Moving from Durham to Santa Ana?

5 Best Movers and Your Ultimate Moving Guide

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Durham to Santa Ana Movers

Embracing the journey from Durham, the heart of academic and tech innovation, to Santa Ana, a sun-kissed paradise known for its vibrant culture, represents an exciting pivot in life's adventures. You're transitioning from the Bull City's historic charm and research-driven atmosphere to the Golden City's endless summer and bustling streets. Recognizing the importance of a seamless transition, we highlight the paramount significance of entrusting your move to professional, reliable movers, ensuring this long-distance leap turns into a smooth, stress-free experience.

North Carolina iconArrow iconCalifornia icon
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Santa Ana to Durham guide.

5 Best Durham to Santa Ana 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

Location DotSanta Monica, CA
GearResidential moving, Commercial moving, Long-distance moving See More
Circle CheckAuthorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/11/2024)

Circle DotUSDOT: 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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top 3 ranked movers in santa ana 2023 pure movers santa monica image
top 3 ranked movers in santa monica 2022 pure movers santa monica image
#2
Raleigh Moving Company Logo
Exceptional

based on 954+ data points

Location DotRaleigh, NC
GearFree estimates, Full Value Protection (FVP), Fully licensed and insured See More
Circle CheckAuthorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/14/2021)

Circle DotUSDOT: 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

Location DotLake Forest, CA
GearLocal Move, Interstate Move, Packing Services See More
Circle CheckAuthorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/11/2024)

Circle DotUSDOT: 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

Location DotRaleigh, NC
GearLocal Moving Services, Long Distance Moving Services, Commercial Moving Services See More
Circle CheckAuthorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/10/2024)

Circle DotUSDOT: 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
RDU Delivered Logo
Exceptional

based on 512+ data points

Location DotRaleigh, NC
GearLong Distance Moving, Furniture Assembly, Wrapping Services See More
Circle CheckAuthorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/10/2024)

Circle DotUSDOT: 2815544 Verify

About RDU Delivered

RDU Delivered is a professional moving and relocation company that has been in business since 2013. They specialize in long distance moves a...Read More >>

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Relocating from Durham to Santa Ana Neighborhood Guide

Moving to a new city can be daunting, but familiarizing yourself with its neighborhoods can make the transition smoother. This comparison of Durham, NC & Santa Ana, CA neighborhoods helps you match your favorite spots with a new local favorite, easing the adjustment to your new home.

DurhamSanta Ana
Trinity ParkFloral Park

Historic homes and community feel

Old North DurhamHeninger Park

Historic ambiance, artistic vibe

Warehouse DistrictArtist Village

Vibrant arts scene and nightlife

American Tobacco DistrictDowntown Santa Ana

Bustling urban center with dining

Hope ValleyWashington Square

Quiet, family-friendly atmosphere

Watts-HillandaleWest Floral Park

Lush landscapes and peaceful streets

Duke ParkPark Santiago

Green spaces, tight-knit community

Brightleaf Square4th Street Market

Food scene, urban charm

RockwoodMorrison Park

Similar suburban feel with amenities

Forest HillsFisher Park

Quiet, upscale living with historic touches

If the historic charm and tight-knit community of Trinity Park caught your heart in Durham, you'll find a similar vibe awaiting in Santa Ana's Floral Park, where historic homes line the streets, evoking a sense of timeless elegance. Lovers of Durham's vibrant Warehouse District, with its bustling nightlife and artistic fervor, will feel right at home in Santa Ana's Artist Village, a hub for creativity and gatherings. And for those who appreciated the heritage and dining options of Durham's American Tobacco District, Downtown Santa Ana offers an eclectic mix of culinary delights and cultural experiences, mirroring the urban vibrancy with its rich history and modern flair. These carefully matched neighborhoods ensure you can find a slice of Durham's spirit in the heart 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 Durham to Santa Ana

Moving from one city to another is a significant decision that entails weighing both the positive and negative aspects of such a change. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of relocating from Durham, NC to Santa Ana, CA, highlighting the contrasts in living conditions, climate, and lifestyle. By examining how Durham's drawbacks contrast with Santa Ana's advantages, and vice versa, this guide will help you make a well-informed decision.

