Best Santa Ana to Madison Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Santa Ana to Madison and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,019 mile move from California to Wisconsin go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 32 Santa Ana to Madison moving companies and more than 15,000 movers nationwide to provide up-to-date and data-driven information about: which moving company to hire (our top recommendation is Pure Moving), how much the move costs (approximately $2,500 - $8,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Santa Ana compared to Madison. With a move this big, you want big data on your side and Great Guys Moving is your trusted ally to help you sift through the noise to make informed moving decisions.

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Best Santa Ana to Madison Moving Companies

RankCompany NameRating QuestionAffordability IndexLicenseContact
1Pure Moving9.649.49Authorized For HHGContact
2Terry Moving & Storage9.369.2Authorized For HHGContact
3Gorilla Movers Of Wisconsin Inc.9.309.31Authorized For Property, HHGContact
4CC Relocation, Inc.9.139.66Authorized For Property, HHGContact
5The Go To Guys, LLC9.078.7Authorized For HHGContact
Phone (800) 787-5428

Cost to Move from Santa Ana to Madison

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,019 miles from Santa Ana, CA to Madison, WI will cost on average $3,498 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Santa Ana to Madison move is roughly $8,441. See the chart below for a detailed breakdown by type of move and home size. Pricing will vary based upon the exact locations of pickup and dropoff as well as several other factors. The most important pricing component that is often overlooked is how far away the move date is. The earlier you can reserve movers, the better your pricing and options will be.

Home SizeMoving CostVolume of Packed Items (ft³)$/ft³
Studio$2,347300 ft³7.82
1 Bedroom$3,498450 ft³7.77
2 Bedrooms$5,793750 ft³7.72
3 Bedrooms$8,4411100 ft³7.67
4 Bedrooms$12,1981600 ft³7.62
5+ Bedrooms$13,6331800 ft³7.57
*Please note: These California to Wisconsin moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from California & Wisconsin. The volume listed here represents the estimated cubic footage of your household items when packed and loaded into a moving truck. To determine the exact costs associated with your move, get a quote from a licensed CA to WI mover.
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Madison to Santa Ana guide.

Compare the 5 Best Santa Ana to Madison Movers

These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)

Pure Moving Logo

Pure Moving

Exceptional9.64/10
based on 8,688+ data points

1450 2nd St ste 225

Santa Monica, CA, 90401

About Pure Moving

Pure Moving has six locations across California, including an office in Los Angeles. This locally operated business moves over 10,000 clients...

Services

  • Residential moving
  • Commercial moving
  • Long-distance moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3207734 / 1115049

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers1
Total Annual Miles Moved100,000 (2022)
View Full Review
1
Terry Moving & Storage Logo

Terry Moving & Storage

Exceptional9.36/10
based on 2,308+ data points

25958 Commercentre Dr

Lake Forest, CA, 92630

About Terry Moving & Storage

Terry Moving & Storage offers full-service moves locally and throughout the 11 Western States. This Lake Forest-based business has helped thousands...

Services

  • Local Move
  • Interstate Move
  • Packing Services

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

649215 / 306297

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans11
Registered Drivers11
Total Annual Miles Moved315,000 (2022)
View Full Review
2
Gorilla Movers Of Wisconsin Inc. Logo

Gorilla Movers Of Wisconsin Inc.

Exceptional9.30/10
based on 2,029+ data points

310 Progress Way Suite 140

Sun Prairie, WI, 53590

About Gorilla Movers Of Wisconsin Inc.

As a locally owned and operated moving company, Gorilla Movers has over 20 years of experience performing high-quality residential and commercial...

Services

  • Residential moves
  • Commercial moves
  • Local/statewide moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/9/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2627768 / 1031866

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans7
Registered Drivers14
Total Annual Miles Moved173,000 (2023)
View Full Review
3
CC Relocation, Inc. Logo

CC Relocation, Inc.

Exceptional9.13/10
based on 1,413+ data points

12471 Barrett Ln

Santa Ana, CA, 92705

About CC Relocation, Inc.

Website Information: CC Relocation, Inc., situated in California, has been providing efficient and reliable moving services for over 30 years. This...

Services

  • Local moving
  • Long-distance moving
  • Cross-country moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/9/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3020624 / 34161

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans3
Registered Drivers6
Total Annual Miles Moved70,000 (2023)
View Full Review
4
The Go To Guys, LLC Logo

The Go To Guys, LLC

Exceptional9.07/10
based on 275+ data points

Bayside, WI, 53217

About The Go To Guys, LLC

The Go To Guys, LLC is a seasoned moving company with 30 years of experience in the industry. Based in the...

