Best Washington to Santa Ana Movers and Practical Moving Guide

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Washington to Santa Ana Movers

Moving from the historic corridors of Washington, DC, to the vibrant streets of Santa Ana, CA, is an adventure that promises not only a change of scenery but an exciting new chapter in your life. Leaving behind the political heart of the nation to embrace the sunny, cultural richness of Orange County signifies a major lifestyle shift. Understanding the importance of this transition, we emphasize the need for reliable and trusted professional movers to ensure a smooth journey from coast to coast.

DC iconArrow iconCalifornia icon

Best Washington to Santa Ana Moving Companies

Company NameRating QuestionBBB RatingLicenseContact
Pure Moving9.64A+Authorized For HHGContact
Bookstore Movers9.60A+Authorized For HHGContact
Mic's Moving9.60NRAuthorized For HHGContact
Ap Pro Moving Llc9.44NRActiveContact
Terry Moving & Storage9.37A+Authorized For HHGContact
Phone (800) 787-5428
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Santa Ana to Washington guide.

5 Best Washington to Santa Ana Moving Companies

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

Pure Moving Logo
Exceptional9.64/10
based on 8,688+ data points

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 >>

Services

  • Residential moving
  • Commercial moving
  • Long-distance moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 10/18/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3207734 / 1115049

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers1
Total Annual Miles Moved100,000 (2022)
View Full Review
1
Bookstore Movers Logo
Exceptional9.60/10
based on 6,631+ data points

About Bookstore Movers

Locally owned and operated, Bookstore Movers was founded in 2005 with a dedication to customer service, personalization, and small business ...Read More >>

Services

  • Local moving
  • Long-distance moving
  • Cross-country moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 9/15/2021)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2005212 / 707471

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans21
Registered Drivers21
Total Annual Miles Moved153,245 (2019)
View Full Review
2
Mic's Moving Logo
Exceptional9.60/10
based on 4,108+ data points

About Mic's Moving

Mic's Moving is a locally owned and operated moving company that focuses on providing a personalized moving experience to residential and co...Read More >>

Services

  • Local Move
  • Long Distance Moving
  • Labor Only: Loading, Unloading and In-house moves

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 9/14/2021)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2474176 / 856657

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans7
Registered Drivers7
Total Annual Miles Moved40,000 (2019)
View Full Review
3
Ap Pro Moving Llc Logo
Exceptional9.44/10
based on 361+ data points

About Ap Pro Moving Llc

Ap Pro Moving LLC is a reliable and professional moving company based in Arlington, VA. They offer various services such as local moving, lo...Read More >>

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Long Distance Moving
  • Packing Services

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 9/6/2022)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3338902 / -

Active

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved4,000 (2021)
View Full Review
4
Terry Moving & Storage Logo
Exceptional9.37/10
based on 2,308+ data points

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 >>

Services

  • Local Move
  • Interstate Move
  • Packing Services

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 10/18/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

649215 / 306297

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans11
Registered Drivers11
Total Annual Miles Moved315,000 (2022)
View Full Review
5
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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.

Washington vs. Santa Ana Neighborhood Comparison

If you're moving from Washington DC, DC to Santa Ana, CA, understanding the neighborhoods can make your transition smoother. This guide will compare the local neighborhoods between Washington DC, DC and Santa Ana, CA, providing you with a familiar baseline to help you feel at home more quickly.

WashingtonSanta AnaHow They're Similar
GeorgetownFloral ParkHistoric charm, upscale dining
Dupont CircleArtist's VillageVibrant nightlife, arts scene
Capitol HillFrench ParkHistoric homes, political vibe
Adams MorganDowntown Santa AnaMulticultural, bustling nightlife
U Street CorridorEast EndMusic venues, urban culture
West EndSouth Coast MetroMix of residential and commercial spaces
Penn QuarterCity PlaceUrban living, modern amenities
Foggy BottomBristol Street AreaProximity to educational institutions
Logan CirclePark SantiagoResidential charm, local parks
ShawSanta Ana TriangleCultural diversity, close-knit community

If you love the historic charm and upscale dining of Georgetown, you'll feel right at home in Santa Ana's Floral Park. Explore its beautifully preserved homes and stylish restaurants like Tangata. Meanwhile, Artist's Village in Santa Ana, with its vibrant nightlife and arts scene, is a great match for Dupont Circle. You can enjoy local galleries and live performances at Artists Village Artwalk. For those who frequent the music venues and urban culture of U Street Corridor, Santa Ana’s East End offers a similar vibe with spots like 4th Street Market enhancing the area's eclectic atmosphere. Explore these neighborhoods and discover how the familiar charm of Washington DC can be found in the vibrant streets of Santa Ana.

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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 Washington to Santa Ana

Considering a move from Washington DC, DC to Santa Ana, CA? This guide offers a balanced look at what you're leaving behind and what awaits you. By comparing the pros and cons, you'll get an honest reflection of the journey ahead, helping you prepare for the transition.

