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 2,345 mile move from West Virginia to California go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 22 Charleston 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 - $9,000 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 | Ready Set Movers | 9.16 | 9.22 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 4 | Central Van Lines | 8.16 | 8.11 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| 5 | Two Men and a Truck | 7.71 | 7.26 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Charleston to Riverside
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,345 miles from Charleston, WV to Riverside, CA will cost on average $3,775 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Charleston to Riverside move is roughly $9,119. 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 | $2,532 | 300 ft³ | 8.44 |
| 1 Bedroom | $3,775 | 450 ft³ | 8.39 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $6,255 | 750 ft³ | 8.34 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $9,119 | 1100 ft³ | 8.29 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $13,184 | 1600 ft³ | 8.24 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $14,742 | 1800 ft³ | 8.19 |
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) |
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) |
Central Van Lines
37 Jacobson Dr
Poca, WV, 25159
About Central Van Lines
Whether you’re moving across the street or across the globe, Central Van Lines knows how to get your belongings safely where...
Services
- Local and long-distance moving services
- Residential moving services
- Commercial moving services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1243887 / 11266 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 44 |
| Registered Drivers | 35 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 487,000 (2019) |
Two Men and a Truck
2410 Air Park Rd
North Charleston, SC, 29406
About Two Men and a Truck
Since 1997, Two Men and a Truck has been the go-to moving company for families and businesses in North Charleston, SC....
Services
- Local Moving
- Long-Distance Moving
- Junk Removal
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3402685 / 1095537 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 14 |
| Registered Drivers | 8 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 100,000 (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 to a new city can be overwhelming, but comparing familiar neighborhoods to new ones helps ease the transition. Here we compare the local neighborhoods between Charleston, WV & Riverside, CA to help you familiarize yourself with your new home using Charleston as a baseline.
| Charleston | Riverside | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| South Hills | Canyon Crest | Affluent, scenic views |
| East End | Downtown Riverside | Historical charm, eclectic vibe |
| Kanawha City | Arlington | Well-developed, suburban feel |
| North Charleston | La Sierra | Family-friendly, parks |
| West Side | Alessandro Heights | Rising residential area |
| Fort Hill | Hawarden Hills | Upscale, quiet community |
| Edgewood | Mission Grove | Shopping centers, amenities |
| Cultural Center | Magnolia Center | Vibrant cultural scene |
| Mount Alpha | Wood Streets | Historic homes, residential charm |
| Sun Valley | Orangecrest | Family-oriented, newer developments |
If you're drawn to the affluent, scenic atmosphere of South Hills in Charleston, you'll likely feel at home in Riverside's Canyon Crest, which offers stunning views and a peaceful environment. Meanwhile, the historical charm and artsy flair found in Charleston's East End can be mirrored by a stroll through Downtown Riverside, where you can explore historic sites like the Mission Inn and enjoy diverse dining options. For those familiar with the suburban feel and shopping conveniences of Kanawha City, Riverside's Arlington delivers a similar suburban lifestyle, complete with parks and convenient shopping centers.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Charleston to Riverside
Moving from Charleston, WV to Riverside, CA involves weighing the different qualities that each city offers. This comparison will provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of this relocation . The aim is to help you understand how transitioning from one environment to another could impact your life.
Charleston, WV- Limited job opportunities
- High humidity
- Fewer entertainment venues
- Less cultural diversity
Riverside, CA- Thriving job market
- Mildly dry climate
- Abundant attractions
- Diverse communities
Riverside, CA- Higher expenses
- More urbanized
- Heavier traffic
- Busy atmosphere
Charleston, WV- Lower cost of living
- Close-knit community
- Less traffic congestion
- Tranquil environment
The move from Charleston to Riverside offers a vibrant lifestyle full of sunshine and cultural diversity. Riverside’s thriving job market includes opportunities with proximity to technology hubs and esteemed academic institutions like the University of California, Riverside. While you might miss Charleston’s close-knit community bonds, Riverside’s neighborhoods, like the picturesque Mission Inn District, have their own charm and rich architectural heritage. Additionally, Riverside's attractions cannot be overlooked; the Botanical Gardens and variety of international dining experiences, such as the popular Tio’s Tacos, reflect its diverse culture. However, higher living costs and traffic congestion are points to consider when transitioning to this lively and bustling city.
