The best local movers for Santa Ana to Tacoma moves
It’s not always easy to find a reliable local moving company in Santa Ana that also handles long-distance moves to Tacoma. Luckily, we’ve done the research for you. We evaluated 93 local movers in Santa Ana who offer long-distance services, looking at cost, service quality, and customer reviews.
Below are the top local moving companies for long-distance moves from Santa Ana to Tacoma.
- Meathead Movers: 4.62 out of 5 stars
- Maison Moving: 4.52 out of 5 stars
- Best Fit Movers: 4.52 out of 5 stars
- NorthStar Moving Company : 4.56 out of 5 stars
- Terry Moving and Storage Inc.: 4.58 out of 5 stars
Company Info
State license #: 189849
Years in Business: 27
DOT #: 921143
Alternate Names: Meat Head Movers Inc , Meathead Movers Inc
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Storage
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 0190726
Years in Business: 17
DOT #: 76628
Alternate Names: Orange County Movers Inc , College Boys Moving and Storage of Orange County , Affordable Moving and Storage of Orange County
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 0191680
Years in Business: 7
DOT #: 3051481
Alternate Names: Best Fit Movers LLC
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Safes
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
Company Info
State license #: 0182466
Years in Business: 30
DOT #: 1836576
Alternate Names: NorthStar Moving Corporation
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 189603
Years in Business: 28
DOT #: 649215
Alternate Names: Terry Moving and Storage Inc , Richards Moving Company , Orange County Storage Movers
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Pool Tables
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Pay by credit card
How much does it cost to move from Santa Ana to Tacoma?
The average hourly rate for movers in California is $128. Here are some general cost estimates for a full-service moving company, a moving container, or a rental truck:
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,223 – $4,940 | $899 – $2,177 | $723 – $1,335 |
| 2 – 3 bedrooms | $2,653 – $6,334 | $1,472 – $3,256 | $811 – $1,587 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $4,319 – $8,306 | $2,117 – $4,016 | $942 – $2,012 |
Cost to hire movers from Santa Ana to Tacoma
Hiring movers for a studio apartment or one-bedroom home from Santa Ana to Tacoma will cost between $1,223 and $4,940. The cost to move a two- to three-bedroom home from Santa Ana to Santa Ana will range from $2,653 to $6,334, and a large move from Santa Ana to Tacoma will cost from $4,319 to $8,306.
Cost of moving containers from Santa Ana to Tacoma
If you’re moving from Santa Ana to Tacoma, expect to pay between $899 and $2,177 for a small load. For a home with two or three bedrooms, prices typically range from $1,472 up to $3,256. Larger moves of four bedrooms or more can run between $2,117 and $4,016. Check out our guide on PODS cost for more details.
Check out the most affordable moving container companies for your move from California.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Santa Ana to Tacoma
Renting a moving truck from Santa Ana to Tacoma is usually your cheapest option, but keep in mind you’ll be handling all the loading, unloading, and driving yourself.
If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck, expect to spend between $723 and $1,335. For two to three bedrooms, rates typically fall between $811 and $1,587. Relocating a four-bedroom (or bigger) home? You’re likely looking at anywhere from $942 up to $2,012 for your rental truck.
These quotes include estimated fuel costs.
Key factors that influence moving costs from Santa Ana to Tacoma
The cost of Santa Ana movers will depend on:
- The size of your home: Smaller moves (like one-bedrooms) cost less, sometimes just $2,455, while larger moves (four-bedrooms) can hit $6,855.
- Time of year: Summer is peak moving season in Santa Ana, which means higher prices.
- The type of mover you choose: Renting a truck ($723–$1,733) saves money but adds work compared to hiring pros.
What to know before moving from Santa Ana to Tacoma
Many movers find Tacoma easier on the wallet than Santa Ana – roughly 35% less for singles and 35% less for families.
