riverside to az

---
title: "Moving from Riverside, CA to Arizona: Costs, Movers, and What to Expect"
description: "Planning a move from Riverside, CA to Arizona? Get real cost estimates, top mover ratings, and a cost-of-living breakdown before you book."
author: Sean Sullivan
keywords: ["moving from Riverside to Arizona", "Riverside CA movers", "Riverside to Arizona moving cost", "best movers Riverside CA", "California to Arizona moving", "Riverside Arizona relocation", "long distance movers Riverside"]
---

# Moving from Riverside, CA to Arizona: Costs, Movers, and What to Expect

If you're moving from Riverside to Arizona, you're looking at roughly a 466-mile haul — not quite cross-country, but enough distance that who you hire actually matters. The financial case for making this move is real: housing, taxes, and day-to-day costs are all significantly cheaper on the Arizona side of that desert crossing.

Here's what I've found on costs, local movers, and what life looks like once you get there.

## Local moving companies in Riverside

Out of 55 Riverside movers capable of handling state-to-state moves, five stood out based on verified customer reviews for routes to Arizona:

1. **VIP Transport, Inc.** — 4.62 / 5
2. **Burgess Moving and Storage** — 4.42 / 5
3. **Golden West Moving Systems, Inc.** — 4.38 / 5
4. **Inland Empire Movers** — 4.36 / 5
5. **Dirt Cheap Movers, LLC** — 4.44 / 5

These aren't household names — they're Inland Empire operators who know the Southern California to Arizona corridor well. Several carry national van line affiliations, which is worth knowing before you call.

### VIP Transport, Inc.

**4.62 / 5** | 2703 Wardlow Rd, Corona, CA 92882 | (951) 272-3700

- [Yelp reviews](https://www.yelp.com/biz/vip-transport-mayflower-agent-corona) (95 reviews)
- [Google reviews](https://www.google.com/search?q=VIP+Transport,+Inc.+2703+Wardlow+Rd.+Corona,+CA+92882&lrd=0x80dcc8dd1563c59d:0xffb1b1e779fd1900,1,,,,) (80 reviews)
- [BBB Grade: A+](https://www.bbb.org/us/ca/corona/profile/moving-and-storage-companies/vip-transport-inc-1066-13077955)

**89% positive | 9% negative**

VIP Transport operates as an agent for both [Mayflower](/company/mayflower) and [United Van Lines](/company/united-van-lines), which means local hands with national-level infrastructure behind them. Across 244 analyzed reviews, customers consistently praised professional crews, careful handling, and clear communication — things you can't assume on a long-haul move.

The 9% of negative feedback centers mainly on damaged items and slow claims resolution. Not unusual for the industry, but if you're shipping anything fragile or valuable, document its condition before the truck rolls.

**Company info:** State license #0137029 | DOT #125563 | 43 years in business

**Services:** Local, interstate, and international moves; packing/unpacking; pianos, art, antiques, crating; storage; full-valuation coverage; shipment tracking; cash and credit accepted

---

### Burgess Moving and Storage

**4.42 / 5** | 1625 Iowa Ave., Riverside, CA 92507 | (951) 682-4300

- [Yelp reviews](https://www.yelp.com/biz/burgess-moving-storage-riverside) (62 reviews)
- [BBB Grade: A+](https://www.bbb.org/us/ca/riverside/profile/moving-and-storage-companies/burgess-moving-and-storage-1066-5310)

**86% positive | 11% negative**

Burgess has been operating out of Riverside for 78 years and carries a [North American Van Lines](/company/north-american-van-lines) affiliation. Customers cite organized crews, careful labeling, and reliable communication. The 86% positive rate holds up across 100 reviews, and reviewers specifically call out how teams handle fragile and complicated moves.

The 11% of negative feedback is mostly about post-move accountability — unresolved damage claims, surprise charges, and delivery delays. If that's a concern for you, ask directly how they handle claims before signing anything.