Services

  • Cheap moving
  • Local moving
  • Long-distance moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/11/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3760134 / 1338262

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans3
Registered Drivers3
Total Annual Miles Moved1 (2024)
View Full Review
5
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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.

Santa Ana vs. Madison Neighborhood Comparison

If you're planning a move from Santa Ana, CA to Madison, WI, understanding local neighborhoods can ease the transition. This guide will compare the top neighborhoods in Santa Ana with those in Madison to find the most similar areas. You'll become familiar with an unknown city by using comparisons of local neighborhoods between Santa Ana, CA & Madison, WI as your baseline.

Santa AnaMadisonHow They're Similar
Downtown Santa AnaState Streetvibrant arts scene & eclectic shops
Floral ParkMaple Bluffhistoric homes & tight-knit community
West Floral ParkNakoma Leaguehistoric architecture & family-friendly
Wilshire SquareSchenk-Atwoodquirky local businesses & artsy vibe
Morrison ParkHill Farmsspacious parks & community spirit
French ParkTenney-Laphamlively community feel & local events
Heninger ParkMarquetteeclectic mix of dining & activities
Flower ParkBay Creekaccess to water & relaxed vibe
South CoastMonroe Streettrendy dining & shopping options
Artesia PilarGreenbushvibrant community & multicultural influence

Downtown Santa Ana and State Street share a vibrant arts scene, including numerous galleries, theaters, and local boutiques, making both neighborhoods cultural hubs within their cities. Floral Park and Maple Bluff both offer historic homes and a strong sense of community, ideal for those who appreciate quiet yet engaging neighborhoods. For those drawn to eclectic and artsy vibes, Wilshire Square and Schenk-Atwood boast a quirky mix of local businesses, bars, and restaurants. Finally, Morrison Park and Hill Farms are perfect for families looking for spacious parks, such as Carl Thornton Park and Rennebohm Park, where community events and outdoor activities are a regular occurrence, fostering a tight-knit community spirit.

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Things to Do in Madison

  • Explore Olbrich Botanical Gardens.
  • Discover history at Wisconsin State Capitol.
  • Enjoy a concert at Overture Center for the Arts.
  • Kayak on Lake Mendota.
  • Sample cheese at Fromagination.
  • Bike the Capital City Trail.
  • Attend a Madison Mallards game.

Ready to start your move?

Pros and Cons of Moving from Santa Ana to Madison

Moving from one city to another brings with it a mix of emotions and practical considerations. This comparison is designed to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Santa Ana, CA to Madison, WI . By understanding these key differences, you can make a well-informed decision about your move.

CONs
PROs
Santa Ana, CA iconSanta Ana, CA
  • Higher cost of living
  • Less seasonal variety
  • Heavy traffic
  • Urban sprawl
Madison, WI iconMadison, WI
  • More affordable living
  • Distinct seasons
  • Less congestion
  • More green spaces
Madison, WI iconMadison, WI
  • Colder winters
  • Smaller diversity
  • No beach access
  • Quieter nightlife
Santa Ana, CA iconSanta Ana, CA
  • Milder winters
  • Diverse cultures
  • Beach access
  • Vibrant nightlife

When comparing Santa Ana, CA to Madison, WI, there are significant lifestyle changes to anticipate. Santa Ana boasts milder winters, which Madison's colder climate can't match. On the flip side, Madison offers a respite from the hustle with less congestion and more green spaces such as the Madison Parks. While Santa Ana offers a vibrant nightlife with spots like 4th Street Market, Madison, albeit quieter, prides itself on community-centric activities and events that foster stronger local connections, such as those found at the Olbrich Botanical Gardens. Another point of interest in Madison is the Wisconsin Historical Museum, showcasing the state's rich history. The shift from Santa Ana might mean giving up beach days for lakeside picnics at places like Lake Mendota, highlighting how each city offers its unique charm and lifestyle benefits.

Santa Ana vs. Madison Food Guide

Moving to a new city entails a dive into a new food scene, an exciting aspect of local culture and daily life. In this guide, we will compare the local cuisine between Santa Ana & Madison, giving you a taste of what your future meals might look like and aiding in your culinary transition.

