Learn more about our Advertising Disclosure

Advertising Disclosure moveBuddha

($1,280) Cost to Move From Madison, WI to Riverside, CA

Easily compare and book your next move with moveBuddha
Estimated cost & time: Moving 1,933 miles from Madison to Riverside has an average cost ranging from $1,234 to $6,980. Anticipate a journey duration of roughly five–16 days. Final expenses can fluctuate based on the distance, date, size of the home, and whether you choose a DIY approach or hire professional movers.
Trusted by 400,000+ people who move every year
We review 3,500+ movers to help you choose with confidence
Get real-time pricing info and key industry insights

Best movers from Madison to Riverside

Best overall value
Safeway Moving Logo Safeway Moving
checkmark Best overall value
checkmark Veteran owned
checkmark Portion to charity
4.9
  • checkmarkBest overall value
  • checkmarkVeteran owned
  • checkmarkPortion to charity
American Van Lines Logo American Van Lines
checkmark Certified crews
checkmark Flat-rate pricing
checkmark Family-owned
4.5
  • checkmarkCertified crews
  • checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
  • checkmarkFamily-owned
North American Van Lines Logo North American Van Lines
checkmark 1,800 trucks
checkmark Storage available
checkmark Customized moving plans
4.5
  • checkmark1,800 trucks
  • checkmarkStorage available
  • checkmarkCustomized moving plans
Allied Van Lines Logo Allied Van Lines
checkmark Specialty packing services
checkmark White-glove reputation
checkmark 80+ years’ experience
4.8
  • checkmarkSpecialty packing services
  • checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
  • checkmark80+ years’ experience
Mayzlin Relocation Logo Mayzlin Relocation
checkmark Family owned
checkmark East coast focus
checkmark Affordable pricing
4.9
  • checkmarkFamily owned
  • checkmarkEast coast focus
  • checkmarkAffordable pricing

Best movers by type

Professional Icon
Professional
Container Icon
Container
Rental Truck Icon
Rental Truck
Freight Icon
Labor Only

Best professional movers from Madison to Riverside

Choosing a full-service mover is ideal when you prefer experts to oversee your interstate move from Madison to Riverside. These companies handle all the details, allowing you to dedicate your energy to your next steps.

There are 3 interstate moving companies in Madison. We recommend the top selections to ensure a stress-free journey to Riverside.

Safeway Moving
checkmark Best overall value
checkmark Veteran owned
checkmark Portion to charity
American Van Lines
checkmark Certified crews
checkmark Flat-rate pricing
checkmark Family-owned
Allied Van Lines
checkmark Specialty packing services
checkmark White-glove reputation
checkmark 80+ years’ experience
Mayzlin Relocation
checkmark Family owned
checkmark East coast focus
checkmark Affordable pricing
North American Van Lines
checkmark 1,800 trucks
checkmark Storage available
checkmark Customized moving plans

Estimated cost to move from Madison to Riverside

These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 1,933-mile move from Madison to Riverside using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 07, 2025. We source thousands of verified price points from moving companies nationwide and update them every month to mirror seasonal patterns and market trends. Actual pricing varies with the size of your move, optional services, access/parking challenges, fuel costs, and scheduling. For accuracy, compare estimates from more than one mover.
Studio Icon

Studio / 1 bedroom

  • Moving Company $2,307 – $5,155
  • Moving Container $1,528 – $3,074
  • Rental Truck $1,163 – $2,218
Two Three Bed Icon

2-3 bedrooms

  • Moving Company $3,527 – $6,980
  • Moving Container $2,057 – $3,896
  • Rental Truck $1,234 – $2,539
Four Bed Icon

