Best Raleigh to Riverside Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Raleigh to Riverside and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,626 mile move from North Carolina to California go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 37 Raleigh 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 Raleigh 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 Raleigh to Riverside Moving Companies

Company
Score Question
Affordability IndexLicense
1Pure Moving9.649.49Authorized For HHG
2Raleigh Moving Company9.449.6Active
3Terry Moving & Storage9.379.2Authorized For HHG
4Athens Moving Experts9.349.49Authorized For HHG
5Capital Moving & Storage9.279.47Authorized For HHG
Phone (800) 787-5428

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

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,626 miles from Raleigh, NC to Riverside, CA will cost on average $4,014 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Raleigh to Riverside move is roughly $9,703. 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$2,691300 ft³$8.97
1 Bedroom$4,014450 ft³$8.92
2 Bedrooms$6,653750 ft³$8.87
3 Bedrooms$9,7031100 ft³$8.82
4 Bedrooms$14,0331600 ft³$8.77
5+ Bedrooms$15,6971800 ft³$8.72
*Please note: These North Carolina to California moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from North Carolina & 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 NC to CA mover.
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Riverside to Raleigh guide.

Compare the 5 Best Raleigh 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
Raleigh Moving Company Logo

Raleigh Moving Company

Exceptional9.44/10
based on 856+ data points

Raleigh, NC, 27609

About Raleigh Moving Company

Raleigh Moving Company is a locally owned and operated moving company offering residential and commercial services for local and long-distance moves...

Services

  • Free estimates
  • Full Value Protection (FVP)
  • Fully licensed and insured

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 9/14/2021)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3344628 / -

Active

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved-
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
Athens Moving Experts Logo

Athens Moving Experts

Exceptional
claimed company icon
9.34/10
based on 3,932+ data points

6601 Hillsborough St # 111

Raleigh, NC, 27606

About Athens Moving Experts

Since 2015, Athens Moving Experts has helped Raleigh, Chapel Hill, Holly Springs, and communities across North Carolina with their residential and...

Services

  • Local Moving Services
  • Long Distance Moving Services
  • Commercial Moving Services

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3205320 / 204920

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans5
Registered Drivers5
Total Annual Miles Moved25,000 (2021)
View Full Review
4
Capital Moving & Storage Logo

Capital Moving & Storage

Exceptional9.27/10
based on 1,367+ data points

3450 Bush St Suite 245

Raleigh, NC, 27609

About Capital Moving & Storage

Capital Moving & Storage, a family-owned company based in Raleigh, NC, has been providing high-quality moving services for over 20 years....

Services

  • Residential & Commercial Moving
  • Local & Long Distance Moving
  • Packing

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3623752 / 1238777

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans3
Registered Drivers4
Total Annual Miles Moved120,504 (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.

Raleigh vs. Riverside Neighborhood Comparison

Moving to a new city can feel like stepping into the unknown, but familiarizing yourself with local neighborhoods can make the transition smoother. To assist in this regard, we've prepared a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Raleigh, NC & Riverside, CA , highlighting similarities that align with what you're accustomed to. Whether you're seeking vibrant nightlife, tranquil parks, or historic charm, this guide aims to bridge the gap between two distinct cities.

RaleighRiversideHow They're Similar
North HillsCanyon CrestFamily-friendly, shopping malls
Boylan HeightsWood StreetsHistoric homes, community feel
Five PointsArlington HeightsCulturally rich, historic sites
OakwoodRedlandsCharming, well-preserved architecture
Cameron VillageUniversityVibrant, youthful vibe
Warehouse DistrictDowntown RiversideArtsy, lively night scene
MordecaiGrand TerraceQuiet, suburban feel
Glenwood SouthMarketplaceEnergetic nightlife, dining options
Fayetteville StreetMission Inn DistrictHistoric, entertainment hub
Brier CreekOrangecrestFamily-oriented, modern amenities