CONs
PROs
Durham, NC iconDurham, NC
  • Smaller job market
  • Higher humidity
  • Less diverse cuisine
  • Fewer cultural attractions
Santa Ana, CA iconSanta Ana, CA
  • Larger job market
  • Milder climate
  • Diverse cuisine options
  • More cultural attractions
Santa Ana, CA iconSanta Ana, CA
  • Higher cost of living
  • Less greenery
  • More urban
  • More traffic congestion
Durham, NC iconDurham, NC
  • Lower cost of living
  • Lush greenery
  • Smaller community feel
  • Less traffic congestion

Moving to Santa Ana, CA from Durham, NC introduces you to a vibrant array of dining options including the renowned 4th Street Market in Downtown Santa Ana, a food lover's paradise. While you might miss the lush parklands such as Durham's West Point on the Eno, Santa Ana offers its own natural escape with the beautiful Santiago Park. Furthermore, despite the higher living costs in Santa Ana, the city's strong job market in tech and healthcare offers new economic opportunities. For art and culture enthusiasts, the Bowers Museum and the vibrant arts scene in the downtown area present a diverse array of cultural experiences that are hard to find elsewhere.

Food Scene Guide When Moving from Durham to Santa Ana

This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Durham & Santa Ana, highlighting the importance of food as an integral part of local culture and living experience. Discover what culinary delights await you in your new home to make an informed decision about embracing the local food scene.

DurhamSanta Ana

Most iconic local food item

North Carolina BBQ
Tacos Al Pastor

Most popular meat dish

Pulled Pork Sandwich
Carne Asada

Most popular street food item

Food Truck Tacos
Street Tacos

Most popular vegan food

BBQ Jackfruit
Vegan Tacos

Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city

  • Piedmont Restaurant
  • Poole's Diner
  • Bull City Burger and Brewery
  • Taqueria Guadalajara
  • Playground
  • 4th Street Market

Fitness/Health Conscientiousness

7
8

Abundance of Food Trucks

8
9

Foodie Scene

7
9

Vegan Friendly

6
8

In Durham, the love for BBQ, especially the North Carolina BBQ, is evident in many local joints, but if you're moving to Santa Ana, you'll transition from BBQ plates to taco stands representing the rich Mexican culinary heritage. Santa Ana boasts a vibrant foodie scene, especially known for its authentic Mexican cuisine like Tacos Al Pastor and Carne Asada. You can explore these flavors in bustling neighborhoods such as Downtown Santa Ana, where eateries like Taqueria Guadalajara and 4th Street Market serve as hubs for both locals and visitors. The city's food truck culture and vegan-friendly options signify its adaptability to modern dietary preferences and the growing demand for diverse and health-conscious choices.

Restaurant Guide for Moving from Durham to Santa Ana

When planning a move, finding new favorite eateries is essential to making an area feel like home. This restaurant comparison between Durham, NC, and Santa Ana, CA, will help guide your culinary journey, connecting you with places where you can savor familiar flavors and discover new favorites. Whether you're in the mood for a high-end dining experience, a casual meal, or a unique foodie adventure, this comparison will help ease your transition and enrich your dining experiences in your new city.

Mateo Bar de TapasEl Mercado Modern Cuisine

Modern Latin American cuisine offering a twist similar to Mateo's Spanish tapas.

Pizzeria ToroIl Dolce Pizzeria

Stone-fired pizzas with an artisanal touch, mirroring Pizzeria Toro's commitment to quality and flavor.

Bull City Burger and BreweryBurger Parlor

Offers creative burgers and craft beers, evoking a similar vibe to Bull City's locally sourced approach.

Dame's Chicken and WafflesBruxie

Known for its waffle sandwiches, Bruxie provides a different but equally comforting and innovative approach to combining chicken and waffles.

SushiokiSushi Damu

Conveyer belt sushi offering a fun and varied dining experience akin to Sushioki's fusion rolls.

Guglhupf Bakery, Cafe & BiergartenBäcoShop

Though more centered on sandwiches, BäcoShop offers a unique take on bakery and café culture, with an inviting ambiance like Guglhupf.

The PitHeritage Barbecue

Pit-smoked barbecue that rivals The Pit's commitment to traditional methods and deep flavors.

Toast PaninotecaMendez Cafe

Delivers high-quality sandwiches with a focus on fresh ingredients, similar to Toast's artisan approach.

Nana's RestaurantCrave

A dining experience that offers an upscale and intimate setting, with a focus on seasonal cuisine akin to Nana's.

Joe Van GoghPortola Coffee Roasters

Artisanal coffee roasters with a focus on craft and community, echoing Joe Van Gogh's ethos.

Embarking on a journey to find your new go-to eateries in Santa Ana can be as exciting as discovering a hidden gem in Durham. For instance, El Mercado Modern Cuisine's imaginative take on Latin American flavors invites adventurous diners, similar to the experience at Mateo Bar de Tapas. Burger aficionados moving from Durham will be pleasantly surprised by Burger Parlor's inventive toppings and craft beer selection, conjuring a familiar yet fresh experience akin to that of Bull City Burger and Brewery. Meanwhile, those seeking a cozy café vibe akin to Joe Van Gogh's will find solace and sophistication in the craft coffees at Portola Coffee Roasters, ensuring your morning ritual remains uninterrupted. Embrace these culinary pivots as a way to not only find new favorite spots but also to explore and integrate into the vibrant culture of Santa Ana.