CONs
PROs
Washington, DC iconWashington, DC
  • High living costs
  • Harsh winters
  • Heavy traffic
  • Political climate
Santa Ana, CA iconSanta Ana, CA
  • Lower living costs
  • Sunny weather
  • Less congestion
  • Laid-back vibe
Santa Ana, CA iconSanta Ana, CA
  • Fewer landmarks
  • Less variety
  • Different job market
  • Smaller parks
Washington, DC iconWashington, DC
  • Cultural landmarks
  • Diverse dining
  • Robust job market
  • Parks and greenery

While the thought of leaving behind Washington DC's rich tapestry of cultural landmarks like the Smithsonian and the National Mall can be daunting, Santa Ana welcomes newcomers with its own vibrant arts scene, exemplified by the Bowers Museum and the Discovery Cube. On the dining front, although you might miss DC's diverse culinary options, Santa Ana's thriving food scene, including hotspots such as Playground and 4th Street Market, offers a plethora of flavors that promise not to disappoint. Moreover, the transition from the bustling city life of DC to Santa Ana's more laid-back atmosphere can be a breath of fresh air, providing an opportunity for a more relaxed lifestyle, while still offering access to Orange County's dynamic job market and picturesque surroundings.

Washington vs. Santa Ana Food Guide

This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Washington DC & Santa Ana to give you a better understanding of what dining and culinary delights await you. Considering food is an important aspect of any local culture and significantly impacts the living experience of an area, this comparison will equip you with the necessary insights about where you're relocating.

WashingtonSanta Ana
Most iconic local food itemHalf-smokeTacos
Most popular meat dishMumbo sauce wingsCarne asada
Most popular street food itemJumbo slice pizzaStreet tacos
Most popular vegan foodVegan chiliVegan tacos
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Ben's Chili Bowl
  • Zaytinya
  • Rosa's Thai Cafe
  • 4th Street Market
  • Taco María
  • Playground
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

In Washington DC, the culinary scene is as diverse as its population, offering an array of dishes from around the world. The half-smoke, a local delicacy available at places like Ben's Chili Bowl, symbolizes the city's unique food identity. Moving to Santa Ana, the Mexican influence is unmistakable with its vibrant street food scene dominated by tacos, especially the renowned carne asada. Santa Ana's Taco María stands out for its innovative approach to traditional dishes. Transitioning from the bustling streets of Washington DC to the laid-back vibes of Santa Ana, you'll find the culinary exploration to be an exciting aspect of your new locale.

Washington vs. Santa Ana Restaurant Comparison

Finding comfort in a new city often begins at the dinner table, where the flavors and atmosphere can make anywhere feel like home. This comparison of top restaurants from Washington DC to Santa Ana will guide you in discovering your next favorite dining spots, using your current local favorites as a reference point.

WashingtonSanta AnaWhat You'll Love
Le DiplomateLa Petite SourieOffers a similarly upscale French dining experience with a focus on classic dishes.
ZaytinyaIstanbul Grill CaliforniaProvides an authentic Mediterranean taste with a diverse menu reminiscent of Zaytinya’s.
RasikaAdyaContemporary Indian flavors that mirror Rasika’s innovative approach to traditional dishes.
Ben's Chili BowlSanta Ana's Benjies DeliIconic diner vibes with hearty, comfort food staples.
Fiola MareThe Harbor GrillSeafood offerings and a sophisticated atmosphere that rivals Fiola Mare’s waterfront dining experience.
Rose's LuxuryPlaygroundOffers a creative and ever-changing menu of American cuisine, akin to the experience at Rose's Luxury.
Little SerowBamboo BistroKnown for its Southeast Asian cuisine, providing a similar intimate and flavorful dining journey.
The DabneyMix Mix Kitchen BarShowcases local and seasonal ingredients in inventive dishes, reflecting The Dabney’s commitment to regional foods.
2 AmysIl Dolce PizzeriaAuthentic Neapolitan pizzas that attract aficionados just as 2 Amys does in DC.
Bad SaintIreniaOffers elevated Filipino cuisine that brings the innovative and bold flavors similar to what one finds at Bad Saint.

When searching for dining experiences that resonate with the culinary diversity of Washington DC, Santa Ana emerges with captivating options. Discover the vibrant and authentic Mediterranean flavors at Istanbul Grill California, reminiscent of the lively dining atmosphere found at Zaytinya. For those craving the warmth of Indian spices complemented by an innovative twist, Adya presents a compelling counterpart to Rasika's esteemed menu. Meanwhile, seafood enthusiasts who relish the sophisticated, waterfront dining experience of Fiola Mare will find solace at The Harbor Grill, where the freshness of the sea is served in an elegantly casual setting. Each of these establishments in Santa Ana provides a unique dining adventure, promising to make your transition from Washington DC not just a change in location, but an expansion of your culinary horizons.

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Ready to start your move?

Washington vs. Santa Ana Real Estate & Living Facts

When planning a move, comparing the real estate landscape between Washington DC and Santa Ana is crucial. This comparison sheds light on housing costs, architectural styles, and the overall lifestyle you can expect in each city, helping you make an informed decision.