If you're captivated by the historic charm and closely-knit community of Boylan Heights, you'll find a similar atmosphere in Riverside's Wood Streets. Here, historic homes line the neighborhood streets, fostering a sense of community among residents. For those who enjoy the vibrant, artsy vibe of Raleigh's Warehouse District, Downtown Riverside offers an eclectic mix of arts, culture, and lively nightlife, with establishments like the Riverside Metropolitan Museum and the Fox Performing Arts Center serving as local landmarks. On the other hand, outdoor enthusiasts who appreciate the green spaces of North Hills will enjoy exploring Canyon Crest's sprawling parks and recreational offerings, including the Canyon Crest Country Club.

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Pros and Cons of Moving from Raleigh to Riverside

Moving from one city to another can be a daunting experience, especially when considering the various aspects of your current and future homes. This guide aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Raleigh, NC to Riverside, CA , helping you weigh the pros and cons through a side-by-side comparison.

CONs
PROs
Raleigh, NC iconRaleigh, NC
  • Higher humidity
  • Less cultural diversity
  • Smaller tech hub
  • More conservative
  • Fewer outdoor activities
Riverside, CA iconRiverside, CA
  • Lower humidity
  • More cultural diversity
  • Larger tech industry
  • More liberal
  • More outdoor activities
Riverside, CA iconRiverside, CA
  • Higher cost of living
  • Less green space
  • Fewer historical sites
  • More sprawled communities
  • Varied family suitability
Raleigh, NC iconRaleigh, NC
  • Lower cost of living
  • More green space
  • Rich historical sites
  • Close-knit communities
  • Better for families

Moving from Raleigh to Riverside presents a unique set of opportunities and challenges. While Raleigh boasts a smaller, more tight-knit community atmosphere, evidenced by places like Pullen Park and the Mordecai Historic Park, Riverside offers a diverse cultural landscape and a vibrant tech industry, with popular areas like the Riverside Downtown and the Mission Inn, a historic hotel and spa that has become a social hub. The shift from Raleigh's lush, green spaces and historical depth to Riverside's dynamic culture and outdoor activities like hiking in the Box Springs Mountain Reserve, presents an intriguing change of pace. You'll also find yourself immersing in a more culturally diverse environment, which is reflected in Riverside's eclectic food scene, including places like Tio's Tacos - a testament to the local culinary diversity.

Raleigh vs. Riverside Food Guide

When relocating, exploring the local cuisine is a delightful way to immerse in the new environment. This comparison of the local cuisine between Raleigh & Riverside will give you a taste of what culinary delights await you, helping you feel more at home in your new city.

Raleigh
Riverside
Most iconic local food item
Pulled pork BBQ
California Burrito
Most popular meat dish
Eastern NC BBQ
Carne Asada
Most popular street food item
Fried Chicken Biscuit
Tacos
Most popular vegan food
Barbecue Jackfruit
Avocado Toast
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • The Pit
  • Brewery Bhavana
  • Beasley’s Chicken + Honey
  • Mission Inn Restaurant
  • Tio's Tacos
  • Anchos Southwest Grill & Bar
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 Raleigh, the food scene is robust with a deep-rooted tradition in BBQ, particularly the Eastern NC BBQ and Pulled Pork BBQ, which you can savor at places like The Pit. As for Riverside, the culinary landscape embraces its Californian identity with a strong Mexican influence, with Carne Asada and Tacos being particularly popular; Tio's Tacos is a local favorite that captures the essence of Riverside's street food culture. Moreover, Riverside shines in the vegan department, offering a variety of options like Avocado Toast that reflects the city’s health-conscious spirit. Whether you're craving traditional Southern cooking or the fresh flavors of California and Mexico, both cities boast vibrant food scenes ready to welcome you.

Raleigh vs. Riverside Restaurant Comparison

Finding comfort in a new city often begins with discovering great places to eat. This guide is designed to help you transition seamlessly from Raleigh, NC to Riverside, CA by comparing top restaurants , ensuring you find new favorites reminiscent of home. Let's embark on this culinary journey together.

