Best Detroit to Riverside Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Detroit to Riverside and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,284 mile move from Michigan to California go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 29 Detroit 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 - $9,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Detroit 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 Detroit to Riverside Moving Companies

Company
Score Question
Affordability IndexLicense
1Pure Moving9.649.49Authorized For HHG
2Terry Moving & Storage9.379.2Authorized For HHG
3Grosse Pointe Moving & Storage Inc8.498.22Authorized For HHG
4Balance Detroit8.487.79Authorized For Property, HHG
5High Quality Moving Company8.248.5Authorized For Property, HHG
Phone (800) 787-5428

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

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,284 miles from Detroit, MI to Riverside, CA will cost on average $3,724 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Detroit to Riverside move is roughly $8,992. 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$2,497300 ft³$8.32
1 Bedroom$3,724450 ft³$8.27
2 Bedrooms$6,168750 ft³$8.22
3 Bedrooms$8,9921100 ft³$8.17
4 Bedrooms$12,9991600 ft³$8.12
5+ Bedrooms$14,5341800 ft³$8.07
*Please note: These Michigan to California moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from Michigan & 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 MI to CA mover.
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Riverside to Detroit guide.

Compare the 5 Best Detroit 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 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
1
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
2
G

Grosse Pointe Moving & Storage Inc

Fabulous8.49/10
based on 337+ data points

11850 E Jefferson

Detroit, MI, 48214

About Grosse Pointe Moving & Storage Inc

Grosse Pointe Moving & Storage Inc is a full-service moving and storage company based in Detroit, Michigan. Founded in 1985, the...

Services

  • Residential moving
  • Commercial moving
  • Corporate moving

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

279708 / 629575

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans5
Registered Drivers6
Total Annual Miles Moved28,000 (2023)
View Full Review
3
B

Balance Detroit

Fabulous8.48/10
based on 63+ data points

Livonia, MI, 48150

About Balance Detroit

Located in Detroit, Balance Detroit is a reputable moving company offering a variety of services including white glove service, long-distance and...

Services

  • White Glove Service
  • Long Distance Moves
  • Small Moves

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/11/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

4059339 / 1539936

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers4
Total Annual Miles Moved6,000 (2024)
View Full Review
4
High Quality Moving Company Logo

High Quality Moving Company

Very Good8.24/10
based on 757+ data points

32401 W 8 Mile Rd

Livonia, MI, 48152

About High Quality Moving Company

High Quality Moving Company, based in Livonia, Michigan, has been serving the Detroit Metro Area since 2010. They offer a wide...

Services

  • Residential Moving
  • Commercial Moving
  • Local Moving

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3435629 / 1178011

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved80,000 (2024)
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.

Detroit vs. Riverside Neighborhood Comparison

When relocating from Detroit, MI to Riverside, CA: A Comparison of Local Neighborhoods, it can be daunting to navigate the new surroundings. This comparison aims to bridge that gap by identifying similar neighborhoods, helping you feel more at home right away.

DetroitRiversideHow They're Similar
MidtownDowntown RiversideVibrant cultural scene
CorktownWood StreetsHistoric homes, community feel
Eastern MarketArlington HeightsRich in local markets
Indian VillageAlessandro HeightsHistoric, upscale homes
Palmer WoodsHawarden HillsTree-lined, serene environment
RiverfrontLa SierraClose to natural beauty
Boston-EdisonCanyon CrestElegant homes, scenic views
Sherwood ForestVictoriaFamily-friendly, historic charm
Lafayette ParkOrangecrestSpacious parks, modern living
WoodbridgeMission GroveCommunity-oriented, peaceful

If you're moving from the historic neighborhoods of Detroit, such as Corktown or Indian Village, you'll find Riverside's Wood Streets and Alessandro Heights share that sense of time-honored charm and community. Wood Streets stands out for its historic Craftsman homes and tight-knit community, reminiscent of Corktown. Meanwhile, lovers of Indian Village's opulent, historic homes will appreciate Alessandro Heights, known for its grand residences on sprawling plots. For those seeking the vibrant cultural and market scenes like those of Midtown and Eastern Market, Downtown Riverside and Arlington Heights offer bustling local markets, cultural events, and eateries ranging from casual dining spots to gourmet restaurants. Riverside's neighborhoods, with their lush, tree-lined streets and proximity to natural preserves like Hawarden Hills next to Palmer Woods, provide not just a new place to live but a continued lifestyle held dear.

