Moving from Santa Ana to Norfolk?

5 Best Movers and Your Ultimate Moving Guide

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Santa Ana to Norfolk Movers

Moving from Santa Ana, the vibrant heart of Orange County, to Norfolk, a city steeped in naval history and coastal charm, marks an exhilarating chapter in your life. You're trading the endless sunshine and SoCal vibe for the rich tapestry of life in the "Mermaid City," where every street has a story to tell. In this monumental long-distance move, securing the services of trusted and reliable professional movers like Great Guys Moving is crucial to ensuring that your journey from coast to coast goes as smoothly as possible.

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

5 Best Santa Ana to Norfolk 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 9/11/2024)

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
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 9/11/2024)

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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#3
Marathon Moving Services Logo
Exceptional
claimed company icon

based on 1,058+ data points

Virginia Beach, VA
Residential Moves, Commercial Moves, Packing & Delivery See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/10/2024)

USDOT: 3572153 Verify

About Marathon Moving Services

Are you looking for an independently-owned moving company that provides affordable and reliable moving services in Virginia Beach? Marathon ...Read More >>

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#4
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 9/11/2024)

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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#5
Prime Movers USA Logo
Exceptional

based on 628+ data points

Virginia Beach, VA
Local moves (within 50 miles), Long distance moves (over 50 miles), Packing/unpacking services See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/10/2024)

USDOT: 2995403 Verify

About Prime Movers USA

Based in Virginia Beach, VA, Prime Movers offers premium moving services at unmatched prices. Founded in 2015, it takes pride in its highly-...Read More >>

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Relocating from Santa Ana to Norfolk Neighborhood Guide

Moving to a new city can be daunting, especially when you're not familiar with the local neighborhoods. To ease your transition, we've created a comparison to help you find a slice of home in your new city. This guide highlights the similarities between Santa Ana, CA & Norfolk, VA neighborhoods , giving you a head start on finding your perfect new community.

Santa AnaNorfolk
Floral ParkGhent

Historic charm, tree-lined streets

Morrison-Eldridge ParLarchmont

Family-friendly, university proximity

Washington SquareFreemason District

Rich history, walkable streets

West Floral ParkRiverview

Quaint, close-knit community feel

Heninger ParkColonial Place

Diverse, vibrant community

Wilshire SquareGhent

Artsy, lively atmosphere

French ParkChelsea

Industrial, up-and-coming

Artesia PilarOcean View

Beach proximity, relaxed vibe

South CoastDowntown Norfolk

Urban living, shopping, dining

LoganBellevue

Historic homes, family oriented

When you move from the picturesque neighborhood of Floral Park in Santa Ana, with its well-preserved historic homes and lush landscapes, you'll find a similar charm in Norfolk's Ghent. Ghent is known for its vibrant artistic scene, historic architecture, and a bustling community feel, akin to what you've loved in Santa Ana. For those drawn to the family-friendly atmosphere of Morrison-Eldridge Par, Larchmont in Norfolk offers proximity to education with Old Dominion University nearby, wrapped in a quiet, leafy neighborhood ideal for families. If beach life is more your style, the laid-back, scenic stretches of Ocean View in Norfolk will appeal to the Artesia Pilar residents looking for that similar coastal vibe without sacrificing community engagement and local amenities.

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Things to Do in Norfolk

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Pros and Cons of Moving from Santa Ana to Norfolk

Moving across the country is a significant decision laden with both opportunities and challenges. This guide aims to show an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Santa Ana, CA to Norfolk, VA, helping you weigh your options with clarity and foresight. By comparing the cons of Santa Ana with the pros of Norfolk, and vice versa, this section provides a balanced viewpoint on what to expect from your new home.

CONs
PROs
Santa Ana, CA iconSanta Ana, CA
  • Higher cost of living
  • Heavy traffic
  • Less green space
  • Earthquake risk
  • Sparse public transit
Norfolk, VA iconNorfolk, VA
  • Lower cost of living
  • Less congestion
  • More parks/nature
  • Lower natural disaster risk
  • Better public transit
Norfolk, VA iconNorfolk, VA
  • More humidity
  • Less cultural diversity
  • Fewer beaches
  • Fewer tech jobs
  • Less Mexican cuisine variety
Santa Ana, CA iconSanta Ana, CA
  • Better weather
  • Vibrant culture
  • Beach accessibility
  • Tech jobs hub
  • Mexican cuisine

When comparing the everyday life between Santa Ana, CA, and Norfolk, VA, some distinctions become clearer through their local offerings. Santa Ana boasts of an attractive lifestyle with its temperate weather and a vibrant cultural scene, including renowned establishments like The Bowers Museum. On the other hand, Norfolk welcomes newcomers with its picturesque landscapes and a significant reduction in living costs. The city is proud of its lush, expansive parks like Norfolk Botanical Garden, providing a serene escape from urban life. Furthermore, Norfolk's emerging scene offers unique dining experiences, such as those found in the popular Ghent neighborhood, although it might have less diversity in cuisine compared to the variety found in Santa Ana. This move presents an intriguing trade-off between the bustling, diverse cultural landscape of Santa Ana and the tranquil, cost-effective living in Norfolk.

