Best Riverside to Chicago Movers and Practical Moving Guide
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Moving from the sunny expanses of Riverside, CA, to the bustling streets of Chicago, IL, marks an exciting chapter in your life, filled with new adventures and opportunities. You're leaving behind the laid-back vibe and endless summers of 'The Inland Empire' for the historic charm and vibrant city life of 'The Windy City'. In such a significant transition, it's crucial to ensure a smooth journey, which is why we stress the importance of partnering with trusted and reliable professional movers, like those we rank at Great Guys Moving, to navigate this long-distance move with ease.
Best Riverside to Chicago Moving Companies
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Chicago to Riverside guide.
5 Best Riverside to Chicago Moving Companies
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
About Pure Moving
Pure Moving has six locations across California, including an office in Los Angeles. This locally operated business moves over 10,000 client...Read More >>
Services
- Residential moving
- Commercial moving
- Long-distance moving
About Terry Moving & Storage
Terry Moving & Storage offers full-service moves locally and throughout the 11 Western States. This Lake Forest-based business has helpe...Read More >>
Services
- Local Move
- Interstate Move
- Packing Services
About 606 Movers, Inc.
606 Movers, Inc. has been serving the Chicagoland area for over 12 years. This professional moving company offers quality, eco-friendly movi...Read More >>
Services
- Residential Movers
- Commercial Movers
- Packing & Unpacking Services
About Move-tastic!
What happens when two passionate triathletes decide to make extra income using their physical abilities? The result is an energetic moving c...Read More >>
Services
- Full Moves
- Truck Loading and Unloading
- Interstate Moving Assistance
About Antonio’s Moving Services LLC
Established in 2014, Antonio's Moving Services LLC is a professional moving company that offers customizable residential and commercial movi...Read More >>
Services
- Unloading & Loading
- Packing & Unpacking
- On-site Moving
Dependable Rankings You Can Count On!
Our rankings are data-driven — movers cannot purchase a spot on our list. Here's why you can have confidence in our recommendations:
- No Paid Placements: Every company earns its spot through merit, not payment.
- Extensive Analysis: Evaluated over 24,000 movers across the country for our rankings.
Dependable Rankings You Can Count On!
Our rankings are data-driven — movers cannot purchase a spot on our list. Here's why you can have confidence in our recommendations:
- No Paid Placements: Every company earns its spot through merit, not payment.
- Extensive Analysis: Evaluated over 24,000 movers across the country for our rankings.
Riverside vs. Chicago Neighborhood Comparison
Making a move to a new city can be daunting, especially when trying to find a neighborhood that feels like home. This guide is designed to compare popular neighborhoods in Riverside, CA with the closest similar neighborhood in Chicago, IL , assisting you in familiarizing yourself with your new surroundings using what you already know. Whether you cherish Riverside for its community vibe, scenic views, or historic charm, you'll find a piece of that comfort in Chicago.
| Riverside | Chicago | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Wood Streets | Andersonville | Historic homes, eclectic vibe |
| Downtown Riverside | The Loop | Vibrant city life, cultural landmarks |
| Canyon Crest | Lincoln Park | Green spaces, family-friendly |
| Arlington Heights | Hyde Park | Diverse community, rich history |
| Orangecrest | Roscoe Village | Quiet, residential feel |
| La Sierra | Pilsen | Vibrant arts scene, cultural diversity |
| Victoria | Wicker Park | Trendy shops, nightlife |
| Mission Grove | Bucktown | Creative, avant-garde community |
| Hawarden Hills | Gold Coast | Upscale, historical elegance |
| Magnolia Center | Old Town | Charming architecture, local boutiques |
If you're moving from Riverside's beloved Wood Streets, you'll find a kindred spirit in Chicago's Andersonville with its historic homes and eclectic shopping district reminiscent of Riverside's vintage finds and community events. Embrace the vibrant arts scene and cultural diversity in Pilsen, a gem that mirrors the lively spirit and cultural festivals of La Sierra. For those drawn to the upscale charm and sprawling estates of Hawarden Hills, Chicago's Gold Coast offers an unparalleled mix of historical elegance and luxury living, not to mention its proximity to some of the city's most pristine beaches and legendary shopping on the Magnificent Mile. No matter where you find yourself in Chicago, you'll discover communities that reflect the warmth and diversity of those in Riverside, easing your transition into this new chapter of your life.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Riverside to Chicago
Moving from Riverside, CA to Chicago, IL requires weighing the positives and negatives of such a significant relocation. Through the following charts, we aim to provide an honest reflection of the good and bad attributes of moving from Riverside to Chicago , helping you make an informed decision about your upcoming move.
