Best Des Moines to Santa Ana Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Des Moines to Santa Ana and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 1,745 mile move from Iowa to California go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 20 Des Moines to Santa Ana 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 $2,000 - $8,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Des Moines compared to Santa Ana. 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.
Best Des Moines to Santa Ana Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Pure Moving | 9.64 | 9.49 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 2 | Adamantine Spine Moving | 9.53 | 9.4 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| 3 | Terry Moving & Storage | 9.36 | 9.2 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 4 | Best Move Inc | 9.23 | 9.19 | Authorized For Property | Contact |
| 5 | Hemmen Moving | 9.10 | 9.47 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Des Moines to Santa Ana
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 1,745 miles from Des Moines, IA to Santa Ana, CA will cost on average $3,265 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Des Moines to Santa Ana move is roughly $7,871. 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 Size | Moving Cost | Volume of Packed Items (ft³) | $/ft³ |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio | $2,192 | 300 ft³ | 7.31 |
| 1 Bedroom | $3,265 | 450 ft³ | 7.26 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $5,404 | 750 ft³ | 7.21 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $7,871 | 1100 ft³ | 7.16 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $11,369 | 1600 ft³ | 7.11 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $12,701 | 1800 ft³ | 7.06 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Santa Ana to Des Moines guide.
Compare the 5 Best Des Moines to Santa Ana Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
Pure Moving
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
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3207734 / 1115049 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
| Registered Drivers | 1 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 100,000 (2022) |
Adamantine Spine Moving
2815 36th St
Des Moines, IA, 50310
About Adamantine Spine Moving
With multiple locations in Iowa, Adamantine Spine Moving has excellent coverage of the entire state with its reliable and convenient moving...
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Apartment/Condo Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1471037 / 556716 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 37 |
| Registered Drivers | 40 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 393,823 (2022) |
Terry Moving & Storage
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
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 649215 / 306297 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 11 |
| Registered Drivers | 11 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 315,000 (2022) |
Best Move Inc
Burlington, IA, 52601
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...
Services
- Material Packing
- Local Moving
- Long-Distance Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 749231 / 376435 Authorized For Property Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 2 |
| Registered Drivers | 2 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 20,976 (2022) |
Hemmen Moving
1293 W Ave
Ames, IA, 50014
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...
Services
- Local moving
- Long distance moving
- Small moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 608245 / 292343 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 6 |
| Registered Drivers | 6 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 604,536 (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. Santa Ana Neighborhood Comparison
Moving to a new city can be daunting, especially when you're not familiar with its neighborhoods. To make your transition from Des Moines, IA, to Santa Ana, CA, a little smoother, we offer a comparison of local neighborhoods between these two cities. By matching up communities that share similar vibes and characteristics, we hope to help you find a new home that feels familiar.
| Des Moines | Santa Ana | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| East Village | Artists Village | Vibrant arts scene, trendy |
| Beaverdale | Floral Park | Historic homes, family-friendly |
| Waterbury | West Floral Park | Quiet, upscale with heritage houses |
| Sherman Hill | French Park | Historic architecture, community-focused |
| Drake | Madison Park | Near university, eclectic mix |
| Waveland Park | Park Santiago | Leafy, with local parks and cafes |
| Highland Park | Heninger Park | Diverse, with rich history |
| Ingersoll Park | Flower Park | Lively, with shops and restaurants |
| Gray's Lake | Santiago Park | Natural beauty, community trails |
| South of Grand | Washington Square | Residential, with a historic touch |
If you're moving from the culturally rich East Village in Des Moines, you'll find Artists Village in Santa Ana an exciting new home, bustling with an arts scene and trendy spots like the Grand Central Art Center. For those who cherish the historic and family-friendly atmosphere of Beaverdale, Floral Park will feel just as welcoming, where you can stroll through streets lined with beautifully preserved homes. Waveland Park residents moving to Santa Ana will appreciate Park Santiago for its community feel, green spaces, and local cafes such as Mother's Market, perfect for weekend brunches. It's these small details that will make your new neighborhood feel like home.
Things to Do in Santa Ana
Explore the Santa Ana Public Library- Visit Discovery Cube Orange County
- Stroll through Santiago Park Nature
- Enjoy art at Bowers Museum
- Shop at 4th Street Market
- See a show at The Yost Theater
- Join a class at Downtown Santa Ana
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Des Moines to Santa Ana
Making a move from one city to another is a significant decision. This guide aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Des Moines, IA to Santa Ana, CA . By presenting a balanced view through comparative charts, we hope to assist you in making an informed choice about your potential new home.