Food Scene Guide When Moving from Santa Ana to Norfolk

Food is an integral part of experiencing local culture and understanding what life is like in a new area. This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Santa Ana & Norfolk to help you get acquainted with the culinary scene in your new city.

Santa AnaNorfolk

Most iconic local food item

TacosSeafood, especially crab

Most popular meat dish

CarnitasFried Chicken

Most popular street food item

TacosFood Truck Tacos

Most popular vegan food

Vegan TacosVegan Crab Cakes

Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city

  • Birrieria El Chivo de Oro
  • Taqueria Guadalajara
  • Playground
  • Doumar’s Cones and Barbecue
  • A.W. Shucks Raw Bar & Grill
  • No Frill Bar and Grill

Fitness/Health Conscientiousness

87

Abundance of Food Trucks

96

Foodie Scene

98

Vegan Friendly

87

Relocating from Santa Ana to Norfolk, you're transitioning from a city known for its vibrant Mexican cuisine, characterized by its iconic tacos and carnitas, to a city with a strong emphasis on seafood, particularly crab. Norfolk is making a name for itself with innovative takes on classic dishes, such as vegan crab cakes. Iconic restaurants like A.W. Shucks Raw Bar & Grill are go-to spots for local flavor, showcasing the best of what Norfolk has to offer. Whether it's the health-conscious options or the burgeoning foodie scene, Norfolk provides a diverse culinary landscape that mirrors the city's rich cultural history and coastal charm.

Restaurant Guide for Moving from Santa Ana to Norfolk

Relocating can be a mix of excitement and nostalgia, especially when it comes to leaving behind favorite dining spots. Don’t worry, this restaurant comparison between Santa Ana and Norfolk aims to ease your transition by helping you discover new eateries that resonate with your palate, using your current go-to places as a guide.

Burritos La PalmaJessy’s Taqueria

Authentic Mexican tacos reminiscent of Santa Ana’s flavor

PlaygroundLuce

High-end dining with a creative, ever-changing menu

Hopper and BurrCafé Stella

Cozy atmosphere and top-notch coffee

Chapter One: the modern localOmar’s Carriage House

Varied menu with a local twist

CraveDoumar’s

Iconic diner experience with unique offerings

IreniaTagalog

Undeniably delicious Filipino cuisine

Taquerias GuadalajaraEl Rey 2

Authentic Mexican food with a homey vibe

Kaizen ShabuKoshi

Exceptional shabu-shabu experience

4th Street MarketSelden Market

Varied vendors offering a taste of local craftsmanship and flavors

Tang 190K-POT Korean BBQ & Hot Pot

Korean cuisine with an interactive dining experience

Discovering a new city's culinary scene can be just as thrilling as exploring its landmarks. While Santa Ana boasts a vibrant selection of cuisines, Norfolk is not far behind, offering its own unique twist on your favorite dishes. For instance, if you’ve been a regular at Irenia in Santa Ana, you'll be delighted by Tagalog’s tribute to Filipino cuisine in Norfolk, serving dishes that are just as hearty and flavorful. Coffee connoisseurs missing the unique brews of Hopper and Burr can find solace in Café Stella, where the coffee culture is alive and thriving, offering a perfect blend of comfort and quality in every cup. This transition might just be an opportunity to broaden your culinary horizons while finding a taste of home in Norfolk.

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

Real estate is crucial when considering a move, making it vital to compare how Santa Ana and Norfolk stand in terms of housing. This comparison will help you understand the aspects such as cost, architecture, and lifestyle, ensuring you make an informed decision.

When comparing Santa Ana and Norfolk in terms of housing, you'll find both cities offer unique benefits. Santa Ana's higher median home price reflects its proximity to larger cities like Los Angeles and its desirable Spanish Colonial architecture, ideal for someone seeking an urban lifestyle closer to the West coast dynamics. On the other hand, Norfolk, with its affordable living and Colonial or Cape Cod-style homes, is perfect for those valuing waterfront views and a touch of history in their neighborhood. Notably, Norfolk boasts better walkability, making it easier to explore the city's quaint streets and waterfront areas. Whether you're drawn to the vibrant, historic ambiance of Norfolk or the bustling, sunny streets of Santa Ana, both cities offer a distinct living experience tailored to different preferences.