**Company info:** State license #0056647 | DOT #070851 | 78 years in business

**Services:** Local, interstate, and international moves; packing/unpacking; pianos, art, crating; storage; fragile-only packing; full-valuation coverage; shipment tracking; credit card accepted

---

### Golden West Moving Systems, Inc.

**4.38 / 5** | 5455 24th St, Riverside, CA 92509 | (800) 548-2400

- [Yelp reviews](https://www.yelp.com/biz/golden-west-moving-systems-inc-riverside) (12 reviews)
- [Google reviews](https://www.google.com/search?q=Golden+West+Moving,+Inc.+riverside+ca&lrd=0x80dcb241b945f7a7:0x42c20b9858146e65,1,,,,) (7 reviews)
- [BBB Grade: A+](https://www.bbb.org/us/ca/riverside/profile/moving-and-storage-companies/golden-west-moving-systems-inc-1066-19805)

**88% positive | 13% negative**

Golden West has 61 years in business and holds DOD certification — a signal that their handling and accountability standards are held to a higher bar than most local operators. Customers point to accurate estimates, smooth long-distance coordination, and respectful crews.

The 13% negative reviews cover some employee conduct issues and accidental property damage. Worth noting: their review pool is significantly smaller than the others on this list, so that percentage represents a small absolute number of incidents.

**Company info:** State license #0190351 | DOT #70719 | 61 years in business | DOD certified

**Services:** Local, interstate, and international moves; packing/unpacking; pianos, art, antiques, safes, crating; storage; fragile-only packing; full-valuation coverage; cash and credit accepted

---

### Inland Empire Movers

**4.36 / 5** | 665 Center St #2, Riverside, CA 92507 | (909) 922-0000

- [Yelp reviews](https://www.yelp.com/biz/inland-empire-movers-riverside?utm_medium=biz_embedded_content&utm_source=biz_badge) (546 reviews)
- [Google reviews](https://www.google.com/search?q=Inland+Empire+Movers+riverside+ca&lrd=0x80dcae249a21b981:0xfc1b7ae734d2a8c8,1,,,,) (579 reviews)
- [BBB Grade: A+](https://www.bbb.org/us/ca/riverside/profile/moving-companies/inland-empire-movers-1066-850021113)

Inland Empire Movers has by far the largest review pool on this list — over 1,100 combined Yelp and Google reviews. That volume gives real weight to their 4.36 rating; a score like that earned across 1,100 reviews tells you something a 4.6 from 20 reviews can't.

**Company info:** DOT #1778475 | 16 years in business (also operates as Local Moving Services, Inc.)

**Services:** Local and interstate moves; packing/unpacking; pianos, art, antiques, grandfather clocks, offices, crating; storage; cash and credit accepted

---

### Dirt Cheap Movers, LLC

**4.44 / 5** | 20310 Temescal Canyon Rd, Corona, CA 92881 | (800) 496-7144

- [Yelp reviews](https://www.yelp.com/biz/dirt-cheap-mover-corona) (193 reviews)
- [Google reviews](https://www.google.com/search?q=Dirt+Cheap+Mover+riverside+ca&lrd=0x80dcc73ad6e5999d:0xac226abbda54b25b,1,,,,) (119 reviews)
- [BBB Grade: B-](https://www.bbb.org/us/ca/corona/profile/moving-companies/dirt-cheap-mover-1066-89077824)

**86% positive | 14% negative | ~$124/hr**

The name is honest — Dirt Cheap Movers competes on price, and over 86% of customers say they deliver on it without sacrificing the basics. Fast crews, upfront pricing, friendly staff. If cost is your primary constraint, they're worth a quote.

That said, the B- BBB rating and 14% negative reviews point to real rough edges: ownership attitude complaints, last-minute cancellations, damage disputes that didn't resolve. Not a disqualifier if you're budget-constrained, but go in with clear written expectations — especially for a longer haul to Arizona.

**Company info:** State license #0192601 | DOT #3475625

**Services:** Local moves; packing/unpacking; pianos, hot tubs, pool tables, art, antiques, safes, crating; crane vans; storage; cash and credit accepted

---

## Local moving services in Riverside, CA

Here's a snapshot of specialty service availability across Riverside movers handling interstate moves:

| Service | # of Movers | % of Total |
|---|---|---|
| Interstate | 50 | 90.91% |
| Small moves | 18 | 32.73% |
| Antiques | 33 | 60.00% |
| Art | 34 | 61.82% |
| Pianos | 41 | 74.55% |
| Fragile-only packing | 19 | 34.55% |

If you have specialty items — piano, artwork, antiques — you've got a solid pool to choose from. Don't just assume a mover handles your specific item type; confirm it when you get your quote.