Santa AnaMadison
Most iconic local food itemTacosCheese Curds
Most popular meat dishCarne AsadaBratwurst
Most popular street food itemEloteFried Cheese Curds
Most popular vegan foodAvocado ToastTempeh Reuben
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Burritos La Palma
  • The Playground
  • Baja Fish Tacos
  • Graze
  • L'Etoile
  • The Old Fashioned
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

When settling into Madison, you'll want to explore the Capitol Square and State Street areas where the city's culinary heart beats strongest. Tasting the famed cheese curds, a staple in Wisconsin's diet, is a must, either at a local eatery like The Old Fashioned or during one of the city's many food festivals. Madison's health-conscious and vegan-friendly atmosphere is showcased through its variety of restaurants like Graze, which serves up innovative plant-based dishes alongside classic Wisconsin fare. Bratwursts, a favorite local meat dish, can be enjoyed at tailgates or neighborhood barbecues, embodying the city's community spirit and love for good, hearty food.

Santa Ana vs. Madison Restaurant Comparison

For many, finding comfort in a new city starts with discovering great places to eat. This comparison aims to ease the transition from Santa Ana, CA to Madison, WI for food enthusiasts by identifying similar culinary gems in each location. Let's explore how the flavors of Santa Ana can be found in the heart of Madison, ensuring you don't miss out on the dining experiences you’ve grown to love.

Santa AnaMadisonWhat You'll Love
Taqueria ZamoraBelAir CantinaLively atmosphere with a modern twist on traditional Mexican fare
Burritos La PalmaMonty's Blue Plate DinerKnown for their unique takes on classic dishes, including Mexican-inspired ones
PlaygroundL'EtoileUpscale dining, focusing on farm-to-table delights similar to Playground's focus on quality and innovation
Hopper & BurrBradbury's CoffeeSpecialty coffees and snug vibes reminiscent of Hopper & Burr's artisanal approach
Chapter One: the modern localThe Old FashionedOffers a twist on classic American fare, embracing local traditions much like Chapter One
The Blind RabbitGenna's LoungeCozy speakeasy vibes with inventive cocktails stirring up a similar essence to The Blind Rabbit
CraveLazy Jane’s Cafe & BakeryCasual spot with a diverse menu sure to satisfy cravings with unique, flavorful options
4th Street MarketMadison Public Market (Upcoming)Although not open yet, expected to offer a variety of food options parallel to 4th Street Market's dynamic food scene
Taqueria De AndaTaqueria GuadalajaraAuthentic Mexican cuisine that rivals the straightforward, traditional offerings of Taqueria De Anda
El Mercado Modern CuisineA Pig In A Fur CoatModern, adventurous dishes that echo El Mercado's innovative approach to Mexican cuisine

Discovering culinary favorites in a new city can be a smooth and exciting adventure. For lovers of authentic Mexican cuisine, the transition from Taqueria Zamora’s traditional offerings to BelAir Cantina’s modern Mexican fare in Madison is seamless. A highlight might be BelAir Cantina’s fusion dishes that playfully nod to the classic flavors you cherished at Taqueria Zamora. Similarly, coffee aficionados missing Hopper & Burr’s nuanced brews will find solace in Bradbury’s Coffee, where the intimate setting and expertly crafted beverages mirror the careful consideration of coffee culture in Santa Ana. Exploring these parallels not only satisfies your taste buds but also fosters a sense of belonging in your new city.

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Santa Ana vs. Madison Real Estate & Living Facts

Real estate is a crucial factor when considering a move. Understanding how Santa Ana, CA and Madison, WI compare in terms of housing can guide you in making an informed decision. This comparison will focus on cost, architectural styles, walkability, and more.

ComparisonSanta AnaMadison
Typical Architecture StyleSpanish ColonialPrairie/Craftsman
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingProximity to beaches, Open floor plansLake access, Energy-efficient features

When comparing housing in Santa Ana and Madison, it's clear that each city offers a unique living experience. For instance, the higher median home price in Santa Ana reflects the city's proximity to California beaches and its desirable climate. Homes often feature open floor plans and Spanish Colonial architecture, highlighting the local culture and history. On the other hand, Madison's more affordable housing, coupled with its high walkability and bikeability scores, represents an active and eco-friendly lifestyle. The city is known for its Craftsman-style homes, with many listings emphasizing energy-efficient features and lake access. This contrast underscores the diverse options available to those contemplating a move between these two locations.

Pet-friendly neighborhoods background image

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Madison, WI

1. Williamson-Marquette: This neighborhood is known for its community vibe and welcoming atmosphere, where you'll often see pets and their owners enjoying the many local parks and pet-friendly cafes.

2. Nakoma League: With its close proximity to the UW Arboretum, your pets will love the extensive trails and natural areas ideal for long walks and exploration.

3. Shorewood Hills: This area boasts ample green spaces and a pet-friendly attitude, with easy access to the Shorewood Hills Pool for summer dog swims and several off-leash parks nearby.

