Best Salem to Riverside Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Salem to Riverside and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 953 mile move from Oregon to California go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 30 Salem 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 $1,500 - $6,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Salem 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 Salem to Riverside Moving Companies

RankCompany NameRating QuestionAffordability IndexLicenseContact
1Pure Moving9.649.49Authorized For HHGContact
2Terry Moving & Storage9.369.2Authorized For HHGContact
3Northwest Grace Moving9.299.28Authorized For HHGContact
4All Service Moving9.278.91Authorized For Property, HHGContact
5Comfortable Moving9.159.55Authorized For HHGContact
Phone (800) 787-5428

Cost to Move from Salem to Riverside

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 953 miles from Salem, OR to Riverside, CA will cost on average $2,592 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Salem to Riverside move is roughly $6,225. 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$1,743300 ft³5.81
1 Bedroom$2,592450 ft³5.76
2 Bedrooms$4,282750 ft³5.71
3 Bedrooms$6,2251100 ft³5.66
4 Bedrooms$8,9751600 ft³5.61
5+ Bedrooms$10,0071800 ft³5.56
*Please note: These Oregon to California moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from Oregon & 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 OR to CA mover.
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Riverside to Salem guide.

Compare the 5 Best Salem 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
Northwest Grace Moving Logo

Northwest Grace Moving

Exceptional9.29/10
based on 605+ data points

19764 Cypresswood St

Oregon City, OR, 97045

About Northwest Grace Moving

Founded in 2008, Northwest Grace Moving is a fully licensed, bonded, and insured Oregon moving company that serves the entire Portland...

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Long Distance Moving
  • Senior Moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 8/9/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1999959 / 755213

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans3
Registered Drivers3
Total Annual Miles Moved50,000 (2023)
View Full Review
3
All Service Moving Logo

All Service Moving

Exceptional
claimed company icon
9.27/10
based on 9,065+ data points

66 SE Morrison St

Portland, OR, 97214

About All Service Moving

Based in Portland, OR, Willamette Valley Moving has provided moving services in Oregon, Washington, and Idaho for over 18 years. By...

Services

  • Residential Moving
  • Commercial Moving
  • Long Distance Moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/9/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1863079 / 722865

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans80
Registered Drivers113
Total Annual Miles Moved1,186,786 (2022)
View Full Review
4
Comfortable Moving Logo

Comfortable Moving

Exceptional9.15/10
based on 691+ data points

3305 Main St # 023

Vancouver, WA, 98663

About Comfortable Moving

Comfortable Moving is a family-owned and operated moving business providing residential and commercial moving services since 2017. Based in Vancouver, WA,...

Services

  • Residential Moving
  • Commercial Moving
  • Long-Distance Moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 8/23/2022)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3236736 / 1015844

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers1
Total Annual Miles Moved14,000 (2020)
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.

Salem vs. Riverside Neighborhood Comparison

Relocating can be daunting, especially when moving to an unfamiliar city. To ease this transition, we've crafted a comprehensive guide comparing Salem, OR & Riverside, CA neighborhoods . This comparison is designed to help you quickly familiarize yourself with your new surroundings by using the neighborhoods in Salem as a baseline to find your new favorite area in Riverside.

SalemRiversideHow They're Similar
West SalemLa SierraFamily-friendly with similar suburban feel
South SalemOrangecrestSimilar upscale residential vibe
SunnyslopeWood StreetsHistoric homes, tight-knit community
EnglewoodMagnolia CenterComparable in charm and local amenities
HighlandArlington HeightsBoth have large, scenic parks
GrantUniversityBoth near colleges, vibrant student life
Faye WrightCanyon CrestSimilar in family-oriented feel, safety
MorningsideVictoriaBoth have mature neighborhoods, quiet streets
IllaheHawarden HillsUpscale, secluded residential areas
Bush's Pasture ParkMount RubidouxSimilar significant city park, recreational activities

If you're drawn to the historic ambiance and tight-knit community of Sunnyslope in Salem, you'll find Riverside's Wood Streets neighborhood exudes a similar charm, with its array of historic homes and an active neighborhood association. Enthusiasts of expansive green spaces like those enjoyed in Salem's Highland area, with its sprawling parks, will appreciate Arlington Heights in Riverside for its large, scenic parks and agricultural history. For those who enjoyed the vibrant, youthful atmosphere surrounding Grant in Salem, due to its proximity to colleges, Riverside's University neighborhood offers a comparable vibe, buzzing with student activities and cultural events. Moving from Salem's artsy and eclectic Englewood, you'll find Riverside's Magnolia Center equally captivating, with its blend of local boutiques, cafes, and annual festivals that foster a strong sense of community.

Ready to start your move?

Pros and Cons of Moving from Salem to Riverside

Moving from Salem, OR, to Riverside, CA, offers a unique chance for a new start, but it's wise to weigh both sides carefully. This comparison aims to show an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of this relocation from Salem to Riverside . It's designed to help you make an informed decision by exploring what you might gain and what challenges could arise.

