Best Des Moines to Riverside Movers and Practical Moving Guide
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Moving from the heartland's Des Moines, IA, to Riverside, CA, the hub of the Inland Empire, marks an exhilarating leap into a new chapter of your life. You're trading the "Hawkeye State's" fields and friendly faces for Riverside's citrus groves, lively arts scene, and year-round sunshine. It's crucial on this long journey to rely on trusted and reliable professional movers; that's where we come into play, ensuring your belongings are in safe hands every mile of the way.
Best Des Moines to Riverside Moving Companies
| Company Name | Rating  | BBB Rating | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pure Moving | 9.64 | A+ | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| Terry Moving & Storage | 9.37 | A+ | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| Best Move Inc | 9.24 | A+ | Authorized For Property | Contact |
| Hemmen Moving | 9.11 | A+ | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| Two Men and a Truck | 8.64 | A+ | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Riverside to Des Moines guide.
5 Best Des Moines to Riverside 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 Best Move Inc
Best Move, Inc. prides itself on being one of the most preferred and recommended moving companies in Fort Madison, IA. Its BBB accreditation...Read More >>
Services
- Material Packing
- Local Moving
- Long-Distance Moving
About Hemmen Moving
For over 25 years, Hemmen Moving has served the Ames area with full-service moving solutions. It provides services for residential and comme...Read More >>
Services
- Local moving
- Long distance moving
- Small moving
About Two Men and a Truck
Two Men and a Truck is a longstanding moving company with locations in almost every state. In Iowa, this company has been performing residen...Read More >>
Services
- Local Moving
- Junk Removal
- Storage
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 739369 / FF-20254
468114 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 23 |
| Registered Drivers | 26 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 40,000 (2023) |
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.
Des Moines vs. Riverside Neighborhood Comparison
Moving to a new city can be daunting, especially when you're not familiar with the local communities. To ease this transition, we've crafted a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Des Moines, IA & Riverside, CA , using familiar areas from your current city to find your next favorite spot in Riverside. This will help you quickly feel at home in your new surroundings.
| Des Moines | Riverside | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| East Village | Wood Streets | Historic vibe, local shops |
| Beaverdale | Arlington Heights | Family-friendly, green spaces |
| Drake | University | Educational environment, youthful |
| Sherman Hill | Mission Inn District | Rich history, architectural beauty |
| Waveland Park | Canyon Crest | Outdoor activities, community feel |
| Waterbury | Hawarden Hills | Upscale, serene neighborhoods |
| South of Grand | Victoria | Elegant homes, scenic surroundings |
| Ingersoll Park | Alessandro Heights | Spacious properties, affluent |
| Gray's Lake | Sycamore Canyon Park | Natural beauty, recreational |
| Highland Park | La Sierra | Diverse community, vibrant culture |
If you adore the historic charm of East Village in Des Moines, with its intriguing blend of local shops and cultural highlights, you'll find a similar ambiance in Riverside's Wood Streets neighborhood. Here, the historic vibe is kept alive through community-focused events and unique, locally-owned businesses. If the appeal of Beaverdale lies in its strong sense of community and accessibility to beautiful parks, then Arlington Heights in Riverside, with its extensive green spaces like the Riverside Botanical Gardens, would be a natural transition for you. Furthermore, the academic atmosphere of Drake is mirrored in Riverside's University neighborhood, offering an educational environment bolstered by a youthful and vibrant community, highlighted by the presence of the University of California, Riverside campus and its surrounding amenities.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Des Moines to Riverside
Moving from one city to another comes with its set of challenges and opportunities. This comparison aims to offer an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Des Moines, IA to Riverside, CA , laying out the pros and cons to help you weigh your decision with a clearer perspective.
Des Moines, IA- Colder winters
- Smaller city vibe
- Less diverse cuisine
- Less cultural activities
- Lower job market variety
Riverside, CA- Warmer climate
- Larger, dynamic city
- More diverse food options
- Rich cultural experiences
- Higher job opportunities
Riverside, CA- Higher cost of living
- Busier, larger population
- Heavier traffic
- Lesser green spaces
- Higher competition for jobs
Des Moines, IA- Lower cost of living
- Quiet, smaller community
- Easy navigation
- Ample green spaces
- Strong local economy
When moving from Des Moines to Riverside, you'll find yourself swapping brisk winter walks at Gray’s Lake Park for year-round outdoor activities at Mount Rubidoux Park. Riverside boasts a plethora of dining options, from the historic Mission Inn Restaurant to the vibrant food scene on Main Street, offering tastes that span the globe. While Des Moines prides itself on a close-knit community feel and easy living, Riverside’s larger, more diverse environment fosters rich cultural experiences and boundless job opportunities in booming industries. However, the transition brings challenges, including acclimatizing to a higher cost of living and navigating denser traffic. It's a trade-off between the tranquility and simple navigation of Des Moines for Riverside’s energetic lifestyle and sunny skies.