RaleighRiversideWhat You'll Love
Bida MandaLe Chat NoireExquisite French dining experience
Poole's DinerMario's PlaceOffers a nostalgic, upscale dining atmosphere
Brewery BhavanaW. WolfskillRenowned for their expansive craft beer selection
Beasley's Chicken + HoneyThe Salted PigKnown for Southern-inspired fare and a cozy vibe
Crawford and SonBann ThaiAcclaimed for their meticulous, upscale dishes
GarlandTamale FactoryAppreciated for unique flavors and a comforting atmosphere
Morgan Street Food HallRiverside Food LabA hub for diverse, gourmet food options
Death & TaxesProAbitionA modern twist on classic American cuisine in a chic setting
VidrioCafé SevillaCelebrated for tapas and a vibrant Spanish atmosphere
SittiMezcal Cantina y CocinaAuthentic and innovative Mexican dishes

While the atmospheres of Raleigh and Riverside differ in many ways, both cities boast vibrant culinary scenes that reflect their diverse communities and food cultures. For instance, Bida Manda in Raleigh offers a unique Laotian dining experience that you can find an echo of in Riverside's Le Chat Noire, albeit with a French twist. Similarly, Morgan Street Food Hall, known for its array of gourmet options in Raleigh, finds its counterpart in Riverside's Food Lab, offering a variety of culinary delights that cater to every palate. Both spots provide a communal dining experience where the spirit of exploration is encouraged and celebrated. Whether it’s the craft beer focus of Brewery Bhavana that draws your interest or the comforting Southern dishes of Beasley's Chicken + Honey, Riverside has establishments like W. Wolfskill and The Salted Pig to satisfy these cravings and help ease the transition to your new home.

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Raleigh vs. Riverside Real Estate & Living Facts

Real estate is crucial in planning a move, and understanding how Raleigh, NC and Riverside, CA housing markets compare can guide your decision. This comparative view centers on housing costs, styles, and lifestyle metrics between these two distinct cities.

Raleigh
Riverside
Typical Architecture Style
Craftsman and Colonial
Spanish Revival and Ranch
Walkability
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Bikeability
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Urban Lifestyle
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
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Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing
Open layouts, hardwood floors
Large lots, outdoor living spaces

When comparing Raleigh and Riverside, the contrast in housing costs is immediately noticeable, with Riverside being notably higher in both home prices and rent. This difference reflects the broader cost of living and the high demand in California's housing market. The typical architecture also offers a glimpse into the regional character: Raleigh's Craftsman and Colonial styles signal its historical roots, whereas Riverside's Spanish Revival and Ranch styles reflect Southern California's cultural influences and climate. For those prioritizing an urban lifestyle and amenities that support a walking and biking culture, Riverside slightly edges out Raleigh, although both cities have room for improvement. When considering a move, it's also useful to note the emphasis on large lots and outdoor living spaces in Riverside listings, a nod to California's indoor-outdoor living culture.

Pet-friendly neighborhoods background image

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Riverside, CA

1. Canyon Crest : You’ll love the abundant parks and green spaces perfect for walking your pet, along with many pet-friendly apartment complexes.

2. Orangecrest : Your furry friend will enjoy extensive walking trails and a welcoming community with several pet-friendly establishments.

3. Mission Grove : Experience a pet-friendly atmosphere with dedicated dog parks and a vibrant community that hosts pet-related events.

Raleigh vs. Riverside Weather Considerations

When planning a move from Raleigh, NC to Riverside, CA, it's crucial to understand how the weather in your new city compares to what you're accustomed to. This comparison will help you prepare for differences in temperature, sunshine, and natural occurrences, ensuring a smoother transition.

