Des Moines, IA to Riverside, CA Movers (NEW 2026 Costs)

• Planning a move to Riverside? Keep in mind that rent could be approximately 100% higher than in Des Moines, so be sure to adjust your monthly expenses accordingly.
• Anticipate a larger mortgage expense since home prices in Riverside are about 234% higher than those in Des Moines.
• Exciting update: you'll see an average income that's about 31% higher in Riverside compared to Des Moines, which might allow for more savings or investments.
• Prepare your budget for higher expenses in Riverside, as living costs for a single person are 36% higher than in Des Moines. This includes essential costs such as utilities, groceries, clothing, and commuting.
• If you're moving your family to Riverside, keep in mind that your living expenses could increase. The cost of living for a family in Riverside is 28% higher than in Des Moines.
• Riverside shows an unemployment rate that exceeds Des Moines by around 20%. This increase suggests a broader candidate selection for employers, possibly making the job market more competitive for applicants.
• Sales taxes in Riverside are 25% more than in Des Moines, implying increased costs for common purchases like apparel, dining, and gadgets.
• Income taxes in California are 202% above those in Iowa. Consequently, more of your income may be allocated to tax payments, which could diminish your overall earnings.

• Riverside's population is about 55% less than Des Moines.
• Riverside's public transportation score is within about 5% of Des Moines, making them very similar.
• Riverside and Des Moines are similarly walkable.
• With a score of 49 out of 100, Riverside is more bike-friendly than Des Moines, which has a score of 39 out of 100. The higher a city's score, the more suited it is to safely accommodating cyclists.
• Riverside's crime rate is higher than Des Moines with a score of 40.24 compared to Des Moines's 5.0. This means that Riverside neighborhoods are safer than 40.24% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Des Moines neighborhoods are safer than 5.0%.
• Riverside and Des Moines have a similar safety level, with scores of 59.76 and 57.8.
• Air quality in Riverside is Moderate, and in Des Moines it's Good.

• HOA rules: Check ahead with any neighborhood or community rules on moving to ensure a smooth move.
• Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator, make sure to find out how to reserve it ahead of your move.
• Truck parking permits: Make sure to look into local parking regulations—some areas require permits for large moving trucks.
• 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. Before booking, ensure the moving company is officially licensed to handle your move.
• State regulator: California’s public utilities commission provides official mover license verification.
• Moving Permits: California does not require any moving permits, but it is helpful to check local parking restrictions before moving into the state. We recommend submitting your change of address form with USPS at least a week prior to your move.
• Change of address: We suggest filing your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move. You'll be able to set your official move date, helping ensure your mail is forwarded correctly to Riverside. Start the process here.
• Moving company insurance: The amount and type of insurance movers must have depends on state regulations. 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: Our moving checklist gives you the peace of mind that comes with being fully prepared.

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 settling into your new California home, you'll want to branch out and explore your new city. Luckily, Riverside has lots to offer, no matter what you're interested in:

• Arts and culture: Riverside features a variety of museums and cultural arts centers, including 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 — along with other locations — ideal for trails, cycling, or enjoying the fresh air.
• Sports: Nothing beats the thrill of cheering on 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.