Quick answer: A typical 1,980-mile move from Chicago to Riverside runs $1,487–$8,486 and takes five to 16 days. Price and timing vary based on how much stuff you are moving, move date, and choice of DIY or full-service.

Moving the reverse route? We've got you covered with our Moving from Riverside to Chicago guide.

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Each year, 400,000+ people trust our moving recommendations. Here are a few reasons why:

  • Founded in 2015
  • 3,500+ moving companies analyzed
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  • Up-to-date pricing info & industry data
  • Fact-checked for accuracy

Best Movers By Type

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Best Professional Movers from Chicago to Riverside

Picking a long-distance moving company for your move from Chicago to Riverside isn't easy — there are tons of options out there, and figuring out who's reliable (and who's not) can feel like a real challenge.

No need to stress about sifting through endless options — we've already done the homework for you. Our picks are based on real reviews, pricing, and the range of services offered.

Safeway Moving
checkmarkBest overall value
checkmarkPortion to charity
checkmarkVeteran owned
checkmarkBest overall value
checkmarkPortion to charity
checkmarkVeteran owned
checkmarkBest overall value
checkmarkPortion to charity
checkmarkVeteran owned
checkmarkBest overall value
checkmarkPortion to charity
checkmarkVeteran owned
American Van Lines
checkmarkCertified crews
checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
checkmarkFamily-owned
checkmarkCertified crews
checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
checkmarkFamily-owned
checkmarkCertified crews
checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
checkmarkFamily-owned
checkmarkCertified crews
checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
checkmarkFamily-owned
Allied Van Lines
checkmarkSpecialty packing services
checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
checkmark80+ years' experience
checkmarkSpecialty packing services
checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
checkmark80+ years' experience
checkmarkSpecialty packing services
checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
checkmark80+ years' experience
checkmarkSpecialty packing services
checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
checkmark80+ years' experience
Mayzlin Relocation
checkmarkFamily owned
checkmarkEast coast focus
checkmarkAffordable pricing
checkmarkFamily owned
checkmarkEast coast focus
checkmarkAffordable pricing
checkmarkFamily owned
checkmarkEast coast focus
checkmarkAffordable pricing
checkmarkFamily owned
checkmarkEast coast focus
checkmarkAffordable pricing
North American Van Lines
checkmark1,800 trucks
checkmarkStorage available
checkmarkCustomized moving plans
checkmark1,800 trucks
checkmarkStorage available
checkmarkCustomized moving plans
checkmark1,800 trucks
checkmarkStorage available
checkmarkCustomized moving plans
checkmark1,800 trucks
checkmarkStorage available
checkmarkCustomized moving plans

How we chose the best moving companies for your IL to CA movetoggle

moveBuddha's expert team analyzed moving rates from 63 Illinois movers and listed the top movers based on customer satisfaction, reviews, and cost.

Customer satisfaction (40%): The company consistently delivers services in a timely matter with good communication and within the estimated cost.

Dispute resolution (20%): Mistakes cannot be avoided in the moving industry. We look for companies that own their mistakes and make genuine efforts to fix any issues that arise during a move.

Industry reputation (15%): The company is well-regarded within the moving industry and participates in industry conferences and organizations.

Online reputation (15%): The company maintains a professional website with accurate information. The company promptly and professionally responds to online customer inquiries.

Service options (10%): We look for companies with a deep breadth of services including full packing, storage, specialty item handling, and expedited delivery.

Here is our full moving company rating methodology.

Local moving companies servicing Chicago to Riverside moves

When planning a move from Chicago to Riverside, finding a local mover that also handles long-distance relocations can be tricky. There are plenty of companies, but which ones are actually worth it?

We've taken care of the research for you — reviewing local movers in Chicago who provide long-distance services, and scoring them on price, customer reviews, and reliability.

These are the best local moving companies for getting from Chicago to Riverside.

