Moving from Santa Ana to Durham?

5 Best Movers and Your Ultimate Moving Guide

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Santa Ana to Durham Movers

Moving from the vibrant streets of Santa Ana, CA, to the charming landscapes of Durham, NC, marks an exciting chapter in your life, filled with new adventures and opportunities. Leaving behind the "Golden City" with its rich cultural tapestry for the "Bull City" known for its prestigious universities and tech hubs, represents a significant transition — from bustling city life to a blend of historic and modern vibes. It's crucial to ensure this long-distance journey is smooth and stress-free; that's why we emphasize choosing trusted and reliable professional movers, ensuring your belongings transition as smoothly as you do.

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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Durham to Santa Ana guide.

5 Best Santa Ana to Durham Movers

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

#1
Pure Moving Logo
Exceptional

based on 8,688+ data points

Santa Monica, CA
Residential moving, Commercial moving, Long-distance moving See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/5/2024)

USDOT: 3207734 Verify

About Pure Moving

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

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#2
Raleigh Moving Company Logo
Exceptional

based on 954+ data points

Raleigh, NC
Free estimates, Full Value Protection (FVP), Fully licensed and insured See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/14/2021)

USDOT: 3344628 Verify

About Raleigh Moving Company

Raleigh Moving Company is a locally owned and operated moving company offering residential and commercial services for local and long-distan...Read More >>

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#3
Terry Moving & Storage Logo
Exceptional

based on 2,308+ data points

Lake Forest, CA
Local Move, Interstate Move, Packing Services See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/6/2024)

USDOT: 649215 Verify

About Terry Moving & Storage

Terry Moving & Storage offers full-service moves locally and throughout the 11 Western States. This Lake Forest-based business has helpe...Read More >>

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#4
Athens Moving Experts Logo
Exceptional
claimed company icon

based on 4,516+ data points

Raleigh, NC
Local Moving Services, Long Distance Moving Services, Commercial Moving Services See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/5/2024)

USDOT: 3205320 Verify

About Athens Moving Experts

Since 2015, Athens Moving Experts has helped Raleigh, Chapel Hill, Holly Springs, and communities across North Carolina with their residenti...Read More >>

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#5
Safe-Way Moving, Inc. Logo
Exceptional

based on 2,724+ data points

Foothill Ranch, CA
Local Moving, Long Distance Moving, Commercial Moving See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 8/9/2024)

USDOT: 1677218 Verify

About Safe-Way Moving, Inc.

As a family-owned and operated moving company, Safe-Way Moving, Inc. has served all of Orange County since 2007. It offers both residential ...Read More >>

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Relocating from Santa Ana to Durham Neighborhood Guide

Relocating can stir up feelings of both excitement and uncertainty. One way to ease the transition is by finding a new neighborhood that mirrors the vibe and amenities of your current one. This guide is designed to help you navigate the similarities between popular Santa Ana, CA and Durham, NC neighborhoods , making your move a little more familiar.

Santa AnaDurham
Floral ParkTrinity Park

Historic homes, community feel

West Floral ParkOld West Durham

Vintage homes, vibrant energy

Morrison-Eldridge ParkHope Valley

Family-friendly, scenic parks

Washington SquareWatts-Hillandale

Historic, lively streets

Fisher ParkForest Hills

Lush landscapes, classic charm

French ParkCleveland-Holloway

Diverse architecture, artsy scene

Heninger ParkGeerwood Park

Cultural diversity, community events

Wilshire SquareBrightleaf

Quaint shops, walkable streets

LoganGolden Belt

Industrial history, modern living

RiverviewAmerican Tobacco District

Revitalized, entertainment hub

Understanding the character and appeal of neighborhoods can help you find your perfect new home. For example, if you've enjoyed the historic charm and tight-knit community of Floral Park in Santa Ana, you'll likely appreciate Trinity Park in Durham, where mature trees line the streets of historic homes, creating a serene, community-oriented environment. Similarly, if the artsy and diverse atmosphere of French Park resonated with you, Cleveland-Holloway could be your next favorite spot, with its eclectic mix of architecture and vibrant arts scene that includes local spots like the Pleiades Arts. For those who thrive in the lively, walkable areas, Wilshire Square's variety closely matches Brightleaf's offering of quaint shops and sidewalk cafes, perfect for afternoon strolls or morning coffee runs. Exploring these neighborhoods reveals unique shops, parks, and restaurants that make each area special, promising a smooth transition to your new city.

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Pros and Cons of Moving from Santa Ana to Durham

Moving from one city to another involves weighing the benefits against the drawbacks. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and bad attributes of relocating from Santa Ana, CA to Durham, NC. By examining the pros and cons, you'll be better equipped to make an informed decision about your move.