## Cost to move from Riverside, CA to Arizona

The table below outlines average costs for this route by home size and service type, based on a ~466-mile move.

| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,067 – $2,970 | $626 – $1,517 | $360 – $698 |
| 2–3 bedrooms | $1,832 – $5,062 | $1,164 – $2,197 | $379 – $845 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $3,360 – $7,044 | $1,562 – $2,649 | $498 – $948 |

*Approximate estimates based on pricing data as of January 2026. Your final cost will vary depending on move size, added services, parking or access challenges, fuel rates, and scheduling.*

Use the [moving cost calculator](/calculator) to get a more tailored estimate before you start calling companies.

### Cost to hire movers from Riverside to Arizona

For a studio or one-bedroom, plan on $1,067 to $2,970 for full-service movers. A two- or three-bedroom home runs $1,832 to $5,062. Four bedrooms or more: $3,360 to $7,044.

That range is wide, and the spread usually comes down to move timing, whether you're packing yourself, and how much specialty handling is involved.

### Cost of moving containers from Riverside to Arizona

[Moving containers](/best/moving-containers) are a useful middle-ground option — you handle loading, professionals handle transport. A studio or small one-bedroom runs $626 to $1,517. Two to three bedrooms: $1,164 to $2,197. Four or more bedrooms: $1,562 to $2,649.

The tradeoff is labor. You're doing the heavy lifting in exchange for a meaningfully lower bill than full-service movers.

### Cost of moving truck rentals from Riverside to Arizona

A rental truck is the cheapest option on paper — but factor in the physical effort and the reality of driving a 26-footer down the I-10 before you commit. For a studio or one-bedroom, expect $360 to $698. A two- to three-bedroom move runs $379 to $845. A large four-bedroom home: $498 to $948. Fuel costs are included in those estimates.

If you're leaning this direction, see our breakdown of the [best truck rental options](/best/truck-rentals) before you book.

## Factors influencing moving costs from Riverside to AZ

A few things will move your quote noticeably up or down:

- **Move size:** A studio and a four-bedroom house are completely different financial equations. Get an accurate room count before requesting quotes.
- **Time of year:** Summer is peak season. Demand spikes, prices follow. Fall and winter moves give you more negotiating room.
- **DIY vs. professional:** [Long-distance movers](/best/long-distance-movers) cost more up front but save significant wear on moving day. DIY is cheaper but demanding — especially over 466 miles.

## What you should know before moving from Riverside to AZ

The financial case for [moving to Arizona](/movers/arizona) from Riverside is hard to argue with. [California](/movers/california) sits among the most expensive states in the country, and Arizona offers a comparable lifestyle at a meaningfully lower cost.

### Compare cost of living: Riverside vs. Arizona

| | Riverside, CA | Arizona |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent | $2,295 | $1,308 |
| Average home cost | $642,297 | $428,711 |
| Average income (per capita) | $76,755 | $72,581 |
| Cost of living index | 131 | 107 |
| Unemployment rate | 7.1% | 3.6% |
| State income tax | 13.3% | 2.5% |

*Riverside sources: World Population Review, Zillow, US Census Bureau, US BLS, Tax Foundation. Arizona sources: Zumper, Zillow, Numbeo.*

Here's what those numbers mean in practice:

- Rent in Arizona runs about 43% less than in Riverside. That's real savings every single month.
- Home prices are roughly 33% lower in Arizona, so your mortgage shrinks substantially if you're buying.
- Per capita income is close between the two — $76,755 vs. $72,581 — so your earning power doesn't take a major hit.
- Arizona's overall cost of living is about 18% lower than Riverside's. Groceries, utilities, and services all add up.
- Arizona's unemployment rate (3.6%) is nearly half of Riverside's (7.1%) — meaningful if you're job hunting after the move.
- State income tax: 2.5% versus 13.3%. That delta alone can offset a good portion of your moving costs over the first year.

### How life is different in Riverside, CA from Arizona

| | Riverside, CA | Arizona |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 317,261 | 7,431,344 |
| Political leaning | Democratic (49.8–48.3) | Democrat (56–44) |
| Summer high | 94°F | 99°F |
| Winter low | 42°F | 34°F |
| Annual rain | 11″ | 12″ |
| Annual snow | 0″ | 6″ |
| Crime index | 40.24 | 24.89 |

*Sources: US Census Bureau, 270TOWIN, NeighborhoodScout, BestPlaces, Wikipedia, Walk Score, AirNow.*

A few things worth knowing before you get there:

- Summers are hotter in Arizona — 99°F versus Riverside's 94°F. Not dramatic on paper, but Arizona's dry heat has a way of catching people off guard. Plan outdoor activities around the early morning.
- Winters are colder in Arizona, with lows hitting 34°F compared to Riverside's 42°F. Depending on where in the state you land, you may actually see snow — about 6 inches annually statewide. Riverside sees essentially none.
- Rainfall totals are nearly identical (12″ vs. 11″), though Arizona concentrates a significant portion of that in summer monsoon season, which is a different experience from Southern California rain patterns.
- Arizona's crime index (24.89) is meaningfully lower than Riverside's (40.24). That's a real quality-of-life factor, not just a statistic.
- Both locations leaned Democratic in the last presidential election, so a sharp political culture shift isn't likely.

