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 2,375 mile move from West Virginia to California go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 14 Charleston 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 - $9,000 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 | Ready Set Movers | 9.16 | 9.22 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 4 | Central Van Lines | 8.16 | 8.11 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| 5 | Two Men and a Truck | 7.70 | 7.26 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Charleston to Santa Ana
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,375 miles from Charleston, WV to Santa Ana, CA will cost on average $3,801 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Charleston to Santa Ana move is roughly $9,181. 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 | $2,549 | 300 ft³ | 8.50 |
| 1 Bedroom | $3,801 | 450 ft³ | 8.45 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $6,297 | 750 ft³ | 8.40 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $9,181 | 1100 ft³ | 8.35 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $13,274 | 1600 ft³ | 8.30 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $14,844 | 1800 ft³ | 8.25 |
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) |
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) |
Central Van Lines
37 Jacobson Dr
Poca, WV, 25159
About Central Van Lines
Whether you’re moving across the street or across the globe, Central Van Lines knows how to get your belongings safely where...
Services
- Local and long-distance moving services
- Residential moving services
- Commercial moving services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1243887 / 11266 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 44 |
| Registered Drivers | 35 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 487,000 (2019) |
Two Men and a Truck
2410 Air Park Rd
North Charleston, SC, 29406
About Two Men and a Truck
Since 1997, Two Men and a Truck has been the go-to moving company for families and businesses in North Charleston, SC....
Services
- Local Moving
- Long-Distance Moving
- Junk Removal
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3402685 / 1095537 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 14 |
| Registered Drivers | 8 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 100,000 (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
The purpose of this guide is to help you familiarize yourself with an unknown city by using your existing city as a baseline. We'll compare local neighborhoods between Charleston, WV & Santa Ana, CA to make your transition smoother.
| Charleston | Santa Ana | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Kanawha City | South Coast Metro | Commercial hub with shopping centers |
| East End | Floral Park | Historic homes and tree-lined streets |
| South Hills | Portola Park | Suburban feel with family-friendly environment |
| Edgewood | Morrison Park | Artistic vibe and cultural venues |
| North Charleston | Santa Ana Heights | Easy access to major highways |
If you appreciate the historic homes and tree-lined streets of East End, Floral Park in Santa Ana will offer a comparable environment with its own charming historic architecture and green spaces. The bustling commercial activity and shopping options in Kanawha City find a match in South Coast Metro, where shopping enthusiasts can visit South Coast Plaza. Families who enjoy the suburban and family-friendly atmosphere of South Hills will feel at home in Portola Park, known for its welcoming community vibe and parks like Portola Park. Each neighborhood provides its own distinct feel and amenities, ensuring that your move maintains the lifestyle you love.
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
Considering a move from Charleston, WV to Santa Ana, CA? This comparison provides an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of this relocation, helping you weigh the decision of life changes between Charleston and Santa Ana through a balanced perspective.
Charleston, WV- Limited job options
- Harsh winters
- Fewer cultural events
Santa Ana, CA- Greater employment opportunities
- Milder winter climate
- Vibrant cultural scene
Santa Ana, CA- Higher living expenses
- Traffic congestion
- Higher population density
Charleston, WV- Lower cost of living
- Friendly community
- Less crowded
In moving to Santa Ana, you will find a significant change in job opportunities across sectors such as technology, healthcare, and entertainment, offering a dynamic environment to grow your career. Enjoy year-round pleasant weather, relieving you from the snowfall and cold that marks Charleston's winters. Santa Ana introduces you to a vibrant array of cultural experiences, from the [Bowers Museum](https://www.bowers.org) to the [Artists Village](https://www.downtown-santaana.com/artists-village). Despite these appealing factors, be prepared for a higher cost of living and increased traffic, particularly around popular sites like [MainPlace Mall](https://www.shopmainplacemall.com). Nevertheless, enjoying neighborhood parks such as [Santiago Park](https://www.santa-ana.org/santiago-park) amidst the hustle and bustle offers a perfect balance to your new life in Santa Ana.