  1. New City Moving: 5.0 out of 5 stars
  2. The Professionals Moving Specialists: 4.86 out of 5 stars
  3. H2H Movers Inc: 4.8 out of 5 stars
  4. STI Moving & Storage Inc.: 4.9 out of 5 stars
  5. Alliance Moving & Storage: 4.8 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/NewCityMoving, https://twitter.com/newcitymoving
92% of all reviews were positive
6% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving magic happens when speed meets service—New City Moving delivers exactly that, according to 1,451 pieces of customer feedback analyzed. With 92.4% positive reviews, most customers rave about the company’s efficient service, professional and polite staff, careful handling, and quick turnaround—which set them apart from many competitors. A high number praised clear communication throughout the move.
While affordability and responsiveness also stood out, some reported problems. About 6% said their main issue was damage to their belongings, unexpected charges, or struggles resolving complaints when things went wrong. Only 1.8% of feedback landed in the neutral zone, typically due to minor organizational or packing concerns rather than major failures. New City Moving earns above-average praise for efficiency and professionalism compared to other moving services, but a handful of customers cite billing, compensation, or damage disputes where they wanted swifter or better follow-up. For most, the company’s efforts made moving faster, simpler, and safer.
Show more
Get a Quote (773) 489-0600

Company Info

State license #: 158051

Years in Business: 16

DOT #: 3078026

Alternate Names: Windy City Moving, Inc.


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
https://www.facebook.com/ChicagoMover, https://twitter.com/TheProMove1
93% of all reviews were positive
6% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Word travels fast when a moving company makes relocations easier than expected. After analyzing 1,349 reviews, 92.5% of feedback for The Professionals Moving Specialists is positive. Customers routinely highlight efficient service, careful handling of belongings, moving crews that work quickly, a professional attitude, and clear communication.
People appreciate arriving on time, speedy completion, and the rare occurrence of damage compared to other movers. The overwhelming majority find the booking process straightforward, pricing fair, and the teams respectful of property and special requests. Some input does point to a few drawbacks: complaints about items being scratched or dented, final charges being higher than expected due to extra materials or time, and unexpected add-ons. These issues are reported far less often than praise for skilled, polite, and diligent crews. Compared to most moving companies, The Professionals stand out with stronger reliability and care for customer property. If dependability, efficiency, and peace of mind are top priorities, this company outperforms many local competitors.
Show more
Get a Quote (888) 225-7351

Company Info

State license #: 136144

Years in Business: 20

DOT #: 3383907


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Safes
  • Pay by money order
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/h2hmovingcompany/, https://twitter.com/h2hmoving
88% of all reviews were positive
9% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving day just got easier for H2H customers. Out of 640 real customer reviews analyzed, a remarkable 88% delivered positive feedback, placing H2H Movers above most competitors in the moving industry. Clients most frequently highlighted the company’s efficient service, careful handling of possessions, professional and polite staff, great communication, and a quick moving process.
People appreciated teams who arrived on time, completed moves ahead of schedule, and made stressful relocations feel manageable, often noting that quoted prices were accurate or even lower than expected. On the other hand, the most common complaints were unexpected charges, occasional damage to items, and delays in arrival or delivery. A few customers reported being billed more than their estimates due to extra fees or poor packing, and some faced slow resolution for claims or communication gaps after their move. While some neutral reviews cited problems with lost items or payment methods, these were far less frequent than the praise received. H2H Movers stands out with efficient, reliable, and friendly crews—a reputation that exceeds the service level of many moving companies, though attention to transparent billing and timeliness could make experiences even better.
Show more
Get a Quote (773) 236-8797

Company Info

State license #: 184599

Years in Business: 10

DOT #: 2428328

Alternate Names: H2H Movers, Inc


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Crane vans
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Safes
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
https://www.facebook.com/stimovingandstorage, https://twitter.com/stimovers?lang=en
68% of all reviews were positive
29% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
High marks for speed, professionalism, and careful handling set STI Moving & Storage apart from most competitors. In an analysis of 538 reviews, 68% reflect satisfied customers who consistently praise the efficient crews, friendly staff, and reliable communication. Many detail moves finished faster than expected, with careful packing and respect for belongings.
Negative feedback (29%) focuses on damage to items, delays in delivery—especially for long-distance moves—and surprise or higher-than-expected charges. Customers also note issues with complex claims for damage resolution. Neutral feedback highlights occasional late arrivals and some pricing misalignments, but still mentions professionalism from staff. Compared to industry standards, STI earns stronger praise for crew attitude and efficiency but faces similar criticism to peers regarding damage claims and delivery timelines. Most customers find their moves easier and less stressful thanks to STI's organized and diligent teams, though potential clients should review policies closely for long-distance or specialty needs.
Show more
Get a Quote (847) 675-1223

Company Info

State license #: 139020

Pricing: $150/hr

Years in Business: 20

DOT #: 1308599

Alternate Names: STI Moving & Storage, Inc.