4+ bedrooms

  • Moving Company $5,998 – $11,203
  • Moving Container $2,789 – $5,691
  • Rental Truck $1,527 – $3,233
Recent Moving Price Estimates
The following are real, anonymized quotes requested by moveBuddha readers in the past 48 hours. Prices change with dates and availability; use these as a ballpark, not a guarantee.
Safeway Moving
Browntown, WI Diamond Bar, CA
3 Bedrooms
Oct 04, 2025
Mayzlin Relocation
Spring Green, WI Villa Park, CA
3 Bedrooms
Sep 22, 2025
Roadway Moving
Mount Horeb, WI Temescal Valley, CA
4 Bedrooms
Sep 11, 2025
American Van Lines
Barneveld, WI Garden Grove, CA
1 Bedroom (small)
Sep 04, 2025
North American Van Lines
Watertown, WI Ladera Ranch, CA
Studio apartment
Aug 16, 2025
United Van Lines
Mazomanie, WI Lake Elsinore, CA
3 Bedrooms
Aug 16, 2025
Allied Van Lines
Cambridge, WI Grand Terrace, CA
1 Bedroom (small)
Aug 13, 2025
1-800-Pack-Rat
Hollandale, WI Hacienda Heights, CA
1 Bedroom (small)
Aug 11, 2025
Colonial Van Lines
Milton, WI Meadowbrook, CA
1 Bedroom (small)
Aug 11, 2025
Budget Truck Rental
Evansville, WI Chino, CA
Studio apartment
Aug 05, 2025

Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from Riverside, CA to Madison, WI guide.

Highly rated local moving companies for Madison to Riverside moves

Organizing a move from Madison to Riverside can be daunting, particularly when trying to identify a reliable mover that offers long-distance services. We’ve done the groundwork for you, evaluating five local movers in Madison known for their long-distance moving capabilities, assessing them on pricing, customer experiences, and reliability.

Here are the best local movers for long-distance moves from Madison to Riverside.

  1. Above Average Moving LLC: 4.48 out of 5 stars
  2. The Armstrong Company: 4.44 out of 5 stars
  3. TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.44 out of 5 stars
  4. Top Notch Moving and Storage: 4.3 out of 5 stars
  5. College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving: 4.28 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
92.0% of all reviews were positive
6.6% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Above Average Moving LLC lives up to its name by consistently delivering efficient and professional moving experiences. Out of 226 customer reviews, an impressive 92% praised the company, citing hardworking, careful staff, smooth and fast service, and lower pricing compared to other movers. Customers repeatedly mention the team’s attention to detail and courteous attitudes. Moves frequently finish ahead of schedule, and all types of belongings—furniture, pianos, fragile items—arrive safely. On the less favorable side, a small portion of feedback noted incidents of item damage, inaccurate estimates, and slow or absent communication, especially with follow-up or during delays. Compared to typical moving companies, Above Average stands out for its friendly service and cost-effectiveness, though improving estimate accuracy and communication could strengthen their reputation further. The majority of feedback confirms a reliable, customer-focused approach that makes moving easier and less stressful for most clients.
Get a Quote (608) 556-7980

Company Info

State license #: 26753

Years in Business: 9

DOT #: 2595339

Alternate Names: Above Average Moving LLC

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
77.2% of all reviews were positive
22.8% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Armstrong Relocation stands out for its responsive, professional, and courteous staff. Customers frequently praise their careful handling of belongings, clear communication, and efficient moving process. Many mention friendly movers who are eager to help, making the experience less stressful than other moving services. Feedback often notes accurate estimates and competitive pricing, outshining many industry competitors. Negative feedback focuses on item damage during moves, dissatisfaction with claims resolutions, and occasional unprofessional interactions or lowballed estimates. Among 57 reviews analyzed, 77% are positive, with most input stressing reliability and care, while negative experiences center around damage and communication. Compared to other movers, Armstrong earns strong marks for customer service and careful handling, but could improve on damage prevention and clarity in estimates.
Get a Quote (608) 838-5940

Company Info

Years in Business: 39

DOT #: 1170867

Alternate Names: Armstrong Transfer & Storage Co., Inc. , Armstrong Relocation & Commercial Services , The Armstrong Company

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
78.0% of all reviews were positive
21.3% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Smooth moves and professional crews are frequent themes found in the 286 feedback entries for TWO MEN AND A TRUCK. Nearly 80% of input praises their efficient service, skilled and polite movers, careful handling of belongings, responsive communication, and fast-moving teams. Many note seamless scheduling, prompt arrivals, and property treated with respect. While most find the staff courteous and the process smooth, over one-fifth raise concerns, especially about damage to items, inaccurate estimates, and unexpected charges. Some reported broken furniture, billing surprises, or unresolved claims, with a few experiencing high costs or responses slower than agreed. Compared to many moving companies, TWO MEN AND A TRUCK receives above-average marks for professionalism and care, but feedback underscores the importance of vigilant inventory tracking and clear, accurate quoting before booking.
Get a Quote (608) 340-1557

Company Info

Years in Business: 31

DOT #: 2527384

Alternate Names: Lightner & Lightner, Inc.