Des Moines vs. Riverside Food Guide
This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Des Moines, IA & Riverside, CA, focusing on the integral role food plays in understanding local culture and lifestyle. By exploring the culinary scene of both cities, you'll be better equipped for your move.
| Des Moines | Riverside | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Pork Tenderloin Sandwich | California Burrito |
| Most popular meat dish | Beef Brisket | Carne Asada |
| Most popular street food item | Sweet Corn | Tacos |
| Most popular vegan food | Roasted Vegetable Bowl | Avocado Toast |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In the heart of Riverside, you'll find a vibrant foodie scene that embraces both traditional and innovative dishes. Neighborhoods like the Riverside Food Lab and Downtown Riverside offer eclectic dining options where iconic foods such as the California Burrito and Tacos stand out. Tio's Tacos and Simple Simon's provide not just meals but an experience that encapsulates the local flavor and hospitality. On the other hand, Riverside's high marks in fitness/health conscientiousness and vegan friendliness reflect a community that values diverse dietary preferences and healthy living.
Des Moines vs. Riverside Restaurant Comparison
Finding comfort in a new city often begins with discovering great places to eat. This comparison chart is designed to help those moving from Des Moines, IA to Riverside, CA find their next favorite dining spots by using their current culinary favorites as a guide. Whether you're craving sophisticated dining experiences or casual, foodie-approved eateries, this guide has got you covered.
| Des Moines | Riverside | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Centro | Mario's Place | Offers an upscale dining experience with a focus on Italian cuisine, very akin to Centro's elegant offerings. |
| Zombie Burger + Drink Lab | Burger Boss | Known for customizable gourmet burgers that match Zombie Burger's unique and creative approach to American classics. |
| Fong's Pizza | The Salted Pig | Though primarily a gastropub, they serve inventive pizzas that echo Fong's Asian-inspired toppings and creativity. |
| Alba | The Mission Inn Restaurant | While Alba presents a modern take on American cuisine, The Mission Inn offers a historic atmosphere with a menu that celebrates classic flavors. |
| Harbinger | Market Broiler | Similar to Harbinger's focus on small plates and local ingredients, Market Broiler emphasizes fresh, sustainable seafood dishes. |
| La Mie Bakery | Simple Simon's | Esteemed for their freshly baked goods and hearty breakfasts, akin to La Mie's beloved offerings. |
| El Bait Shop | Kings Brewing Co. | Both spots are paradise for beer lovers, with Kings offering a range of craft beers and hearty pub fare similar to El Bait Shop. |
| Akebono 515 | Ooka Japanese Restaurant | Delivers a comparable sushi experience, with fresh, hand-rolled sushi and Japanese specialties like Akebono 515. |
| Proof | Cafe Sevilla | Cafe Sevilla offers a similar creative and contemporary approach to its cuisine, with a focus on Spanish flavors similar to Proof’s innovative dishes. |
| Exile Brewing Co. | Wicks Brewing | Both are craft breweries with a strong focus on creating unique, flavorful beers and a vibrant space for community gathering. |
Exploring these Riverside alternatives offers more than just a meal; it's about discovering the local culture and community. For instance, Mario's Place not only matches Centro in culinary finesse but also in crafting an ambience that's perfect for special occasions or a refined night out. On the casual side, the approachable and inventive atmosphere of Burger Boss provides a creative spin on the classic American burger, mirroring the unique and sometimes whimsical options found at Zombie Burger + Drink Lab. It's these kinds of establishments that can turn a city from just a place you live into a place that feels like home.
Ready to start your move?
Des Moines vs. Riverside Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is one of the most important aspects of a move. Knowing how the housing markets compare in Des Moines, IA and Riverside, CA can help you make an informed decision. This comparison will touch upon cost, architecture, and lifestyle characteristics to guide your transition seamlessly.
| Comparison | Des Moines | Riverside |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Prairie, Tudor | Spanish Revival, Ranch |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Spacious backyards, basements | Swimming pools, solar panels |
When comparing Des Moines to Riverside, the most notable difference is the cost of living, particularly in housing costs. Homes in Riverside are more than double the median price of those in Des Moines, and the rent follows suit. This difference reflects the premium for California living. However, Riverside offers unique advantages such as higher urban lifestyle scores, indicative of a vibrant city life with plenty of amenities and activities. The popular mention of swimming pools and solar panels in Riverside real estate listings highlights the sunny, outdoor lifestyle that's very much part of the Californian dream. Conversely, the spacious backyards and basements commonly listed in Des Moines homes cater to a different set of priorities, valuing space and functionality.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Riverside, CA
1. Downtown Riverside: Known for its welcoming environment, Downtown Riverside boasts multiple dog-friendly establishments like Lakeside to Brambles, a specialized pet spa that offers grooming, therapy, and consultation services for your furry friends.
