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Dallas to Santa Ana Moving Guide Unlike Any You've Ever Read

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Moving city to city marks the start of an exciting adventure and a significant life change for you. Leaving behind the bustling energy of "The Big D" (Dallas) for the sunny skies and laid-back vibe of "The Golden City" (Santa Ana) brings a blend of anticipation and nostalgia. It's crucial to ensure your journey is smooth by hiring trusted and reliable professional movers, and we're here to connect you with the best, making this pivotal transition as seamless as possible.

5 Best Movers for Moving from Dallas to Santa Ana

#1
Phoenix Express Specialty Moving & Delivery Logo
Exceptional
claimed company icon

based on 2,440+ data points

Dallas, TX
Full service moving, In-Dallas moves, In-Texas moves See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 5/23/2024)

USDOT: 2857394 Verify

About Phoenix Express Specialty Moving & Delivery

Started as a courier service in 1999, Phoenix Express eventually expanded its service offerings, becoming the full-service moving and delive...Read More >>

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#2
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 5/23/2024)

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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#3
King Moving Company Logo
Exceptional

based on 3,200+ data points

Plano, TX
Local and long-distance moving, Moving antiques and high-value items, Household moving (houses and apartments) See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 5/23/2024)

USDOT: 1933649 Verify

About King Moving Company

Established way back in 1995 as a moving company that specialized in moving antiques and decorative items for different antique malls and in...Read More >>

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#4
Evolution Moving Company Logo
Exceptional

based on 3,805+ data points

Dallas, TX
Long Distance Moving, Labor Only, Residential Moving See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 8/23/2022)

USDOT: 2467590 Verify

About Evolution Moving Company

Founded in 2013 in New Braunfels, Evolution Moving Company has expanded its professional moving and storage business to Dallas, Fort Worth, ...Read More >>

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#5
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 5/24/2024)

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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Relocating from Dallas to Santa Ana Neighborhood Guide

Moving to a new city can be daunting, especially when learning about the neighborhoods. To ease the transition, we've prepared a comparative guide to help you familiarize yourself with Santa Ana, CA, by comparing it with what you know and love about Dallas, TX neighborhoods.

DallasSanta Ana
Highland ParkFloral Park

Historic homes, lush landscapes

Bishop Arts DistrictDowntown Santa Ana

Artsy, vibrant community vibe

Deep EllumEast End

Eclectic mix of dining and nightlife

UptownSouth Coast Metro

Shopping and urban living

LakewoodPark Santiago

Quaint homes, community feel

Lower GreenvilleWashington Square

Trendy, walkable area with eateries

Design DistrictArtist Village

Creative spaces and galleries

Preston HollowWest Floral Park

Exclusive, serene neighborhoods

Knox/HendersonFrench Park

Mix of old and new, shopping

BluffviewFlower Park

Secluded, with natural beauty

Selecting the right neighborhood is crucial for feeling at home in a new city. If you're moving from Dallas's Highland Park, renowned for its enchanting, historic homes and meticulously maintained parks, you'll find a similar charm in Santa Ana's Floral Park. Here, extensive greenery accompanies period homes, offering a serene suburban feel within a city. Fans of the artsy and vibrant Bishop Arts District in Dallas will be drawn to Downtown Santa Ana's similar community vibe, characterized by unique galleries like the Orange County Center for Contemporary Art and a bustling food scene. If you're from Lakewood, recognized for its friendly atmosphere and proximity to White Rock Lake, Park Santiago will impress with its picturesque homes and neighborly spirit, not to mention its proximity to Santa Ana's Santiago Park.

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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 Dallas to Santa Ana

Moving from one city to another is a significant decision that comes with its unique set of challenges and rewards. This guide aims to offer an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Dallas, TX to Santa Ana, CA to help you make an informed decision. Discover what you're leaving behind and what awaits you in your new city.

CONs
PROs
Dallas, TX iconDallas, TX
  • Hot summers
  • Less cultural diversity
  • Higher property taxes
  • Limited public transit
  • Lack of beaches
Santa Ana, CA iconSanta Ana, CA
  • Milder climate
  • Greater diversity
  • Lower property taxes
  • Better public transit
  • Close to beaches
Santa Ana, CA iconSanta Ana, CA
  • Higher cost of living
  • Smaller housing
  • Stricter regulations
  • Fewer cultural events
  • Competitive job market
Dallas, TX iconDallas, TX
  • Lower cost of living
  • Spacious housing
  • Better for businesses
  • Rich cultural events
  • Strong job market

While Dallas boasts a sprawl of suburban communities, a robust job market, and rich cultural experiences such as the annual State Fair of Texas, Santa Ana welcomes you with its coastal climate, ethnic and cultural diversity, and accessibility to iconic California beaches like Newport and Huntington. Santa Ana's vibrant downtown area, bustling with trendy 4th Street Market eateries and local boutiques, contrasts with the vast openness and more affordable living spaces Dallas offers. You might find the cost of living higher in Santa Ana, but the trade-offs include proximity to unforgettable natural landscapes, superior public transportation options like the Orange County Transportation Authority (OCTA) services, and lower property taxes, making everyday life a bit easier and potentially more enjoyable.

