Top-rated movers to make your Santa Ana to Fort Collins move easy
Finding a trusted local moving company in Santa Ana that offers long-distance services to Fort Collins can be a challenge. Good news — we’ve done the homework for you. Our team reviewed 93 top local movers in Santa Ana who handle long-distance moves, evaluating them based on pricing, service offerings, and customer satisfaction.
These are the best local movers for your long-distance move from Santa Ana to Fort Collins.
- 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 Fort Collins?
In California, moving services typically cost around $128 per hour. Below are standard prices for hiring a full-service moving company, renting a moving container, or a truck:
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,216 – $4,647 | $874 – $1,970 | $659 – $1,353 |
| 2 – 3 bedrooms | $2,536 – $5,990 | $1,462 – $2,917 | $704 – $1,502 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $4,197 – $7,675 | $2,036 – $4,162 | $894 – $1,866 |
Cost to hire movers from Santa Ana to Fort Collins
If you’re packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move to Fort Collins from Santa Ana, you can expect prices to land between $1,216 and $4,647. For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from $2,536 to $5,990 for the trip from Santa Ana to Fort Collins. If you’re moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you’re likely looking at a price tag between $4,197 and $7,675.
Cost of moving containers from Santa Ana to Fort Collins
Moving containers from Santa Ana to Fort Collins will cost you $874 to $1,970 for a small move. For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $1,462 to $2,917. A four-bedroom move or bigger will cost $2,036 to $4,162. Learn more about PODS cost.
Here are the cheapest moving container companies when moving out of California.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Santa Ana to Fort Collins
Renting a moving truck from Santa Ana to Fort Collins typically costs the least, but you’ll be responsible for both the heavy lifting and all the driving.
Expect to pay between $659 and $1,353 to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move, prices usually range from $704 to $1,502. If you’re relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you’ll likely spend anywhere from $894 to $1,866.
These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.
Key factors that impact the cost of your Santa Ana to Fort Collins move
The cost of Santa Ana movers will depend on:
- Home size: The number of rooms makes a big difference. Expect around $2,289 for a one-bedroom, or up to $7,142 for a four-bedroom.
- The time of year you’re moving: Rates climb in summer because of peak season demand in Santa Ana.
- DIY vs. professional: Rental trucks can range from $659 to $1,741, but require more effort than hiring movers.
What to know before moving from Santa Ana to Fort Collins
Many movers find Fort Collins easier on the wallet than Santa Ana – roughly 66% less for singles and 57% less for families.
Monthly basics average $2,140 for one person in Fort Collins versus $6,333 in Santa Ana. For a family of four, it’s $4,795 compared with $11,160.
See the cost breakdown below to pinpoint where the savings add up:
| Santa Ana | Fort Collins | |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1 BR rent | $2,200 | $1,783 |
| Average 3 BR rent | $3,000 | $2,830 |
| Average home value | $843,858 | $543,093 |
| Average income (per capita) | $77,283 | $64,728 |
| Cost of living (single) | $6,333 | $2,140 |
| Cost of living (family of four) | $11,160 | $4,795 |
| Unemployment rate | 7.0% | 5.6% |
| Sales tax | 9.25% | 7.55% |
| State income tax | 13.3% | 5.49% |
- When relocating from Santa Ana to Fort Collins, expect to find rent about 34% cheaper, letting you enjoy more financial freedom monthly.
- You can relax about your monthly mortgage expenses, thanks to home prices being nearly 36% more affordable in Fort Collins compared to Santa Ana.
- Reviewing your financial plan is wise before moving. The average income is nearly 16% lower in Fort Collins compared to Santa Ana.
- You’ll save on routine expenses like food, gas, and utilities in Fort Collins, as the cost of living for a single person is 66% lower compared to Santa Ana.
- A move to Fort Collins can help cut down on a family’s routine expenses, including utilities, transportation, and groceries. The cost of living for a family of four is 57% less than what it costs in Santa Ana.
- The unemployment rate in Fort Collins is about 20% lower than in Santa Ana. This is often a positive indicator of a robust job market and economic health, beneficial if you plan to move there.
- Sales taxes are 18% less in Fort Collins relative to Santa Ana. This will help shrink your living expenses, especially if you tend to buy more taxable goods.
- Income taxes in Colorado are 59% below those in California. This decrease in income tax can leave more funds at your disposal, allowing you additional financial breathing room.
See how the cost of everyday necessities and regular monthly payments differs between Santa Ana and Fort Collins:
| Living Expense | Santa Ana | Fort Collins |
|---|---|---|
| Basic utilities | $200.96 | $167.02 |
| Cell phone plan | $54.33 | $43.00 |
| Dozen eggs | $5.45 | $4.12 |
| Loaf of bread | $4.59 | $3.09 |
| Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) | $25.00 | $18.00 |
| Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) | $100.00 | $72.00 |
| Gym membership | $25.00 | $60.00 |
- Basic utilities tend to be more expensive in Santa Ana than in Fort Collins.
- Cell phone plans typically cost more in Santa Ana than in Fort Collins.
- Eggs cost more in Santa Ana than in Fort Collins.
- Bread is more expensive in Santa Ana than in Fort Collins.
- A quick meal tends to cost more in Santa Ana than in Fort Collins.