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Pianos
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
94.9% of all reviews were positive
4.7% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Top Notch Moving and Storage earns its name with the overwhelming majority of customer feedback citing efficient service, professional and polite staff, and careful handling. Nearly 95% of 234 total reviews express strong satisfaction, highlighting friendly movers and consistent communication. Customers regularly note prompt arrivals, care for personal belongings, and an easy, stress-free process. Several customers mention moving delicate items and heavy furniture with no damage, even in challenging conditions. Friendly and approachable staff and good communication further set this company apart from competitors. A very small percentage of reviews report upset over property damage, higher-than-expected charges, or unprofessional interactions, especially during complex moves. Some customers experienced additional fees not clearly outlined or insufficient handling of claims when things went wrong. Only one neutral review described mixed staff performance during illness. Compared to typical moving companies, Top Notch stands out for service consistency and upbeat, helpful crews. Most clients enthusiastically recommend the company, with return customers making up a notable portion of input. The strong focus on efficiency, careful handling, and people skills makes Top Notch Moving and Storage a reliable choice for local and long-distance moves.
Get a Quote (608) 590-3710

Company Info

Years in Business: 5

DOT #: 3322160

Alternate Names: TopNotchMovers LLC

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
89.1% of all reviews were positive
10.9% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Smooth moves and fast service set College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving apart from most competitors in the industry. Out of 248 feedback submissions, 89% praised efficient work, quick process, and professional, polite crews who communicate clearly and handle belongings with care. Customers frequently mention the stress-free, friendly experience, and many highlight the company’s promptness and attention to details others sometimes overlook. On the other hand, negative feedback makes up around 11% of input. The main complaints concern damage to belongings, late or missing arrival, and unexpected charges—especially for those comparing pricing or needing timely, careful moves. College Hunks earns high marks for execution and customer experience but should improve consistency on careful handling and accurate billing to match the leading industry performers.
Get a Quote (336) 810-1801

Company Info

DOT #: 2378173

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card

How much does it cost to move from Madison to Riverside?

On average, moving companies in Wisconsin charge about per hour. Consider these typical rates for a full-service moving company, moving container, or rental truck:

Move size Moving company Moving container Rental
truck
Studio / 1 bedroom $1,280 – $4,894 $1,154 – $2,828 $1,096 – $2,218
2 – 3 bedrooms $3,527 – $6,980 $2,057 – $3,896 $1,234 – $2,539
4+ bedrooms $5,998 – $11,203 $2,789 – $5,691 $1,527 – $3,233
*Estimated cost ranges for a 1,933-mile move from Madison to Riverside are shown here using moveBuddha data as of Nov 07, 2025. We compile thousands of verified price points from nationwide movers and update the dataset monthly to account for seasonal patterns and broader market trends. Your total may differ depending on volume, selected services, parking/access limitations, fuel prices, and timing. Comparing quotes from multiple moving companies is the best way to pinpoint a precise price.

Cost to hire movers from Madison to Riverside

When planning a move to Riverside from Madison, for a studio or one-bedroom, you’ll likely pay between $1,280 and $4,894. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, expect costs to fall somewhere between $3,527 and $6,980 for the same journey. Moving four or five bedrooms? Typical prices range from $5,998 to $11,203.

Cost of moving containers from Madison to Riverside

When you’re heading from Madison to Riverside, and you’re only moving a few items, you can expect to spend between $1,154 and $2,828. For a two- or three-bedroom place, prices usually fall between $2,057 and $3,896. If you’re packing up a large home with four or more bedrooms, the cost can range from $2,789 to $5,691. Want more details? Check out our complete PODS cost guide.

Explore the top budget-friendly moving container companies to make your move from Wisconsin easier and more affordable.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Madison to Riverside

A moving rental truck from Madison to Riverside is generally the cheapest option, but it requires you to do all of the driving and labor.

