Best Riverside to Tempe Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Riverside to Tempe and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 330 mile move from California to Arizona go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 38 Riverside to Tempe 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 Sterling Interstate LLC), how much the move costs (approximately $1,500 - $5,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Riverside compared to Tempe. 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 Riverside to Tempe Moving Companies

Company
Score Question
Affordability IndexLicense
1Sterling Interstate LLC9.769.64Authorized For HHG
2Pure Moving9.649.49Authorized For HHG
3Terry Moving & Storage9.379.2Authorized For HHG
4New Beginnings Moving Solutions9.339.4Authorized For Property
5Trek Movers9.199.02Authorized For Property
Phone (800) 787-5428

How Much Does it Cost to Move from Riverside to Tempe?

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 330 miles from Riverside, CA to Tempe, AZ will cost on average $2,062 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Riverside to Tempe move is roughly $4,930. 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$1,390300 ft³$4.63
1 Bedroom$2,062450 ft³$4.58
2 Bedrooms$3,399750 ft³$4.53
3 Bedrooms$4,9301100 ft³$4.48
4 Bedrooms$7,0911600 ft³$4.43
5+ Bedrooms$7,8871800 ft³$4.38
*Please note: These California to Arizona moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from California & Arizona. 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 CA to AZ mover.
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Tempe to Riverside guide.

Compare the 5 Best Riverside to Tempe Movers

These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)

Sterling Interstate LLC Logo

Sterling Interstate LLC

Exceptional
claimed company icon
9.76/10
based on 2,064+ data points

Phoenix, AZ, 85022

About Sterling Interstate LLC

Established in 2017, Sterling Interstate opened with the intention to change the stigma around the moving industry by providing reliable, customizable...

Services

  • Local moving services
  • Long-distance moving services
  • Packing services

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3006713 / 26956

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans6
Registered Drivers7
Total Annual Miles Moved115,000 (2022)
View Full Review
1
Pure Moving Logo

Pure Moving

Exceptional9.64/10
based on 7,662+ 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
2
Terry Moving & Storage Logo

Terry Moving & Storage

Exceptional9.37/10
based on 2,011+ 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
3
New Beginnings Moving Solutions Logo

New Beginnings Moving Solutions

Exceptional9.33/10
based on 887+ data points

6757 W Charter Oak Rd

Peoria, AZ, 85381

About New Beginnings Moving Solutions

New Beginnings Moving Solutions is a full-service moving company specializing in long-distance moves. It is locally-owned and operated and has been...

Services

  • Long Distance Moves
  • Local Moves
  • Business Relocation

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 9/27/2022)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3656946 / 1262843

Authorized For Property

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers8
Total Annual Miles Moved500 (2021)
View Full Review
4
Trek Movers Logo

Trek Movers

Exceptional9.19/10
based on 6,022+ data points

7225 Hollywood Blvd Unit 321

Los Angeles, CA, 90046

About Trek Movers

Trek Movers is a moving company based in Los Angeles, certified by the AMSA and accredited by the BBB with the...

Services

  • Local Movers
  • Long Distance Movers
  • Office Movers

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3256910 / 1424894

Authorized For Property

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans3
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved15,000 (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.

Riverside vs. Tempe Neighborhood Comparison

Moving to a new city can be daunting, especially when you're unfamiliar with the local neighborhoods. To ease your transition, we've created a comparison to help you understand comparable local neighborhoods between Riverside, CA & Tempe, AZ . Through this guide, you'll find a neighborhood in Tempe that mirrors the vibe and characteristics of your favorite Riverside locale.

