Best Raleigh to Santa Ana Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Raleigh to Santa Ana and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,657 mile move from North Carolina to California go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 31 Raleigh to Santa Ana moving companies and more than 20,000 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 - $10,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Raleigh 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 Raleigh 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 | Raleigh Moving Company | 9.42 | 9.6 | Active | Contact |
| 3 | Terry Moving & Storage | 9.36 | 9.2 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 4 | Athens Moving Experts | 9.34 | 9.49 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 5 | Capital Moving & Storage | 9.26 | 9.47 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Raleigh to Santa Ana
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,657 miles from Raleigh, NC to Santa Ana, CA will cost on average $4,041 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Raleigh to Santa Ana move is roughly $9,767. 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 | $2,709 | 300 ft³ | 9.03 |
| 1 Bedroom | $4,041 | 450 ft³ | 8.98 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $6,697 | 750 ft³ | 8.93 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $9,767 | 1100 ft³ | 8.88 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $14,127 | 1600 ft³ | 8.83 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $15,803 | 1800 ft³ | 8.78 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Santa Ana to Raleigh guide.
Compare the 5 Best Raleigh 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) |
Raleigh Moving Company
Raleigh, NC, 27609
About Raleigh Moving Company
Raleigh Moving Company is a locally owned and operated moving company offering residential and commercial services for local and long-distance moves...
Services
- Free estimates
- Full Value Protection (FVP)
- Fully licensed and insured
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3344628 / - Active Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
| Registered Drivers | 2 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | - |
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) |
Athens Moving Experts
This listing has been claimed by Athens Moving Experts6601 Hillsborough St # 111
Raleigh, NC, 27606
About Athens Moving Experts
Since 2015, Athens Moving Experts has helped Raleigh, Chapel Hill, Holly Springs, and communities across North Carolina with their residential and...
Services
- Local Moving Services
- Long Distance Moving Services
- Commercial Moving Services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3205320 / 204920 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 5 |
| Registered Drivers | 5 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 25,000 (2021) |
Capital Moving & Storage
3450 Bush St Suite 245
Raleigh, NC, 27609
About Capital Moving & Storage
Capital Moving & Storage, a family-owned company based in Raleigh, NC, has been providing high-quality moving services for over 20 years....
Services
- Residential & Commercial Moving
- Local & Long Distance Moving
- Packing
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3623752 / 1238777 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 3 |
| Registered Drivers | 4 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 120,504 (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.
Raleigh vs. Santa Ana Neighborhood Comparison
Embarking on a moving journey can be daunting, especially when transitioning between cities. To ease this process, we've crafted a comparison between Raleigh, NC & Santa Ana, CA neighborhoods . This guide aims to help you find a new community in Santa Ana that feels like home, by presenting the closest equivalents to the beloved Raleigh neighborhoods you're familiar with.
| Raleigh | Santa Ana | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| North Hills | Floral Park | Boutique shopping, local dining |
| Cameron Village | West Floral Park | Historic homes, community vibe |
| Five Points | Heninger Park | Diverse, artsy atmosphere |
| Boylan Heights | Washington Square | Historic charm, tight-knit community |
| Mordecai | French Park | Period homes, lush landscapes |
| Hayes Barton | Park Santiago | Elegant homes, quiet streets |
| Warehouse District | Downtown Santa Ana | Urban, vibrant arts scene |
| Glenwood South | Artist Village | Nightlife, cultural events |
| Oberlin Village | Lacy | Diverse, historic, community-oriented |
| Stonehenge | Portola Park | Family-friendly, outdoor activities |
Exploring these neighborhoods further, if you enjoyed the vibrant, artsy vibe of Five Points in Raleigh, you'll find a similar spirit in Heninger Park, Santa Ana, where street art and galleries add color to everyday life. For those who appreciate the historic charm and lush landscapes of Mordecai, French Park offers an equivalent sense of history and greenery. It's not just about the houses; it's about experiencing the community. In Floral Park, you can enjoy a stroll down tree-lined streets and discover unique boutiques and restaurants, echoing the boutique shopping experience North Hills is known for. Whether you're taking your dog for a walk in Park Santiago or grabbing a coffee in West Floral Park, you’ll find that Santa Ana's neighborhoods offer a blend of attractions and amenities that can make your transition from Raleigh feel like you've simply found a new place to call 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 Raleigh to Santa Ana
Moving from one city to another involves weighing the benefits against the drawbacks to make the best decision for you and your family. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Raleigh, NC to Santa Ana, CA, giving you a balanced view of what to expect. Let's take a closer look at the pros and cons of this significant move.
