Houston, TX to Riverside, CA Movers (NEW 2026 Costs)

• As you consider relocating to Riverside, note that rent can be roughly 48% more expensive than it is in Houston; adjust your financial plans to accommodate this change.
• Be sure to budget for a higher monthly mortgage payment, as home prices are about 143% higher in Riverside than in Houston.
• Great news! You'll find the average income is about 10% higher in Riverside compared to Houston, giving you some extra room for savings or investments.
• Anticipate lower daily expenses, including food, gas, and utilities in Riverside, where the cost of living for a single person is 7% less than in Houston.
• Moving to Riverside could be an economically beneficial choice, reducing your family's regular costs such as groceries, transport, and utilities. The cost of living for a family is 22% less than in Houston.
• The unemployment rate in Riverside is 73% higher compared to Houston, translating to more job seekers for available positions, which might elevate competition.
• Sales taxes are 6% higher in Riverside than in Houston. This means you'll likely pay more out-of-pocket for everyday purchases on taxable goods like clothing, electronics, dining out, and household items.
• California has a state income tax, while Texas does not. That means you’ll owe more in taxes after your move, reducing your take-home pay compared to what you’re used to.

• Riverside's population is about 86% less than Houston.
• Riverside's public transportation score is within about 5% of Houston, making them very similar.
• Riverside is less walkable than Houston with a score of 43 out of 100 vs Houston's 47 out of 100.
• Both Riverside and Houston have similar bike-friendliness scores (49 vs 49), meaning Riverside is about as safe for cyclists as Houston. Typically, cities with scores of 20 or higher are seen as reasonably safe, though higher scores mean better cycling accessibility.
• Riverside's crime rate is lower than Houston with a score of 40.24 compared to Houston's 63.5. This means that Riverside neighborhoods are safer than 40.24% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Houston neighborhoods are safer than 63.5%.
• Riverside is considered to be safer than Houston with a safety index of 59.76 vs Houston's 36.5.
• Air quality in Riverside is Moderate, and in Houston it's Good.

• HOA rules: It's a good idea to look into your HOA or community regulations before moving day arrives.
• Elevator reservation: Reserve elevator access early if your building requires it, to avoid delays on moving day.
• Truck parking permits: Some cities require parking permits for large vehicles and moving trucks. Find out if you need any parking permits ahead of time.
• 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. Double-check that the moving company is properly licensed before you hire them.
• State regulator: You can verify a California moving company's license by visiting the state's public utilities commission.
• Moving Permits: While California doesn't mandate moving permits, checking local parking guidelines before your move-in day is still a good idea.
• Change of address: File your USPS change of address about a week before moving so mail reaches Riverside smoothly. Start the process here.
• Moving company insurance: Every state requires moving companies to carry different levels of insurance. 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: Use our moving checklist to stay on top of every detail and reduce last-minute stress.

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

After getting comfortable in your new California home, it's time to see what Riverside is all about. Whether you're into food, art, nature, or nightlife — there's plenty to check out:

• Arts and culture: From historic museums to vibrant art centers, Riverside offers cultural landmarks 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 sites — are great places to hike, ride bikes, or just enjoy nature.
• Sports: Grab a seat and root for the home team during 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.