ComparisonWashingtonSanta Ana
Typical Architecture StyleFederal and VictorianSpanish Colonial Revival
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingProximity to Metro, historic charmProximity to beaches, family-friendly

The numbers reveal that Santa Ana's median home price is slightly higher than Washington DC's, although rental costs are somewhat lower. This suggests a tight housing market in both cities but with variances in cost of living and housing availability. Architecture enthusiasts might appreciate the contrast between Washington DC's Federal and Victorian styles and Santa Ana's distinctive Spanish Colonial Revival aesthetics. Furthermore, while Washington DC boasts higher walkability, Santa Ana offers superior bikeability, indicating a potential preference for cyclists. These distinctions paint a broader picture of lifestyle differences between the two, with Santa Ana leaning more towards a laid-back, family-friendly atmosphere, contrasted by Washington DC's urban vibrancy and historical allure.

Washington vs. Santa Ana Weather Considerations

When planning a move, understanding the weather differences between your current location and your destination is crucial. This comparison between Washington DC and Santa Ana highlights key climatic variances. It's designed to prepare you for what to expect and help you adjust to your new surroundings.

Summer icon
87°F / 71°F

Washington, DC

83°F / 64°F

Santa Ana, CA

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
47°F / 29°F

Washington, DC

70°F / 48°F

Santa Ana, CA

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
40.8"

Washington, DC

13.2"

Santa Ana, CA

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
15.4"

Washington, DC

0"

Santa Ana, CA

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonWashingtonSanta Ana
Air QualityModerateGood
Natural DisastersHurricanes, FloodsEarthquakes, Wildfires
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

Moving from Washington DC to Santa Ana brings a significant change in weather, especially in terms of sunshine and winter temperatures. Santa Ana enjoys more sunny days and milder winters, making it an appealing destination for those looking to escape the colder, more variable climate of Washington DC. However, it's worth noting that Santa Ana faces different natural disaster risks, including earthquakes and wildfires, compared to the hurricanes and floods of Washington DC. Additionally, the drastic decrease in annual rainfall and absence of snow in Santa Ana compared to Washington DC highlights the stark contrast in precipitation between these two cities.

Ready to start your move?

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

When planning a move, understanding how your finances will adjust is crucial. Comparing the financial landscape of Washington DC and Santa Ana offers insight into the cost of living, taxation, and economic conditions you'll encounter. This comparison aims to prepare you for the financial transition.

ComparisonWashingtonSanta Ana
Avg. Household Income$90,088$80,265
Cost of Living Index140.1136.4
State Income Tax8.59.3
Avg. Property Tax0.560.72
Avg. Sales Tax6.07.75
Top 3 IndustriesGovernment, Professional Services, EducationManufacturing, Retail, Education
AffluenceHighModerate
PovertyModerateHigher
HomelessnessSignificantSignificant

When transitioning from Washington DC to Santa Ana, you'll find certain financial aspects like average household income and the cost of living index are notably different. While Santa Ana enjoys a slightly lower cost of living index, it also exhibits a moderately lower average household income compared to Washington DC. However, state and sales taxes are slightly higher in California, affecting your net income. The industrial landscape shifts from a government and professionally driven economy in DC to a more diverse manufacturing, retail, and education-focused economy in Santa Ana. This could influence job opportunities based on your sector. Also, affluence and poverty levels adjust with the move, indicating a different socio-economic environment that might influence community services and support systems available to you.

Washington vs. Santa Ana Political & Religious Comparison

When considering a move from one city to another, understanding the lay of the land politically and religiously can be quite enlightening. This guide provides a comparison of the politics between Washington DC & Santa Ana , offering a quick snapshot of what you might expect from your new neighbors in both political leanings and religious affiliations.

WashingtonSanta Ana
Political Make-upHeavily DemocraticDemocratic leaning
Local PoliticsFocus on federal government proximityEmphasis on local government and community issues
ReligionDiverse religious landscapeHigh Catholic population, diverse religious communities

In comparison, residents of Washington DC generally show strong Democratic support, influenced by the city's close ties to federal government operations and decisions that impact the nation and world. This is slightly different in Santa Ana, where the Democratic leaning persists yet with a stronger emphasis on local governance and community issues. Religion in Santa Ana has a significant representation of Catholic followers, reflective of its diverse community, which is similar to Washington DC's broad religious landscape. If you're moving from Washington DC to Santa Ana, expect to find a community engaged in local politics with a rich mosaic of religious affiliations that might differ yet share similarities in terms of overall diversity.

Washington vs. Santa Ana Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving from Washington DC to Santa Ana, CA? This guide will help you better understand the daily commute and traffic is like by comparing the traffic and transportation options between Washington DC & Santa Ana. Knowing these differences will prepare you for the change in your daily travel.

ComparisonWashingtonSanta Ana
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)34.425.6
Traffic Congestion 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦
Availability of Public Transit 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇
Can you get by without car?YesNo

In Washington DC, the public transportation system is highly regarded, with options like the Metro and various bus services making it possible to live without a personal vehicle. In contrast, Santa Ana, while having public transit options such as OCTA buses, isn't as transit-friendly, making a car almost a necessity for getting around efficiently. Another notable difference is the average commute time; Washington DC has a noticeably longer commute time compared to Santa Ana, which can be attributed to the higher traffic congestion in the nation's capital.

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