Moving from Raleigh to Santa Ana?

5 Best Movers and Your Ultimate Moving Guide

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Raleigh to Santa Ana Movers

Moving from the oak-lined streets of Raleigh, the "City of Oaks," to the sunny, palm-fringed boulevards of Santa Ana, the "Golden City," marks an exhilarating chapter in your life. You’re transitioning from the renowned Research Triangle's heart to a vibrant cultural hub within the sprawling LA metropolitan area. Embracing such a dramatic change underscores the crucial need for reliable and trusted professionals to manage your move; that’s where we step in, ensuring your adventure starts on the right foot.

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

5 Best Raleigh 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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top 10 ranked movers in rocky mount 2023 raleigh moving company image
top 10 ranked movers in rocky mount 2022 raleigh moving company image
#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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top 10 ranked movers in orange 2023 terry moving storage 1 image
top 10 ranked movers in orange 2022 terry moving storage 1 image
#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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top ranked movers in raleigh 2023 athens moving experts image
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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 Raleigh to Santa Ana Neighborhood Guide

Embarking on a moving journey can be daunting, especially when transitioning between cities. To ease this process, we've crafted a comparison between Raleigh, NC & Santa Ana, CA neighborhoods . This guide aims to help you find a new community in Santa Ana that feels like home, by presenting the closest equivalents to the beloved Raleigh neighborhoods you're familiar with.

RaleighSanta Ana
North HillsFloral Park

Boutique shopping, local dining

Cameron VillageWest Floral Park

Historic homes, community vibe

Five PointsHeninger Park

Diverse, artsy atmosphere

Boylan HeightsWashington Square

Historic charm, tight-knit community

MordecaiFrench Park

Period homes, lush landscapes

Hayes BartonPark Santiago

Elegant homes, quiet streets

Warehouse DistrictDowntown Santa Ana

Urban, vibrant arts scene

Glenwood SouthArtist Village

Nightlife, cultural events

Oberlin VillageLacy

Diverse, historic, community-oriented

StonehengePortola Park

Family-friendly, outdoor activities

Exploring these neighborhoods further, if you enjoyed the vibrant, artsy vibe of Five Points in Raleigh, you'll find a similar spirit in Heninger Park, Santa Ana, where street art and galleries add color to everyday life. For those who appreciate the historic charm and lush landscapes of Mordecai, French Park offers an equivalent sense of history and greenery. It's not just about the houses; it's about experiencing the community. In Floral Park, you can enjoy a stroll down tree-lined streets and discover unique boutiques and restaurants, echoing the boutique shopping experience North Hills is known for. Whether you're taking your dog for a walk in Park Santiago or grabbing a coffee in West Floral Park, you’ll find that Santa Ana's neighborhoods offer a blend of attractions and amenities that can make your transition from Raleigh feel like you've simply found a new place to call home.

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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 Raleigh to Santa Ana

Moving from one city to another involves weighing the benefits against the drawbacks to make the best decision for you and your family. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Raleigh, NC to Santa Ana, CA, giving you a balanced view of what to expect. Let's take a closer look at the pros and cons of this significant move.

CONs
PROs
Raleigh, NC iconRaleigh, NC
  • Higher humidity
  • Fewer cultural attractions
  • Less beach access
Santa Ana, CA iconSanta Ana, CA
  • Milder climate
  • Greater diversity
  • Close to beaches
Santa Ana, CA iconSanta Ana, CA
  • Higher cost of living
  • Less green spaces
  • Different social vibe
Raleigh, NC iconRaleigh, NC
  • Lower cost of living
  • Lush greenery
  • Friendly communities

When considering a move from Raleigh, NC, to Santa Ana, CA, you're trading the familiarity of Raleigh’s lush, green parks like Pullen Park for the sunny beaches and vibrant cultural scene of Santa Ana, including popular spots such as the Santa Ana Zoo and the diverse dining options along Historic South Main Street. While Raleigh boasts a more laid-back community vibe and a lower cost of living, Santa Ana offers an exciting mix of outdoor activities and cultural richness, including renowned museums like the Bowers Museum. The move will see you embracing a milder climate and greater diversity in Santa Ana, albeit with a higher cost of living and potentially less green space than Raleigh's expansive parklands. However, the proximity to California's iconic beaches and the dynamic social and cultural scene may well compensate for these changes.

