Best Charleston to Santa Ana Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Charleston to Santa Ana and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,600 mile move from South Carolina to California go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 20 Charleston 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 $2,500 - $9,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Charleston 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 Charleston 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 | Terry Moving & Storage | 9.36 | 9.2 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 3 | Smooth Move Charleston | 9.21 | 9.46 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 4 | Ready Set Movers | 9.16 | 9.22 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 5 | Armstrong Relocation | 8.15 | 7.27 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Charleston to Santa Ana
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,600 miles from Charleston, SC to Santa Ana, CA will cost on average $3,992 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Charleston to Santa Ana move is roughly $9,649. 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 | $2,676 | 300 ft³ | 8.92 |
| 1 Bedroom | $3,992 | 450 ft³ | 8.87 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $6,616 | 750 ft³ | 8.82 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $9,649 | 1100 ft³ | 8.77 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $13,955 | 1600 ft³ | 8.72 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $15,609 | 1800 ft³ | 8.67 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Santa Ana to Charleston guide.
Compare the 5 Best Charleston 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) |
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) |
Smooth Move Charleston
4767 Rivers Ave
North Charleston, SC, 29405
About Smooth Move Charleston
With locations in Rock Hill and Charleston, South Carolina, Smooth Move is a locally owned and operated moving company that is...
Services
- Full Service Packing and Unpacking
- Short or Long Distance Moves
- Residential or Commercial Moves
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2357653 / 834668 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 10 |
| Registered Drivers | 12 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 60,000 (2022) |
Ready Set Movers
454 Deanna Ln
Charleston, SC, 29492
About Ready Set Movers
As a locally owned and operated moving company, Ready Set Movers provides relocation services for both local and long-distance moves. Since...
Services
- Local and interstate moves
- Full-service moving
- Accurate and detailed estimates
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2150739 / 756179 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 2 |
| Registered Drivers | 4 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 10,000 (2022) |
Armstrong Relocation
7167 Cross County Rd
North Charleston, SC, 29418
About Armstrong Relocation
Established in 1957, Armstrong Relocation has long been a stalwart of the moving industry. Although based in Memphis, Tennessee, the company...
Services
- Local Moving
- Long-Distance Moving
- Employee Relocation
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3528195 / 1173611 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 2 |
| Registered Drivers | 1 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 20,000 (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.
Charleston vs. Santa Ana Neighborhood Comparison
To help you acquaint yourself with Santa Ana, CA using your experiences from Charleston, SC, we've crafted a comparison of local neighborhoods between Charleston, SC & Santa Ana, CA . This will give you a familiar baseline as you explore your new city.
| Charleston | Santa Ana | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Downtown | Downtown Santa Ana | Urban vibe, historic attractions |
| Mount Pleasant | Floral Park | Family-friendly, suburban feel |
| North Charleston | South Coast | Diverse community, budget-friendly |
| Wagener Terrace | French Park | Eclectic, charming homes |
| West Ashley | Washington Square | Residential, peaceful atmosphere |
| James Island | Park Santiago | Green spaces, laid-back lifestyle |
| Sullivan's Island | Sandpointe | Beach proximity, relaxed vibes |
| Isle of Palms | Bristol Manor | Coastal living, upscale homes |
| Folly Beach | West Floral Park | Artsy, vibrant community |
| Riverland Terrace | Wilshire Square | Tree-lined streets, friendly community |
For those who enjoy the youthful and energetic vibe of Charleston's Downtown, you'll feel right at home in Downtown Santa Ana, which is rich with historic and cultural landmarks providing plenty of opportunities to explore. Floral Park, similar to Mount Pleasant in Charleston, offers a suburban setting ideal for families with its quiet streets and friendly atmosphere. If green spaces are a top priority, consider Park Santiago in Santa Ana, as it offers extensive parks and trails reminiscent of the natural beauty found in James Island. Indulge at local favorites like the 4th Street Market for culinary treats, or take a leisurely stroll through Bristol Manor to experience coastal allure and upscale living just like Isle of Palms.
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 Charleston to Santa Ana
When considering relocating from Charleston, SC to Santa Ana, CA, it's crucial to weigh the pros and cons . By reflecting on the unique attributes that each city offers, potential movers can better understand the appeal of Santa Ana compared to living in Charleston and vice versa.
