Best Charleston to Riverside Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Charleston to Riverside and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,575 mile move from South Carolina to California go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 25 Charleston 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 Charleston 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 Charleston 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 | Smooth Move Charleston | 9.21 | 9.46 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 4 | Ready Set Movers | 9.16 | 9.22 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 5 | Armstrong Relocation | 8.15 | 7.27 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Charleston to Riverside
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,575 miles from Charleston, SC to Riverside, CA will cost on average $3,971 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Charleston to Riverside move is roughly $9,597. 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 | $2,662 | 300 ft³ | 8.87 |
| 1 Bedroom | $3,971 | 450 ft³ | 8.82 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $6,581 | 750 ft³ | 8.77 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $9,597 | 1100 ft³ | 8.72 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $13,879 | 1600 ft³ | 8.67 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $15,524 | 1800 ft³ | 8.62 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Riverside to Charleston guide.
Compare the 5 Best Charleston 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) |
Smooth Move Charleston
4767 Rivers Ave
North Charleston, SC, 29405
About Smooth Move Charleston
With locations in Rock Hill and Charleston, South Carolina, Smooth Move is a locally owned and operated moving company that is...
Services
- Full Service Packing and Unpacking
- Short or Long Distance Moves
- Residential or Commercial Moves
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2357653 / 834668 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 10 |
| Registered Drivers | 12 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 60,000 (2022) |
Ready Set Movers
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
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2150739 / 756179 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 2 |
| Registered Drivers | 4 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 10,000 (2022) |
Armstrong Relocation
7167 Cross County Rd
North Charleston, SC, 29418
About Armstrong Relocation
Established in 1957, Armstrong Relocation has long been a stalwart of the moving industry. Although based in Memphis, Tennessee, the company...
Services
- Local Moving
- Long-Distance Moving
- Employee Relocation
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3528195 / 1173611 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 2 |
| Registered Drivers | 1 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 20,000 (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.
Charleston vs. Riverside Neighborhood Comparison
Moving can be both exciting and daunting, especially when relocating to a new city. To help ease this transition, we’ve crafted a comparison using familiar elements from your current city. This guide compares local neighborhoods between Charleston, SC & Riverside, CA , highlighting similar areas to provide a relatable starting point in your new home.
| Charleston | Riverside | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Downtown | Downtown Riverside | Vibrant, cultural hub |
| Mount Pleasant | Orangecrest | Family-friendly with great schools |
| West Ashley | Canyon Crest | Suburban feel with shopping centers |
| Sullivan's Island | Woodcrest | Quiet community near beach areas |
| James Island | Arlington | Scenic views, residential living |
| North Charleston | La Sierra | Diversely populated, industrial touch |
| The Peninsula | Mission Inn District | Historic charm, lively nightlife |
As you explore your new home, you'll find that Downtown Riverside captures the vibrancy and artistic flair similar to Charleston's Downtown. Both offer a buzzing environment with plenty of cultural activities and dining options. If you enjoyed the suburban oasis of Mount Pleasant, you'll likely appreciate Orangecrest for its family-tailored amenities and excellent schools. For those who relish the historical ambiance of The Peninsula, the Mission Inn District offers a parallel experience with its historic architecture and engaging local events. Spend a day exploring Arlington’s scenic views and peaceful residential areas if you loved the tranquility of James Island, offering ample outdoor activities and parks.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Charleston to Riverside
Considering a move from Charleston, SC to Riverside, CA can be an exciting yet challenging decision. It's important to weigh both the drawbacks and benefits of living in these two unique cities. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection on the cons of Charleston, SC and the pros of Riverside, CA to help you make an informed choice.
Charleston, SC- Hurricane risk
- High humidity
- Limited public transit
- Tourist crowds
Riverside, CA- Sunny, dry climate
- Low humidity
- Extensive transit options
- Suburban tranquility
Riverside, CA- Inland location
- Modern architecture
- Lacks diverse dining
- Arid landscape
Charleston, SC- Beach access
- Historic charm
- Southern cuisine
- Lush greenery
Riverside offers a warm, sunny climate that sharply contrasts with Charleston's high humidity and hurricane risk. You'll find that Riverside has an extensive public transit network, making it easier to navigate compared to Charleston. Enjoy exploring the numerous parks such as Fairmount Park, which complement Riverside's suburban tranquility. However, while Charleston's restaurants serve up wonderful Southern cuisine, Riverside presents a blend of modern dining experiences that might surprise you. The vibrant Downtown Riverside area and the historical landmarks make up for the lack of beach access, providing cultural richness and recreational opportunities.