Food Scene Guide When Moving from Raleigh to Santa Ana

This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Raleigh & Santa Ana—an essential element when considering a move. Understanding the food scene plays a vital role in grasping the local culture and what daily life might taste like in your new city. Here, we'll delve into the culinary profiles of both, offering insights to help you feel more at home with your choice.

RaleighSanta Ana

Most iconic local food item

North Carolina BBQ
Mexican Street Tacos

Most popular meat dish

Pulled Pork
Carnitas

Most popular street food item

Hot Dogs
Tacos

Most popular vegan food

Cauliflower Buffalo Wings
Veggie Tacos

Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city

  • Poole's Diner
  • Brewery Bhavana
  • Bida Manda
  • Playground
  • 4th Street Market
  • Taco María

Fitness/Health Conscientiousness

7
8

Abundance of Food Trucks

7
9

Foodie Scene

8
9

Vegan Friendly

7
8

In Raleigh, the smell of North Carolina BBQ often fills the air, especially around joints like Poole's Diner, which is among the locals' favorites for that authentic pulled pork experience. For those moving to Santa Ana, the vibrant Mexican food scene is a significant draw. The streets are bustling with food trucks serving an array of Mexican street tacos, each with their unique twist on this classic dish. Neighborhoods like Downtown Santa Ana are teeming with culinary delights, especially in places like 4th Street Market, which offers a mix of contemporary and traditional dishes catering to both vegan and meat-eaters alike. Whether you're craving the hearty flavors of Raleigh or the zesty tastes of Santa Ana, each city promises an exciting culinary adventure.

Restaurant Guide for Moving from Raleigh to Santa Ana

Finding culinary comforts in a new city can truly make it feel like home. This restaurant comparison will help bridge the move from Raleigh, NC, to Santa Ana, CA, guiding you to your next favorite spot for memorable meals. Whether you're craving high-end dining, casual bites, or unique foodie experiences, this comparison aims to map your taste from the familiar to the new.

Bida MandaMix Mix Kitchen Bar

Offers a globally inspired menu, similar to Bida Manda's diverse Laotian flavors.

Poole's DinerPlayground

Known for its inventive American cuisine, matching Poole's Diner's approach to classics.

Beasley's Chicken + HoneyCrispy Fried Chicken

Offers a comfort food experience with a focus on fried chicken, akin to Beasley's.

Brewery BhavanaChapter One: The Modern Local

Similar vibe as a brewery with an innovative and diverse menu.

Crawford and SonTerrace by Mix Mix

Presents high-end dining with creative dishes, echoing Crawford and Son's culinary artistry.

GarlandAnepalco

Offers a fusion of flavors that reminisce Garland's take on modern Pan-Asian cuisine.

The PitHeritage Barbecue

Californian BBQ that stands up to The Pit's reputation for soul-satisfying smoked meats.

Death & TaxesVaca

Known for its steaks and cocktails, providing an upscale dining experience similar to Death & Taxes.

Angus BarnThe Ranch Restaurant

Offers a premier steakhouse experience, closely mirroring Angus Barn's rustic elegance.

Neomonde MediterraneanMediterranean Grill

Similar in serving hearty, health-conscious Mediterranean dishes as Neomonde does.

If you're transitioning from Raleigh's diverse culinary scene to the vibrant dining culture of Santa Ana, you'll discover places that resonate with your palate. For aficionados of modern Pan-Asian fare, Garland's innovative menu finds a counterpart in Anepalco, where fusion flavors are celebrated. BBQ enthusiasts accustomed to The Pit will appreciate Heritage Barbecue's dedication to traditional smoking techniques and bold flavors. Those seeking an upscale dining experience similar to Death & Taxes will find Vaca's steaks and cocktails a welcome haven. By exploring these establishments, you'll not only satisfy your cravings but also start weaving your very own tapestry of memorable dining experiences in your new city.

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Ready to start your move?

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

Real estate deeply influences the moving experience, making a comparison between Raleigh, NC and Santa Ana, CA vital for understanding housing options . This analysis will help you weigh the cost, architecture, and lifestyle the two cities offer.