Charleston, SC- high humidity
- frequent hurricanes
- limited public transport
- higher summer heat
Santa Ana, CA- more mild climate
- fewer natural disasters
- better public transit
- cooler summers
Santa Ana, CA- more urbanized
- less cultural diversity
- beach proximity varies
- faster-paced lifestyle
Charleston, SC- historic charm
- strong cultural scene
- beaches nearby
- southern hospitality
Both Charleston and Santa Ana have definitive charms and potential drawbacks. Charleston's historic charm and cozy neighborhood feel are exemplified by the cobblestone streets of Waterfront Park and its acclaimed restaurant scene. Meanwhile, Santa Ana offers a more urbanized experience with improved public transit and the nearby vibrancy of the Downtown Santa Ana arts district. The reduced risk of hurricanes in Santa Ana is noticeable, providing peace of mind compared to Charleston's weather patterns. However, the faster pace in Santa Ana might be a hurdle if you're used to the slower vibe of southern hospitality. As you consider this move, think about whether elements like proximity to milestones such as Bowers Museum and improved climate conditions outweigh Charleston's historical and cultural offerings.
Charleston vs. Santa Ana Food Guide
Food is an essential aspect of local culture and reflects what living in a particular area is like. This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Charleston & Santa Ana to help you become better informed about the food scene in your new home.
| Charleston | Santa Ana | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Shrimp and Grits | Fish Tacos |
| Most popular meat dish | Fried Chicken | Carne Asada |
| Most popular street food item | Benne Wafer Cookies | Elote |
| Most popular vegan food | Collard Greens | Vegan Tacos |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness (out of 10) | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks (out of 10) | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene (out of 10) | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly (out of 10) | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
Transitioning from Charleston to Santa Ana, you'll find some delightful contrasts in cuisine. While Charleston's food scene is renowned for its southern charm with dishes such as Shrimp and Grits, Santa Ana offers vibrant Mexican influence with specialties like fish tacos. If you find yourself craving authentic carne asada, the Santa Ana neighborhood of Downtown is home to popular spots such as Taqueria El Zamorano. Santa Ana also boasts a thriving food truck culture, vividly felt in areas like the city center where a gourmet meal on wheels is never too far away. For vegan options, rest assured as locations like the Green District provide delightful alternatives if you're embracing a plant-based lifestyle.
Charleston vs. Santa Ana Restaurant Comparison
Food is an essential part of making a new place feel like home . This restaurant comparison will help you discover your new favorite eateries by using your current hometown, Charleston , as a guide when you move to Santa Ana .
| Charleston | Santa Ana | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Husk | Chapter One: the modern local | Offers innovative twists on traditional dishes |
| FIG | Little Sparrow | Celebrated for its fresh, seasonal menus |
| Leon’s Oyster Shop | Santa Ana River Firehouse | Known for its seafood and laid-back setting |
| Hominy Grill | Old Vine Kitchen & Bar | Southern-inspired fare with a modern spin |
| Callie’s Hot Little Biscuit | Blackmarket Bakery | Comforting baked goods with local flair |
| Fleet Landing | Water Grill | Offers a unique waterfront dining experience |
| Poe’s Tavern | The Olde Ship | Classic pub vibes with hearty dishes |
| Xiao Bao Biscuit | Shabu Shabu Bar | Echoes Asian fusion elements with bold flavors |
| 82 Queen | Playground | Eccentric menu focused on seasonality |
| Tattooed Moose | Native Son Alehouse | Casual and eclectic with a focus on quality brews |
As you settle into Santa Ana, discovering local dining options will undoubtedly enhance your experience. For fans of innovative Southern cooking at Husk, consider visiting Chapter One: the modern local, where creative culinary spins honor tradition while embracing modern flair. If you frequent FIG for its dedication to fresh, seasonal ingredients, you'll find a similar dining ethos at Little Sparrow. Moreover, seafood lovers who enjoy the cozy vibe of Leon’s Oyster Shop in Charleston will appreciate the laid-back ambience and oceanic selections at Santa Ana River Firehouse. These connections will help you establish a deliciously familiar comfort in your new environment.
Ready to start your move?
Charleston vs. Santa Ana Real Estate & Living Facts
Understanding the housing market is essential when considering a relocation from Charleston, SC to Santa Ana, CA . This comparison highlights the key differences in cost, architecture, and lifestyle. Becoming familiar with the real estate dynamics of these two cities can help you make an informed choice about your move.
| Comparison | Charleston | Santa Ana |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Colonial | Spanish Revival |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Porches | Gardens |
When comparing the housing landscapes of Charleston and Santa Ana, it's apparent that there's a significant difference in both cost and style. Charleston offers charming Colonial homes with inviting porches, which are often a highlight in local real estate listings. On the other hand, Santa Ana features more expensive housing with striking Spanish Revival designs, often accentuated by lush gardens. From an urban lifestyle perspective, Santa Ana scores higher, attributed partly to its superior walkability and proximity to diverse amenities. Both cities offer their unique advantages, such as Charleston's historical allure and Santa Ana's vibrant city life.