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Things to Do in Riverside

  • Taste fresh oranges from the historic California Citrus State Historic Park.
  • Explore Riverside Art Museum for local exhibits.
  • Hike through the stunning Mount Rubidoux Trail.
  • Attend a symphony at Riverside Fox Performing Arts Center.
  • Visit the Riverside Metropolitan Museum.
  • Enjoy a picnic at the beautiful Fairmount Park.
  • Shop from local crafters at Riverside Art Market.

Ready to start your move?

Pros and Cons of Moving from Detroit to Riverside

Moving from one city to another involves weighing the pros and cons to make the best decision for your lifestyle and needs. This compare-and-contrast between moving from Detroit, MI to Riverside, CA aims to reflect honestly on the benefits and drawbacks of such a relocation. By examining how the cons of living in Detroit contrast with the pros of moving to Riverside , as well as how Detroit's advantages may diminish in Riverside , you’ll gain a comprehensive insight to guide your decision.

CONs
PROs
Detroit, MI iconDetroit, MI
  • Cold winters
  • Higher crime rate
  • Economic challenges
  • Less outdoor recreation
Riverside, CA iconRiverside, CA
  • Milder winters
  • Lower crime rate
  • Better job opportunities
  • More outdoor activities
Riverside, CA iconRiverside, CA
  • Higher housing costs
  • Fewer cultural landmarks
  • Less diverse music scene
  • Different social culture
Detroit, MI iconDetroit, MI
  • Affordable housing
  • Rich cultural history
  • Vibrant music scene
  • Strong community feel

While the move from Detroit, MI to Riverside, CA presents an exciting opportunity for milder winters and better job opportunities, it's not without its trade-offs, such as higher housing costs. Riverside, known for its stunning public parks and outdoor activities around places like Mount Rubidoux, offers a vibrant lifestyle with plentiful sunshine. However, Detroit's rich cultural history, from the Motown Museum to its celebrated music scene, represents a unique heritage that might feel less pronounced in Riverside. The strong community feel and affordable living in Detroit contrast with Riverside's different social culture and economic landscape, making the decision to move a consideration of what values and lifestyle attributes you most prioritize.

Detroit vs. Riverside Food Guide

This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Detroit & Riverside, providing insight into the rich culinary cultures of both cities. Understanding local food is key to immersing yourself in what it's like to live in an area. This guide will help you get acquainted with the food scene in your new city.

Detroit
Riverside
Most iconic local food item
Coney Dog
Avocado Toast
Most popular meat dish
Detroit-style Pizza
Carne Asada
Most popular street food item
Shawarma
Tacos
Most popular vegan food
Seitan Kebabs
Jackfruit Tacos
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Slows Bar BQ
  • Lafayette Coney Island
  • Selden Standard
  • Simple Simon's
  • Tio's Tacos
  • Mario's Place
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness
💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks
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🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene
🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly
🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱
🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

Exploring Detroit's culinary scene, you'll notice a vibrant mix of flavors, particularly in neighborhoods like Midtown and Downtown where Lafayette Coney Island serves up its iconic Coney Dog. If you're into vegan food, spots like Seva Detroit offer creative dishes that cater to this lifestyle. On the other hand, Riverside's food scene is heavily influenced by its rich agricultural presence, making it easier to find fresh, local ingredients like avocados featured in its popular avocado toast. Neighborhoods such as Downtown and the Mission Grove area are bustling with unique eateries like Tio's Tacos, offering authentic tastes that reflect Riverside's cultural diversity.