Moving a studio or one-bedroom apartment in a rental truck will cost around $1,096 to $2,218. A two to three-bedroom move will cost $1,234 to $2,539, and moving a home with four or more bedrooms from Madison to Riverside costs around $1,527 to $3,233.

These quotes include the estimated fuel cost.

Factors that affect moving costs from Madison to Riverside

The cost of Madison movers will depend on:

  • How much stuff you have: A one-bedroom move from Madison to Riverside may only cost $2,417, whereas a full four-bedroom relocation can approach $9,833.
  • The season you’re moving in: Movers charge more in summer, the busiest months in Madison.
  • Which type of mover you use: Save with a truck rental ($1,096–$2,697), but expect more hassle than hiring pros.

What to know before moving from Madison to Riverside

Expect a bump in monthly expenses after the move – Riverside runs about 12% higher for singles and 3% higher for families than Madison.

Singles spend around $2,573 in Madison versus $2,292 in Madison; families pay $5,604 compared with $5,457.

Dig into the side-by-side details here:

Madison Riverside
Average 1 BR rent $1,693 $2,163
Average 3 BR rent $3,100 $3,270
Average home value $367,934 $642,297
Average income (per capita) $62,919 $76,755
Cost of living (single) $2,292 $2,573
Cost of living (family of four) $5,457 $5,604
Unemployment rate 3.3% 7.1%
Sales tax 5.5% 8.75%
State income tax 7.65% 13.3%
  • Rent is about 43% more expensive in Riverside than in Madison. Make sure to include this increase in your monthly budget.
  • Plan for a heftier mortgage payment since home prices are approximately 75% steeper in Riverside compared to Madison.
  • Here’s some fantastic news, the average income is approximately 22% greater in Riverside than in Madison, offering more potential for savings or investments each month.
  • Prepare for elevated costs in Riverside, with the cost of living for a single person being 12% more than in Madison. This includes routine costs such as utilities, groceries, clothes, and transportation.
  • The cost of living for a family between Riverside and Madison remains comparable, differing by roughly 5%, so your overall expenses won’t dramatically change.
  • Riverside has a higher unemployment rate than Madison by about 115%. This means that more people are out of work, so employers may have a larger pool of candidates to choose from, which can lead to a more competitive hiring process.
  • Sales taxes in Riverside surpass those in Madison by 59%. This means everyday items like clothing, dining, and electronics may cost more at checkout.
  • Income taxes are 74% more in California than in Wisconsin. This increase in state taxes means you will retain less of your earnings, impacting your disposable income.

Here’s the side-by-side view of common monthly bills and day-to-day expenses in Madison versus Riverside:

Living Expense Madison Riverside
Basic utilities $215.88 $226.85
Cell phone plan $50.44 $46.50
Dozen eggs $4.04 $5.45
Loaf of bread $3.75 $4.02
Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) $15.00 $19.00
Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) $77.50 $85.00
Gym membership $64.29 $35.00
  • Basic utilities cost less in Madison than in Riverside, helping trim your monthly bills.
  • Cell phone plans typically cost more in Madison than in Riverside.
  • Eggs are less expensive in Madison than in Riverside.
  • Bread costs less in Madison than in Riverside.
  • A quick meal is cheaper in Madison than in Riverside.
  • A mid-range dinner for two costs less in Madison than in Riverside.
  • Gym memberships cost more in Madison than in Riverside.

How life is different in Madison vs. Riverside

Madison Riverside
Population 269,840 317,261
Transportation score 6 5
Walkability score 50 43
Bike friendliness score 66 49
Crime index 34.57 40.24
Safety index 65.43 59.76
Air quality Good Moderate
  • Riverside’s population is about 18% greater than Madison.
  • Riverside’s public transportation score of 5 out of 10 is lower than Madison’s score of 6.
  • Riverside is less walkable than Madison with a score of 43 out of 100 vs Madison’s 50 out of 100.
  • Riverside has a bike-friendliness score of 49 out of 100, which means it isn’t as accessible or safe for cyclists as Madison, which has a score of 66.
  • Riverside’s crime rate is higher than Madison with a score of 40.24 compared to Madison’s 34.57. This means that Riverside neighborhoods are safer than 40.24% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Madison neighborhoods are safer than 34.57%.
  • Riverside is considered to be less safe than Madison with a score of 59.76 vs Madison’s 65.43.
  • Air quality in Riverside is Moderate, and in Madison it’s Good.