CONs
PROs
Santa Ana, CA iconSanta Ana, CA
  • Higher cost of living
  • Heavy traffic
  • Air Quality Issues
  • Less seasonal change
Durham, NC iconDurham, NC
  • Lower cost of living
  • Less traffic congestion
  • Better air quality
  • Distinct seasons
Durham, NC iconDurham, NC
  • Smaller diverse population
  • Fewer authentic Mexican restaurants
  • Far from major cities
  • More humid summers
Santa Ana, CA iconSanta Ana, CA
  • Vibrant multicultural community
  • Better Mexican cuisine
  • Proximity to LA
  • Abundant sunshine

While the move from Santa Ana, CA to Durham, NC may mean saying goodbye to the familiar sights and sounds of Southern California, such as the year-round sunshine and proximity to iconic locations like Los Angeles, it also opens up a new chapter filled with its own unique experiences. Durham boasts a burgeoning arts scene, with venues like the Durham Performing Arts Center and a thriving food culture that includes southern barbecue joints and farm-to-table restaurants. Though you might miss Santa Ana's unmatched Mexican cuisine, Durham's culinary scene, featuring spots like Pompieri Pizza, offers a diverse palette of flavors. Moreover, Durham's distinct seasons offer scenic beauty year-round, from autumn leaves in the Eno River State Park to blooming gardens in Sarah P. Duke Gardens each spring. The transition comes with adjustments, but each city's unique offerings make the move a journey worth considering.

Food Scene Guide When Moving from Santa Ana to Durham

This comparison of the local cuisine between Santa Ana & Durham will help you understand the food scene in both areas. Food plays a significant role in the culture and daily life of a location. By comparing these two cities, you'll be better informed about what culinary experiences await you after your move.

Santa AnaDurham

Most iconic local food item

TacosBarbecue Pork

Most popular meat dish

Carne AsadaSmoked Brisket

Most popular street food item

EloteFood Trucks Varied Menu

Most popular vegan food

Jackfruit TacosVegan Barbecue

Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city

  • Restaurant 1
  • Restaurant 2
  • Restaurant 3
  • Restaurant A
  • Restaurant B
  • Restaurant C

Fitness/Health Conscientiousness

78

Abundance of Food Trucks

79

Foodie Scene

89

Vegan Friendly

68

In Santa Ana, vibrant street foods like elote and tacos, including innovative options like jackfruit tacos, reflect the city's rich Mexican heritage. Notably, the downtown area and Fourth Street Market are culinary hotspots where enthusiasts can explore. Durham's food scene, meanwhile, merges traditional Southern comforts with a modern twist. For example, smoked brisket and vegan barbecue showcase the city's skill in blending innovation with tradition. Durham's penchant for food trucks, particularly around the downtown area and near Duke University, offers a kaleidoscope of flavors, from authentic Southern to global cuisine, making it a foodie's delight.

Restaurant Guide for Moving from Santa Ana to Durham

Food plays a crucial role in making a place feel like home. This Santa Ana to Durham restaurant comparison aims to ease your transition by helping you find new favorite eateries based on your existing preferences. Whether you crave high-end dining experiences or affordable casual bites, this guide bridges culinary worlds between Santa Ana and Durham.

Burritos La PalmaTaqueria La Vaquita

Authentic Mexican street-style tacos

PlaygroundMateo Bar de Tapas

Spanish cuisine with a Southern twist

Hopper & BurrCocoa Cinnamon

Artisanal coffee and unique flavor combinations

Chapter One: the modern localBar Virgile

Cozy atmosphere with a modern local vibe

FalasophyMediterranean Deli & Catering

Fresh and authentic Mediterranean flavors

CraveDame's Chicken & Waffles

Unique soul food combinations

AnepalcoGonza Tacos y Tequila

Innovative Mexican dishes with a twist

Mariscos HectorSaltbox Seafood Joint

Fresh, local seafood focus

The Blind Pig Kitchen + BarAlley Twenty Six

Cocktail bar with gourmet American cuisine

Shabu Shabu BarM Kokko

Korean-style hot pot and savory dishes

By drawing parallels between Santa Ana and Durham's vibrant dining scenes, you can ease into your new surroundings without sacrificing your culinary comforts. For instance, if Burritos La Palma was your go-to for Mexican cravings, Taqueria La Vaquita in Durham mirrors that experience with its street-style tacos and authentic flavors. Similarly, Mateo Bar de Tapas offers a creative spin on traditional Spanish dishes, akin to Playground’s innovative approach to cuisine. Each comparison not just matches food types but also the unique dining experiences—from the artisanal coffee culture championed by both Hopper & Burr and Cocoa Cinnamon, to the local vibe that both Chapter One and Bar Virgile exude, making you feel right at home irrespective of your location. Delve into the rich, culinary landscapes of Durham, and you'll soon discover that each meal tells a story of its own, reminiscent of the flavors you cherished back in Santa Ana.

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Ready to start your move?

Real Estate Facts to Know Before Moving from Santa Ana to Durham

Real estate is one of the most important aspects of a move. Understanding how Santa Ana and Durham compare in terms of housing cost, architecture, walkability, and lifestyle is crucial for making an informed decision. Let's dive into the details to help guide your relocation journey.