CONs
PROs
Salem, OR iconSalem, OR
  • Smaller city vibe
  • Less diverse cuisine
  • More rainfall
  • Less cultural events
Riverside, CA iconRiverside, CA
  • Larger urban area
  • Broader food variety
  • Sunnier days
  • More entertainment options
Riverside, CA iconRiverside, CA
  • Busier environment
  • More urban sprawl
  • Higher expenses
  • Less personal connections
Salem, OR iconSalem, OR
  • Quieter lifestyle
  • Greener landscapes
  • Lower cost of living
  • Community feel

When considering a move from Salem, OR to Riverside, CA, it's important to take into account the lifestyle adjustments required. Riverside boasts a vibrant urban life with a rich variety of entertainment options, outdoor activities, and dining experiences, like the famous Mission Inn Restaurant. While the cost of living might be higher, the sunnier climate and greater job opportunities in sectors like technology and healthcare present a trade-off. However, those who cherish Salem's quieter, community-focused living might find Riverside's fast-paced environment and urban sprawl a significant adjustment. Yet, the chance to explore renowned sites such as the Mount Rubidoux Park and the historic Riverside Metropolitan Museum could offer an exciting new chapter for those ready to embrace the change.

Salem vs. Riverside Food Guide

As you prepare for your move, it's essential to consider how food reflects the local culture and lifestyle. With this in mind, we present a comparison of the local cuisine between Salem, OR and Riverside, CA to help you get acquainted with the food scene in your new home.

SalemRiverside
Most iconic local food itemMarionberry pieCitrus dishes
Most popular meat dishPacific Northwest salmonCarne asada
Most popular street food itemVoodoo DoughnutsStreet tacos
Most popular vegan foodTempeh bowlsAvocado toast
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Willard's
  • Word of Mouth Bistro
  • Busick Court
  • The Mission Inn Restaurant
  • Tio's Tacos
  • Simple Simon's
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

In Riverside, you'll discover a vibrant food scene infused with the rich flavors of citrus, a nod to the city's history as a citrus-growing region. Carne asada and street tacos are staples here, offering a taste of the local Mexican culinary influence. The Mission Inn Restaurant, Tio's Tacos, and Simple Simon's are must-visit destinations for a broad sampling of Riverside's culinary diversity. Avocado, a Southern California favorite, stars in many dishes, including the popular vegan-friendly avocado toast. This city's food scene warmly embraces its cultural diversity, reflected in its street food, renowned restaurants, and health-conscious options.

Salem vs. Riverside Restaurant Comparison

Finding comfort in a new city often starts with discovering your go-to spots for great meals. This restaurant comparison from Salem to Riverside will guide you in finding your next favorite eateries, making the transition feel like home. Whether you're in the mood for a high-end dining experience, a casual bite, or something uniquely foodie, we've pinpointed places in Riverside that echo the best of what Salem offers.

SalemRiversideWhat You'll Love
Word of MouthMario's PlaceHigh-end dining with a focus on quality ingredients
DaVinci RistoranteIl SorrisoAuthentic Italian cuisine in an intimate setting
The Sassy OnionThe Salted PigGastropub vibe with locally sourced ingredients
Busick Court RestaurantCrest CafeHome-cooked meals in a cozy, family-friendly atmosphere
Rafns' RestaurantOlive & CitrusFarm-to-table dishes with a focus on fresh, organic produce
Bentley's GrillThe Cellar DoorUpscale dining with an extensive wine list
Venti's Cafe + Basement BarW. WolfskillInnovative cocktails and eclectic small plates
Christo's PizzeriaWoodfire CafeNeapolitan pizzas with a similar artisanal touch
Wild PearCafe SevillaUnique fusion cuisine with an international flair
Mina's CafeSimple Simon'sBakery and bistro with a wonderful selection of sandwiches and pastries

For those who relish the vibrant flavors and intimate setting of DaVinci Ristorante in Salem, Il Sorriso in Riverside presents itself as a delightful alternative with its authentic Italian dishes and cozy ambiance. Similarly, Bentley's Grill patrons will find a new home at The Cellar Door, where the upscale dining experience is enhanced by an impressive wine selection. If you're a fan of unique, gastronomical experiences, Venti's Cafe + Basement Bar in Salem has a Riverside counterpart in W. Wolfskill, known for its inventive drinks and diverse small plates. These comparisons not only highlight the culinary diversity available in both cities but also underscore the importance of ambiance and ingredient quality in creating memorable dining experiences.

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Ready to start your move?

Salem vs. Riverside Real Estate & Living Facts

When planning a move, considering the real estate landscape is pivotal. It's crucial to understand how Salem and Riverside measure up, especially in terms of housing costs, architectural styles, and lifestyle aspects. This comparison aims to provide a clear picture, helping you make an informed decision.