Detroit vs. Riverside Restaurant Comparison

Moving to a new city means discovering new favorite spots and making it feel like home. Food plays a crucial role in this transition, and this detailed restaurant comparison between Detroit, MI, and Riverside, CA, will serve as a guide to finding new favorite eateries reminiscent of your current favorites in Detroit.

DetroitRiversideWhat You'll Love
Selden StandardMario's PlaceContemporary American cuisine with a local twist
Supino PizzeriaWoodfire CaféHandcrafted pizzas with a unique wood-fired flavor
Slows Bar BQSmokeshack BBQSlow-smoked meats with a homey vibe
Detroit Vegan SoulSimple Simon'sPlant-based dishes with a modern flair
Rose's Fine FoodThe Salted PigArtisanal eats in a cozy, inviting setting
Taqueria El ReyAnchos Southwest Grill & BarAuthentic Mexican cuisine with a Californian touch
IridescenceLe Chat NoirFine dining with an emphasis on French cuisine
Greektown TavernaGreek Street GrillTraditional Greek dishes in a casual atmosphere
AntietamMission Inn RestaurantHistorical ambiance with a gourmet menu
Joe Louis Southern KitchenSouthern KitchenComfort food reminiscent of the South

For those who cherish the artisanal pizza experience Supino Pizzeria offers in Detroit, Woodfire Café in Riverside provides a comparable delight with its handcrafted, wood-fired pizzas. Each pie is an artwork, utilizing local, fresh ingredients. Meanwhile, fans of Detroit's vibrant vegan scene won't miss out with Riverside's Simple Simon's, where plant-based dishes are reimagined with innovative twists. The ambiance of both cities' dining scenes may differ, but the commitment to quality, flavor, and community is a constant. Venturing into these establishments will not only satiate your culinary cravings but also serve as a delightful exploration of Riverside's diverse food landscape, echoing the cherished eateries of Detroit.

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Ready to start your move?

Detroit vs. Riverside Real Estate & Living Facts

When considering a move, evaluating the real estate landscape is crucial for a smooth transition. This guide aims to compare Detroit, MI and Riverside, CA, focusing on housing aspects to help you make an informed decision. Let's explore the similarities and differences.

Detroit
Riverside
Typical Architecture Style
Historic, Bungalow
Spanish Revival, Ranch
Walkability
👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing
Historic neighborhoods, Proximity to downtown
Views, Gated communities

In comparing Detroit and Riverside, it's evident that Riverside's real estate market is significantly costlier, reflecting its Southern California location. While Detroit offers more affordable housing options, Riverside appeals with its Spanish Revival and Ranch-style homes that cater to a different aesthetic preference. Furthermore, Detroit's urban lifestyle score slightly outweighs Riverside's, possibly due to Detroit's rich cultural scene and historic neighborhoods. Riverside, on the other hand, scores higher in bikeability, suggesting a more bike-friendly environment. These differences underscore the distinct character and living experience each city offers, making it essential to weigh what aspects are most important to your lifestyle and budget when making a move.

Pet-friendly neighborhoods background image

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Riverside, CA

1. Canyon Crest : You’ll find many parks and trails where you and your pet can enjoy scenic walks and outdoor activities together.

2. Mission Grove : This neighborhood boasts several pet-friendly community spaces and ample green areas perfect for your four-legged friends.

3. Orangecrest : With its spacious parks and pet-friendly establishments, you and your pet will have plenty of opportunities to play and socialize here.

Detroit vs. Riverside Weather Considerations

Moving from one city to another can significantly change your daily experience, especially when it comes to weather. If you're considering a move from Detroit, MI to Riverside, CA, understanding the climate differences between these two locations is crucial. This comparison will help you prepare for how your lifestyle might need to adjust in response to new weather patterns.