Monthly basics average $4,133 for one person in Tacoma versus $6,333 in Santa Ana. For a family of four, it’s $7,260 compared with $11,160.
See the cost breakdown below to pinpoint where the savings add up:
| Santa Ana | Tacoma | |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1 BR rent | $2,200 | $1,935 |
| Average 3 BR rent | $3,000 | $3,389 |
| Average home value | $843,858 | $477,289 |
| Average income (per capita) | $77,283 | $73,341 |
| Cost of living (single) | $6,333 | $4,133 |
| Cost of living (family of four) | $11,160 | $7,260 |
| Unemployment rate | 7.0% | 7.3% |
| Sales tax | 9.25% | 10.3% |
| State income tax | 13.3% | 0.0% |
- If you’re heading to Tacoma from Santa Ana, you’ll find that rent is roughly 38% cheaper, potentially boosting your monthly savings.
- Your budget can breathe easier with home prices being close to 43% less in Tacoma than in Santa Ana.
- Fortunately, the average income in Tacoma and Santa Ana is quite close, within a 5% range, so financial stability is likely.
- Get ready to save some money on recurring expenses like food, gas, and utility bills in Tacoma. On average, the cost of living for a single person there is 35% lower than in Santa Ana.
- Choosing to move to Tacoma can significantly lower your family’s regular expenses, such as utilities, transport, and groceries. The cost of living for a family of four is 35% less than in Santa Ana.
- The unemployment rates of Tacoma and Santa Ana are very similar, with less than a 5% difference, thus maintaining a consistent employment landscape.
- Sales taxes rise by 11% in Tacoma over Santa Ana, leading to heightened expenses for everyday essentials.
- Washington has no income tax, meaning you keep more of your gross income, which can be a major advantage for salaried workers, freelancers, and retirees with taxable income.
Here’s a closer snapshot of how common everyday costs and monthly bills compare between Santa Ana and Tacoma:
| Living Expense | Santa Ana | Tacoma |
|---|---|---|
| Basic utilities | $200.96 | $229.80 |
| Cell phone plan | $54.33 | $71.50 |
| Dozen eggs | $5.45 | $4.84 |
| Loaf of bread | $4.59 | $4.21 |
| Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) | $25.00 | $16.50 |
| Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) | $100.00 | $72.50 |
| Gym membership | $25.00 | $51.67 |
- Basic utilities cost less in Santa Ana than in Tacoma, helping trim your monthly bills.
- Cell phone plans are cheaper in Santa Ana than in Tacoma.
- Eggs cost more in Santa Ana than in Tacoma.
- Bread is more expensive in Santa Ana than in Tacoma.
- A quick meal tends to cost more in Santa Ana than in Tacoma.
- A mid-range dinner for two is pricier in Santa Ana than in Tacoma.
- Gym memberships are more affordable in Santa Ana than in Tacoma.
How life is different in Santa Ana vs. Tacoma
| Santa Ana | Tacoma | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 310,227 | 223,968 |
| Transportation score | 7 | 6 |
| Walkability score | 67 | 54 |
| Bike friendliness score | 62 | 48 |
| Crime index | 54.17 | 55.55 |
| Safety index | 45.83 | 44.45 |
| Air quality | Moderate | Good |
- Tacoma’s population is about 28% less than Santa Ana.
- Tacoma’s public transportation score of 6 out of 10 is lower than Santa Ana’s score of 7.
- Tacoma is less walkable than Santa Ana with a score of 54 out of 100 vs Santa Ana’s 67 out of 100.
- Tacoma has a bike-friendliness score of 48 out of 100, which means it isn’t as accessible or safe for cyclists as Santa Ana, which has a score of 62.
- Tacoma and Santa Ana have a similar crime rate with scores of 55.55 and 54.17, respectively.
- Tacoma and Santa Ana have a similar safety level, with scores of 44.45 and 45.83.
- Air quality in Tacoma is Good, and in Santa Ana it’s Moderate.
