Best San Diego to Santa Ana Movers and Practical Moving Guide
Get a Quote Now!
Trusted. Licensed. Insured.
Moving from the sunny expanses of San Diego, CA, to the culturally rich streets of Santa Ana, CA, is an adventure that promises new beginnings and exciting opportunities. While you bid farewell to the laid-back surf vibe of “America’s Finest City” and embrace the vibrant, historical tapestry of “The Golden City,” it's essential to navigate this transition smoothly. This is where the importance of enlisting trusted and reliable professional movers comes into play, ensuring your journey to Santa Ana is as seamless and stress-free as possible.
Best San Diego to Santa Ana Moving Companies
(800) 787-5428
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Santa Ana to San Diego guide.
5 Best San Diego to Santa Ana Moving Companies
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
About Little Guy Big Truck Moving
Little Guy Big Truck Moving is a BBB-accredited, family-owned and operated business offering local and long-distance moving services at an a...Read More >>
Services
- Affordable fast friendly movers
- Local and long distance moving
- Fully licensed and insured
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
About 1st Choice Movers
With hundreds of satisfied customers, 1st Choice Movers is true to its name as a preferred local choice for moving and packing services in S...Read More >>
Services
- Local moving services
- Long-distance moving services
- Cross-country moving services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2776935 / - Not Authorized Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 3 |
| Registered Drivers | 2 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 60,000 (2023) |
About Family Affair Moving
Family Affair Moving is an experienced and reputable moving company that has been serving the Southern California region for many years. The...Read More >>
Services
- Commercial Movers
- Residential Movers
- Last Minute Movers
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3085303 / - Not Authorized Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 4 |
| Registered Drivers | 5 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 10,000 (2023) |
About 24/7 Moving and Storage
This locally owned and operated moving company has been helping people in the San Diego area move since 2013. 24/7 Moving and Storage offers...Read More >>
Services
- Local moving services
- Long distance moving services
- Full service packing/moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2707732 / - Not Authorized Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 6 |
| Registered Drivers | 6 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 50,000 (2023) |
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.
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.
San Diego vs. Santa Ana Neighborhood Comparison
Relocating can be daunting, especially when you’re not familiar with your new city. To ease this transition, we've crafted a comparison focusing on local neighborhoods between San Diego, CA & Santa Ana, CA . This guide aims to help you find areas in Santa Ana that share the unique vibe and charm of your favorite San Diego neighborhoods, making your move feel a little more like coming home.
| San Diego | Santa Ana | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| La Jolla | Floral Park | Upscale homes, strong community vibe |
| Pacific Beach | West Floral Park | Vibrant, social scene |
| North Park | Heninger Park | Artsy, eclectic atmosphere |
| Hillcrest | Windsor Village | LGBTQ+ friendly, lively |
| Gaslamp Quarter | Historic French Park | Rich history, entertainment |
| Little Italy | Flower Park | Cultural hub, dining |
| Coronado | Washington Square | Quaint, family-friendly |
| Del Mar | Wilshire Square | Peaceful, upscale living |
| Ocean Beach | French Court | Laid-back, beachy feel |
| Mission Hills | Portola Park | Quiet, historic homes |
In Santa Ana's Floral Park, you’ll discover an upscale community that mirrors La Jolla's prestigious atmosphere, highlighted by manicured landscapes and historic homes. Meanwhile, the artsy spirit of San Diego's North Park thrives in Heninger Park, where vibrant murals and eclectic coffee shops line the streets, offering a similar creative energy and indie vibe. For those who love the social, buzzing nightlife and historic charm of Gaslamp Quarter, Historic French Park offers an array of entertainment options, from intimate jazz bars to theatrical performances, nestled among beautifully preserved buildings. Each neighborhood comparison has been selected to help bridge the familiarity gap between these two captivating cities, ensuring you find a new home that resonates with your lifestyle and preferences.
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 San Diego to Santa Ana
Moving from one city to another is always a significant decision, filled with both exciting opportunities and daunting challenges. This guide aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from San Diego, CA to Santa Ana, CA. With the help of two specially crafted charts, we'll compare the cons against the pros and vice versa to help you make a well-informed decision about your move.
San Diego, CA- Higher living costs
- Less diversity
- More traffic congestion
- Fewer public parks
Santa Ana, CA- More affordable housing
- Greater cultural diversity
- Improved public transit options
- More neighborhood parks
Santa Ana, CA- Less beach access
- Quieter nightlife
- More urban heat
- Fewer job options
San Diego, CA- Beachfront access
- Vibrant nightlife
- Better weather
- More job opportunities
When moving from San Diego to Santa Ana, you'll find that each city has unique attributes that cater to different lifestyles. In Santa Ana, for instance, you will enjoy a more affordable cost of living, which could make it easier to find a spacious home compared to San Diego. The greater cultural diversity in Santa Ana is reflected in its vibrant community events and eclectic dining scene, with local gems like 4th Street Market offering a taste of the world. Moreover, Santa Ana's commitment to expanding public parks and green spaces, like the Santiago Park Nature, provides residents with ample opportunities for outdoor activities and relaxation in nature's embrace. On the other hand, San Diego's unparalleled beachfront access and more extensive job market present their own benefits. Deciding between these cities depends on what aspects of city life you value most.