Charleston vs. Santa Ana Food Guide
Food is an integral part of understanding local culture and day-to-day living. Whether you're a seasoned foodie or simply curious, exploring local flavors is essential. Here's a comparison of the local cuisine between Charleston, WV, and Santa Ana, CA , to help you discover what the food scene has to offer in your new location.
| Charleston | Santa Ana | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Pepperoni Roll | Mexican Tacos |
| Most popular meat dish | Hot Dogs with Slaw | Carne Asada |
| Most popular street food item | Fried Green Tomatoes | Elotes |
| Most popular vegan food | Grilled Vegetables | Vegan Burrito |
| 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) | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
Moving to Santa Ana from Charleston means diving into a vibrant culinary scene, especially if you adore lively street food and authentic Mexican flavors. You can find the most popular Carne Asada tacos in the Downtown neighborhood, known for its bustling nightlife and food truck gatherings. If vegan options are vital to your diet, you'll find the city's growing plant-based offerings stand out, particularly in the artsy Soho Depot area. Iconic local favorites, such as the traditional Mexican tacos, present a more diverse palate in Santa Ana, contrasted with Charleston’s staples like pepperoni rolls. The food scene in Santa Ana is dynamic, with Mix Mix Kitchen Bar offering a blend of international cuisines that local foodies adore.
Charleston vs. Santa Ana Restaurant Comparison
When moving, food can be a key factor in making a new area feel like home. Charleston and Santa Ana present unique dining landscapes, and this restaurant comparison will guide you to find fresh favorite eateries by using your current hometown, Charleston, as a culinary compass.
| Charleston | Santa Ana | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Bluegrass Kitchen | Chapter One: the modern local | Both offer contemporary spins on traditional dishes. |
| Soho's | Pueblo | Both serve up eclectic, upscale menus. |
| Tidewater Grill | Little Onion Mexican | Known for seafood-focused dishes with vibrant flavors. |
| Pies & Pints | Slice Deli & Cakery | A haven for gourmet pizza and craft beer enthusiasts. |
| Black Sheep Burrito & Brews | Taqueria de Anda | Both offer local brews paired with savory burritos. |
| Dem 2 Brothers and a Grill | Old Crow Smokehouse | Specialize in smoky, rich barbecue flavors. |
| Bricks & Barrels | The Cellar | Both elevate dining with rustic charm and quality meats. |
| Vandalia Co. | 4th Street Market | Celebrate artisanal local food and unique vendor collaboration. |
| Laury's Restaurant | Benchmark | Each offers a fine dining experience with refined elegance. |
| Sugar Pie Bakery | Portola Coffee Roasters | Combines sweet treats with artisanal coffee culture. |
As you transition from Charleston to Santa Ana, uncovering new culinary gems can help you settle in and embrace your new environment. Start your adventure at The Cellar, where its rustic charm and quality meats mirror the ambiance of Charleston's Bricks & Barrels. Embrace local history at 4th Street Market, where you can enjoy a diversity of culinary vendors much like the artisanal offerings at Vandalia Co. Whether you crave gourmet pizzas or delightful sweet treats, Santa Ana’s Slice Deli & Cakery and Portola Coffee Roasters promise a taste of home away from home, reminiscent of the vibrant flavors in Charleston. Each restaurant invites you to continue your culinary journey while embracing the unique flavors of your new city.
Ready to start your move?
Charleston vs. Santa Ana Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is one of the most crucial aspects of relocating. Knowing how Charleston and Santa Ana differ in housing is essential for making an informed decision. This comparison will outline the differences in cost, architecture, and lifestyle ratings between the two cities.
| Comparison | Charleston | Santa Ana |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Victorian | Spanish Colonial |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Backyards, Porch | Patios, Proximity to beaches |
When it comes to housing, Santa Ana presents a considerably higher financial commitment, with median home prices around five times those in Charleston. Renting in Santa Ana is also notably more expensive, though this higher cost often comes with greater lifestyle amenities, such as proximity to vibrant beaches and urban centers. Architecture varies between the cities; while Charleston’s real estate often highlights charming Victorian homes ideal for those who enjoy historical aesthetics, Santa Ana is known for its distinct Spanish Colonial style, epitomized by stucco walls and red-tile roofs, which resonate with California's cultural heritage. You will find Charleston's slower-paced lifestyle to offer charm and affordability, but Santa Ana's urban vibrancy may justify its higher costs, especially if access to more walkable neighborhoods and services is important to you.