Charleston vs. Riverside Food Guide
Food is an integral part of local culture and greatly influences one’s lifestyle in a new place. In this article, we explore a comparison of the local cuisine between Charleston, WV and Riverside, CA to give you a taste of what you can expect in your new hometown.
| Charleston | Riverside | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Pepperoni Roll | California Burrito |
| Most popular meat dish | BBQ Ribs | Carnitas Tacos |
| Most popular street food item | Hot Dogs | Fish Tacos |
| Most popular vegan food | Falafel | Avocado Toast |
| 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) | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
Riverside's culinary scene is vibrant and diverse, particularly in areas like Downtown Riverside, where you can enjoy a dynamic mix of traditional and contemporary flavors. As a city famous for its Mexican cuisine, Riverside offers authentic experiences such as carnitas tacos, easily found in eateries like Tio’s Tacos. For more health-conscious eaters, Riverside ranks highly for its fitness and vegan-friendly options, readily available in hip cafes across the city. Do not miss out on Riverside’s bustling food truck culture, a perfect way to explore the city’s culinary highlights, ranging from gourmet street tacos to creative vegan bites.
Charleston vs. Riverside Restaurant Comparison
Food is an essential part of making any area feel like home. This restaurant comparison highlights the culinary connections between your old favorite eatery spots in Charleston and what you can look forward to discovering in Riverside , ensuring a smooth gastronomic transition.
| Charleston | Riverside | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Bluegrass Kitchen | ProAbition | Known for modern takes on classic flavors |
| Tricky Fish | Casino Sushi | Offers vibrant, eclectic seafood dishes |
| Tidewater Grill | Duane’s Prime Steaks and Seafood | Excellence in seafood and steak |
| Mi Cocina de Amor | Tio’s Tacos | Celebrated for authentic Mexican cuisine |
| Le Bistro | Le Petit Rêve | French-inspired dining experiences |
For a taste of contemporary Southern charm similar to Charleston's beloved Bluegrass Kitchen, venture to ProAbition in Riverside, where modern twists on classic flavors come alive. If seafood's your passion, Casino Sushi serves vibrant, eclectic seafood dishes paralleling the adventurous palate of Tricky Fish. Craving a steak and seafood combination similar to Tidewater Grill? Duane’s Prime Steaks and Seafood offers an elevated dining experience that satisfies both land and sea cravings with impeccable service and quality. And for those evenings when authentic Mexican cuisine calls your name, Tio’s Tacos mirrors the beloved flavors you grew fond of at Mi Cocina de Amor.
Ready to start your move?
Charleston vs. Riverside Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is one of the most important aspects of a move. Understanding the housing market is crucial when relocating from Charleston, WV to Riverside, CA . Knowing the differences in cost , architecture , and lifestyle can help you make informed decisions.
| Comparison | Charleston | Riverside |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Victorian | Spanish Revival |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Spacious yards, historic charm | Proximity to schools, upgraded kitchen |
When moving from Charleston to Riverside, you'll find a significant disparity in housing costs, with Riverside having a considerably higher median home price. The architecture styles also differ greatly, with Charleston showcasing quaint Victorian homes, while Riverside leans towards the more airy and open Spanish Revival style. Although both cities offer unique opportunities, Riverside provides a more urban lifestyle, appealing to those who crave vibrant city living. Despite the cost, Riverside's enhanced walkability and bikeability open more avenues for a sustainable and active life. Browsing real estate listings, you'll notice that while Charleston highlights spacious yards and historic charm, Riverside emphasizes proximity to prestigious schools, like UC Riverside, and modern amenities such as upgraded kitchens.
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
Understanding the weather differences between Charleston, WV and Riverside, CA can help you prepare for your move. The shifts in temperature, humidity, and other climatic factors can significantly impact your lifestyle, health, and daily activities. This comparison will equip you with essential insights to make a smoother transition.