San Diego vs. Santa Ana Food Guide
Understanding the food scene is crucial when relocating as it reflects the local culture and lifestyle. We're here to assist by making a comparison of the local cuisine between San Diego & Santa Ana , providing you with a deeper insight into what culinary delights await you in your new city.
| San Diego | Santa Ana | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Fish Taco | Chorizo Breakfast Burrito |
| Most popular meat dish | Carne Asada | Al Pastor Taco |
| Most popular street food item | California Burrito | Tamales |
| Most popular vegan food | Vegan Tacos | Vegan Pho |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
Both San Diego and Santa Ana boast a vibrant food culture, introducing you to an array of dishes that reflect the local palette and lifestyle. In San Diego, the fish taco embodies coastal living, with many establishments like George's at the Cove offering exquisite views and equally impressive food. Meanwhile, Santa Ana's affinity for traditional dishes, such as the Chorizo Breakfast Burrito found at local favorite Playground, showcases the city's rich cultural heritage. Despite their differences, both cities are health-conscious and offer a variety of vegan options, making it easier for you to find meals that align with your dietary preferences. Whether you're traversing through the streets in search of food trucks in San Diego or exploring the burgeoning foodie scene in Santa Ana, you're sure to discover a culinary landscape that's both diverse and inviting.
San Diego vs. Santa Ana Restaurant Comparison
As you embark on your move from San Diego to Santa Ana, finding comfort in familiar flavors can make the transition feel like home. This comparison of top San Diego restaurants to their Santa Ana counterparts will guide you in discovering new favorite eateries, using your current hometown of San Diego as a reference in Santa Ana.
| San Diego | Santa Ana | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Juniper & Ivy | Playground | Inventive New American cuisine, chef-driven dishes |
| Phil's BBQ | Heritage Barbecue | Classic BBQ with a unique SoCal twist |
| Hodad's | Chapter One: the modern local | Gourmet burgers and a creative menu |
| Ironside Fish & Oyster | The Water Grill | Fresh seafood, extensive oyster selection |
| Cucina Urbana | Terra Mia Pizzeria | Rustic Italian cuisine, wood-fired pizzas |
| The Cottage La Jolla | Cafe Cultura | Cozy vibe with innovative breakfast and brunch dishes |
| Lucha Libre Gourmet Taco Shop | Taquerías Guadalajara | Authentic Mexican food with a vibrant ambiance |
| Sushi Ota | Sushi Roku | Modern sushi eatery offering inventive rolls |
| Born & Raised | Vaca | Upscale steakhouse with a Spanish twist on classics |
| Extraordinary Desserts | Chunk-N-Chip | Artisanal cookies and unique ice cream flavors |
Among the dining gems, Playground in Santa Ana mirrors the innovative and upscale dining experience of Juniper & Ivy, focusing on chef-driven dishes that draw in foodies from all over. Heritage Barbecue offers a taste of home for fans of Phil's BBQ, with its unique approach to SoCal BBQ styles and smoked meats. For those who adore the coastal charm and seafood delights of Ironside Fish & Oyster, The Water Grill in Santa Ana stands out with its fresh seafood selections and wide array of oyster options. Combining the comfort of familiar favorites with the excitement of discovering new culinary landscapes, these eateries exemplify how Santa Ana's dining scene can satisfy cravings reminiscent of San Diego's diverse and vibrant restaurant culture.
Ready to start your move?
San Diego vs. Santa Ana Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is one of the most crucial factors to consider when planning a move. Understanding how housing aspects like cost, architecture, and urban lifestyle compare between San Diego, CA and Santa Ana, CA is key to making an informed decision.
| Comparison | San Diego | Santa Ana |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Spanish Colonial | Ranch Style |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Views, Upgrades | Location, Spacious Yards |
While both cities offer appealing options for potential homebuyers or renters, each has its own character and benefits. San Diego's higher median home prices reflect its coastal location and the desirability of its Spanish Colonial architecture. However, Santa Ana excels in walkability and urban lifestyle, providing a slightly lower cost of living without sacrificing the Southern California charm. The most sought-after features in local real estate listings also differ, with San Diego properties often boasting upgrades and views, while Santa Ana listings highlight location and spacious yards, catering to different preferences. Regardless of your choice, both cities present vibrant communities and unique opportunities for settling down in Southern California.
San Diego vs. Santa Ana Weather Considerations
Moving to a new city means adapting to new weather patterns. Understanding how the weather in San Diego compares with weather in Santa Ana can help you prepare for the differences you’ll experience. This comparison is crucial for finding the best ways to enjoy or protect yourself from the local climate in your new home.