ComparisonSalemRiverside
Typical Architecture StyleCraftsmanSpanish Revival
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingLarge backyards, Proximity to parksHistoric properties, Views of surrounding landscape

While Salem offers a more affordable housing market with a median home price significantly lower than Riverside, Riverside presents a more urban lifestyle with its higher rating and traditional Spanish Revival architecture styles. Salem's Craftsman houses and their larger backyards, alongside the proximity to various parks, cater to families looking for spacious outdoor living. In contrast, Riverside's historic properties and scenic views attract those who appreciate architectural beauty and a closer connection to California's natural surroundings. Furthermore, despite Riverside's slightly lower scores in walkability and bikeability, its vibrant urban scene offers a unique living experience that balances suburban charm with city amenities.

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.

Salem vs. Riverside Weather Considerations

When planning a move from one location to another, it's crucial to familiarize yourself with the climate differences you'll encounter. This comparison aims to highlight how the weather in Salem, OR , and Riverside, CA , varies, ensuring you can adequately prepare for your new environment.

Summer icon
82°F / 53°F

Salem, OR

94°F / 64°F

Riverside, CA

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
47°F / 36°F

Salem, OR

68°F / 43°F

Riverside, CA

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
39.9

Salem, OR

11.4

Riverside, CA

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
3

Salem, OR

0

Riverside, CA

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonSalemRiverside
Air QualityModerateModerate
Natural DisastersFloods, EarthquakesEarthquakes, Wildfires
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

The transition from Salem's mild summers and wet winters to Riverside's hot summers and mild winters presents a significant change in lifestyle. Enjoyably, Riverside offers more than twice the annual days of sunshine compared to Salem, inviting more outdoor activities year-round. However, with Riverside's lower humidity and higher average temperatures, staying hydrated and managing heat exposure becomes crucial. Additionally, while both areas experience natural disasters, the types they face differ, suggesting a need to prepare for unique challenges in each location.

Ready to start your move?

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

Moving from one city to another can significantly impact your budget. Understanding the financial differences between your current and future homes is crucial. This comparison highlights the cost of living, taxes, and economic environment between Salem and Riverside , offering a clear view of what to expect money-wise after your move.

ComparisonSalemRiverside
Avg. Household Income$63,927$76,558
Cost of Living Index110.55112.5
State Income Tax9.913.3
Avg. Property Tax1.040.77
Avg. Sales Tax08.5
Top 3 IndustriesGovernment, Education, HealthcareManufacturing, Education, Health Services
AffluenceModerateModerate
PovertyRecedingPersistent
HomelessnessNoticeableSignificant

In comparing Salem and Riverside, one notable difference is the cost of living index, indicating Riverside is more expensive overall. Despite similar average household incomes, state and sales taxes considerably vary, with Riverside residents facing higher rates. Additionally, Riverside's significant homelessness contrasts with Salem's noticeable level, reflecting broader social and economic challenges. Understanding these financial and societal nuances is essential for anyone planning to relocate, influencing budgeting and lifestyle adjustments in your new city.

Salem vs. Riverside Political & Religious Comparison

Welcome to our quick overview designed to give you a glance at the political and religious composition of your current and future hometowns. This comparison between Salem and Riverside aims to enlighten your understanding of the communities you’re moving from and to.

SalemRiverside
Political Make-upLeans DemocraticLean Democratic
Local PoliticsProgressive on social issuesModerately progressive
ReligionMixed Christian majority with growing non-religious segmentChristian majority with diverse religious presence

Both Salem and Riverside have a tendency to lean Democratic, showing a progressive stance on various social issues. Your move from Salem to Riverside will introduce you to a scene where the political environment is slightly more moderate but still inclined toward progressive values. While Salem prides itself on being highly progressive, particularly on social issues, Riverside presents a balance with its moderately progressive politics. The religious landscape in both cities is predominantly Christian, yet it’s essential to note the growing presence of non-religious individuals in Salem and the diverse religious communities that enrich Riverside’s cultural fabric. As you transition, you’ll find these subtle shifts in the community’s makeup offer a fresh yet somewhat familiar environment.

Salem vs. Riverside Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving from Salem, OR, to Riverside, CA, involves adapting to new commuting patterns and transportation options. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Salem & Riverside is designed to help you better understand what the daily commute and traffic is like, ensuring a smoother transition to your new city.

ComparisonSalemRiverside
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)2331
Traffic Congestion 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦
Availability of Public Transit 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇
Can you get by without a car?Possible, but challengingChallenging

In Salem, the average commute time is notably shorter than in Riverside, reflecting a difference in traffic congestion levels. While Salem's traffic congestion is rated considerably lower, making commutes less stressful, Riverside faces more significant traffic congestion, impacting daily commute times. Both cities offer public transit options, with Salem slightly outperforming Riverside in terms of availability. However, in both cities, relying solely on public transit can be challenging, underscoring the importance of having access to a car for more flexible and convenient transportation. Understanding these differences can greatly aid in planning your daily commute and transportation needs after your move.

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