Food Scene Guide When Moving from Dallas to Santa Ana

When considering a move, the flavor of a city can be just as important as its scenery or job market. Understanding how the local cuisine might change is key to feeling at home in a new place. This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Dallas, TX & Santa Ana, CA —a taste test for those pondering a move, so you can be better informed about the different food scenes awaiting your arrival.

DallasSanta Ana

Most iconic local food item

BrisketTacos

Most popular meat dish

Chicken Fried SteakCarne Asada

Most popular street food item

TacosElote

Most popular vegan food

BBQ JackfruitVegan Pho

Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city

  • Pecan Lodge
  • Nick & Sam's
  • Deep Ellum Brewing Company
  • Taco Maria
  • Playground
  • Burritos La Palma

Fitness/Health Conscientiousness

78

Abundance of Food Trucks

69

Foodie Scene

89

Vegan Friendly

78

In Dallas, the brisket reigns supreme, a symbol of Texas' deep-rooted love for barbecue, with popular spots like Pecan Lodge drawing crowds for their melt-in-your-mouth smoked meats. Meanwhile, Santa Ana boasts a vibrant street food scene that is hard to rival, with tacos and elote standing out as must-try items. Taco Maria, widely regarded as one of the city's crown jewels, showcases the elevation of traditional Mexican cuisine with a modern twist. The proliferation of food trucks and vegan-friendly options in Santa Ana indicates a dynamic, diverse culinary landscape ready to welcome food enthusiasts of all stripes. Whether exploring the Bishop Arts District in Dallas or roaming the streets of Downtown Santa Ana, food lovers are in for a treat in both cities.

Restaurant Guide for Moving from Dallas to Santa Ana

Deciding on a new place to call home involves numerous factors, with the local dining scene being a crucial one for many. Understanding the importance of food in making an area feel like home, this comparison aims to help you find your new favorite eateries in Santa Ana by drawing parallels with those in Dallas. This restaurant comparison will help find equivalents from Dallas, TX to Santa Ana, CA, ensuring a smoother culinary transition.

Pecan LodgeBurritos La Palma

Known for award-winning burritos, mirroring Pecan Lodge's acclaim in BBQ

UchiSushi Roku

Upscale, innovative sushi that rivals Uchi's contemporary take

KnifeThe Playground

Gourmet burgers with a creative spin, akin to Knife's approach to cuisine

The PorchCrave

Casual dining with a broad menu, similar comforts as The Porch

Deep Ellum Brewing CompanyBarley Forge Brewing Co.

Craft beer focus with a passionate following, aligning with Deep Ellum's vibe

Joe T. Garcia'sTaqueria El Zamorano

Authentic Mexican eatery, offering a similar homey vibe and beloved dishes

Meso MayaEl Mercado Modern Cuisine

Contemporary Mexican cuisine that offers a comparative dining experience to Meso Maya

Bishop Cider Co.The Good Beer Company

Artisanal ciders and beers, a kindred spirit to Bishop Cider's local appeal

Lockhart SmokehouseHeritage Barbecue

Pit-smoked perfection, a SoCal counterpart to Lockhart's BBQ mastery

Tei-AnAnQi Gourmet Bistro

Exquisite Asian fusion, reflecting Tei-An's sophistication and uniqueness

While Dallas boasts a robust dining scene with spots like Pecan Lodge and Uchi, Santa Ana counters with hidden gems such as Burritos La Palma and Sushi Roku that promise to make your transition as delicious as it is exciting. Both cities cater to a wide range of tastes, from the smoked meats of Heritage Barbecue that evoke the spirit of Texas BBQ to the innovative sushi rolls at Sushi Roku that offer a taste of Uchi's Japanese flair. No matter your cravings, you'll find a spot in Santa Ana that not only matches but often exceeds the flavors of home, ensuring your new city feels just as welcoming.

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Ready to start your move?

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

Real estate is one of the most important aspects of a move. Knowing how the two cities compare is essential. This comparison provides an in-depth look at the housing market and lifestyle between Dallas, TX, and Santa Ana, CA to help you make an informed decision.

Both Dallas, TX, and Santa Ana, CA, offer unique living experiences influenced by their local culture and geography. Dallas is known for its spacious homes with modern and ranch-style architecture, appealing to those who enjoy larger living spaces and a more laid-back lifestyle. In contrast, Santa Ana attracts with its Spanish Colonial architecture and strong emphasis on walkability and urban living. Properties in Santa Ana are often praised for being close to local amenities and featuring eco-friendly elements, reflecting California's environmental consciousness. With a higher walkability and bikeability score, Santa Ana provides a more active lifestyle, while Dallas prides itself on comfort and space. Whether you're drawn to the bustling urban environment of Santa Ana or the sprawling comfortable homes of Dallas, each city offers a distinct living experience.