Charleston vs. Riverside Food Guide
Food is an essential aspect of local culture and significantly influences how we experience an area. This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Charleston & Riverside to better inform you about the culinary landscape you'll encounter in your new home.
| Charleston | Riverside | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Shrimp and Grits | Fish Tacos |
| Most popular meat dish | She-Crab Soup | Carne Asada |
| Most popular street food item | Seafood Boil | Street Tacos |
| Most popular vegan food | Okra Gumbo | Vegan Burrito |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
| |
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness (out of 10) | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks (out of 10) | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene (out of 10) | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly (out of 10) | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
When you move to Riverside, you'll find the vibrant food scene is particularly concentrated in neighborhoods like the Downtown area and the Riverside Plaza. Fish tacos are not just a meal but a cultural staple here, often enjoyed at local favorites like PacTilaus or from one of many food trucks that bring culinary excitement to the streets. Vegan options abound too, with delicious vegan burritos available at establishments such as Mythoong Garden. Enjoy exploring Riverside's food scene, rated highly for its abundance of food trucks and overall vegan friendliness.
Charleston vs. Riverside Restaurant Comparison
Making a new city feel like home can be a flavorful journey. By comparing Charleston with Riverside , you can discover new favorite eateries, using familiar spots from your current hometown as a guide. Whether you're craving high-end delicacies or casual bites, navigating the culinary scene becomes easier with this restaurant comparison. Enjoy exploring Riverside through your Charleston lens!
| Charleston | Riverside | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Halls Chophouse | Christopher Martin's Restaurant | Upscale steakhouse with a classic menu |
| The Ordinary | The Clam Stand | Innovative seafood dishes |
| FIG | Northwoods | Seasonal and local ingredients |
| Home Team BBQ | Smoke King Ribs | Barbecue with a loyal following |
| Poogan's Porch | Van Buren Place | Southern comfort in a charming setting |
| La Bonbonniere | Sweet Luscious Bakery | Decadent pastries and desserts |
| Queen Street Bistro | Mission Inn Restaurant | Elegant dining with a historic flair</a> |
| 167 Raw | Tio Island Eatery | Fresh seafood favorites |
| The Tavern | The Rustic Bar & Grill | Casual drinks and dining |
| Bitty & Beau's Coffee | Classic Bistro Coffee | Friendly neighborhood cafe |
For those who adore the refined ambiance and top-quality steaks of Halls Chophouse in Charleston, you'll find a kindred spirit in Riverside's Christopher Martin's Restaurant, known for its lush atmosphere and exquisite menu. Seafood aficionados accustomed to the creativity of The Ordinary will relish the innovative dishes at The Clam Stand. Meanwhile, if you enjoy the bustling vibe and casual barbecue of Home Team BBQ, the succulent offerings at Smoke King Ribs will not disappoint. Riverside's culinary landscape closely mirrors the authenticity and vibrancy you cherish in Charleston, offering both comfort and excitement as you settle into your new surroundings.
Ready to start your move?
Charleston vs. Riverside Real Estate & Living Facts
Moving involves many considerations, and real estate is among the most crucial. Understanding the housing market differences between Charleston, SC and Riverside, CA helps you make informed decisions .
| Comparison | Charleston | Riverside |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Colonial | Spanish Revival |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Historic Sites | Outdoor Spaces |
Charleston offers a median home price slightly lower than Riverside, aligning with its Southern charm and colonial architecture. The Spanish Revival style in Riverside reflects the city's Californian influences. While both cities score similarly in walkability, Riverside edges out slightly in providing a more urban lifestyle, thanks to its bustling neighborhoods and outdoor spaces. Investing in Charleston's historic neighborhoods can add a nostalgic allure to your property search, while Riverside's nearby desert parks offer recreational opportunities. Such contrasts can significantly influence your lifestyle and housing needs when relocating.
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.