Riverside, CA- Higher temperatures
- Car-dependency
- Lower cultural diversity
- Lesser dining variety
- Limited entertainment
Chicago, IL- Seasonal variety
- Better public transit
- Rich cultural experiences
- Vast culinary scene
- Broad entertainment options
Chicago, IL- Higher living costs
- More traffic
- Colder winters
- Less sunshine
- Bustling city life
Riverside, CA- Lower cost of living
- Less traffic congestion
- More outdoor spaces
- Year-round warm weather
- Quiet suburban feel
Moving to Chicago from Riverside introduces you to a city alive with rich cultural diversity and a bustling dining scene that features restaurants like Girl & The Goat and landmarks like the Art Institute of Chicago. While Riverside's warmer weather and the ease of car travel might be missed, Chicago's efficient public transit system and the architectural marvel that is the Chicago Riverwalk offer new conveniences and sights to explore. Despite the higher cost of living, the opportunity to experience Chicago's seasonal variety, from picturesque snow-covered streets in winter to blooming parks in spring, creates a vibrant living experience that's hard to match.
Riverside vs. Chicago Food Guide
Understanding the culinary landscape of where you're moving to is essential, as food plays a pivotal role in experiencing local culture. With this in mind, we will conduct a comparison of the local cuisine between Riverside & Chicago so you can have a better grasp of the food scene awaiting you in your new home.
| Riverside | Chicago | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Avocado Toast | Deep-Dish Pizza |
| Most popular meat dish | Carne Asada | Italian Beef Sandwich |
| Most popular street food item | Tacos | Chicago-Style Hot Dog |
| Most popular vegan food | J ackfruit Tacos | Seitan Wings |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
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| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
Moving from Riverside to Chicago means transitioning from the light, health-conscious fare of Southern California to the hearty, iconic dishes of the Midwest. In Riverside, the food scene is vibrant with an emphasis on fresh, locally-sourced ingredients epitomized by dishes like the popular avocado toast and jackfruit tacos, as well as an abundance of food trucks serving up diverse cuisines. Upon arriving in Chicago, you'll experience a culinary landscape famed for its deep-dish pizza and Italian beef sandwiches, staples that are a must-try for any newcomer. Neighborhoods like the West Loop or Lincoln Park boast renowned restaurants such as Alinea and Lou Malnati's Pizzeria, reflecting the city's rich foodie culture and diverse dining options.
Riverside vs. Chicago Restaurant Comparison
Finding comfort in a new city often begins with discovering where to eat. This comparison of top restaurants from Riverside, CA to their counterparts in Chicago, IL aims to ease your transition. By looking at what culinary delights you're leaving behind, we can guide you towards new favorite eateries in Chicago . Let this be your food roadmap from Riverside to Chicago.
| Riverside | Chicago | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Mario's Place | Topolobampo | High-end Mexican cuisine with a focus on inventive dishes. |
| Woodfire Cafe | Cafe Ba-Ba-Reeba! | Casual, vibrant atmosphere serving Spanish tapas. |
| Mission Inn Restaurant | The Berghoff Restaurant | Iconic, historic setting with traditional German-American fare. |
| Tio's Tacos | Xoco | Casual and innovative Mexican street food by a renowned chef. |
| Market Broiler | Shaw's Crab House | A seafood lover's haven with a classic American seafood menu. |
| Anchos Southwest Grill & Bar | Frontera Grill | Southwestern flavors in a lively and colorful setting. |
| Duane's Prime Steaks and Seafood | Gibsons Bar & Steakhouse | Renowned for prime steaks and an upscale dining experience. |
| The Salted Pig | Au Cheval | Gourmet burgers and comfort food in a cozy, diner-inspired ambiance. |
| Baker's Dozen Donuts | Stan's Donuts & Coffee | Wide variety of gourmet donuts in a cheerful setting. |
| Simple Simon's | The Purple Pig | Mediterranean-inspired dishes served in a chic, no-reservations venue. |
Each restaurant on this list offers a unique experience mirroring the diverse culinary scene you loved in Riverside. For instance, if your weekends in Riverside were incomplete without a visit to Mario's Place, Chicago's Topolobampo promises an upscale Mexican dining experience that's sure to become a fast favorite. Likewise, lovers of the laid-back vibe and delicious tapas at Woodfire Cafe will find a new home in Cafe Ba-Ba-Reeba!, where the tapas and sangria flow just as freely. And for those special occasions, swapping Duane's Prime Steaks and Seafood for the iconic Gibsons Bar & Steakhouse will ensure your celebrations in Chicago are just as memorable. These carefully selected counterparts offer not just similar cuisine but also replicate the atmosphere and dining experience of your Riverside favorites.
Ready to start your move?