Raleigh, NC- Higher humidity
- Fewer cultural attractions
- Less beach access
Santa Ana, CA- Milder climate
- Greater diversity
- Close to beaches
Santa Ana, CA- Higher cost of living
- Less green spaces
- Different social vibe
Raleigh, NC- Lower cost of living
- Lush greenery
- Friendly communities
When considering a move from Raleigh, NC, to Santa Ana, CA, you're trading the familiarity of Raleigh’s lush, green parks like Pullen Park for the sunny beaches and vibrant cultural scene of Santa Ana, including popular spots such as the Santa Ana Zoo and the diverse dining options along Historic South Main Street. While Raleigh boasts a more laid-back community vibe and a lower cost of living, Santa Ana offers an exciting mix of outdoor activities and cultural richness, including renowned museums like the Bowers Museum. The move will see you embracing a milder climate and greater diversity in Santa Ana, albeit with a higher cost of living and potentially less green space than Raleigh's expansive parklands. However, the proximity to California's iconic beaches and the dynamic social and cultural scene may well compensate for these changes.
Raleigh vs. Santa Ana Food Guide
This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Raleigh & Santa Ana—an essential element when considering a move. Understanding the food scene plays a vital role in grasping the local culture and what daily life might taste like in your new city. Here, we'll delve into the culinary profiles of both, offering insights to help you feel more at home with your choice.
| Raleigh | Santa Ana | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | North Carolina BBQ | Mexican Street Tacos |
| Most popular meat dish | Pulled Pork | Carnitas |
| Most popular street food item | Hot Dogs | Tacos |
| Most popular vegan food | Cauliflower Buffalo Wings | Veggie Tacos |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In Raleigh, the smell of North Carolina BBQ often fills the air, especially around joints like Poole's Diner, which is among the locals' favorites for that authentic pulled pork experience. For those moving to Santa Ana, the vibrant Mexican food scene is a significant draw. The streets are bustling with food trucks serving an array of Mexican street tacos, each with their unique twist on this classic dish. Neighborhoods like Downtown Santa Ana are teeming with culinary delights, especially in places like 4th Street Market, which offers a mix of contemporary and traditional dishes catering to both vegan and meat-eaters alike. Whether you're craving the hearty flavors of Raleigh or the zesty tastes of Santa Ana, each city promises an exciting culinary adventure.
Raleigh vs. Santa Ana Restaurant Comparison
Finding culinary comforts in a new city can truly make it feel like home. This restaurant comparison will help bridge the move from Raleigh, NC, to Santa Ana, CA, guiding you to your next favorite spot for memorable meals. Whether you're craving high-end dining, casual bites, or unique foodie experiences, this comparison aims to map your taste from the familiar to the new.
| Raleigh | Santa Ana | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Bida Manda | Mix Mix Kitchen Bar | Offers a globally inspired menu, similar to Bida Manda's diverse Laotian flavors. |
| Poole's Diner | Playground | Known for its inventive American cuisine, matching Poole's Diner's approach to classics. |
| Beasley's Chicken + Honey | Crispy Fried Chicken | Offers a comfort food experience with a focus on fried chicken, akin to Beasley's. |
| Brewery Bhavana | Chapter One: The Modern Local | Similar vibe as a brewery with an innovative and diverse menu. |
| Crawford and Son | Terrace by Mix Mix | Presents high-end dining with creative dishes, echoing Crawford and Son's culinary artistry. |
| Garland | Anepalco | Offers a fusion of flavors that reminisce Garland's take on modern Pan-Asian cuisine. |
| The Pit | Heritage Barbecue | Californian BBQ that stands up to The Pit's reputation for soul-satisfying smoked meats. |
| Death & Taxes | Vaca | Known for its steaks and cocktails, providing an upscale dining experience similar to Death & Taxes. |
| Angus Barn | The Ranch Restaurant | Offers a premier steakhouse experience, closely mirroring Angus Barn's rustic elegance. |
| Neomonde Mediterranean | Mediterranean Grill | Similar in serving hearty, health-conscious Mediterranean dishes as Neomonde does. |
If you're transitioning from Raleigh's diverse culinary scene to the vibrant dining culture of Santa Ana, you'll discover places that resonate with your palate. For aficionados of modern Pan-Asian fare, Garland's innovative menu finds a counterpart in Anepalco, where fusion flavors are celebrated. BBQ enthusiasts accustomed to The Pit will appreciate Heritage Barbecue's dedication to traditional smoking techniques and bold flavors. Those seeking an upscale dining experience similar to Death & Taxes will find Vaca's steaks and cocktails a welcome haven. By exploring these establishments, you'll not only satisfy your cravings but also start weaving your very own tapestry of memorable dining experiences in your new city.
Ready to start your move?