RiversideTempeHow They're Similar
Wood StreetsMaple-AshHistoric homes, community feel
Canyon CrestAlta MiraFamily-friendly, parks nearby
Mission GroveDaley ParkSpacious homes, quiet environment
Alessandro HeightsSouth TempeSpacious lots, upscale homes
OrangecrestWarner EstatesFamily-oriented, large homes
Hawarden HillsShalimarTranquil, green spaces
VictoriaMitchell ParkCharming, near amenities
La SierraPepperwoodAffordable, community-centric
Downtown RiversideDowntown TempeVibrant nightlife, urban living
Magnolia CenterTempe GardensMature landscaping, quiet streets

Moving from Riverside to Tempe, you'll find neighborhoods that cater to various lifestyles, whether you're seeking a family-friendly environment or vibrant nightlife. For instance, if you cherish the historic and community-centric atmosphere of the Wood Streets, Maple-Ash in Tempe offers a similar vibe with its historic homes and tight-knit community. Families moving from Canyon Crest might find Alta Mira in Tempe a seamless transition with its array of parks and family-oriented atmosphere. Meanwhile, those accustomed to the urban living of Downtown Riverside will appreciate Downtown Tempe's bustling nightlife and array of dining options, including the popular Culinary Dropout. No matter your preference, Tempe offers neighborhoods that parallel the charm and dynamics of those in Riverside, ensuring a smoother relocation journey.

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Things to Do in Tempe

  • Explore Tempe History Museum exhibits.
  • Walk around Tempe Town Lake.
  • Enjoy live music at Marquee Theatre.
  • Hike Papago Park trails.
  • Visit Desert Botanical Garden.
  • Shop at Tempe Marketplace.
  • Experience SEA LIFE Arizona Aquarium.

Ready to start your move?

Pros and Cons of Moving from Riverside to Tempe

Making a move from one city to another brings with it a mixed bag of changes, both good and bad. This guide aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of this relocation from Riverside, CA to Tempe, AZ . By comparing the pros and cons, you'll be better equipped to decide if this move aligns with your preferences and lifestyle.

CONs
PROs
Riverside, CA iconRiverside, CA
  • Higher Crime Rate
  • Hotter Summers
  • Less Nightlife
  • More Expensive
Tempe, AZ iconTempe, AZ
  • Lower Crime Rate
  • Milder Winters
  • Lively Nightlife
  • More Affordable
Tempe, AZ iconTempe, AZ
  • Far from LA
  • More Desert Landscape
  • Less Diverse Cuisine
  • Fewer Historic Sites
Riverside, CA iconRiverside, CA
  • Close to LA
  • Lush Green Areas
  • Diverse Cuisine
  • Historic Landmarks

If you're torn between the comfort of Riverside and the vibrant energy of Tempe, consider the unique aspects of each city. Tempe, known for its lively nightlife around Mill Avenue and a more affordable cost of living, may offer the change of pace you're looking for. Despite its desert landscape, Tempe doesn't skimp on outdoor spaces like Tempe Town Lake and Papago Park, providing plentiful opportunities for recreation and leisure. Meanwhile, Riverside boasts lush green spots such as the California Citrus State Historic Park and proximity to LA's diverse cuisine and historic landmarks. The choice depends on what you value most: the bustling nights and pocket-friendly living in Tempe or the green scapes and historic charm of Riverside.

Riverside vs. Tempe Food Guide

This comparison of the local cuisine between Riverside & Tempe is designed to provide you with a taste of what to expect when you move. Food greatly influences the local culture and everyday living experience. By understanding the culinary scene in these locations, you'll be better equipped for your transition.

Riverside
Tempe
Most iconic local food item
Avocado toast
Southwestern cuisine
Most popular meat dish
Tri-tip BBQ
Carne asada
Most popular street food item
Tacos
Tacos
Most popular vegan food
Vegan burritos
Vegan tacos
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Mission Inn Restaurant
  • The Salted Pig
  • Mario's Place
  • House of Tricks
  • Casey Moore's Oyster House
  • Culinary Dropout
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness
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Abundance of Food Trucks
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Foodie Scene
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Vegan Friendly
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In Riverside, the avocado toast signifies the city's love for healthy and fresh ingredients, while the tri-tip BBQ showcases its mastery of classic American cuisine. On the other hand, Tempe celebrates its Southwestern heritage through dishes like carne asada, and it caters to diverse palates with abundant vegan options, notably vegan tacos, found in vibrant neighborhoods like Mill Avenue District. Notably, both cities share a fondness for tacos as a street food favorite, reflecting the culinary crossover between these two sunny locales.