Riverside vs. Chicago Real Estate & Living Facts
When considering a move, understanding the real estate landscape is crucial for a seamless transition. This comparison helps you grasp the differences in housing between Riverside, CA, and Chicago, IL, focusing on cost, architecture, and lifestyle.
| Comparison | Riverside | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Spanish Colonial Revival | Modern and Traditional |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Large Yards, Privacy | Close to Public Transit, Lake Views |
While Riverside boasts larger properties with Spanish Colonial flair and privacy, Chicago offers an urban lifestyle rich in architectural diversity and more convenient public transit options. The higher walkability and bikeability scores in Chicago suggest a city more navigable without a car, suitable for those seeking accessibility and a bustling city vibe. The contrast in median home prices and monthly rent reflects the different markets, with Riverside being more expensive to buy but Chicago commanding higher rent prices. Exploring neighborhoods like Riverside's historic districts or Chicago's lakefront can further highlight the unique charm of each city.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Chicago, IL
1. Lincoln Park: With its sprawling namesake park, you'll find plenty of green spaces for walks and the Lincoln Park Dog Park where your furry friend can run off-leash.
2. Lakeview: Home to the popular Wiggly Field Dog Park, Lakeview offers an urban setting with a pet-friendly attitude, hosting numerous pet supply shops and pet-friendly patios.
3. Andersonville: This community-oriented neighborhood not only features pet-friendly dining and shopping but also events like the annual Andersonville Pet Parade, making it a delightful place for pet owners.
Riverside vs. Chicago Weather Considerations
When relocating from one city to another, understanding how the weather varies can significantly impact your acclimatization process. In this guide, we compare Riverside, CA to Chicago, IL to give you a clear picture of what to expect weather-wise in your new home.
Riverside, CA
Chicago, IL
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Riverside, CA
Chicago, IL
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Riverside, CA
Chicago, IL
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Riverside, CA
Chicago, IL
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Riverside | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Moderate | Good |
| Natural Disasters | Wildfires, Earthquakes | Snowstorms, Tornadoes |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Moving from Riverside to Chicago will introduce a significant change in weather conditions, particularly in winter. While Riverside enjoys mild winters with cool evenings, Chicago faces harsh winter conditions, including heavy snowfall and bitterly cold temperatures. Additionally, Chicago experiences higher humidity levels year-round, which can affect how the cold and heat feel compared to the dry climate of Riverside. Adapting to Chicago’s diverse seasons—from its vibrant springs and hot summers to its colorful autumns and snowy winters—will be a notable shift from Riverside’s consistently warm, sunny weather.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Riverside to Chicago
When planning a move from Riverside, CA to Chicago, IL, it's critical to grasp how your finances will shift. This comparison highlights the economic differences to prepare you for the transition, ensuring no financial surprises await in your new city.
| Comparison | Riverside | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $76,558 | $66,576 |
| Cost of Living Index | 112.5 | 116.9 |
| State Income Tax | 13.3 | 4.95 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.81 | 2.16 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 8.00 | 10.25 |
| Top 3 Industries | Healthcare, Retail, Manufacturing | Finance, Manufacturing, Information Technology |
| Affluence | Moderate | Varied |
| Poverty | Lower | Higher |
| Homelessness | Noticeable | Significant |
When comparing Riverside with Chicago, several financial factors stand out. Riverside has a higher average household income and a higher cost of living index, suggesting that while you might earn more, the cost of living consumes a significant portion of your income. Conversely, Chicago, despite a lower average household income, offers a more affordable cost of living, especially when considering housing. However, Chicago’s higher sales and property taxes can offset some of these cost savings. The diversity in top industries between the two cities also indicates potential changes in job opportunities. Understanding these nuances will help you better prepare for your move.
Riverside vs. Chicago Political & Religious Comparison
As you plan your move from Riverside, CA to Chicago, IL, understanding the social landscape of your new city is crucial. This comparison aims to give you a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents between Riverside & Chicago . It's designed to help you navigate and integrate into the community with ease.
| Riverside | Chicago | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Leans Democratic | Strongly Democratic |
| Local Politics | Focus on suburban development | Urban issues, public transportation |
| Religion | Mixed, with a notable evangelical presence | Religiously diverse, large Catholic population |
While both Riverside and Chicago lean Democratic, the intensity of political engagement and the issues at stake vary considerably. In Riverside, politics may often revolve around suburban and rural concerns, contrasting with Chicago's urban-centric debates, particularly those surrounding public transportation and city development. Religion plays a significant role in the cultural fabric of both cities. However, Chicago's religious scene is marked by a higher degree of diversity, including a sizeable Catholic community, which is reflective of its broader ethnic and cultural diversity. Understanding these nuances can aid significantly in your transition, helping you to connect with your new community more effectively.
Riverside vs. Chicago Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Comparing the traffic and transportation options between Riverside & Chicago helps you better understand the daily commute and traffic nuances. This guide sheds light on the key differences to prepare for your transition smoothly.
| Comparison | Riverside | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 30 | 35 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | No | Yes |
In Riverside, having a car is nearly essential, with public transit options being limited and an average commute time of around 30 minutes. But if you're moving to Chicago, you'll notice a change. The city boasts a higher public transit rating, thanks to the extensive network of buses and trains, including the famous CTA. This makes living without a car much more feasible in Chicago, despite a slightly higher average commute time and traffic congestion. Embracing these changes can significantly impact your daily life and budget, offering new opportunities to explore urban living differently.
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