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Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Norfolk, VA

1. Ghent: Known for its sidewalks lined with mature trees and several pet-friendly restaurant patios, making your evenings walks with your furry friend a delightful experience.

2. Freemason Harbor: With easy access to Town Point Park, it's a serene place where you can enjoy waterfront walks and playtime with your pet.

3. Larchmont-Edgewater: This neighborhood boasts the spacious Larchmont Library grounds and close access to dog-friendly shorelines, perfect for weekend adventures with your pet.

Weather Considerations for Moving from Santa Ana to Norfolk

When planning a move, it's essential to understand how the weather from Santa Ana, CA, contrasts with Norfolk, VA, to adjust your lifestyle and wardrobe accordingly. This comparison offers insight into the climatic differences you'll experience.

Summer icon
83°F / 64°F

Santa Ana, CA

89°F / 71°F

Norfolk, VA

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
70°F / 48°F

Santa Ana, CA

48°F / 32°F

Norfolk, VA

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
13

Santa Ana, CA

47

Norfolk, VA

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
0

Santa Ana, CA

6

Norfolk, VA

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

In making the transition from Santa Ana to Norfolk, you'll notice significant changes, particularly in humidity levels and the frequency of sunshine days. Santa Ana enjoys more sunny days annually and lower humidity, offering a generally dry and comfortable climate. In contrast, Norfolk presents higher humidity and fewer sunny days, along with a broader range of temperatures throughout the year—indicative of its humid subtropical climate. Additionally, while Santa Ana's primary natural hazards include wildfires and earthquakes, moving to Norfolk means preparing for hurricanes and nor'easters. Also, Norfolk experiences more rainfall and some snow, a stark contrast to the minimal precipitation in Santa Ana.

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

When planning a move from one city to another, comparing financial aspects such as income, cost of living, and taxes is crucial. This chart provides an essential insight into these variables between Santa Ana and Norfolk, highlighting why understanding the economic landscape is vital for your relocation decision.

Moving from Santa Ana to Norfolk, you'll notice a dramatic difference in the average household income and the cost of living index, where Norfolk presents a more affordable option despite a lower average income. The stark contrast in state income tax rates could also significantly affect your take-home pay, with Virginia's maximum rate being considerably lower than California's. Additionally, the difference in predominant industries suggests a potential change in employment opportunities. While Santa Ana focuses on manufacturing and healthcare, Norfolk's economy thrives on its military presence and port activities, influencing job markets and potentially your career path.

Political & Religious Comparison between Santa Ana, CA and Norfolk, VA

When considering a move from Santa Ana, CA to Norfolk, VA, understanding the comparison of the politics between Santa Ana & Norfolk alongside the religious landscape provides a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the local culture you're moving into.

Santa AnaNorfolk

Political Make-up

Lean DemocraticLean Democratic

Local Politics

Liberal policiesCentrist with a mix of liberal and conservative policies

Religion

Primarily Christian, with a significant Catholic presenceDiverse religious community with Christian dominance

Both Santa Ana and Norfolk lean Democratic, although Santa Ana is generally more liberal, reflecting California's overall political climate. While you might find Santa Ana's politics to sway more towards progressive and liberal policies, Norfolk presents a balanced environment with a mix, catering to both liberal and conservative views. This is partly due to Virginia's swing state status. The religious landscape also varies; while both cities have a strong Christian presence, Santa Ana notably has a significant Catholic community. You may find Norfolk's religious community to be diverse, yet it still maintains a strong Christian foundation.

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

Moving from Santa Ana, CA, to Norfolk, VA, offers a new living experience, especially when it comes to daily commutes. This comparison between the traffic and transportation options in Santa Ana & Norfolk is designed to help you better understand what to expect in your new city.

Santa AnaNorfolk
2522

Avg Commute Time (in minutes)

74

Traffic Congestion (out of 10)

65

Availability of Public Transit (out of 10)

Possibly, with some effortChallenging

Can you get by without car?

While both Santa Ana and Norfolk have their own unique traffic and public transit dynamics, there are some notable differences. Santa Ana, with its slightly longer average commute time and higher level of traffic congestion, still provides a better public transit system compared to Norfolk. This can be crucial for those considering whether they need to own a car. In Norfolk, due to lower traffic congestion, driving might seem more tempting, but the public transit availability, albeit just below Santa Ana’s rating, might not cater to everyone’s needs efficiently. Thus, understanding these differences can be key to planning your daily commute in your new city.

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