Other things to consider for your Madison to Riverside move

  • HOA rules: Costs across Madison and Riverside are largely aligned, so your monthly budget shouldn’t shift much after the move.
  • Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator you’ll want to check on how to reserve it for move day.
  • Truck parking permits: Many cities require special permits for parking large moving trucks. Check in advance to see if one is needed for your move.
  • State licensing: When contacting a local moving company for an estimate in California, make sure each has a “T Number” issued by the California Public Utilities Commission (CAPUC). Moving companies with valid T Numbers have met state requirements for insurance, safety, and financial stability and have passed criminal clearance checks conducted by the California Department of Justice. Ensure the company you choose is licensed to handle your move.
  • State regulator: To confirm a moving company’s license in California, visit the state’s public utilities commission.
  • Moving Permits: Moving permits aren’t typically required in California, but always confirm with local authorities to avoid surprises.
  • Change of address: You can set an official move date on the form and this way all of your mail will get properly forwarded to Riverside. Get started here.
  • Moving company insurance: Each state has its own requirements for the level of insurance moving companies must carry. Opt for Released Value Protection – a cost-free choice provided by movers with minimal coverage. The liability is capped at 60 cents per pound per article. For instance, if a 50-inch TV weighing 25 pounds is lost or damaged, your reimbursement is only $15 (60 cents x 25 pounds). To ensure comprehensive coverage for your items’ full value, consult with your chosen moving company or consider third-party insurance options.
  • Moving checklist: Let our moving checklist guide you through the process and help ensure nothing slips through the cracks.

Where to live in Riverside

With your sights set on City of Arts and Innovation, these are some of the most popular neighborhoods to consider in Riverside.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • Canyon Crest
  • Victoria
  • Downtown
  • Magnolia Center
  • La Sierra South

Best neighborhoods for families

  • Orangecrest
  • Mission Grove
  • Canyon Crest
  • Alessandro Heights
  • Victoria

Things to do in Riverside

With your move to California complete, you can dive right into experiencing Riverside. From cultural attractions to outdoor adventures, you’ll never run out of things to do:

  • Arts and culture: Riverside is home to museums and cultural arts centers like the March Field Air Museum, Mission Inn Museum, Riverside Art Museum, and Jurupa Mountains Discovery Center.
  • Outdoor recreation: The city’s Mount Rubidoux Park, Fairmount Park, Sycamore Canyon Wilderness Park, and Ryan Bonaminio Park — among other spots — perfect for hiking, biking, or simply soaking up the outdoors.
  • Sports: Experience the energy of a live game and back the home team at an California Baptist Lancers (College sports)UC Riverside Highlanders (College sports)Riverside City College Tigers (College sports): Baseball, Cheerleading, Football, Basketball, Cross Country, Golf, Swimming, Tennis, Track & Field, Water Polo, Softball, Beach Volleyball, Volleyball game.

FAQ

When is the best time to move from Madison to Riverside?

If you’re flexible with timing, spring and fall are great seasons to move from Madison to Riverside. You’ll dodge the heat, the crowds, and the higher moving costs typical of peak season in Madison.

When is the cheapest time to move from Madison to Riverside?

Want to save on your move from Madison to Riverside? Consider scheduling it in winter, when demand is lower and rates are often cheaper. Our moving discounts guide shows you how.

How long does a move from Madison to Riverside take?

The 1,933-mile move from Madison, WI, to Riverside, , takes five to 16 days. Some Madison movers may offer expedited moving if you need it faster. If you need more time, ask your mover about storage options in Riverside.

Need help moving a piano or antiques in Madison?

These delicate items require movers with specialized training. Currently, 3 movers in Madison provide piano moving services. 1 can transport antiques with care. Statewide, there are 25 piano movers and 13 antique movers, with nationwide counts at 2,303 and 1,466.

Demand for these services can be high, so schedule your specialty move as far ahead as possible.

Helpful moving resources

Not what you were looking for?

Check out other categories that can help you find the information you need!

See All
Hide All
triangle triangle