2. Wood Streets: This neighborhood is perfect for those who love to take regular strolls with their pets, thanks to its peaceful streets, beautiful architecture, and Wood Streets Green Team's community garden that includes dog-friendly spaces.
3. Canyon Crest: Canyon Crest stands out with its City of Riverside parks and recreational facilities such as Sycamore Canyon Wilderness Park, known for pet-friendly walking paths and trails where you can enjoy outdoor activities with your pets.
Des Moines vs. Riverside Weather Considerations
When planning a move from one city to another, it's crucial to consider how the weather might change. This comparison aims to showcase the differences in climate you will experience when moving from Des Moines, IA to Riverside, CA. Understanding these differences will help you prepare for your new environment.
Des Moines, IA
Riverside, CA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Des Moines, IA
Riverside, CA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Des Moines, IA
Riverside, CA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Des Moines, IA
Riverside, CA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Des Moines | Riverside |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Moderate | Varies (Moderate to Unhealthy) |
| Natural Disasters | Tornadoes, Floods | Earthquakes, Wildfires |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Transitioning from Des Moines to Riverside presents a significant change in climate, particularly with winter temperatures and natural disasters. In Riverside, you'll enjoy milder winters and more sunny days, but it's also important to be prepared for the different types of natural disasters, such as wildfires and earthquakes, inherent to California. The drastic decrease in annual rainfall and lack of snow in Riverside compared to Des Moines may also impact your daily life, especially if you enjoy seasonal changes. Adapting to Riverside's climate may take time, but understanding these differences can help you better prepare for your new home.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Des Moines to Riverside
Moving from one city to another can significanty impact your finances. Understanding the contrasts in cost of living, taxes, and economic prosperity between Des Moines, IA, and Riverside, CA, is crucial for making an informed decision. This comparison aims to give you a clearer picture of what to expect.
| Comparison | Des Moines | Riverside |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $60,693 | $76,558 |
| Cost of Living Index | 90.9 | 112.5 |
| State Income Tax | 6.5 | 13.3 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 1.5 | 0.8 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 6 | 8.75 |
| Top 3 Industries | Insurance, Finance, Health Services | Manufacturing, Retail, Health Services |
| Affluence | Moderate | Varied |
| Poverty | Lower | Higher |
| Homelessness | Minimal | Significant |
Moving from Des Moines to Riverside, you'll encounter a higher cost of living and sales tax, which are important factors considering the average household income is slightly less in Riverside. However, lower state income tax in Des Moines might not fully compensate for its higher property tax rate compared to Riverside. Factor in California's higher state income tax rate, and the financial picture becomes complex. Notably, both cities boast diverse job markets, but different leading industries, potentially affecting job opportunities in your field. While Des Moines presents a more moderate cost of living and lower poverty rates, Riverside offers a varied affluence level but faces significant challenges with homelessness, which might impact community services and quality of life.
Des Moines vs. Riverside Political & Religious Comparison
When planning your move from Des Moines, IA to Riverside, CA, understanding the local culture and demographic landscape is essential. This quick comparison provides an at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents between Des Moines & Riverside , helping you acclimate more easily to your new home.
| Des Moines | Riverside | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Lean Democratic | Lean Democratic |
| Local Politics | City Council format | Mayor-Council government |
| Religion | Christianity dominant, diverse religious communities | Christianity major, with a significant presence of other faiths |
Both Des Moines and Riverside have political landscapes that lean Democratic, which might make your transition smoother if you're politically active or interested in the local political scene. Des Moines operates under a city council format, fostering close-knit community involvement, while Riverside’s mayor-council government could provide different civic engagement opportunities. On the religious front, you'll find Christianity to be the dominant faith in both cities, but with diverse religious communities present. This diversity includes a variety of churches, mosques, and temples, reflecting the inclusive and multicultural spirit of both locations. This could be particularly comforting or exciting for you if you're looking to join a local community that shares your beliefs or if you're interested in exploring different faiths.
Des Moines vs. Riverside Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Understanding the difference in traffic and transportation options between Des Moines & Riverside can greatly impact your daily commute experience. This comparison aims to provide a concise overview to help you better understand what your daily commute and traffic is like.
| Comparison | Des Moines | Riverside |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 20 | 30 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Challenging | Possible but difficult |
While both Des Moines and Riverside have their unique benefits, their transportation realities differ significantly. Des Moines, with its shorter average commute time and lower traffic congestion, offers a more relaxed commuting experience. However, its public transportation system may not fully meet the needs of those without cars. Riverside, while having a slightly better public transit system, struggles with higher traffic congestion, making the daily commute longer. These factors expose the challenges of relying solely on public transportation in both cities, highlighting the convenience a car offers for navigating around efficiently.
Popular Des Moines, IA to California Moving Routes
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- Des Moines to Anaheim
- Des Moines to Santa Ana
- Des Moines to Stockton
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