Raleigh
Riverside
Days of Sunshine per Year
☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. Annual Humidity
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Avg. UV Index
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🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Natural Disasters
Hurricanes, Tornadoes
Earthquakes, Wildfires
Air Quality
Good to Moderate
Moderate to Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups
Summer icon

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

89/68
94/64
Winter icon

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

50/31
68/43


Rainfall icon

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

43
11
Snowfall icon

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

4
0


While both Raleigh and Riverside boast warm summers, Riverside enjoys significantly more sunny days and milder winters, making outdoor activities a year-round option. However, the humidity in Riverside is much lower, which can affect your skin and hydration needs. Additionally, the risk of natural disasters shifts from hurricanes and tornadoes in Raleigh to earthquakes and wildfires in Riverside. This requires adapting to new forms of emergency preparedness. Understanding these differences ensures you're not only ready for the climate change but also equipped for the region's distinct environmental challenges.

Ready to start your move?

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

When planning a move, understanding the financial landscape of your new city is crucial. By comparing the cost of living and economic conditions between Raleigh, NC , and Riverside, CA , you'll be better prepared for the financial adjustments needed. This comparison will help set the right expectations.

Raleigh
Riverside
Avg. Household Income
$74,612
$76,558
Cost of Living Index
98.2
112.5
State Income Tax
5.25
9.3
Avg. Property Tax
0.86
0.79
Avg. Sales Tax
7.25
8.75
Top 3 Industries
Technology, Pharmaceuticals, Academic Research
Manufacturing, Agriculture, Services
Affluence
Moderate
Varied
Poverty
Lower
Higher
Homelessness
Lower
Higher

Considering a move from Raleigh to Riverside involves understanding how different economic factors will impact your lifestyle. Raleigh boasts a lower cost of living index and a more affordable state income tax rate. Riverside, while more expensive, offers unique job opportunities, especially in manufacturing and agriculture. The higher cost of living and sales tax in Riverside reflect its economic landscape and the varied affluence levels across the city. Adjusting to these financial changes requires careful planning and an understanding of how your expenses will shift in the vibrant, yet more costly, environment of Riverside.

Raleigh vs. Riverside Political & Religious Comparison

In your journey from Raleigh, NC to Riverside, CA, understanding the community you're moving into is key. This comparison of the politics between Raleigh & Riverside offers a quick glimpse at the political and religious landscapes of these cities, helping you gauge the social atmosphere you're about to dive into.

Raleigh
Riverside
Political Make-up
Lean Democratic
Lean Democratic
Local Politics
Progressive trends in urban policies
Combination of liberal and conservative approaches in local governance
Religion
High diversity with Christian majority Local Churches
Multicultural religious scene with a significant Christian presence Local Faith Communities

As you settle into Riverside coming from Raleigh, you'll find both cities share a Democratic leaning, which may ease your political transition. However, the approach to local governance in Riverside blends both liberal and conservative insights, differing from Raleigh's more uniformly progressive stance. On a social level, both cities boast a vibrant religious community, with Christianity being predominant, yet they embrace a rich diversity of faiths. This balance of familiarity and diversity in Riverside will provide a comforting yet enriching new home environment.

Raleigh vs. Riverside Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Are you considering moving from Raleigh, NC, to Riverside, CA? It's crucial to understand the differences in daily commute and traffic to make your transition as smooth as possible. This comparison will shed light on what to expect when navigating the traffic and transportation options between Raleigh & Riverside.

Raleigh
Riverside
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)
25
30
Traffic Congestion
4 out of 10
6 out of 10
Availability of Public Transit
5 out of 10
6 out of 10
Can you get by without a car?
Possible but challenging
Difficult

Moving between cities involves adapting to a new daily routine, especially regarding your commute. In Raleigh, the average commute time is slightly shorter, and traffic congestion is less compared to Riverside. However, both cities have moderate availability of public transit, with Riverside scoring slightly higher. This might be due to Riverside’s Riverside Transit Agency offering a more extensive network of bus routes. Despite these options, living without a car in both cities can be challenging, though slightly more feasible in Raleigh, where walkability and bike paths are more integrated into the city's layout.

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