Charleston vs. Santa Ana Weather Considerations
Understanding the weather differences between Charleston, WV and Santa Ana, CA is crucial if you're contemplating a big move. This comparison will help you prepare for climate adaptation and make lifestyle adjustments accordingly.
Charleston, WV
Santa Ana, CA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Charleston, WV
Santa Ana, CA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Charleston, WV
Santa Ana, CA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Charleston, WV
Santa Ana, CA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Charleston | Santa Ana |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Moderate | Good |
| Natural Disasters | Flooding | Earthquakes |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
When relocating to Santa Ana from Charleston, you'll find the weather to be noticeably different. Santa Ana enjoys more sunshine year-round, with significantly more sunny days. This can positively impact mood and outdoor activities. However, while Charleston experiences notable seasonal snowfall, Santa Ana residents rarely see snow, which might require an adaptation if you're fond of winter sports. Naturally, the lower humidity levels in Santa Ana mean you'll experience less muggy conditions compared to Charleston, offering a more comfortable climate for many. It's important to prepare for the earthquake risks common in Santa Ana, as opposed to the flooding concerns that are more prevalent in Charleston.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Charleston to Santa Ana
When moving from Charleston, WV to Santa Ana, CA , understanding the financial differences is crucial. Comparing the cost of living and economic factors between these two cities can help you prepare for changes to your budget and lifestyle.
| Comparison | Charleston | Santa Ana |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | 50,000 | $80,265 |
| Cost of Living Index | 92.7 | 136.4 |
| State Income Tax | 6.5 | 13.3 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.57 | 0.76 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 6 | 9 |
| Top 3 Industries | Coal, Healthcare, Education | Tourism, Tech, Retail |
| Affluence | Moderate | High |
| Poverty | Medium | Low |
| Homelessness | Low | Moderate |
When you relocate from Charleston to Santa Ana, you'll notice that the average household income is significantly higher in Santa Ana; however, this corresponds to a much higher cost of living index. While both cities have an array of different leading industries, with Charleston focusing more on traditional sectors such as coal and healthcare, Santa Ana's economy thrives on modern sectors like tech and retail. Property taxes in both locations are relatively moderate, but the state income tax in California stands out as notably high compared to West Virginia's. Understanding these differences can help you plan your finances more accurately and anticipate the adjustments needed in your budget.
Charleston vs. Santa Ana Political & Religious Comparison
This comparison provides a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents in Charleston, WV and Santa Ana, CA. Here's a comparison of the politics between Charleston & Santa Ana , highlighting key differences and similarities in their political and religious landscapes.
| Charleston | Santa Ana | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Majority Democrat | Majority Democrat |
| Local Politics | City initiatives often driven by community leaders. | Strong focus on sustainability and community development. |
| Religion | Christianity predominates, with few diverse religious communities. | Diverse religious landscape with a strong Catholic presence. |
In Charleston, you'll find a landscape where city initiatives are frequently driven by community leaders, aiming to reflect local interests and values. The religious scene here primarily features Christianity, providing a sense of close-knit, traditional community feel. In contrast, Santa Ana offers a more diverse array of religious expressions, prominently including Catholicism due to its rich cultural tapestry. Moreover, local politics in Santa Ana frequently emphasize sustainability and community development, reflecting its distinct urban priorities. As you transition to Santa Ana, consider exploring the vibrant array of local churches and political town halls to get a deeper understanding and integration into your new community.
Charleston vs. Santa Ana Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Charleston, WV & Santa Ana, CA will help you better understand what the daily commute and traffic are like in these two cities. By examining average commute times, traffic congestion levels, public transit availability, and the necessity of owning a car, you'll gain a clearer picture of how your daily travels might change.
| Comparison | Charleston | Santa Ana |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 20 | 28 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | No | Possibly |
While Charleston offers a relatively short average commute time of 20 minutes, it lacks the public transit infrastructure found in Santa Ana. Traffic congestion in Charleston is mild, scoring 4 out of 10, allowing for smoother travel by car. Santa Ana, although slightly more congested with a rating of 7, provides more substantial public transportation options with increased bus and rail services. This could mean that if you prefer or need to rely on public transport for your commute, Santa Ana would offer more flexibility and potentially lessen your dependency on a private vehicle. However, a car might still be necessary for broader access to all areas, especially when traveling to locations outside of the main urban zones.
Additional Resources
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Popular Charleston to California Routes
Popular Moving Resources