When comparing the real estate markets of Santa Ana and Durham, the most striking difference is the affordability. Homes in Durham are notably less expensive, offering a significant cost advantage for purchasers. Median rent also reflects this disparity, making Durham an attractive option for renters. Architecture aficionados will appreciate the variety between the two cities - Santa Ana's Spanish Colonial and Ranch styles versus Durham's Colonial Revival and Craftsman homes. Both cities offer a decent quality of urban lifestyle, but Durham edges out slightly in terms of walkability and bikeability, reflecting its growing emphasis on sustainable and accessible urban planning. Additionally, Durham's real estate listings often highlight eco-friendly features and proximity to research institutions, pointing to the city's progressive values and thriving academic community.

Weather Considerations for Moving from Santa Ana to Durham

Moving from one city to another involves adapting to new environments, especially the weather . If you're transitioning from Santa Ana, CA to Durham, NC , understanding how the climate differs between these two locations is crucial for a smooth adaptation.

Summer icon
83°F / 64°F

Santa Ana, CA

89°F / 68°F

Durham, NC

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
70°F / 48°F

Santa Ana, CA

50°F / 30°F

Durham, NC

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
14

Santa Ana, CA

45

Durham, NC

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
0

Santa Ana, CA

6

Durham, NC

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

When moving from Santa Ana to Durham, you'll notice notable differences in climate. Santa Ana boasts a warm, dry climate with an abundance of sunny days, making it ideal for those who love consistent warm weather. On the other hand, Durham experiences a more varied climate with hotter summers, colder winters, and more precipitation throughout the year. This includes a significant increase in rainfall and the occasional snowfall, unlike Santa Ana's negligible rain and lack of snow. The humidity level in Durham is also slightly higher, which can affect comfort and may require some adjustments in day-to-day living. Awareness of these weather differences will aid in preparing for your move and adjusting to Durham's environment more comfortably.

Ready to start your move?

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

When you're planning a move from one city to another, understanding the financial differences can save you a lot of surprises. This comparison between Santa Ana, CA and Durham, NC, focusing on their money and finance aspects, will help you gauge how your expenses and income opportunities may shift. This insight is pivotal for your financial planning and adjustment in a new city.

Moving from Santa Ana to Durham means adapting to a lower average household income but enjoying a more affordable cost of living. Santa Ana’s higher state and sales tax rates can significantly affect disposable income, something that's notably less of a burden in Durham thanks to its lower rates. Additionally, you'll find yourself in a city with a slightly higher property tax, but remember, the overall cost of living is lower. Both cities present strong job opportunities, but with distinct leading industries. Notably, Durham is becoming a powerhouse in technology and education, providing new avenues for professional growth. While Santa Ana has notable poverty and homelessness, you'll find Durham's situation to be modest by comparison, indicating a different set of social challenges and opportunities.

Political & Religious Comparison between Santa Ana, CA and Durham, NC

When prepping for a move from Santa Ana, CA to Durham, NC, a quick glimpse at the comparison of the politics between Santa Ana & Durham gives insightful contrasts and similarities regarding the political and religious views of their residents. This guide aims to provide you with a concise overview to help in understanding your new community.

Santa AnaDurham

Political Make-up

LiberalLiberal

Local Politics

Democrat-dominated city councilDemocrat-led local government

Religion

Mix of Catholic and EvangelicalDiverse, with a significant Protestant presence

In diving deeper into these aspects, both Santa Ana and Durham share a predominantly liberal political makeup, which is reflected in their local government structures being Democrat-led. However, differences emerge in the religious landscapes of each city. Santa Ana displays a religious diversity with a notable mix of Catholic and Evangelical Christian communities. In contrast, Durham features a variety of religious beliefs but with a significant Protestant influence, hinting at the varied demographic and cultural backgrounds present in each city. Understanding these aspects can be essential in easing the transition and blending into the fabric of your new community.

Traffic and Public Transit Considerations for Moving from Santa Ana to Durham

Moving involves not just a change of address but adapting to a new daily routine. This guide helps you better understand the comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Santa Ana & Durham , so you can gauge what your commute and traffic experience will be like in these cities.

Santa AnaDurham
2522

Avg Commute Time (in minutes)

74

Traffic Congestion (out of 10)

63

Availability of Public Transit (out of 10)

ChallengingDifficult

Can you get by without a car?

In Santa Ana, you'll find that the average commute time is slightly longer than in Durham, reflecting the heavier traffic congestion seen throughout the area. Although public transportation options are more readily available in Santa Ana, getting around without a car can still be a challenge. Durham, on the other hand, offers a more relaxed driving experience with less congestion but has fewer public transit options, making car dependence higher. In both cities, planning your travel and considering alternative transportation methods can significantly enhance your daily commuting experience.

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