whether you’re craving familiar flavors or ready to explore new dishes, this comparison will guide you to your next favorite eatery.

AuroraRiversideWhat You'll Love
Jake’s Bagels & DeliSimple Simon'sKnown for fresh, handmade bagels and a cozy atmosphere.
Basil’s Greek DiningMediterranean Grill HouseOffers a similar emphasis on authentic Greek dishes and flavors.
The Turf RoomMario’s PlaceA high-end dining experience with a focus on artisan dishes and an extensive wine list.
Two Brothers RoundhouseThe Salted PigBoth offer a unique dining experience in a historical setting with craft beers and live music.
Oscar’s Burritos MegaAnchos Southwest Grill & BarCelebrated for their oversized burritos and vibrant southwest flavors.
Luigi’s Pizza & Fun CenterRomano's Chicago PizzeriaA close alternative offering a selection of deep-dish pizzas that honor the Chicago style.
Hopvine Brewing CompanyWicks BrewingSimilarities in craft beer selections and a friendly, community-oriented atmosphere.
Sushi + Rotary Sushi BarOoka Japanese RestaurantKnown for a wide variety of sushi and a unique dining experience.
Endiro CoffeeLift Coffee RoastersBoth are beloved local coffee shops with a commitment to sustainability and community.
Calla Lily Tea RoomMission Gables Bowl HouseOffers a quaint and charming afternoon tea experience, reminiscent of Calla Lily’s ambiance.

Embarking on a culinary journey in a new city can be an exciting adventure. For instance, if you've relished the authentic Greek dishes at Basil’s Greek Dining in Aurora, you'll find a similar passion for Mediterranean flavors at Mediterranean Grill House in Riverside. Meanwhile, beer enthusiasts who've frequented Hopvine Brewing Company for its craft selection will appreciate the community vibe and diverse beer menu at Wicks Brewing. And, for those special evenings, transitioning from The Turf Room’s upscale dining to the artisan dishes and sophisticated wine selection at Mario’s Place in Riverside promises an equally gratifying experience. Each Riverside establishment mirrors its Aurora counterpart not just in the menu, but in the atmosphere and dedication to quality that made you fall in love with your favorite spots back home.

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Aurora vs. Riverside Real Estate & Living Facts

When planning your move, comparing real estate aspects between Aurora, IL and Riverside, CA is crucial. This comparison will lay out key housing differences to help you make an informed decision.

ComparisonAuroraRiverside
Typical Architecture StyleVictorian, RanchSpanish, Modern
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingParks, family-friendlyViews, amenities

The stark contrast in median home prices and rent between Aurora and Riverside reflects the higher cost of living in California. Riverside's architecture boasts a mix of Spanish and modern styles, appealing to those seeking a unique aesthetic. Despite its higher walkability score, Aurora offers a more affordable and family-friendly environment. Riverside, meanwhile, excels in delivering an urban lifestyle with stunning views and numerous amenities, evident in its real estate listings. Both cities offer a unique lifestyle; your choice will depend on your priorities and budget.

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.

Aurora vs. Riverside Weather Considerations

Moving from one city to another means adapting to a new climate. Understanding how the weather in Aurora, IL compares to Riverside, CA is essential. This guide provides a snapshot of what to expect, focusing on key climatic differences to help ease your transition.

Summer icon
83°F / 60°F

Aurora, IL

95°F / 64°F

Riverside, CA

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
35°F / 18°F

Aurora, IL

68°F / 42°F

Riverside, CA

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
36.3

Aurora, IL

10.4

Riverside, CA

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
28.6

Aurora, IL

0

Riverside, CA

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonAuroraRiverside
Air QualityGoodModerate
Natural DisastersSevere Thunderstorms, TornadoesEarthquakes, Wildfires
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

Moving from Aurora's cool and humid climate to Riverside's warmer and drier conditions has significant lifestyle implications. You'll exchange snow shovels for sunscreen, given Riverside’s generous sunshine and virtually non-existent snowfall. Adapting to less humidity but higher UV levels means taking sun protection more seriously. Also, while Aurora residents prepare for winter's chill, those in Riverside can enjoy outdoor activities year-round, thanks to mild winters and plenty of sunny days. Preparing for different natural threats, such as earthquakes and wildfires in Riverside versus thunderstorms and tornadoes in Aurora, will also be a new aspect of your weather preparedness.

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

When planning a move from Aurora, IL to Riverside, CA, understanding how your finances will be impacted is crucial. This comparison provides insights into economic factors and the cost of living between Aurora and Riverside , helping you make an informed decision about your relocation.

ComparisonAuroraRiverside
Avg. Household Income$83,996$76,558
Cost of Living Index94.25112.5
State Income Tax4.959.3
Avg. Property Tax2.310.79
Avg. Sales Tax8.258.75
Top 3 IndustriesManufacturing, Healthcare, RetailManufacturing, Education, Healthcare
AffluenceMid-rangeMid-range to High
PovertyModerateHigher
HomelessnessLowerSignificant

Moving from Aurora to Riverside might bring about financial considerations beyond just base income levels. While the average household income in Riverside is slightly lower than in Aurora, the cost of living, particularly in terms of the index and state income tax, is higher. This discrepancy calls for careful budgeting and financial planning. Despite California's allure, which includes vibrant industries and job opportunities in sectors like manufacturing, education, and healthcare, the state's higher tax rates and cost of living can be a shock to newcomers from Illinois. Striking differences like a significantly lower property tax but a slightly higher sales tax in Riverside, as well as variances in affluence and homelessness rates between the two cities, showcase the complex tapestry of economic factors that can affect your lifestyle post-move.

Aurora vs. Riverside Political & Religious Comparison

When considering a move from Aurora, IL to Riverside, CA, it's beneficial to get a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents. This comparison provides insights into the community you're moving into, highlighting key differences and similarities. This is a comparison of the politics and religion between Aurora & Riverside, intended to help you feel more at home in your new city.

AuroraRiverside
Political Make-upLean DemocraticLean Democratic
Local PoliticsModerately progressiveMore progressive
ReligionChristians, with a notable Catholic presence. Local Catholic Church.Diverse, with a strong Christian majority. Various Christian communities.

While both Aurora and Riverside lean Democratic, it's worth noting that Riverside has a somewhat more progressive tilt in local politics. This might be reflected in the city's initiatives and community programs. Religion plays a significant role in both communities; however, there's a slight difference in the religious landscape. Aurora has a notable Catholic presence, contributing to the community's cultural events and services. Conversely, Riverside's diverse religious community, while still predominantly Christian, includes a broader spectrum of Christian denominations and other faiths, hosting a variety of religious activities and offering a more diverse religious experience. This can add to the richness and diversity of your social interactions and community involvement.

Aurora vs. Riverside Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Understanding the daily commute and traffic nuances is crucial when relocating, especially in this comparison between traffic and transportation options between Aurora & Riverside. This guide aims to help you grasp what to expect in terms of driving and transiting in both cities, easing your transition.

ComparisonAuroraRiverside
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)3031
Traffic Congestion 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦
Availability of Public Transit 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇
Can you get by without car?NoChallenging

While both Aurora and Riverside present their unique challenges and perks when it comes to commuting, some distinctions stand out. Aurora's slightly lower traffic congestion provides a somewhat less stressful driving experience. However, both cities are not known for their robust public transit systems, which implies a significant reliance on personal vehicles for daily commutes. In Riverside, though even more car-dependent, there’s slightly better access to public transit compared to Aurora, albeit still limited. These factors underscore the importance of planning your daily travel route attentively and considering proximity to work or schools when choosing your new home.

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