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Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Santa Ana, CA

1. Park Santiago: Known for its tranquil atmosphere and lush green spaces, you'll find Santiago Park perfect for walks with your furry friends.

2. Floral Park: This neighborhood boasts beautiful, walkable streets and a strong community vibe, with Floral Park Neighborhood Association even hosting pet-friendly events.

3. French Park: Highlighted by its historic homes and close proximity to French Park, it offers ample space and a friendly atmosphere for pet owners.

Weather Considerations for Moving from Dallas to Santa Ana

When contemplating a move from Dallas, TX to Santa Ana, CA, it's vital to grasp how the weather compares in these locations. Understanding the differences will help you prepare better for your new environment. This comparison aims to provide clear insights into what you can expect weather-wise in your new city.

Summer icon
95°F / 75°F

Dallas, TX

83°F / 64°F

Santa Ana, CA

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
57°F / 37°F

Dallas, TX

70°F / 48°F

Santa Ana, CA

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
37.6"

Dallas, TX

13.4"

Santa Ana, CA

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
1.2"

Dallas, TX

0"

Santa Ana, CA

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

The contrast in weather between Dallas and Santa Ana could play a significant role in your everyday life after the move. Dallas experiences hotter summers with a higher average humidity, while Santa Ana boasts more days of sunshine and milder summer temperatures, making outdoor activities more pleasurable year-round. Significant differences in annual rainfall and the type of natural disasters also highlight the environmental adaptation required when moving from Dallas to Santa Ana. Understanding these variables ensures you’re not just physically but also mentally prepared for the climate change.

Ready to start your move?

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

When planning a move from Dallas, TX to Santa Ana, CA, it’s crucial to grasp how the cost of living and financial aspects will change. This comparison will illuminate the variations in income, taxes, and economic conditions between these cities, providing a clear financial picture to guide your relocation decisions.

Moving from Dallas to Santa Ana will introduce you to a substantially higher cost of living, especially in housing and essential goods. This increase is balanced, somewhat, by higher average household incomes in Santa Ana. However, California's state income tax can significantly impact your net income, unlike in Texas, where there is no state income tax. While the property tax rate is lower in Santa Ana, the high property values can result in a substantial tax bill. The industries dominating each city are markedly different, reflecting diverse job markets and opportunities. Understanding these financial nuances will better prepare you for the transition, setting realistic expectations for your new life in Santa Ana.

Political & Religious Comparison between Dallas, TX and Santa Ana, CA

When planning your move from Dallas, TX, to Santa Ana, CA, understanding the community you're about to become a part of is crucial. This comparison provides a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents between Dallas & Santa Ana, offering insights into what to expect in your new city.

DallasSanta Ana

Political Make-up

Leans DemocraticStrongly Democratic

Local Politics

Moderate to ProgressiveProgressive

Religion

Christianity Dominant, with a Diverse Religious CommunityPrimarily Catholic, with Increasing Religious Diversity

While both Dallas and Santa Ana lean towards Democratic values, Santa Ana is known for its stronger Democratic tendencies and more progressive viewpoints on local politics. This shift may be more pronounced for someone coming from Dallas, where the political landscape is moderated by a broader mix of conservative and liberal perspectives. In terms of religion, Dallas hosts a large Christian population but is celebrated for its religious diversity, including various churches, Islamic centers, and synagogues. Santa Ana, while also having a significant Catholic population due to its Hispanic heritage, has seen an increase in religious diversity with more faiths being represented in the community. Understanding these nuances will help you adjust and connect with your new neighborhood more effectively.

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

Moving from Dallas, TX to Santa Ana, CA means adapting to new traffic and transportation scenarios. This comparison between driving and transiting in both cities will help you better understand what your daily commute and traffic is like.

DallasSanta Ana
2725

Avg Commute Time (in minutes)

76

Traffic Congestion (out of 10)

46

Availability of Public Transit (out of 10)

NoYes, but challenging

Can you get by without car?

In Dallas, the average commute time slightly exceeds that in Santa Ana, reflecting a marginal difference in traffic congestion levels. Public transit availability is notably better in Santa Ana than in Dallas, scoring 6 out of 10 compared to Dallas's 4. This factor alone makes Santa Ana slightly more navigable for those without a car, though it can still present challenges. It's important to consider these transport dynamics when planning your move, as they'll significantly impact your daily routines and mobility. In both cities, exploring local transportation options and planning your commutes in advance will be crucial for a smooth transition.

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