Top local movers for Detroit to Santa Ana moves
Searching for a dependable local mover in Detroit that also provides long-distance services to Santa Ana can feel overwhelming. That’s where we come in — we’ve analyzed 36 local movers in Detroit who specialize in long-distance relocations, factoring in cost, services, and customer feedback.
These are the best local moving companies for getting from Detroit to Santa Ana.
- College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving: 4.62 out of 5 stars
- Palmer Moving Services: 4.52 out of 5 stars
- White Star Movers, Inc.: 4.56 out of 5 stars
- Royal Movers Enterprises, LLC: 4.42 out of 5 stars
- O’Sullivan Moving & Storage CO.: 4.42 out of 5 stars
Company Info
Years in Business: 14
DOT #: 2378173
Alternate Names: JCAL Holdings, LLC
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
Years in Business: 114
DOT #: 511993
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Crating
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
Years in Business: 39
DOT #: 624288
Alternate Names: Whitestar Movers, Inc.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Crane vans
- Shipment tracking
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Pay by credit card
- DOD certified
Company Info
Years in Business: 17
DOT #: 1673815
Alternate Names: Royal Movers
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Art
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by money order
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
Company Info
State license #: 20587
Years in Business: 42
DOT #: 1660642
Alternate Names: O’Sullivan Moving & Storage
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Crating
- Storage
How much does it cost to move from Detroit to Santa Ana?
Movers in Michigan generally charge an average of per hour. Check out these typical costs for a full-service moving company, moving container, or truck rental:
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,314 – $5,594 | $1,233 – $2,938 | $1,305 – $2,446 |
| 2 – 3 bedrooms | $3,830 – $7,344 | $2,192 – $4,721 | $1,411 – $3,058 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $6,851 – $12,311 | $3,102 – $5,967 | $1,835 – $3,642 |
Cost to hire movers from Detroit to Santa Ana
Moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Detroit to Santa Ana typically costs between $1,314 and $5,594. For a two- or three-bedroom home, expect prices to fall between $3,830 and $7,344 when moving from Detroit to Santa Ana. If you’re tackling a large move (think four or five bedrooms) from Detroit to Santa Ana, you’re looking at costs ranging from $6,851 up to $12,311.
Cost of moving containers from Detroit to Santa Ana
If you’re relocating from Detroit to Santa Ana, you’ll typically spend between $1,233 and $2,938 for a small move. Have a two or three-bedroom home? Plan for costs to range from $2,192 up to $4,721. If you’re moving a larger home — four bedrooms or more — expect to pay anywhere between $3,102 and $5,967. For a full breakdown, check out our complete PODS cost guide.
Explore our top budget-friendly moving container companies for your move from Michigan.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Detroit to Santa Ana
Renting a moving truck is typically the most budget-friendly choice for a Detroit to Santa Ana move, but remember, you’ll be responsible for all the heavy lifting, packing, and driving on your own.
If you’re moving from a studio or one-bedroom place with a rental truck, expect to pay between $1,305 and $2,446. For a two- or three-bedroom move, costs usually range from $1,411 to $3,058. If you’re tackling a four-bedroom or bigger move, your rental truck will likely run between $1,835 and $3,642.
Estimated fuel costs are already factored into these quotes.
Major factors affecting moving costs from Detroit to Santa Ana
The cost of Detroit movers will depend on:
- Move size: The cost of your move depends on how much you’re bringing. A one-bedroom from Detroit to Santa Ana might be as low as $2,575, while a four-bedroom could reach $11,494.
- When you move: Moving in summer often costs more, since it’s the busiest season for movers in Detroit.
- DIY moves vs. full-service help: Truck rentals cost less — around $1,305 to $3,322 — but you’ll handle all the labor vs. letting professionals do it.
What to know before moving from Detroit to Santa Ana
Expect a bump in monthly expenses after the move – Santa Ana runs about 153% higher for singles and 67% higher for families than Detroit.
Singles spend around $6,333 in Detroit versus $2,500 in Detroit; families pay $11,160 compared with $6,687.
