Best Rochester to Riverside Movers + Moving Guide
Want help with the heavy lifting?
If you're moving from Rochester to Riverside and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,624 mile move from New York to California go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 26 Rochester to Riverside 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 - $9,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Rochester 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.

Best Rochester to Riverside Moving Companies
Rank | Company Name | Rating | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Pure Moving | 9.64 | 9.49 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
2 | Terry Moving & Storage | 9.36 | 9.2 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
3 | Zippboxx | 9.36 | 9.16 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
4 | Interior Moving Services, Inc. | 8.95 | 8.99 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
5 | Reliable Movers | 8.92 | 8.81 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
Cost to Move from Rochester to Riverside
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,624 miles from Rochester, NY to Riverside, CA will cost on average $4,013 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Rochester to Riverside move is roughly $9,699. 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 Size | Moving Cost | Volume of Packed Items (ft³) | $/ft³ |
---|---|---|---|
Studio | $2,690 | 300 ft³ | 8.97 |
1 Bedroom | $4,013 | 450 ft³ | 8.92 |
2 Bedrooms | $6,650 | 750 ft³ | 8.87 |
3 Bedrooms | $9,699 | 1100 ft³ | 8.82 |
4 Bedrooms | $14,027 | 1600 ft³ | 8.77 |
5+ Bedrooms | $15,691 | 1800 ft³ | 8.72 |


Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Riverside to Rochester guide.
Compare the 5 Best Rochester to Riverside Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)

Pure Moving
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
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3207734 / 1115049 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
Registered Drivers | 1 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 100,000 (2022) |

Terry Moving & Storage
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
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 649215 / 306297 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 11 |
Registered Drivers | 11 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 315,000 (2022) |

Zippboxx
923 Motor Pkwy
Hauppauge, NY, 11788
About Zippboxx
Zippboxx is a top-rated moving and storage company based in Hauppauge, New York, providing residential and commercial moving services both locally...
Services
- Local movers
- Long Distance Movers
- Storage
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3077817 / 1043860 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 6 |
Registered Drivers | 6 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 1 (2024) |

Interior Moving Services, Inc.

157 La Grange Ave
Rochester, NY, 14613
About Interior Moving Services, Inc.
Located in Rochester, New York, Interior Moving Services has close to three decades of moving expertise, serving both residential and commercial...
Services
- Local residential moving
- Local commercial moving
- Long-distance residential moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1498819 / 600823 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 6 |
Registered Drivers | 4 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 50,000 (2023) |

Reliable Movers

159 Hardenbergh Ave
Auburn, NY, 13021
About Reliable Movers
Reliable Movers is a family-owned and operated business specializing in moves from New York to Florida. Since 1996, this Auburn-based moving...
Services
- Residential moving, local and long distance
- Commercial factories and offices moving
- Hot tubs, pianos, and gun safes moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1605981 / 837987 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 3 |
Registered Drivers | 4 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 79,441 (2023) |

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.