Raleigh vs. Santa Ana Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate deeply influences the moving experience, making a comparison between Raleigh, NC and Santa Ana, CA vital for understanding housing options . This analysis will help you weigh the cost, architecture, and lifestyle the two cities offer.
| Comparison | Raleigh | Santa Ana |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Colonial, Craftsman | Spanish Colonial, Modern |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Spacious yards, bonus rooms | Energy efficiency, proximity to amenities |
When comparing housing between Raleigh and Santa Ana, several key differences emerge. Raleigh, with its more affordable median home prices and rents, offers traditional Colonial and Craftsman-style homes, often featuring spacious yards and bonus rooms. This contrasts with Santa Ana's higher housing costs and preference for Spanish Colonial and Modern architecture, highlighting energy efficiency and proximity to urban amenities. Despite the higher cost of living, Santa Ana scores better in terms of walkability, bikeability, and urban lifestyle, indicating a more connected and dynamic environment compared to Raleigh's quieter suburban feel.
Raleigh vs. Santa Ana Weather Considerations
Moving from one city to another introduces a myriad of changes, with weather being a significant factor for consideration. Understanding how weather compares between Raleigh, North Carolina and Santa Ana, California is crucial in preparing for your new environment.
Raleigh, NC
Santa Ana, CA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Raleigh, NC
Santa Ana, CA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Raleigh, NC
Santa Ana, CA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Raleigh, NC
Santa Ana, CA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Raleigh | Santa Ana |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Moderate | Good |
| Natural Disasters | Hurricanes, Tornadoes | Earthquakes, Wildfires |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Transitioning from Raleigh to Santa Ana, you'll experience more sunny days and milder winters, perfect for outdoor activities year-round. The significant difference in annual rainfall, with Santa Ana receiving much less, reflects the arid climate of Southern California compared to the more humid conditions back in Raleigh. Moreover, while each city faces its own type of natural disasters, understanding local emergency preparedness in Santa Ana for earthquakes and wildfires will be vital. Similarly, the lower humidity in Santa Ana might be a welcome change, but it's essential to adapt to the unique allergy triggers and invest in air quality improvements for your home.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Raleigh to Santa Ana
When planning a move from one city to another, it’s crucial to grasp how financial factors will differ. This comparison between Raleigh, NC, and Santa Ana, CA, highlights the purpose of understanding your future cost of living and financial landscape before making the leap.
| Comparison | Raleigh | Santa Ana |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $74,612 | $80,265 |
| Cost of Living Index | 98.2 | 136.4 |
| State Income Tax | 5.25 | 9.3 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.86 | 0.72 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 7.25 | 7.75 |
| Top 3 Industries | Technology, Education, Healthcare | Manufacturing, Retail, Education |
| Affluence | Moderate | Higher |
| Poverty | Lower | Moderate |
| Homelessness | Lower | Higher |
Moving from Raleigh, NC, to Santa Ana, CA, involves significantly different financial considerations. The average household income is higher in Santa Ana, which might initially seem positive, but it's vital to understand this increase is met with a substantially higher cost of living, driven by housing, food, and transportation costs. State income tax is nearly double that of North Carolina, chipping away at the perceived income advantage. However, the robust economic environment of Santa Ana, fueled by its leading industries, offers diverse job opportunities. Awareness of these economic disparities ensures you're better prepared for the financial implications of your move.
Raleigh vs. Santa Ana Political & Religious Comparison
This short comparison provides an at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents in Raleigh, NC, and Santa Ana, CA . Whether you're curious about the community vibes, local politics, or predominant faiths, this guide offers insight into what you can expect when moving from Raleigh to Santa Ana.
| Raleigh | Santa Ana | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Lean Democratic | Strongly Democratic |
| Local Politics | Moderate with a growing progressive movement | Progressive, with strong community engagement |
| Religion | Christian majority with a diverse religious landscape | Primarily Christian, significant Catholic presence |
When moving from Raleigh to Santa Ana, you'll find yourself transitioning from a city with a balanced political climate to one with a more pronounced Democratic leaning. Santa Ana's local politics reflect a high level of community engagement in progressive causes, which can be a significant shift from the moderate but slowly evolving political scene in Raleigh. Religion-wise, both cities boast a Christian majority, but you'll notice Santa Ana's distinct Catholic influence, reflective of its Hispanic heritage. This could introduce you to new cultural experiences and communities, from St. Joseph's Catholic Church in Santa Ana to the variety of non-denominational churches in Raleigh.
Raleigh vs. Santa Ana Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Raleigh, NC, to Santa Ana, CA, brings significant changes, especially when it comes to your daily commute and traffic. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Raleigh & Santa Ana is designed to help you better understand what to expect as you navigate through your new city.
| Comparison | Raleigh | Santa Ana |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 25 | 27 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Challenging | Possible, but limited |
In Raleigh, the commute might seem slightly easier with lesser traffic congestion compared to Santa Ana, where you may experience more delays due to higher traffic volumes. However, Santa Ana offers a more robust public transit system, making it somewhat easier to manage without a personal vehicle. However, both cities present their unique challenges and benefits when it comes to getting around. In Raleigh, you'll find that having a car is almost necessary due to the lower availability of public transit options. On the other hand, Santa Ana's infrastructure provides better support for those looking to commute via public transportation, though it's not without its limitations.
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