Riverside vs. Tempe Restaurant Comparison

Embarking on a move from Riverside, CA to Tempe, AZ brings the adventure of discovering new favorite spots that make an area feel like home. Food plays a crucial part in this exploration. To ease the transition, this comparison aims to match the top Riverside restaurants to their Tempe equivalents, making the Riverside to Tempe move smoother for any food enthusiast looking for their next favorite eatery.

RiversideTempeWhat You'll Love
MISSION INN RestaurantHouse of TricksFine dining with a historic ambiance
Mario's PlaceTopoUnique, gourmet experiences with a local charm
Anchos Southwest Grill & BarGhost RanchSouthwest cuisine with a modern twist
Tio's TacosGuacStarInventive vegetarian Mexican dishes in a fun setting
The Salted PigPostino AnnexGastropub vibe with exceptional wine and bites
Simple Simon'sLa Bocca Urban PizzeriaDelicious pizzas and a cozy atmosphere
Market BroilerKing SeafoodQuality seafood in a laid-back environment
Woodfire CaféSpinato's PizzeriaHomey feel with exceptional wood-fired pizzas
Heroes Restaurant & BreweryFour Peaks Brewing CompanyBrewpub offering craft beers and hearty meals
Bann ThaiThai BasilAuthentic Thai cuisine with a modern presentation

When exploring Tempe, you'll find that places like House of Tricks provide not only a meal but an experience akin to Riverside's MISSION INN Restaurant, with historic charm and a refined menu that caters to those special occasions or everyday indulgence. For the lovers of Southwestern flavors missing Anchos Southwest Grill & Bar, Ghost Ranch offers a creatively modern take on the classics that will ignite your palate in a new yet familiar way. And if it's the comfort of a hearty brewpub meal coupled with locally crafted beer you're after, Four Peaks Brewing Company stands as a proud counterpart to Riverside's Heroes Restaurant & Brewery, offering a warm ambiance and a selection of brews that speak to the heart of Tempe's food and drink culture.

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Ready to start your move?

Riverside vs. Tempe Real Estate & Living Facts

When considering a move, comparing the real estate aspects between your current city and the prospective one is crucial. This comparison focuses on understanding how Riverside and Tempe align in terms of housing, including costs, architecture, and the overall lifestyle each city can offer. It's important to know how these cities match up to make an informed decision.

Riverside
Tempe
Typical Architecture Style
Spanish Revival
Modern and Ranch
Walkability
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Bikeability
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Urban Lifestyle
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing
Pools and Large Yards
Proximity to ASU and Outdoor Spaces

When delving deeper into the housing comparison between Riverside and Tempe, several interesting facets emerge. Riverside's Spanish Revival architecture pays homage to its rich historical roots, while Tempe showcases a blend of modernity with a lean towards ranch-style homes, appealing to diverse preferences. Despite Riverside offering more spacious options like pools and large yards, Tempe's advantage lies in its higher walkability and bikeability scores, indicating a more urban-centric lifestyle that appeals to those who prefer to be closer to amenities and Arizona State University. This unique blend of characteristics in both cities showcases the varied lifestyle one can expect, inviting a personal assessment based on lifestyle preferences and priorities.

Pet-friendly neighborhoods background image

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Tempe, AZ

1. Downtown Tempe : You will love the many parks and outdoor spaces where your pet can roam and socialize freely.

2. Maple-Ash : You and your pet can enjoy the shaded, pet-friendly walking paths and numerous pet-friendly cafes.

3. Mitchell Park : With its large green spaces and pet-welcoming community events, your furry friends will feel right at home.

Riverside vs. Tempe Weather Considerations

Understanding how the weather compares between your current and future home is essential for an easy transition. This guide compares Riverside, CA and Tempe, AZ to help you gauge what changes in climate to expect and how to prepare. Whether it's the average temperatures or air quality, knowing these details can make your move smoother.