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.
Rochester vs. Riverside Neighborhood Comparison
Planning a move can be overwhelming, especially when relocating to an unfamiliar city. To ease the transition, we're offering a unique comparison: Rochester, NY & Riverside, CA neighborhoods . This guide is designed to help you familiarize yourself with Riverside by comparing its neighborhoods with those you might already know and love in Rochester.
Rochester | Riverside | How They're Similar |
---|---|---|
Park Avenue | Wood Streets | Historic charm, vibrant community |
East Avenue | Arlington Heights | Lush, historic estates |
Highland Park | Victoria | Beautiful parks, family-friendly |
South Wedge | Canyon Crest | Bohemian vibe, eclectic shops |
North Winton Village | University | Close to colleges, lively atmosphere |
Swillburg | Orangecrest | Tight-knit community, suburban feel |
ArtWalk | Downtown Riverside | Arts and cultural hub |
Corn Hill | Mission Grove | Historic homes, quiet neighborhoods |
Neighborhood of the Arts (NOTA) | Alessandro Heights | Large homes, artist community |
Maplewood | La Sierra | Green spaces, family-oriented |
In comparing these neighborhoods, those from Rochester will find familiar comforts in Riverside's unique areas. For instance, if you cherish the historic charm and lively atmosphere of Park Avenue, the Wood Streets neighborhood in Riverside offers a similar environment with its historic homes and community-centric vibe. For art lovers, transitioning from the Neighborhood of the Arts in Rochester to Alessandro Heights in Riverside could be particularly appealing, thanks to the latter's thriving artist community amidst large, luxurious homes. Meanwhile, nature enthusiasts moving from Highland Park will appreciate Victoria in Riverside for its stunning parks and family-friendly atmosphere, mirroring the green-spaces and community feel they loved back home. These matches demonstrate Riverside's diverse neighborhoods that cater to a variety of lifestyles, providing a seamless transition for those relocating from Rochester.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Rochester to Riverside
Moving from one city to another always comes with its share of challenges and opportunities. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Rochester, NY to Riverside, CA. By weighing the pros and cons, you can make a more informed decision about this significant change in your life.
- Harsh winters
- Smaller economy
- Less cultural diversity
- Limited entertainment
- Milder winters
- Larger job market
- Greater cultural diversity
- More entertainment options
- Higher cost of living
- Fewer large parks
- More suburban sprawl
- Less historical appeal
- Lower cost of living
- More green spaces
- Close-knit communities
- Rich history
While Rochester boasts a lower cost of living and more green spaces such as Highland Park and Genesee Valley Park, Riverside counters with a dynamic job market and a wider range of cultural and entertainment options, including the famous Mission Inn Hotel & Spa and the Riverside Metropolitan Museum. Riverside's milder winters also present a stark contrast to Rochester's colder climate, making outdoor activities more enjoyable year-round. However, you should be prepared for Riverside's higher cost of living and more sprawling urban layout, which might require adjustments if you're used to the tighter-knit, historical charm of Rochester.
Rochester vs. Riverside Food Guide
Understanding local cuisine is fundamental to getting a true feel of the area you’re relocating to. Food plays a crucial role in local culture and daily life. In this guide, we'll conduct a comparison of the local cuisine between Rochester, NY, & Riverside, CA, enabling you to discover what culinary delights await you in your new home.
Rochester | Riverside | |
---|---|---|
Most iconic local food item | Garbage Plate | Avocado Toast |
Most popular meat dish | Beef on Weck | Carne Asada |
Most popular street food item | White Hots | Street Tacos |
Most popular vegan food | Tofu Scramble | Jackfruit Tacos |
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
Rochester, NY, and Riverside, CA, each offer a unique culinary scene reflective of the local culture and community preferences. Rochester is widely known for its iconic Garbage Plate at Nick Tahou Hots, a hearty dish you'll find nowhere else. In contrast, Riverside, with its emphasis on fresh and health-conscious fare, offers innovative takes on vegan options, like jackfruit tacos found in local favorites such as Tio's Tacos. For those with a preference towards meat, both cities provide distinctive choices: Beef on Weck in Rochester and carne asada in Riverside, showcasing the diverse flavor profiles each city presents. Whether you're exploring the food trucks scattered throughout Riverside or sitting down in one of Rochester's iconic eateries, you're bound to find dishes that captivate your taste buds.
Rochester vs. Riverside Restaurant Comparison
Making a new city feel like home often starts with finding your new favorite spots to eat. Whether you're craving high-end dining or comforting casual bites, this comparison will help guide you from Rochester, NY to Riverside, CA , identifying familiar culinary experiences to make the transition deliciously seamless.
Rochester | Riverside | What You'll Love |
---|---|---|
Ristorante Lucano | Mario's Place | Authentic Italian cuisine with a Californian twist |
Swan Market | Das Bierhaus | German style meals and beer selection in a pub atmosphere |
Highland Park Diner | Simple Simon's | Classic diner offerings with a Riverside charm |
Genesee Brew House | Heroes Restaurant & Brewery | Similar brewpub experience with local flavors |
The Owl House | Green Tomato Grill | Focus on fresh, clean eating with a vegetarian-friendly menu |
DiBella's Subs | Subs & Spuds | Customizable sandwiches that emphasize freshness and quality |
Sticky Lips BBQ | Smokin’ Ribs | Pit BBQ for those seeking authentic smoked meats |
Char Steak & Lounge | The Salted Pig | Farm-to-table steaks and craft cocktails in an upscale setting |
Rocco | Il Sorriso | Italian dining that focuses on simple, high-quality ingredients |
Nick Tahou Hots | Tummy Stuffer | Iconic spot for comfort eats, known for their generous portions |
When exploring Riverside's dining scene, you will discover a rich variety mirroring that of Rochester, yet with its own unique flair. Mario's Place provides an excellent alternative for fans of Ristorante Lucano, offering traditional Italian dishes with a local twist. If the German delights at Swan Market were your go-to, Das Bierhaus in Riverside provides a similar pub atmosphere with a hearty selection of beers and meals. Craving the familiar taste of barbecue from Sticky Lips BBQ? Riverside's own Smokin’ Ribs offers an authentic smoked meat experience that will surely satisfy your cravings. The transition from Rochester to Riverside promises an exciting culinary adventure, blending familiar tastes with new experiences.

Ready to start your move?
Rochester vs. Riverside Real Estate & Living Facts
When planning a relocation, comparing the real estate markets in both your current and future cities is crucial. This guide focuses on a detailed comparison between Rochester, NY, and Riverside, CA, highlighting crucial housing aspects to consider before making your move.
Comparison | Rochester | Riverside |
---|---|---|
Typical Architecture Style | Colonial Revival | Spanish Revival |
Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Parks, Schools | Outdoor spaces, Views |
When considering a move from Rochester to Riverside, it's evident that the housing market and living environment differ greatly. Rochester's more affordable housing market with a median home price of $150,000 makes it an attractive option for buyers on a budget, while Riverside's higher median home price reflects California's overall pricey real estate market. Furthermore, the distinct architectural styles - Colonial Revival in Rochester versus Spanish Revival in Riverside - mirror the historical and cultural differences between the two cities. Both cities offer unique urban lifestyles, but Riverside edges out with better bikeability and more emphasis on outdoor spaces and views in property listings, catering to those seeking a more active and scenic living environment.