Dig into the side-by-side details here:
| Detroit | Santa Ana | |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1 BR rent | $1,325 | $2,200 |
| Average 3 BR rent | $2,542 | $3,000 |
| Average home value | $73,156 | $843,858 |
| Average income (per capita) | $37,761 | $77,283 |
| Cost of living (single) | $2,500 | $6,333 |
| Cost of living (family of four) | $6,687 | $11,160 |
| Unemployment rate | 9.06% | 7.0% |
| Sales tax | 6.0% | 9.25% |
| State income tax | 4.25% | 13.3% |
- Consider this before moving: Rent can be about 112% higher in Santa Ana than in Detroit, which may impact your monthly finances.
- A larger mortgage budget will be necessary since home prices are about 1054% higher in Santa Ana than in Detroit.
- Exciting news here, the average income is about 105% higher in Santa Ana than in Detroit, so you should have more to save or invest each month.
- Anticipate increased living expenses in Santa Ana, as the cost of living for a single person in Santa Ana is 153% greater than in Detroit. This covers typical expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transport.
- As you plan your move to Santa Ana, consider the possibility of increased living costs. The cost of living for a family there is 67% more than it is in Detroit.
- With an unemployment rate approximately 23% lower than Detroit, Santa Ana boasts a favorable employment scene and thriving economic conditions, ideal for new arrivals.
- Sales taxes in Santa Ana exceed those in Detroit by 54%, which can mean paying extra for usual purchases like clothes and electronics.
- Income taxes are 213% higher in California than in Michigan. This means a larger portion of your earnings will go to state taxes, potentially reducing your take-home pay.
Take a detailed look at how everyday expenses stack up between Detroit and Santa Ana, from monthly bills to routine purchases:
| Living Expense | Detroit | Santa Ana |
|---|---|---|
| Basic utilities | $251.12 | $200.96 |
| Cell phone plan | $55.77 | $54.33 |
| Dozen eggs | $3.52 | $5.45 |
| Loaf of bread | $2.94 | $4.59 |
| Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) | $18.00 | $25.00 |
| Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) | $68.50 | $100.00 |
| Gym membership | $43.00 | $25.00 |
- Basic utilities tend to be more expensive in Detroit than in Santa Ana.
- Cell phone plans typically cost more in Detroit than in Santa Ana.
- Eggs are less expensive in Detroit than in Santa Ana.
- Bread costs less in Detroit than in Santa Ana.
- A quick meal is cheaper in Detroit than in Santa Ana.
- A mid-range dinner for two costs less in Detroit than in Santa Ana.
- Gym memberships cost more in Detroit than in Santa Ana.
How life is different in Detroit vs. Santa Ana
| Detroit | Santa Ana | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 639,111 | 310,227 |
| Transportation score | 7 | 7 |
| Walkability score | 51 | 67 |
| Bike friendliness score | 52 | 62 |
| Crime index | 72.92 | 54.17 |
| Safety index | 27.08 | 45.83 |
| Air quality | Good | Moderate |
- Santa Ana’s population is about 51% less than Detroit.
- Santa Ana’s public transportation score is within about 5% of Detroit, making them very similar.
- Santa Ana is more walkable than Detroit with a score of 67 out of 100 vs Detroit’s 51 out of 100.
- With a score of 62 out of 100, Santa Ana is more bike-friendly than Detroit, which has a score of 52 out of 100. The higher a city’s score, the more suited it is to safely accommodating cyclists.
- Santa Ana’s crime rate is lower than Detroit with a score of 54.17 compared to Detroit’s 72.92. This means that Santa Ana neighborhoods are safer than 54.17% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Detroit neighborhoods are safer than 72.92%.
- Santa Ana is considered to be safer than Detroit with a safety index of 45.83 vs Detroit’s 27.08.
- Air quality in Santa Ana is Moderate, and in Detroit it’s Good.
Other things to consider for your Detroit to Santa Ana move
- HOA rules: To keep things running smoothly, make sure you’re familiar with any HOA or community moving policies before the big day.
- Elevator reservation: If there is an elevator in your building, it’s a good idea to secure a reservation before your moving day.
- Truck parking permits: Research parking requirements in your destination city to ensure your truck won’t run into restrictions.