Charleston vs. Santa Ana Weather Considerations
If you're moving from Charleston, SC to Santa Ana, CA , it's important to understand how the weather will compare to what you are used to. Knowing the differences in climate, natural events, and overall weather patterns can help you prepare for life in a new environment. This guide gives you the information you need to adjust seamlessly!
Charleston, SC
Santa Ana, CA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Charleston, SC
Santa Ana, CA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Charleston, SC
Santa Ana, CA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Charleston, SC
Santa Ana, CA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Charleston | Santa Ana |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Moderate | Good |
| Natural Disasters | Hurricanes | Earthquakes |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Moving from Charleston to Santa Ana means adapting to a less humid and generally sunnier environment. While Charleston experiences a humid subtropical climate with hot and sticky summers, Santa Ana enjoys a Mediterranean climate characterized by mild, wet winters and hot, dry summers. You will likely encounter fewer rainy days in Santa Ana, making it a favorable location for those who love sunshine. Additionally, the air quality in Santa Ana is often better than in Charleston, due to its proximity to the coast and prevailing weather patterns. It's also essential to prepare for different natural disasters; whereas hurricanes are a concern in Charleston, Santa Ana is more prone to earthquakes.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Charleston to Santa Ana
If you're moving from one location to another, understanding how the cost of living compares to what you are used to is crucial. This comparison between Charleston, SC and Santa Ana, CA provides insights into various financial factors to help you make informed decisions about your move.
| Comparison | Charleston | Santa Ana |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $74,139 | $80,265 |
| Cost of Living Index | 98.3 | 136.4 |
| State Income Tax | 7% | 13.3% |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.5% | 0.8% |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 9% | 9.25% |
| Top 3 Industries | Tourism, Manufacturing, Healthcare | Services, Retail, Manufacturing |
| Affluence | Moderate | High |
| Poverty | Moderate | High |
| Homelessness | Low | High |
When moving from Charleston to Santa Ana, you'll notice a substantial increase in the cost of living, as indicated by Santa Ana's higher cost of living index. While the average household income in Santa Ana tends to be higher, the significantly higher state income tax could impact your finances. The property taxes are somewhat higher in Santa Ana, reflecting the generally higher home prices typical of many areas in California. Additionally, while both cities boast robust local industries, the economic focus differs, with Santa Ana leaning more towards services and retail. Understanding these nuances will help you prepare effectively for your transition.
Charleston vs. Santa Ana Political & Religious Comparison
When moving from Charleston, SC to Santa Ana, CA, understanding the local political and religious landscape can be crucial. This comparison gives you a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the politics between Charleston & Santa Ana , highlighting how residents' beliefs and values might differ in your new city.
| Charleston | Santa Ana | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Moderate to Conservative | Liberal |
| Local Politics | Charleston City Government | Santa Ana City Government |
| Religion | Predominantly Christian | Diverse with a large Catholic community |
In Charleston, you'll find a community where politics can lean more towards moderate to conservative views, which could influence local policies and priorities. The religious backdrop is predominantly Christian, which may impact community events and cultural celebrations. Santa Ana offers a more liberal setting, with a rich tapestry of religious affiliations, notably a significant Catholic presence. As you navigate through Santa Ana's streets, you'll notice how these elements create a distinctive vibe, with diverse cultural experiences reflected in local festivals and gatherings.
Charleston vs. Santa Ana Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Understanding the ins and outs of daily commuting is crucial when relocating. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Charleston & Santa Ana provides a keen insight into what you might expect in terms of commute times, congestion, and public transit availability.
| Comparison | Charleston | Santa Ana |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 26 | 29 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Possibly | More likely |
Charleston offers a more relaxed traffic environment with a moderate average commute time of 26 minutes and a congestion rating of 4 out of 10, which means you might find traversing the city somewhat straightforward. However, the city's public transit options are somewhat limited compared to Santa Ana. In Santa Ana, with a higher traffic congestion rating, you might encounter more delays during peak hours. Despite this, the city boasts better public transit availability with a score of 7 out of 10, increasing the likelihood that you could manage day-to-day activities without a car. Whether you're heading to a local favorite, such as South Coast Plaza in Santa Ana or strolling through the Citadel Mall in Charleston, understanding local commuting nuances will make the transition smoother.
Additional Resources
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Popular Charleston to California Routes
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