San Diego, CA
Santa Ana, CA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
San Diego, CA
Santa Ana, CA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
San Diego, CA
Santa Ana, CA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
San Diego, CA
Santa Ana, CA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | San Diego | Santa Ana |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Wildfires, Earthquakes | Wildfires, Earthquakes |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
While both San Diego and Santa Ana enjoy a fair share of sunlit days annually, Santa Ana slightly leads with more sunny days. However, San Diego boasts milder summer temperatures, offering a cooler environment during the heatwaves compared to Santa Ana’s warmer summers. The slight difference in humidity levels might also make Santa Ana’s temperature feel warmer than in San Diego. Both cities share common allergens and face similar natural disaster risks, which makes acclimatization easier for anyone moving from San Diego to Santa Ana. Nonetheless, preparing for slightly warmer summers and paying attention to air quality differences will help ensure a smooth transition.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from San Diego to Santa Ana
When considering a move from San Diego to Santa Ana, it's essential to grasp the financial implications of such a decision. Understanding the cost of living, income, and taxes between San Diego and Santa Ana can significantly impact your budgeting and lifestyle choices. This comparison aims to provide a clear financial perspective to assist in your relocation planning.
| Comparison | San Diego | Santa Ana |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $93,042 | $80,265 |
| Cost of Living Index | 132.3 | 136.4 |
| State Income Tax | 9.3 | 9.3 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.76 | 0.72 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 7.75 | 7.75 |
| Top 3 Industries | Military, Tourism, International Trade | Manufacturing, Retail, Education |
| Affluence | Moderately affluent | Moderately affluent |
| Poverty | Lower | Higher |
| Homelessness | Significant | Significant |
While both San Diego and Santa Ana offer unique economic environments, moving from San Diego to Santa Ana could mean a noticeable shift in your financial situation. The average household income in San Diego is higher, which aligns with its higher cost of living index. However, this doesn't necessarily translate to an overall better quality of life, as both cities have their own set of challenges, including significant homelessness issues. Interestingly, despite these financial disparities, the state income tax and average sales tax rates are consistent, reflecting California's statewide tax policy. Understanding these dynamics can help you make a more informed decision about your relocation.
San Diego vs. Santa Ana Political & Religious Comparison
This guide offers a quick, at-a-glance snapshot to better understand the political and religious makeup of the residents between San Diego & Santa Ana . Whether you're politically savvy, devoutly religious, or just curious about your potential new neighbors, this comparison has got you covered.
| San Diego | Santa Ana | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Lean Liberal | More Liberal |
| Local Politics | City Council Active in Community Issues | City Governance Focuses on Socio-economic Development |
| Religion | Diverse, with a significant Catholic presence | Highly Diverse, Predominantly Catholic |
Understanding the differences and similarities in the political and religious landscapes of San Diego and Santa Ana can greatly help in easing your transition. For instance, while both cities lean towards liberal politics, Santa Ana is known to exhibit a more liberal stance, especially in local governance focusing on socio-economic development. Religion plays a significant role in both communities, with a heavy Catholic presence, reflecting the diverse and multicultural backdrop of Southern California. This insight not only aids in setting expectations but also in finding communities where you can feel at home.
San Diego vs. Santa Ana Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from San Diego, CA to Santa Ana, CA? Better understand the differences between driving and transiting in these cities with this comparison of the traffic and transportation options between San Diego & Santa Ana . This will help you grasp what to expect regarding your daily commute and traffic nuances.
| Comparison | San Diego | Santa Ana |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 24.7 | 26.1 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Possible, but challenging | More feasible |
San Diego and Santa Ana both have their unique challenges and advantages when it comes to commuting. San Diego generally has slightly shorter commute times and lower traffic congestion levels compared to Santa Ana, making driving a bit more bearable. However, Santa Ana edges out with a better public transit system, which might make living without a car more practical than in San Diego. If you rely on public transportation, Santa Ana could offer a slight advantage. Regardless, both cities suggest that having access to a car can significantly ease your daily commute, though Santa Ana may provide a bit more flexibility for those looking to avoid the costs and responsibilities that come with car ownership.
Popular San Diego, CA to California Moving Routes
- San Diego to Los Angeles
- San Diego to San Jose
- San Diego to San Francisco
- San Diego to Fresno
- San Diego to Sacramento
- San Diego to Long Beach
- San Diego to Oakland
- San Diego to Bakersfield
- San Diego to Anaheim
- San Diego to Riverside
- San Diego to Stockton
- San Diego to Irvine
- San Diego to Chula Vista
- San Diego to Fremont
- San Diego to San Bernardino
- San Diego to Modesto
- San Diego to Fontana
- San Diego to Moreno Valley
Popular Moving Routes
Nearby Moving Routes