- State licensing: When contacting a local moving company for an estimate in California, make sure each has a “T Number” issued by the California Public Utilities Commission (CAPUC). Moving companies with valid T Numbers have met state requirements for insurance, safety, and financial stability and have passed criminal clearance checks conducted by the California Department of Justice. Make sure the moving company you use has a license before hiring.
- State regulator: You can check the status of a California moving license through the state’s public utilities commission.
- Moving Permits: You won’t need a moving permit in California, though it’s smart to double-check any local parking restrictions ahead of your move.
- Change of address: We recommend submitting your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move to ensure your mail gets forwarded to Santa Ana without delay. You can select your official move date when completing the form. Start the process here.
- Moving company insurance: State laws differ on mover insurance. Opt for Released Value Protection – a cost-free choice provided by movers with minimal coverage. The liability is capped at 60 cents per pound per article. For instance, if a 50-inch TV weighing 25 pounds is lost or damaged, your reimbursement is only $15 (60 cents x 25 pounds). To ensure comprehensive coverage for your items’ full value, consult with your chosen moving company or consider third-party insurance options.
- Moving checklist: Our moving checklist will help you have the peace of mind that you’ve got everything covered.
Where to live in Santa Ana
Ready to relocate to ? Here are some of the top neighborhoods to consider in Santa Ana.
Best neighborhoods for singles
- Fairbridge Square
- South Coast
- Park Santiago
- Sanpointe
- Meredith Parkwood
Best neighborhoods for families
- Meredith Parkwood
- Fairbridge Square
- West Grove Valley
- South Coast
Things to do in Santa Ana
Now that you’ve made the move to California, it’s the perfect time to explore Santa Ana. From local hotspots to hidden gems, there’s something to enjoy for every lifestyle:
- Arts and culture: Cultural attractions in Santa Ana include museums and art centers like the Bowers Museum, Lyon Air Museum, Discovery Cube Orange County, and Heritage Museum of Orange County.
- Outdoor recreation: Outdoor lovers will appreciate Santiago Park Nature, along with many other spots perfect for walking, cycling, and fresh air adventures.
- Sports: Catch a live game and cheer on the home team at an Los Angeles Angels (in Anaheim)Anaheim Ducks (in Anaheim)Santa Ana College Dons (Baseball, Basketball, Cross Country, Football, Soccer, Track & Field, Wrestling)Santa Ana United (Soccer Team) game.
FAQ
When is the best time to move from Detroit to Santa Ana?
Spring and fall are the ideal times to move from Detroit to Santa Ana. You’ll benefit from more comfortable weather and avoid the higher prices that come with peak moving season in Detroit.
When is the cheapest time to move from Detroit to Santa Ana?
With many people choosing to move from Detroit to Santa Ana in spring or fall, winter moves often come with better rates. Take a look at our moving discounts guide to find out how to save.
How long does a move from Detroit to Santa Ana take?
Covering 2,279 miles, the move from Detroit, MI to Santa Ana, typically takes seven to 18 days. Some Detroit movers may offer faster options, and if your timing is flexible, storage services in Santa Ana can help bridge the gap.
Do movers in Detroit offer any discounts?
Many do — and the types of discounts available can help you cut costs. 2 movers provide military discounts. 2 movers extend senior citizen discounts.
Because offers change, confirm details with your mover to make sure you’re getting the most out of available deals.
How many movers in Detroit can handle specialty items for my move to Santa Ana?
Specialty moving services aren’t offered by every company. In Detroit, 22 movers can handle pianos. 8 offer antique moving services. Compared to the rest of MI, there are 51 piano movers and 19 antique movers, while nationwide the numbers are 2,303 and 1,466 respectively.
If you need these services, it’s best to book early — availability can be limited, especially during peak moving months.
Helpful moving resources
Detroit moving services
Popular Michigan routes
- Michigan to California car shippers
- Michigan to California movers
- Michigan to Florida movers
- Michigan to Georgia movers
- Michigan to Illinois movers
- Michigan to New York movers
- Michigan to North Carolina movers
- Michigan to Ohio movers
- Michigan to Pennsylvania movers
- Michigan to Texas movers
- See All Moving Routes
Not what you were looking for?
Check out other categories that can help you find the information you need!