Other things to consider for your Santa Ana to Tacoma move
- HOA rules: Be sure to review your community or HOA guidelines before moving day to avoid any surprises or delays.
- Elevator reservation: Make sure to arrange elevator access in advance if your building requires reservations for moving.
- Truck parking permits: To avoid fines or delays, check whether a parking permit is needed for your moving truck.
- State licensing: Movers operating within Washington DC city limits are subject to regulation by the Utilities and Transportation Commission, which issues operating permits to household goods moving companies. Always verify licensing details before committing to a mover.
- State regulator: You can verify a Washington moving license and its status through the state’s public utilities commission.
- Moving Permits: Washington doesn’t require moving permits, but it’s still a good idea to check local parking rules before your move-in day.
- Change of address: To avoid missing any mail, we recommend submitting your USPS change of address form at least a week before your move. You can choose your official move date to make sure everything gets forwarded properly to Tacoma. Start the process here.
- Moving company insurance: Every state sets its own rules for what insurance moving companies need to maintain. When planning a move in Washington state, explore movers’ insurance options for added peace of mind. Many moving companies offer Released Value Protection at no extra cost, covering items at 60 cents per pound. Enhance your protection by discussing Full Value Protection with the moving company or exploring personalized plans with third-party insurance providers. Understand coverage limits, potential extra costs, and read reviews to make an informed decision on your Washington state moving insurance.
- Moving checklist: Follow our moving checklist to keep your move organized and stress-free.
Where to live in Tacoma
Now that you’ve decided to make the move to America’s #1 Wired City, these are the best neighborhoods to move to in Tacoma.
Best neighborhoods for singles
- Central
- Eastside-Enact
- North End
- Northeast Tacoma
- West End
Best neighborhoods for families
- North End
- West End
Things to do in Tacoma
Once you’re settled into your new home in Washington, it’s time to get out and discover what Tacoma has to offer. No matter your interests, there’s something for everyone here:
- Arts and culture: You’ll find museums and cultural hubs throughout Tacoma, such as the LeMay – America’s Car Museum, Museum of Glass, LeMay Collections at Marymount, and Washington State History Museum.
- Outdoor recreation: The city’s Point Defiance Park, Tacoma Chinese Reconciliation Park, 5 Mile Drive & Trails, and Wright Park — and more — offering great opportunities to hike, bike, or relax in nature.
- Sports: Sports fans can join the excitement by supporting local favorites at an Tacoma Defiance (Soccer)Tacoma Rainiers (Baseball) game.
FAQ
When is the best time to move from Santa Ana to Tacoma?
The best time to move from Santa Ana to Tacoma is during the spring or fall. These seasons offer milder weather and avoid higher moving costs during the peak moving season in Santa Ana.
When is the cheapest time to move from Santa Ana to Tacoma?
Since spring and fall are the most popular times to move from Santa Ana to Tacoma, moving in the winter could help you save money. Check out our guide on moving discounts for more tips.
How long does a move from Santa Ana to Tacoma take?
Moving from Santa Ana, CA to Tacoma, covers 1,136 miles and usually takes two to eight days. Need to move faster? Some Santa Ana movers offer expedited options. If you’re not ready to receive your items, look into storage solutions in Tacoma.
Which movers in Santa Ana give price breaks?
Some companies go the extra mile by offering discounts to certain groups. 1 movers give special rates to military members. 2 movers have deals for seniors.
Always ask for a full discount list and check eligibility requirements before you commit to a mover.
Who can move pianos or antiques in Santa Ana?
Specialty items need extra care and the right equipment. 73 movers in Santa Ana advertise piano moving expertise. 60 movers in Santa Ana provide antique moving services. State totals show 297 piano movers and 227 antique movers, with nationwide availability at 2,303 and 1,466.
Book early if you need these services — demand can outpace supply during busy moving seasons.
Helpful moving resources
Santa Ana moving services
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