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.
Rochester vs. Riverside Weather Considerations
When planning a move from Rochester, NY, to Riverside, CA, it's crucial to compare the weather to understand how the climate will shift. Weather can greatly affect your lifestyle, making this comparison vital for a smooth transition. Rochester and Riverside offer vastly different climates that can impact everything from your wardrobe to your outdoor activities.
Rochester, NY
Riverside, CA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Rochester, NY
Riverside, CA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Rochester, NY
Riverside, CA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Rochester, NY
Riverside, CA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Comparison | Rochester | Riverside |
---|---|---|
Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
Natural Disasters | Snowstorms, Freezes | Earthquakes, Wildfires |
Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Moving from Rochester to Riverside means you'll experience warmer summers, milder winters, and significantly more days of sunshine. The increased UV index in Riverside suggests a greater need for sun protection year-round. Adjusting to this can involve a different wardrobe and daily routines that prioritize hydration and sunblock. Additionally, the types of natural disasters differ between regions, requiring awareness and preparation for events such as earthquakes in Riverside compared to snowstorms in Rochester. These climate factors can deeply influence your daily life and activities, making understanding these differences essential for anyone planning the move.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Rochester to Riverside
When moving from one location to another, it's essential to understand how the financial aspects of your life will change. This comparison aims to highlight the differences in money and finance between Rochester, NY, and Riverside, CA, giving you a clear picture of what to expect in terms of living costs, taxes, and economic opportunities. Knowing these can help you plan your move more effectively.
Comparison | Rochester | Riverside |
---|---|---|
Avg. Household Income | $41,980 | $76,558 |
Cost of Living Index | 100 | 112.5 |
State Income Tax | 6.33 to 8.82 | 1 to 13.3 |
Avg. Property Tax | 2.87 | 0.79 |
Avg. Sales Tax | 8 | 8.75 |
Top 3 Industries | Education, Health Services, Manufacturing | Education, Health Services, Agriculture |
Affluence | Moderate | Higher |
Poverty | Higher | Lower |
Homelessness | Significant | Moderate |
Moving from Rochester, NY, to Riverside, CA, you might notice significant differences in the cost of living and average household income. While Riverside offers potentially higher income opportunities, the cost of living there is notably higher, particularly reflected in the Cost of Living Index. State income tax rates in California are highly progressive, possibly impacting higher earners more than in New York. However, property taxes in Riverside are substantially lower, which could be beneficial if you're planning to buy a home. The economic landscape is also varied, with both cities valuing education and health services as key industries but differing significantly in areas like manufacturing and agriculture. Understanding these nuances can greatly assist in your financial preparations and expectations for your new life in Riverside.
Rochester vs. Riverside Political & Religious Comparison
This handy comparison gives you a quick snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the two cities you're interested in. By examining the politics between Rochester & Riverside and their religious landscapes, you will better understand the communities you might call home.
Rochester | Riverside | |
---|---|---|
Political Make-up | Lean Democratic | Lean Democratic |
Local Politics | City known for progressive policies | City with a mix of conservative and liberal perspectives |
Religion | Diverse; significant Catholic and Protestant communities | Religious diversity with a strong presence of evangelical Christians |
Although both Rochester and Riverside lean Democratic in terms of political makeup, their local politics diverge slightly. Rochester is noted for its progressive policies that reflect a strong alignment with liberal ideals. In contrast, Riverside presents a more balanced mix, where both conservative and liberal perspectives shape local governance. Religious diversity is significant in both cities, but while Rochester has a notable presence of Catholic and Protestant communities, Riverside stands out for its vibrant evangelical Christian community. Exploring these nuances can help you align your beliefs and values with your new community.
Rochester vs. Riverside Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Rochester, NY to Riverside, CA requires understanding the differences in what your daily commute and traffic will be like. This comparison aims to give you a clearer picture of the transportation options and traffic conditions in both cities, ensuring a smoother transition to your new home.
Comparison | Rochester | Riverside |
---|---|---|
Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 22 | 30 |
Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
Can you get by without a car? | Somewhat | Challenging |
When moving from Rochester to Riverside, you'll notice a significant contrast in daily commute times and traffic congestion. In Riverside, expect longer commutes and higher traffic congestion due to the city's sprawling layout and reliance on highway systems. While Rochester offers a more manageable daily commute, it also boasts a decent public transit system, rated higher than Riverside's, which might partially compensate for its traffic issues. However, the notion of living without a car in Riverside is more challenging compared to Rochester, given the city's vast distances and less robust public transit options. Adjusting to these differences will be key in making a smooth transition to your new home in Riverside.



Additional Resources
Rochester Moving Services
Popular Rochester to California Routes
Popular Moving Resources