Des Moines, IA- Colder winters
- Less cultural diversity
- Smaller job market
- Less nightlife
- Lower cost of living
Santa Ana, CA- Milder winters
- High cultural diversity
- Larger job market
- Vibrant nightlife
- Higher cost of living
Santa Ana, CA- Noisier environments
- Heavier traffic
- Expensive housing
- Fewer local markets
- More anonymous living
Des Moines, IA- Quiet communities
- Low traffic
- Affordable housing
- Local farmer's markets
- Close-knit communities
When considering the move from Des Moines to Santa Ana, you'll find both cities offer unique benefits. Des Moines boasts a quiet, affordable lifestyle perfect for those valuing community and simplicity. Local gems like the Downtown Farmers' Market offer fresh, locally sourced products. On the other hand, Santa Ana beckons with its cultural diversity and vibrant lifestyle. The city is known for its dynamic arts district, home to places like the Bowers Museum and numerous galleries and theaters. Dining in Santa Ana is an adventure in itself, with local favorites such as 4th Street Market providing a taste of the diverse culinary scene. Despite the higher cost of living, the benefits of moving to an area with a larger job market, milder winters, and endless entertainment and dining options are undeniable.
Des Moines vs. Santa Ana Food Guide
Food is a central part of local culture and the daily experience of living in a new area. Understanding what culinary delights await can help you acclimate and savor the local scene. With this in mind, we'll embark on a flavorful journey as we compare the local cuisine between Des Moines & Santa Ana to better inform you about the gastronomic landscape of your new home.
| Des Moines | Santa Ana | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Pork Tenderloin Sandwich | Tacos Árabes |
| Most popular meat dish | Iowa Chop (Pork) | Carnitas |
| Most popular street food item | Corn Dogs | Street Tacos |
| Most popular vegan food | Vegan Chili | Jackfruit Tacos |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In Santa Ana, the local cuisine reflects the city's rich cultural tapestry, notably through its diverse and vibrant food scene. Street food, especially tacos, plays a significant role in daily eating habits, showcasing traditional Mexican flavors with innovative twists. Notable neighborhoods like the downtown area and the 4th Street Market offer an eclectic dining experience, from the farm-to-table sophistication of Taco María to the playful and experimental dishes of Playground. The city's health-conscious vibe is evident in its variety of vegan offerings, with jackfruit tacos standing out as a popular choice among locals. Santa Ana's commitment to fresh, diverse, and accessible food makes it an exciting culinary destination.
Des Moines vs. Santa Ana Restaurant Comparison
Discovering local eateries is key to making a new city feel like home. This restaurant comparison serves as your guide to finding your next favorite spot, seamlessly transitioning from Des Moines to Santa Ana by connecting you with similar culinary experiences.
| Des Moines | Santa Ana | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| A-1 Thai | Bamboo and Birds | Both offer authentic Thai cuisine with a focus on fresh ingredients. |
| Zombie Burger + Drink Lab | The Playground | Gourmet burgers and inventive dishes in a hip, casual environment. |
| Fong's Pizza | Tony's Original Deli and Bottle Shop | Unique pizzas and a similarly eclectic vibe. |
| Centro | Roma D'Italia | Both are loved for their Italian dishes, embracing the authentic flavors of Italy. |
| Alba | Anepalco | Both restaurants offer a dining experience with a focus on innovative, upscale dishes. |
| Bubba | Crawford's Corner Pub | Both provide an inviting atmosphere and comfort food favorites. |
| Harbinger | Vaca | These spots are celebrated for their creative plates and use of fresh, local produce. |
| Luigi's Pasta & Pizza | North Italia | For the authentic pasta and pizza experience that feels like home. |
| Proof | Playground 2.0 | Both are known for their innovative menus and a fine dining experience. |
| Smash Park | 4th Street Market | Offers a fun environment with a variety of food options similar to Smash Park's energy. |
In comparing Zombie Burger + Drink Lab in Des Moines with The Playground in Santa Ana, you'll find that both establishments boast a creative take on the classic American burger, offering a playful dining experience in an urban setting. Similarly, Fong’s Pizza, known for its unique fusion pizzas, finds a west coast counterpart in Tony's Original Deli and Bottle Shop which is also renowned for its quirky and inventive dishes. Both restaurants not only satisfy the palate but also intrigue with their inventive culinary concepts, ensuring that your move from Des Moines to Santa Ana will be filled with exciting and familiar flavors.
Ready to start your move?
Des Moines vs. Santa Ana Real Estate & Living Facts
When planning your move, comparing real estate between Des Moines, IA, and Santa Ana, CA highlights essential living conditions. This comparison delves into aspects such as cost and lifestyle to provide a comprehensive view.
| Comparison | Des Moines | Santa Ana |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Ranch & Craftsman | Spanish & Modern |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Spacious backyards | Proximity to beaches |
Exploring the detailed aspects of housing in Des Moines and Santa Ana reveals distinct differences in living experiences. Des Moines offers a more affordable housing market with a preference for spacious backyards, indicative of a city where personal space and a connection to nature are valued. In contrast, Santa Ana boasts a higher urban lifestyle score, primarily due to its proximity to California's renowned beaches and a vibrant cultural scene. These factors make Santa Ana an exciting option for those seeking a busy city life within reach of natural leisure activities. The architecture in Santa Ana reflects its rich history and modern growth, offering picturesque Spanish-style homes and contemporary designs that cater to a diverse population.