### Other considerations when moving to Arizona

Moving logistics extend beyond hiring a truck and packing boxes. A few things that trip people up:

- **HOA rules:** Arizona has a high density of HOA-governed communities. Check move-in day restrictions before you schedule your crew.
- **Elevator reservations:** Moving into an apartment or high-rise? Book elevator time in advance — many buildings require it.
- **Truck parking permits:** Some Arizona cities require permits for large moving vehicles on public streets. Confirm with the city ahead of your move date.
- **State licensing:** Arizona is largely an "unregulated" state for movers, but companies are still subject to Arizona Department of Public Safety (AZDPS) and Department of Weights and Measures rules. Verify your mover holds a valid license before hiring.
- **State regulator:** You can check a moving company's Arizona license status directly through the official AZDPS website.
- **Moving permits:** Arizona doesn't require a general moving permit, but check local parking regulations in your destination city.
- **Change of address:** File your [USPS change of address](https://moversguide.usps.com/) at least a week before your move so mail follows you without a gap.
- **Moving insurance:** Released Value Protection — the default coverage most movers include at no charge — pays out 60 cents per pound per item. A destroyed 25-pound TV gets you $15. If you have anything worth protecting, ask your mover about full-valuation coverage or look into third-party insurance.
- **Moving checklist:** Use our [moving checklist](/resources/moving-checklist) to make sure nothing slips through in the final days before your move.

### Things to do in Arizona

Arizona has more depth than its reputation as a retirement destination suggests. A quick sample:

**Museums**
- Musical Instrument Museum
- Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum
- Commemorative Air Force Museum
- Yuma Territorial Prison State Historic Park
- Jerome State Historic Park

**Parks**
- Canyon de Chelly National Monument
- Sunset Crater & Wupatki National Monuments
- Petrified Forest National Park
- Walnut Canyon National Monument
- Saguaro National Park

**Sports teams**
- Arizona Cardinals (NFL)
- Phoenix Suns (NBA)
- Arizona Diamondbacks (MLB)
- Arizona Coyotes (NHL)
- Arizona Rattlers (IFL)

**Universities**
- Arizona State University
- Northern Arizona University
- University of Arizona
- American Indian College
- Carrington College

## FAQ

### How long does a move from Riverside to Arizona take?

Most professional movers will complete a ~466-mile move in one to four days, depending on the service level and their scheduling. Summer moves run longer due to demand. Before you book, ask specifically about the delivery window — not just the pickup date.

### Can I find movers that build custom crates in Riverside?

Yes — 42 movers in Riverside offer custom crating, which matters if you're shipping artwork, antiques, or anything fragile and hard to replace. When requesting quotes, ask specifically about crate construction, interior padding, and lead time.

### What is the best way to ship a car from Riverside to Arizona?

If you're not driving your vehicle yourself, auto transport is the cleanest option for this route. Use our [car shipping calculator](/calculator/car-shipping) to estimate costs, or browse our full guide to [auto transport companies](/best/car-shipping) for California to Arizona.

### Why are people moving from Riverside to Arizona?

The financials are the main driver: lower housing costs, a much lower income tax rate, and a job market with meaningfully lower unemployment. The climate is close enough to Southern California that the lifestyle adjustment is minimal for most people.

### Where can I find long-distance movers in Riverside?

Start with the five companies listed above. It's also worth getting a quote from a national [long-distance moving company](/best/long-distance-movers) to see how the rates compare for your specific move size.

### Can I pay cash for my move from Riverside, CA?

There are 21 movers in Riverside that accept cash payments. That said, it's not common in the industry — most companies default to card, ACH, or cashier's check for traceability. If cash matters, confirm before booking. Either way, expect a deposit upfront and the remaining balance at pickup or delivery depending on the company's policy.

---

Compare quotes from multiple Riverside movers before you commit. Pricing on this route varies more than you'd expect, and a few calls — or quote requests through [movefinders.org](/calculator) — can save you several hundred dollars.