When comparing housing between Raleigh and Santa Ana, several key differences emerge. Raleigh, with its more affordable median home prices and rents, offers traditional Colonial and Craftsman-style homes, often featuring spacious yards and bonus rooms. This contrasts with Santa Ana's higher housing costs and preference for Spanish Colonial and Modern architecture, highlighting energy efficiency and proximity to urban amenities. Despite the higher cost of living, Santa Ana scores better in terms of walkability, bikeability, and urban lifestyle, indicating a more connected and dynamic environment compared to Raleigh's quieter suburban feel.

Weather Considerations for Moving from Raleigh to Santa Ana

Moving from one city to another introduces a myriad of changes, with weather being a significant factor for consideration. Understanding how weather compares between Raleigh, North Carolina and Santa Ana, California is crucial in preparing for your new environment.

Summer icon
89/68

Raleigh, NC

83/64

Santa Ana, CA

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
50/30

Raleigh, NC

70/47

Santa Ana, CA

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
43

Raleigh, NC

14

Santa Ana, CA

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
6

Raleigh, NC

0

Santa Ana, CA

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

Transitioning from Raleigh to Santa Ana, you'll experience more sunny days and milder winters, perfect for outdoor activities year-round. The significant difference in annual rainfall, with Santa Ana receiving much less, reflects the arid climate of Southern California compared to the more humid conditions back in Raleigh. Moreover, while each city faces its own type of natural disasters, understanding local emergency preparedness in Santa Ana for earthquakes and wildfires will be vital. Similarly, the lower humidity in Santa Ana might be a welcome change, but it's essential to adapt to the unique allergy triggers and invest in air quality improvements for your home.

Ready to start your move?

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

When planning a move from one city to another, it’s crucial to grasp how financial factors will differ. This comparison between Raleigh, NC, and Santa Ana, CA, highlights the purpose of understanding your future cost of living and financial landscape before making the leap.

Moving from Raleigh, NC, to Santa Ana, CA, involves significantly different financial considerations. The average household income is higher in Santa Ana, which might initially seem positive, but it's vital to understand this increase is met with a substantially higher cost of living, driven by housing, food, and transportation costs. State income tax is nearly double that of North Carolina, chipping away at the perceived income advantage. However, the robust economic environment of Santa Ana, fueled by its leading industries, offers diverse job opportunities. Awareness of these economic disparities ensures you're better prepared for the financial implications of your move.

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

This short comparison provides an at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents in Raleigh, NC, and Santa Ana, CA . Whether you're curious about the community vibes, local politics, or predominant faiths, this guide offers insight into what you can expect when moving from Raleigh to Santa Ana.

RaleighSanta Ana

Political Make-up

Lean DemocraticStrongly Democratic

Local Politics

Moderate with a growing progressive movementProgressive, with strong community engagement

Religion

Christian majority with a diverse religious landscapePrimarily Christian, significant Catholic presence

When moving from Raleigh to Santa Ana, you'll find yourself transitioning from a city with a balanced political climate to one with a more pronounced Democratic leaning. Santa Ana's local politics reflect a high level of community engagement in progressive causes, which can be a significant shift from the moderate but slowly evolving political scene in Raleigh. Religion-wise, both cities boast a Christian majority, but you'll notice Santa Ana's distinct Catholic influence, reflective of its Hispanic heritage. This could introduce you to new cultural experiences and communities, from St. Joseph's Catholic Church in Santa Ana to the variety of non-denominational churches in Raleigh.

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

Moving from Raleigh, NC, to Santa Ana, CA, brings significant changes, especially when it comes to your daily commute and traffic. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Raleigh & Santa Ana is designed to help you better understand what to expect as you navigate through your new city.

RaleighSanta Ana
2527

Avg Commute Time (in minutes)

68

Traffic Congestion (out of 10)

47

Availability of Public Transit (out of 10)

ChallengingPossible, but limited

Can you get by without car?

In Raleigh, the commute might seem slightly easier with lesser traffic congestion compared to Santa Ana, where you may experience more delays due to higher traffic volumes. However, Santa Ana offers a more robust public transit system, making it somewhat easier to manage without a personal vehicle. However, both cities present their unique challenges and benefits when it comes to getting around. In Raleigh, you'll find that having a car is almost necessary due to the lower availability of public transit options. On the other hand, Santa Ana's infrastructure provides better support for those looking to commute via public transportation, though it's not without its limitations.

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