Des Moines vs. Santa Ana Weather Considerations
When considering a move from Des Moines, IA to Santa Ana, CA, it's essential to understand how the weather will shift. This comparison aims to highlight the differences in climate you'll experience, helping you prepare for Des Moines' seasonal extremes versus Santa Ana's more stable, mild conditions .
Des Moines, IA
Santa Ana, CA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Des Moines, IA
Santa Ana, CA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Des Moines, IA
Santa Ana, CA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Des Moines, IA
Santa Ana, CA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Des Moines | Santa Ana |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Moderate | Good to Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Tornadoes, Floods | Earthquakes, Wildfires |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
In moving from Des Moines to Santa Ana, one of the most appreciable differences will be in winter weather and sunshine. Des Moines experiences cold winters with substantial snowfall, while Santa Ana enjoys mild winters and much more sunshine throughout the year. This significant increase in sunny days can be a major plus for those averse to the cold and snow. Furthermore, while Des Moines faces tornadoes and floods as its primary natural hazards, Santa Ana's are earthquakes and wildfires, marking a shift in preparedness. Understanding these variations can help you adjust better to your new environment.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Des Moines to Santa Ana
Moving from one location to another involves many considerations, but understanding how the cost of living and financial aspects compare is crucial. This guide provides a clear overview of the financial differences you might experience when moving from Des Moines, IA, to Santa Ana, CA, including income, taxes, and housing costs.
| Comparison | Des Moines | Santa Ana |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $60,693 | $80,265 |
| Cost of Living Index | 90.9 | 136.4 |
| State Income Tax | 0.33 to 8.53 | 1 to 13.3 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 1.5 | 0.72 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 7 | 7.75 |
| Top 3 Industries | Insurance, Financial Services, Manufacturing | Technology, Retail, Manufacturing |
| Affluence | Moderate | High |
| Poverty | Low | Moderate |
| Homelessness | Moderate | High |
When you move from Des Moines to Santa Ana, you'll notice a significant shift in the cost of living, primarily due to housing and daily expenses. Although the average household income in Santa Ana appears slightly lower than in Des Moines, the difference in state income tax rates and the cost of living index suggests your money may not go as far in Santa Ana. That being said, the burgeoning technology and retail sectors in Santa Ana could offer exciting new job opportunities that may not be found in Des Moines. Be prepared for a change in financial dynamics, especially in terms of affordability and lifestyle.
Des Moines vs. Santa Ana Political & Religious Comparison
When planning a move from Des Moines, IA, to Santa Ana, CA, understanding the local culture is just as crucial as knowing the logistical details. This comparison of the politics between Des Moines & Santa Ana offers a quick glance at the political and religious makeup of their populations, providing essential insights into the communities you'll be transitioning between.
| Des Moines | Santa Ana | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Lean Democratic | Strongly Democratic |
| Local Politics | Centrist with a mix of progressive and conservative policies | Progressive, with significant emphasis on immigrant rights and environmental issues |
| Religion | Mix of Protestant and Catholic with growing non-affiliated population | Predominantly Catholic, sizable evangelical Protestant, with an increasing presence of non-affiliated individuals |
In Des Moines, while the city leans Democratic, you'll find a blend of centrist politics, with both progressive and conservative policies at play. This creates a diverse political environment. In comparison, Santa Ana's political scene is predominantly progressive, reflecting its strong Democratic base and a considerable focus on issues such as immigrant rights and environmentalism. Regarding religion, while both cities have diverse religious communities, Des Moines has a more mixed Protestant and Catholic population. In contrast, Santa Ana has a more substantial Catholic presence, reflective of its demographic composition, but like Des Moines, it is also seeing growth in non-affiliated individuals. These differences highlight the unique social fabrics of each city, offering a glimpse into the community life you might expect.
Des Moines vs. Santa Ana Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Des Moines, IA, to Santa Ana, CA, means adapting to a new environment, especially when it comes to your daily commute and traffic patterns. This comparison between Des Moines & Santa Ana will help you better understand what to expect during your daily travels in these cities.
| Comparison | Des Moines | Santa Ana |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 19 | 27 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Possible, but challenging | More feasible, especially with access to OCTA services |
While Des Moines and Santa Ana both offer unique challenges and advantages for commuters, some differences stand out. In Des Moines, with an average commute time of 19 minutes, you're likely to experience significantly less congestion than the bustling streets of Santa Ana, where average commutes soar to around 27 minutes. Santa Ana's higher traffic congestion score reflects its dense urban environment, a stark contrast to the more relaxed pace of Des Moines. However, Santa Ana shines with its slightly better public transit system, thanks to the Orange County Transportation Authority (OCTA), making it more feasible to live without a car compared to Des Moines, where public transit is present but not as robust. Adapting to these changes will be crucial in making your move as smooth as possible.
Additional Resources
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