Charleston, WV
Riverside, CA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Charleston, WV
Riverside, CA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Charleston, WV
Riverside, CA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Charleston, WV
Riverside, CA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Charleston | Riverside |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Flooding, Storms | Earthquakes, Wildfires |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
When moving from Charleston to Riverside, you'll notice a significant change in sunshine and rainfall. Riverside boasts more than a hundred days of additional sunshine annually compared to Charleston, affecting daily outdoor possibilities. The humidity is substantially lower in Riverside, which may cause drier skin but also fewer days of discomfort due to heat and moisture. In terms of natural disasters, transitioning from flooding and storm-prone Charleston to a city more susceptible to earthquakes and wildfires will require new preparation strategies. Lastly, the absence of snowfall in Riverside removes the need for winter snow gear, simplifying your wardrobe significantly.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Charleston to Riverside
When relocating, understanding the financial landscape between your current city and your destination is crucial. This comparison helps to highlight the differences in cost of living and economic factors between Charleston, WV and Riverside, CA , providing a clearer picture of the financial adjustments you might need to make.
| Comparison | Charleston | Riverside |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | 45,000 | $76,558 |
| Cost of Living Index | 92.7 | 112.5 |
| State Income Tax | 5.0 | 9.3 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.59 | 0.76 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 6.5 | 7.75 |
| Top 3 Industries | Healthcare, Manufacturing, Retail | Technology, Retail, Education |
| Affluence | Moderate | Higher |
| Poverty | Noticeable | Moderate |
| Homelessness | Low | Higher |
When planning your move, it's essential to consider that Riverside has a significantly higher cost of living index compared to Charleston, meaning everyday expenses will be roughly 54% more expensive. The average household income is also higher in Riverside, which can offset these costs but requires careful budgeting if your income doesn't increase proportionately. Although both states have taxes to consider, California has a notably higher state income tax. Keep an eye on the industry differences as well; with tech and education thriving in Riverside, job opportunities may vary greatly from Charleston’s focus on healthcare and manufacturing.
Charleston vs. Riverside Political & Religious Comparison
When considering a move from Charleston, WV to Riverside, CA, it's helpful to have a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of what the local political and religious makeup of these cities might be. This comparison of the politics between Charleston & Riverside will give you insight into the cultural differences and help inform your transition.
| Charleston | Riverside | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Moderate, leaning Democratic | Predominantly Democratic |
| Local Politics | Moderate leadership focusing on local economy | Progressive policies, active local government |
| Religion | High percentage of Protestant Christians | Religious diversity, with a strong Catholic presence |
As you transition from Charleston to Riverside, you may notice a shift in political dynamics. While Charleston exhibits a balance with a slight Democratic edge, Riverside tends to have a more solid Democratic standpoint, with progressive policies making a frequent appearance in local government actions. The religious landscape also diverges between these cities. Charleston boasts a notable concentration of Protestant Christians, whereas Riverside offers a melting pot of religious beliefs, including a significant Catholic population. This diversity could bring new perspectives and community experiences that you might find enriching as you settle into your new environment.
Charleston vs. Riverside Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Understanding the daily commute differences between cities can greatly aid in adjusting to a new environment. This section offers a comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Charleston, WV, and Riverside, CA , to help you better prepare for your move.
| Comparison | Charleston | Riverside |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 21 | 35 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Not easily | Possible |
Charleston offers a shorter, stress-free commute with traffic that’s less congested than in Riverside. Despite this, public transit options in Charleston are not as developed, meaning owning a car might still be necessary for convenience. In contrast, Riverside presents more robust public transit services which could provide more sustainable commuting options for those wanting to limit their vehicular use. You might find that getting by without a car in Riverside is possible, especially if you live near transit-friendly areas. Additionally, exploring local attractions such as the Riverside city center becomes more accessible with good public transportation.
Additional Resources
Charleston Moving Services
Popular Charleston to California Routes
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