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Ready to start your move?

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

Understanding the nuances of real estate is critical in any relocation journey. This comparison will highlight the key differences and similarities in housing between Durham, NC and Santa Ana, CA, focusing on aspects such as cost, architecture, and lifestyle. This insight aims to prepare you for what to expect, ensuring a smoother transition.

While the median home price in Santa Ana greatly exceeds that of Durham, reflecting the broader trend of higher cost of living in California, the uptick in walkability, bikeability, and urban lifestyle scores indicate a trade-off many find worthwhile. Santa Ana's real estate listings often highlight proximity to vibrant downtown areas and emphasis on energy-efficient homes, catering to those who prioritize environmental concerns and urban convenience. In contrast, Durham’s real estate market appeals to those looking for a quieter, more spacious setup, as seen in listings that frequently mention spacious backyards and tranquil neighborhoods. These contrasting highlights between Durham and Santa Ana reflect each city's unique lifestyle and priorities, guiding prospective residents in making informed decisions.

Weather Considerations for Moving from Durham to Santa Ana

When planning a move from Durham, NC to Santa Ana, CA, it's crucial to understand how the weather impacts your decision. This comparison will show you what to expect in terms of climate differences between Durham and Santa Ana , helping you prepare for your new environment.

Summer icon
89/71

Durham, NC

83/64

Santa Ana, CA

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
50/32

Durham, NC

70/48

Santa Ana, CA

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
41

Durham, NC

14

Santa Ana, CA

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
4

Durham, NC

0

Santa Ana, CA

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

In moving from Durham to Santa Ana, you'll notice a significant increase in sunny days and a milder winter climate. Santa Ana enjoys a Mediterranean climate with mild winters and warm summers, contrasting Durham's humid subtropical climate that includes hot summers and cooler winters with occasional snowfall. Furthermore, while Durham experiences higher humidity and more rainfall, Santa Ana benefits from lower humidity and significantly less rainfall. These differences can greatly affect your daily life, from the type of clothes you'll wear to outdoor activities you may engage in and even allergen exposure.

Ready to start your move?

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

If you're considering a move from one city to another, grasping the financial contrasts between your current and future home is vital. This guide offers a side-by-side comparison on crucial money and finance aspects between Durham and Santa Ana, aiming to make your transition as informed as possible.

While the average household income in Santa Ana is higher than in Durham, the cost of living index significantly surpasses Durham's, implying more expensive daily expenses. The state income tax in California is nearly double that of North Carolina, which could impact your take-home pay. However, Santa Ana's sales tax rate is also higher, potentially affecting your overall budget. Despite these differences, both cities excel in diverse industries offering a range of job opportunities. By understanding these key financial aspects, you can better prepare for a smooth transition to your new home.

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

Embarking on a new chapter from Durham, NC to Santa Ana, CA? Gain insights through a quick, at-a-glance snapshot highlighting the comparison of the politics and religious makeup between Durham & Santa Ana. Understand what drives the communities you’re moving from and to.

DurhamSanta Ana

Political Make-up

LiberalLiberal

Local Politics

Democratic DominanceDemocratic Tendencies

Religion

Christianity Predominant, with diverse religious communitiesMajorly Christian, significant Catholic presence

While both Durham and Santa Ana share a liberal political leaning, the nuances in local politics and religion offer a fascinating peek into the local cultures. In Durham, the Democratic Party holds significant influence, amidst a backdrop of various faiths contributing to its cultural mosaic. Santa Ana, although similarly liberal, showcases a pronounced level of Catholic influence within its predominantly Christian demographics. This diversity reflects not just in the places of worship but also in the community events and local businesses, offering a rich tableau for newcomers to explore and integrate into.

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

When planning a move, understanding the differences in daily commute and traffic can greatly ease your transition. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Durham & Santa Ana is designed to give you a clear picture of what to expect in both cities, helping to plan your daily routines accordingly.

DurhamSanta Ana
2427

Avg Commute Time (in minutes)

47

Traffic Congestion (out of 10)

36

Availability of Public Transit (out of 10)

Possible but challengingDifficult

Can you get by without car?

In Durham, the average commute time is slightly less, and the city experiences lower traffic congestion compared to Santa Ana. Public transportation options are more limited in Durham, suggesting that having a car may be more necessary. In Santa Ana, despite higher traffic congestion, there's better access to public transit, making getting around a bit more manageable for those who prefer not to drive. However, in both cities, leading a car-free lifestyle can be challenging, pointing towards a need for some form of personal or shared transportation for convenience.

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