Detroit
Riverside
Days of Sunshine per Year
☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. Annual Humidity
💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦
💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦
Avg. UV Index
🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Natural Disasters
Snowstorms, Tornadoes
Wildfires, Earthquakes
Air Quality
Good to Moderate
Moderate to Unhealthy
Summer icon

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

83°F / 63°F
95°F / 64°F
Winter icon

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

35°F / 22°F
68°F / 41°F


Rainfall icon

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

33
10
Snowfall icon

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

42
0


When you move from Detroit to Riverside, you’ll notice a significant increase in days of sunshine per year and a marked decrease in humidity, making Riverside’s summers hotter but overall more bearable for those who prefer drier heat. Riverside's mild winters are a sharp contrast to Detroit's snowy, cold ones, eliminating the need for heavy winter gear. However, Riverside residents must prepare for natural disasters like wildfires and earthquakes, which are foreign to Detroiters. Additionally, the shift in top seasonal allergies, due to differing vegetation, might come as a relief or a new challenge depending on your specific allergies.

Ready to start your move?

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

When planning a move from one city to another, it’s crucial to gauge how your finances will be impacted. This comparison between Detroit, MI and Riverside, CA , focuses on essential money and finance aspects , offering a snapshot of what to expect in terms of living costs, taxes, and economic environment.

Detroit
Riverside
Avg. Household Income
$36,140
$76,558
Cost of Living Index
99.4
112.5
State Income Tax
4.25
9.3
Avg. Property Tax
2.3
0.8
Avg. Sales Tax
6
7.75
Top 3 Industries
Automotive, Technology, Healthcare
Education, Health Services, Manufacturing
Affluence
Lower
Higher
Poverty
Higher
Lower
Homelessness
Significant
Moderate

Diving deeper into the comparison, it's clear that moving from Detroit to Riverside will present several financial adjustments. With an average household income in Riverside being more than double that of Detroit, the potential for a higher quality of life is evident. However, this comes at the cost of a significantly higher cost of living index and state income tax rate. While property taxes in Riverside are lower, the average sales tax is slightly higher, which impacts day-to-day spending. The economic environments are characterized by different leading industries, suggesting job market adjustments for newcomers. Understanding these economic contrasts can greatly assist in planning a financially smooth transition to Riverside.

Detroit vs. Riverside Political & Religious Comparison

When planning your move from Detroit, MI to Riverside, CA, it's helpful to understand the communities you're transitioning between. This comparison provides a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents between Detroit & Riverside, ensuring you know what to expect in terms of local culture, governance, and community values.

Detroit
Riverside
Political Make-up
Heavily Democratic
Leans Democratic
Local Politics
Strong union influence
Strong local activism
Religion
Christianity predominant, diverse religious communities Detroit Interfaith Council
Christianity predominant, growing Muslim and Buddhist communities Riverside Religious Harmony

In Detroit, the political landscape is shaped significantly by a robust Democratic leaning, with a strong presence of unions influencing local politics. The city is renowned for its diverse religious communities, hosting a broad spectrum from Christianity to Islam, all coalescing through platforms like the Detroit Interfaith Council. Conversely, Riverside, while also leaning Democratic, showcases a marked engagement in local activism. Religious diversity is celebrated here too, with a notable increase in Muslim and Buddhist residents, supported by organizations such as Riverside Religious Harmony. Understanding these dynamics can enrich your transition by connecting you with communities that reflect your values and interests.

Detroit vs. Riverside Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving from Detroit, MI, to Riverside, CA, presents a unique opportunity to compare the daily commute and traffic, as well as transportation options between the two cities. This comparison aims to give you a better understanding of what to expect on the roads and how you might get around in your new home.

Detroit
Riverside
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)
25
31
Traffic Congestion
6 out of 10
7 out of 10
Availability of Public Transit
5 out of 10
4 out of 10
Can you get by without a car?
Hard, but doable
Very challenging

While both cities offer unique challenges and benefits in terms of traffic and transportation, moving from Detroit to Riverside means adjusting to slightly longer commute times and a bit more congestion on average. Public transit is more accessible in Detroit, with the Detroit Department of Transportation offering various bus lines throughout the city. In contrast, Riverside has fewer public transit options, making it more challenging to get by without a car. Getting familiar with Riverside's roadways and exploring carpool options or the sparse public transit routes early on can ease this transition.

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