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Crane vans
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
https://www.facebook.com/AllianceMovingTeam/, https://twitter.com/alliance_moving
96% of all reviews were positive
5% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving with Alliance Moving & Storage feels like a breath of fresh air: 247 customer feedback entries were analyzed, with a remarkable 95.5% being positive. Most people describe the company as efficient, careful with belongings, highly professional, and quick. Customers consistently mention respectful staff and clear, reliable communication throughout the process.
Affordable, transparent pricing and rapid scheduling compared favorably versus rival companies. On the downside, a minority report unexpected charges, occasional damage to items, or trouble reaching someone after problems arose. Issues like last-minute price increases or lack of follow-up were sometimes cited by dissatisfied customers. Negative experiences remain much less common than positive ones. Compared with typical moving companies, Alliance stands out for speed, professionalism, and care, though some customers recommend confirming all charges up front to prevent misunderstandings.
Show more
Get a Quote (847) 378-4949

Company Info

State license #: 214845

Years in Business: 9

DOT #: 2882675

Alternate Names: HK & RP, LLC


Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Safes
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card

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

Chicago movers charge $100 per hour on average. Here are average prices for a full-service moving company, moving container, or truck:

Move size Moving company Moving container Rental truck
Studio / 1 bedroom $1,546 - $5,956 $1,439 - $3,382 $1,445 - $2,760
2 - 3 bedrooms $3,854 - $8,486 $2,484 - $5,109 $1,487 - $3,416
4+ bedrooms $7,886 - $13,414 $3,613 - $6,891 $2,032 - $4,103
*These price ranges are a rough estimate based on 1,980 miles and historical averages. The actual size of your move, additional services required, truck parking access, market conditions, and availability can greatly affect the final cost of your move.

Cost to hire movers from Illinois to California

Planning a move from Illinois to California? For a studio or one-bedroom, you'll likely pay between $1,546 and $5,956. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, expect costs to fall somewhere between $3,854 and $8,486 for the same journey (IL to CA). Moving four or five bedrooms? Typical prices range from $7,886 to $13,414.

Cost of moving containers from Illinois to California

If you're moving from Illinois to California, expect to pay between $1,439 and $3,382 for a small load. For a home with two or three bedrooms, prices typically range from $2,484 up to $5,109. Larger moves of four bedrooms or more can run between $3,613 and $6,891. Check out our guide on PODS cost for more details.

Check out the most affordable moving container companies for your move from Illinois.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Illinois to California

Renting a moving truck typically costs the least, but you'll be responsible for both the heavy lifting and all the driving.

Expect to pay between $1,445 and $2,760 to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move, prices usually range from $1,487 to $3,416. If you're relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you'll likely spend anywhere from $2,032 to $4,103.

These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.

Key factors that influence moving costs from Chicago to Riversidetoggle

The cost of Chicago movers will depend on:

  • Move size: The cost of your move will depend on the amount of items you have in your home. For example, moving a one-bedroom apartment from Chicago to Riverside can be as low as $1,546 while a four-bedroom home can be as high as $12,182.
  • Time of year: Summer is peak moving season in Chicago so moving companies will likely charge more.
  • Do-it-yourself vs professional mover: Renting a truck or using a moving container can be cheaper options, with prices for a rental truck ranging from $1,445 to $3,526. However, these options require more work and effort compared to hiring professional movers.

What to know before moving from Chicago to Riverside

Moving from Chicago to Riverside means adjusting to a different pace of life — and a different price tag. On average, it costs significantly more to live in Chicago than in Riverside, making the move an opportunity for many to enjoy a lower cost of living.

