Best Raleigh to Santa Ana Movers and Practical 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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Best Raleigh to Santa Ana Moving Companies

Company NameRating QuestionBBB RatingLicenseContact
Pure Moving9.64A+Authorized For HHGContact
Raleigh Moving Company9.43NRActiveContact
Terry Moving & Storage9.37A+Authorized For HHGContact
Athens Moving Experts9.34A+Authorized For HHGContact
Capital Moving & Storage9.27NRAuthorized For HHGContact
Phone (800) 787-5428
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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 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
Raleigh Moving Company Logo
Exceptional9.43/10
based on 954+ data points

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 >>

Services

  • Free estimates
  • Full Value Protection (FVP)
  • Fully licensed and insured

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3344628 / -

Active

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved-
View Full Review
2
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
3
Athens Moving Experts Logo
Exceptional
claimed company icon
9.34/10
based on 4,516+ data points

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 >>

Services

  • Local Moving Services
  • Long Distance Moving Services
  • Commercial Moving Services

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 10/17/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3205320 / 204920

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans5
Registered Drivers5
Total Annual Miles Moved25,000 (2021)
View Full Review
4
Capital Moving & Storage Logo
Exceptional9.27/10
based on 1,596+ data points

About Capital Moving & Storage

Capital Moving & Storage, a family-owned company based in Raleigh, NC, has been providing high-quality moving services for over 20 years...Read More >>

Services

  • Residential & Commercial Moving
  • Local & Long Distance Moving
  • Packing

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3623752 / 1238777

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans3
Registered Drivers4
Total Annual Miles Moved108,816 (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.

Raleigh vs. Santa Ana Neighborhood Comparison

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 AnaHow They're Similar
North HillsFloral ParkBoutique shopping, local dining
Cameron VillageWest Floral ParkHistoric homes, community vibe
Five PointsHeninger ParkDiverse, artsy atmosphere
Boylan HeightsWashington SquareHistoric charm, tight-knit community
MordecaiFrench ParkPeriod homes, lush landscapes
Hayes BartonPark SantiagoElegant homes, quiet streets
Warehouse DistrictDowntown Santa AnaUrban, vibrant arts scene
Glenwood SouthArtist VillageNightlife, cultural events
Oberlin VillageLacyDiverse, historic, community-oriented
StonehengePortola ParkFamily-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.

Things To Do background image

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.

Raleigh vs. Santa Ana Food Guide

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 itemNorth Carolina BBQMexican Street Tacos
Most popular meat dishPulled PorkCarnitas
Most popular street food itemHot DogsTacos
Most popular vegan foodCauliflower Buffalo WingsVeggie 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💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

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.

Raleigh vs. Santa Ana Restaurant Comparison

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.

RaleighSanta AnaWhat You'll Love
Bida MandaMix Mix Kitchen BarOffers a globally inspired menu, similar to Bida Manda's diverse Laotian flavors.
Poole's DinerPlaygroundKnown for its inventive American cuisine, matching Poole's Diner's approach to classics.
Beasley's Chicken + HoneyCrispy Fried ChickenOffers a comfort food experience with a focus on fried chicken, akin to Beasley's.
Brewery BhavanaChapter One: The Modern LocalSimilar vibe as a brewery with an innovative and diverse menu.
Crawford and SonTerrace by Mix MixPresents high-end dining with creative dishes, echoing Crawford and Son's culinary artistry.
GarlandAnepalcoOffers a fusion of flavors that reminisce Garland's take on modern Pan-Asian cuisine.
The PitHeritage BarbecueCalifornian BBQ that stands up to The Pit's reputation for soul-satisfying smoked meats.
Death & TaxesVacaKnown for its steaks and cocktails, providing an upscale dining experience similar to Death & Taxes.
Angus BarnThe Ranch RestaurantOffers a premier steakhouse experience, closely mirroring Angus Barn's rustic elegance.
Neomonde MediterraneanMediterranean GrillSimilar 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?

Raleigh vs. Santa Ana Real Estate & Living Facts

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.

ComparisonRaleighSanta Ana
Typical Architecture StyleColonial, CraftsmanSpanish Colonial, Modern
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingSpacious yards, bonus roomsEnergy efficiency, proximity to amenities

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.

Raleigh vs. Santa Ana Weather Considerations

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)

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

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.

ComparisonRaleighSanta Ana
Avg. Household Income$74,612$80,265
Cost of Living Index98.2136.4
State Income Tax5.259.3
Avg. Property Tax0.860.72
Avg. Sales Tax7.257.75
Top 3 IndustriesTechnology, Education, HealthcareManufacturing, Retail, Education
AffluenceModerateHigher
PovertyLowerModerate
HomelessnessLowerHigher

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.

Raleigh vs. Santa Ana Political & Religious Comparison

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-upLean DemocraticStrongly Democratic
Local PoliticsModerate with a growing progressive movementProgressive, with strong community engagement
ReligionChristian 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.

Raleigh vs. Santa Ana Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

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.

ComparisonRaleighSanta Ana
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)2527
Traffic Congestion 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦
Availability of Public Transit 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇
Can you get by without car?ChallengingPossible, but limited

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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