Charleston vs. Riverside Weather Considerations
If you're moving from Charleston, SC to Riverside, CA , it's important to understand how the weather will compare to what you are used to. By comparing the climate in both locations, you can better prepare for changes in temperature, humidity, and other conditions that may affect your daily routine and lifestyle.
Charleston, SC
Riverside, CA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Charleston, SC
Riverside, CA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Charleston, SC
Riverside, CA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Charleston, SC
Riverside, CA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Charleston | Riverside |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Hurricanes | Earthquakes |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
When relocating, the stark difference in weather patterns between Charleston and Riverside can greatly impact your lifestyle. Riverside enjoys approximately 68 more sunny days annually compared to Charleston, so you'll likely spend more time outdoors. However, the reduced rainfall in Riverside might mean a drier environment, which, coupled with lower humidity levels, could be a reprieve from Charleston's sticky summers. Conversely, being prepared for the natural disasters typical to each location—mainly hurricanes in Charleston and earthquakes in Riverside—is essential. Additionally, those with respiratory sensitivities may find discrepancies in air quality and types of seasonal allergies worth noting.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Charleston to Riverside
When moving from Charleston, SC to Riverside, CA , it's essential to consider how your financial situation might change. Understanding the differences in cost of living and other economic factors will help you plan your new life more effectively.
| Comparison | Charleston | Riverside |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $74,139 | $76,558 |
| Cost of Living Index | 98.3 | 112.5 |
| State Income Tax | 7% | 13.3% |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.5% | 0.77% |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 9% | 7.75% |
| Top 3 Industries | Tourism, Healthcare, Tech | Manufacturing, Logistics, Education |
| Affluence | Moderate | Varied |
| Poverty | Low | Moderate |
| Homelessness | Low | High |
When transitioning from Charleston to Riverside, you'll find notable differences in the cost of living and taxation. Riverside has a significantly higher cost of living index, driven by housing and other daily expenses. Despite Riverside's lower average household income, the state income tax is also notably higher, impacting your take-home pay. Meanwhile, the industries dominating each city reflect local opportunities; Charleston's economy thrives on tourism and healthcare, whereas Riverside is more centered around manufacturing and logistics, which may present new career opportunities or challenges depending on your field of work. Lastly, homelessness is a more pronounced issue in Riverside, which might influence community dynamics and local policies.
Charleston vs. Riverside Political & Religious Comparison
This section provides a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents, focusing on a comparison of the politics between Charleston & Riverside . Understanding these differences can help you better acclimate to your new environment.
| Charleston | Riverside | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Moderate to Conservative | Moderate to Liberal |
| Local Politics | Southern Republican influence | Democratic leaning |
| Religion | Predominantly Christian | Diverse religious communities |
As you transition from Charleston to Riverside, you'll notice differences in political leanings. Charleston tends to be more moderate to conservative, with a strong Southern Republican influence in local politics. On the other hand, Riverside leans more toward a Democratic influence. This shift might offer a new dynamic to explore in terms of community engagement and political discussions. Additionally, while Charleston has a predominant Christian religious makeup, Riverside is home to a broader range of religious communities, offering a unique opportunity to experience diverse cultural and spiritual practices. Exploring these differences can not only help you integrate into your new surroundings but also enhance your understanding of varied cultural perspectives.
Charleston vs. Riverside Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Understanding the daily commute and traffic can significantly impact your lifestyle and decision-making when moving to a new city. This guide offers a comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Charleston & Riverside , helping you better navigate and plan for your journey in these vibrant locales.
| Comparison | Charleston | Riverside |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 23 | 30 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Possibly, but difficult | Possible with planning |
When moving from Charleston to Riverside, one noticeable difference is the increase in average commute time and traffic congestion. Riverside's higher congestion score of 7 indicates that you'll likely encounter more traffic. However, Riverside offers slightly better public transit options, rated at 6, which might make it feasible to plan your daily activities without relying solely on a car. Both cities present unique transportation challenges, but diligent planning can help you adapt smoothly to Riverside's environment. Consider local transport options like the [Riverside Transit Agency](https://www.riversidetransit.com/) for bus routes and schedules to ease your daily commute.
Additional Resources
Charleston Moving Services
Popular Charleston to California Routes
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