Check out how Chicago compares to Riverside so you know what to expect before you relocate:

Chicago Riverside
Average rent cost $2,045 $2,295
Average home value $295,743 $642,297
Average income (per capita) $71,566 $76,755
Cost of living (single person) $3,648 $2,573
Cost of living (family of 4) $9,266 $5,604
Unemployment rate 9.0% 7.1%
Sales tax 10.25% 8.75%
State income tax 4.95% 13.3%
  • You may want to budget more for rent in Riverside, since prices are typically 12% higher than in Chicago.
  • The home prices in Riverside are 117.2% higher than in Chicago, which could mean saving up before buying a home, taking on a bigger mortgage, or downsizing.
  • You're likely to make a higher income living in Riverside, where incomes are, on average, 7.3% higher than in Chicago. Major employers in Riverside include Bourns, California Baptist University, and Riverside County Office of Education.
  • Get ready to save some money on recurring expenses like food, gas, and utility bills in Riverside. On average, the cost of living for a single person there is 29.5% lower than in Chicago.
  • A move to Riverside can help cut down on a family's routine expenses, including utilities, transportation, and groceries. The cost of living for a family of four is 39.5% less than what it costs in Chicago.
  • The unemployment rate in Riverside is 21.11% lower than in Chicago.
  • You'll spend less on retail and restaurants in Riverside, since the city's sales taxes in Riverside are 14.63% lower than in Chicago.
  • State income taxes in Riverside are 168.69% higher than in Chicago.

To put this in perspective, you would need around $2,115.95 in Riverside to maintain the same standard of life that you can have with $3,000.00 in Chicago.

How life is different in Chicago vs. Riverside

Riverside Chicago
Population 317,261 2,746,388
AllTransit Transportation Performance Score 5 9
Walkability score 43 77
Bike friendliness score 49 72
Crime Index 40.24 35.19
Safety Index 59.76 33.87
Air Quality Moderate Good
  • Riverside's population is about 88% less than Chicago.
  • Riverside's public transportation has a score of 5 out of 10 versus Chicago's higher score of 9.
  • Riverside is less walkable than Chicago with a score of 43 out of 100 vs Chicago's 77 out of 100.
  • Riverside has a bike-friendliness score 49 out of 100, which means it isn't as accessible to and safe for cyclists as Chicago, which has a score of 72 out of 100.
  • Riverside's crime rate is higher than Chicago with a score of 40.24 compared to Chicago's 35.19. This means that Riverside neighborhoods are safer than 40.24% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Chicago neighborhoods are safer than 35.19%.
  • Riverside is considered to be safer than Chicago with a safety index of 59.76 vs Chicago's 33.87.
  • Air quality in Riverside is moderate, and in Chicago it's good.

Other things to consider for your Chicago vs. Riverside move

  • Weather: Riverside has hot, dry summers and mild, relatively wet winters.
  • HOA rules: It's a good idea to look into your HOA or community regulations before moving day arrives.
  • Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator, it's a good idea to secure a reservation before your moving day.
  • Truck parking permits: To avoid fines or delays, check whether a parking permit is needed for your moving truck.
  • 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: To confirm a moving company's license in California, visit 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: We recommend submitting your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move to ensure your mail gets forwarded to Riverside without delay. You can select your official move date when completing the form. Start the process here.
  • Moving company insurance: Every state sets its own rules for what insurance moving companies need to maintain. 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.

Where to live in Riverside

Now that you've chosen City of Arts and Innovation as your next home, here are a few of the best neighborhoods in Riverside to check out.

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

Now that you've made the move to California it's the perfect time to explore Riverside From local hotspots to hidden gems, there's something to enjoy for every lifestyle:

  • Arts and culture: Riverside is home to museums and cultural arts centers like the March Field Air Museum, Mission Inn Museum, Riverside Art Museum, Jurupa Mountains Discovery Center, and Heritage House.
  • 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: Catch a live game and cheer on the home team at an California Baptist Lancers (College sports), UC Riverside Highlanders (College sports), or 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 Chicago to Riverside?

The most budget-friendly and comfortable times to move from Chicago to Riverside are in the spring or fall, when the weather is mild and moving rates in Chicago. are lower.

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

Because most people are moving from Chicago to Riverside in the spring or fall, you can often catch discounts by moving in the winter. Read our guide on moving discounts to learn more.

How long does a move from Chicago to Riverside take?

Moving from Chicago, IL to Riverside, CA covers 1,980 miles and usually takes five to 16 days Need to move faster? Some Chicago movers offer expedited options. If you're not ready to receive your items, look into storage solutions in Riverside.

Helpful moving resources