Riverside
Tempe
Days of Sunshine per Year
☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. Annual Humidity
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Avg. UV Index
🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Natural Disasters
Wildfires, Earthquakes
Heatwaves, Dust Storms
Air Quality
Moderate
Good
Summer icon

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

94°F / 64°F
104°F / 78°F
Winter icon

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

68°F / 43°F
67°F / 45°F


Rainfall icon

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

11
9
Snowfall icon

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

0
0


When moving from Riverside to Tempe, you'll notice some significant weather changes, particularly in summer temperatures and humidity levels. Tempe experiences hotter summers, with highs often crossing the 100°F mark, compared to Riverside's peak summer temperatures. However, Tempe enjoys more days of sunshine annually, which is perfect if you love outdoor activities. The drastic difference in humidity, with Tempe being much drier, can affect your daily comfort and may take some adjustment. Understanding the air quality and common allergens in each area can also help you prepare for seasonal changes that might impact your health.

Ready to start your move?

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

When planning a move from one city to another, it’s essential to consider how your finances will be affected. Understanding the differences in cost of living, taxation, and economic opportunities between Riverside and Tempe can help you make an informed decision and prepare for your relocation.

Riverside
Tempe
Avg. Household Income
$76,558
$68,662
Cost of Living Index
112.5
101.2
State Income Tax
13.3
4.5
Avg. Property Tax
0.76
0.69
Avg. Sales Tax
8.5
8.1
Top 3 Industries
Healthcare, Education, Retail
Technology, Manufacturing, Education
Affluence
Moderate
Varied
Poverty
Higher than national average
Close to national average
Homelessness
Significant
Moderate

Moving from Riverside to Tempe, you'll notice immediate differences in the cost of living and tax rates. Tempe boasts a significantly lower state income tax, which can positively affect your take-home pay. However, it's also essential to consider the average household income is lower in Tempe, which mirrors its more affordable cost of living. While Riverside presents higher affluence levels and employment in healthcare and education, Tempe offers a diversified economy with strong roots in technology and manufacturing. Understanding these financial and economic shifts can help ease your transition and set realistic expectations for your new life in Tempe.

Riverside vs. Tempe Political & Religious Comparison

When considering a move from Riverside, CA to Tempe, AZ, comparing the political and religious makeup of your future neighbors can provide a clear perspective of the community vibes. This quick snapshot aims to give you a better understanding of what to expect in terms of political leanings and religious affiliations in your new city.

Riverside
Tempe
Political Make-up
Moderately Liberal
Liberal
Local Politics
Diverse city council
Progressive city council
Religion
Mixed; notable Christian and Catholic presence
Mixed; with prominent non-religious demographics

In Riverside, you'll find a moderately liberal community that reflects its diverse population and a city council to match. This city hosts a variety of religious institutions, including significant Christian and Catholic communities. On the other hand, Tempe tends to lean more liberally, particularly in local politics where the city council is known for its progressive stance. Though Tempe also presents a mixed religious environment, there's a noteworthy portion of the population that identifies as non-religious. This could be reflective of the city's younger and more diverse demographics, influenced in part by the presence of Arizona State University. Regardless of where you're moving, you'll find both cities welcoming, with community values that are shaped but not confined by these leanings.

Riverside vs. Tempe Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving from Riverside, CA to Tempe, AZ presents a new set of challenges and opportunities, especially when it comes to navigating the city. This comparison aims to help you better understand what the daily commute and traffic and transportation options between Riverside & Tempe are like, ensuring a smoother transition to your new home.

Riverside
Tempe
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)
30
25
Traffic Congestion
7 out of 10
5 out of 10
Availability of Public Transit
6 out of 10
7 out of 10
Can you get by without car?
Challenging
Feasible

When considering your move, it's important to note that Riverside generally experiences higher levels of traffic congestion than Tempe, potentially lengthening your daily commute. However, both cities offer public transit options, with Tempe slightly outpacing Riverside in terms of availability and coverage. This makes living in Tempe without a car more feasible than in Riverside, where a car is almost essential for daily travel. Embracing these differences can help you adjust your expectations and make informed decisions about your transportation needs in your new city.

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