Lafayette, LA to Riverside, CA Movers (NEW 2026 Costs)

• When relocating from Lafayette to Riverside, expect to find rent about 19% cheaper, letting you enjoy more financial freedom monthly.
• Anticipate a larger mortgage expense since home prices in Riverside are about 200% higher than those in Lafayette.
• Exciting update: you'll see an average income that's about 29% higher in Riverside compared to Lafayette, which might allow for more savings or investments.
• Prepare your budget for higher expenses in Riverside, as living costs for a single person are 44% higher than in Lafayette. 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 33% higher than in Lafayette.
• Riverside shows an unemployment rate that exceeds Lafayette by around 22%. This increase suggests a broader candidate selection for employers, possibly making the job market more competitive for applicants.
• Sales taxes are 7% less in Riverside relative to Lafayette. This will help shrink your living expenses, especially if you tend to buy more taxable goods.
• Income taxes in California are 213% above those in Louisiana. Consequently, more of your income may be allocated to tax payments, which could diminish your overall earnings.

• Riverside's population is about 161% greater than Lafayette.
• Riverside's public transportation score of 5 out of 10 is higher than Lafayette's score of 3.
• Riverside and Lafayette are similarly walkable.
• Both Riverside and Lafayette have similar bike-friendliness scores (47 vs 49), meaning Riverside is about as safe for cyclists as Lafayette. 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 Lafayette with a score of 40.24 compared to Lafayette's 45.75. This means that Riverside neighborhoods are safer than 40.24% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Lafayette neighborhoods are safer than 45.75%.
• Riverside is considered to be safer than Lafayette with a safety index of 59.76 vs Lafayette's 54.25.
• Air quality in Riverside is Moderate, and in Lafayette 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.