Santa Ana vs. Madison Weather Considerations

Moving from one city to another means adjusting to new weather patterns. Understanding how the climate in Santa Ana, CA compares to Madison, WI is crucial for a smooth transition. The below comparison chart highlights key weather differences to prepare you for what lies ahead.

Summer icon
83°F / 64°F

Santa Ana, CA

82°F / 62°F

Madison, WI

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
70°F / 48°F

Santa Ana, CA

29°F / 13°F

Madison, WI

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
13

Santa Ana, CA

36

Madison, WI

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
0

Santa Ana, CA

56

Madison, WI

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonSanta AnaMadison
Air QualityModerateGood
Natural DisastersWildfires, EarthquakesSnowstorms, Tornadoes
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

While Santa Ana enjoys a warmer climate year-round with abundant sunshine, Madison experiences a true four-season climate with cold winters and moderate summers. The stark contrast in annual snowfall—none in Santa Ana compared to an average of 56 inches in Madison—means you'll need to prepare for snow removal and winter driving. Additionally, the increase in humidity and different allergens in Madison might affect those sensitive to such environmental changes. Understanding the differences in air quality and prevalence of natural disasters could also impact your lifestyle adjustments and preparedness strategies in your new home.

Ready to start your move?

Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Santa Ana to Madison

When considering a move from one city to another, it's crucial to compare financial aspects to gauge how life will change. This comparison helps you understand what to expect in terms of living expenses, taxes, and income levels. The chart below contrasts the financial landscape of Santa Ana, CA with Madison, WI, offering insight into each city's economic environment.

ComparisonSanta AnaMadison
Avg. Household Income$80,265$67,270
Cost of Living Index136.495.65
State Income Tax9.37.65
Avg. Property Tax0.721.94
Avg. Sales Tax7.755.5
Top 3 IndustriesHealthcare, Retail, ManufacturingEducation, Healthcare, Information Technology
Affluencemoderatehigh
Povertysignificantlower
Homelessnessnotableless prevalent

The comparison reveals significant differences, especially in the cost of living and taxes between Santa Ana, CA, and Madison, WI. Santa Ana's higher cost of living index and state income tax are noticeable, possibly due to California's overall high living costs. However, Madison's higher property tax might impact your housing budget more than expected. The distinct top industries suggest a potential shift in job opportunities or economic focus when moving from one city to the other. Additionally, perceptions of affluence, poverty, and homelessness provide a glimpse into the social fabric of each city, indicating Madison might offer a slightly higher quality of life. These considerations should guide your financial planning as you embark on this new journey.

Santa Ana vs. Madison Political & Religious Comparison

This guide offers a brief exploration aimed to provide a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents between Santa Ana & Madison. Understanding these aspects can significantly impact how you'll blend into your new environment.

Santa AnaMadison
Political Make-upLean DemocraticStrongly Democratic
Local PoliticsCity GovernanceCity Governance
ReligionChristianity PredominantDiverse, with a non-religious majority

While both Santa Ana and Madison lean Democratic, Madison exhibits a stronger inclination towards Democratic principles in its political sphere. The governance and local political engagement in both cities have their unique platforms, with Santa Ana featuring a significant emphasis on family-oriented policies and community-building strategies, while Madison's government promotes sustainability, inclusivity, and progressive change. The religious landscape in Santa Ana is predominantly Christian, emphasizing the city’s cultural and social events. In contrast, Madison offers a more diverse religious presence, with a substantial portion of its population identifying as non-religious, reflecting its broad acceptance and celebration of various cultures and beliefs.

Santa Ana vs. Madison Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

In weighing the daily commute and traffic scenarios of Santa Ana, CA, against Madison, WI, this guide aims to fully prepare you for the transportation differences you'll encounter. By understanding the distinct characteristics of Santa Ana & Madison , you can better anticipate what your daily travel will look like in these cities.

ComparisonSanta AnaMadison
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)2519
Traffic Congestion 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦
Availability of Public Transit 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇
Can you get by without a car?Possibly, with some difficultyYes, easier than in Santa Ana

When moving from Santa Ana to Madison, you'll notice several key changes in your commute experience. For one, the average commute time in Madison is notably shorter, giving you more time for morning routines or evening relaxation. Despite Santa Ana having a robust network of roads, its traffic congestion is significantly higher compared to Madison's more navigable streets. Madison's higher public transit score indicates a dependable system which includes buses and bike-sharing programs, making car-free living not only possible but relatively convenient. It's clear that Madison offers a more commuter-friendly environment, likely due to its compact city layout and ongoing efforts to improve public transportation.

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