- A mid-range dinner for two is pricier in Santa Ana than in Fort Collins.
- Gym memberships are more affordable in Santa Ana than in Fort Collins.
How life is different in Santa Ana vs. Fort Collins
| Santa Ana | Fort Collins | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 310,227 | 169,810 |
| Transportation score | 7 | 4 |
| Walkability score | 67 | 37 |
| Bike friendliness score | 62 | 78 |
| Crime index | 54.17 | 17.0 |
| Safety index | 45.83 | 72.86 |
| Air quality | Moderate | Good |
- Fort Collins’s population is about 45% less than Santa Ana.
- Fort Collins’s public transportation score of 4 out of 10 is lower than Santa Ana’s score of 7.
- Fort Collins is less walkable than Santa Ana with a score of 37 out of 100 vs Santa Ana’s 67 out of 100.
- With a score of 78 out of 100, Fort Collins is more bike-friendly than Santa Ana, which has a score of 62 out of 100. The higher a city’s score, the more suited it is to safely accommodating cyclists.
- Fort Collins’s crime rate is lower than Santa Ana with a score of 17.0 compared to Santa Ana’s 54.17. This means that Fort Collins neighborhoods are safer than 17.0% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Santa Ana neighborhoods are safer than 54.17%.
- Fort Collins is considered to be safer than Santa Ana with a safety index of 72.86 vs Santa Ana’s 45.83.
- Air quality in Fort Collins is Good, and in Santa Ana it’s Moderate.
Other things to consider for your Santa Ana to Fort Collins move
- HOA rules: Check ahead with any neighborhood or community rules on moving to ensure a smooth move.
- Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator, make sure to find out how to reserve it ahead of your move.
- Truck parking permits: Make sure to look into local parking regulations—some areas require permits for large moving trucks.
- State licensing: The Colorado Public Utilities Commission (COPUC) regulates local and intrastate moving service providers in Colorado. Before booking, ensure the moving company is officially licensed to handle your move.
- State regulator: Colorado’s public utilities commission provides official mover license verification.
- Moving Permits: Colorado does not require any moving permits, but it is helpful to check local parking restrictions before moving into the state. We recommend submitting your change of address form with USPS at least a week prior to your move.
- Change of address: We suggest filing your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move. You’ll be able to set your official move date, helping ensure your mail is forwarded correctly to Fort Collins. Start the process here.
- Moving company insurance: The amount and type of insurance movers must have depends on state regulations. Choose Released Value Protection for its cost-free advantage, provided by movers with minimal coverage. Under this option, the mover’s responsibility is capped at 60 cents per pound per article. For instance, if your mover lost or damaged a valuable item, you would only receive compensation based on this limited valuation. If you seek comprehensive coverage for your items’ full value, discuss alternative options with the moving company you’re hiring or explore third-party insurance providers.
- Moving checklist: Our moving checklist gives you the peace of mind that comes with being fully prepared.
Where to live in Fort Collins
Planning your move to Fort Collins? Take a look at our picks for the best neighborhoods to call home in Fort Collins.
Best neighborhoods for singles
- Old Town
- City Park
- Ram’s Village
- Harmony Crossing
Best neighborhoods for families
- Old Town
- City Park
- Huntington Hills
- Harmony Crossing
Things to do in Fort Collins
After settling into your new Colorado home, you’ll want to branch out and explore your new city. Luckily, Fort Collins has lots to offer, no matter what you’re interested in:
- Arts and culture: Fort Collins features a variety of museums and cultural arts centers, including the Totally 80’s Pizza & Museum, Fort Collins Museum of Discovery, Global Village Museum of Arts and Cultures, and Museum of Art Fort Collins.
- Outdoor recreation: The city’s Cache La Poudre River, Horsetooth Mountain Open Space, Annual Flower Trial Garden, and Spring Canyon Community Park — along with other locations — ideal for trails, cycling, or enjoying the fresh air.
- Sports: Nothing beats the thrill of cheering on the home team at an Colorado State Rams (Mountain West) game.
FAQ
When is the best time to move from Santa Ana to Fort Collins?
Planning your move from Santa Ana to Fort Collins? Aim for spring or fall when the weather is pleasant and demand is lower, helping you avoid peak-season rates in Santa Ana.
When is the cheapest time to move from Santa Ana to Fort Collins?
Because most people are moving from Santa Ana to Fort Collins in the spring or fall, you can often catch discounts by moving in the winter. Read our guide on moving discounts to learn more.
How long does a move from Santa Ana to Fort Collins take?
The 1,074-mile journey from Santa Ana, CA to Fort Collins, , typically takes two to eight days. Some movers in Santa Ana offer expedited services if you’re on a tight schedule, and if you need extra time, be sure to ask about storage options in Fort Collins.
Are there special savings available from movers in Santa Ana?
Several movers here offer discounted rates that can help lower your total moving costs. 1 have discounts for military personnel. 2 extend reduced rates to seniors.
These offers can vary widely, so it’s best to verify details with the mover before booking.
Are piano and antique moving services available in Santa Ana?
Not all movers have the resources to handle high-value or delicate items. In Santa Ana, 73 movers can manage piano relocations. 60 movers are equipped for antique transport. By comparison, California has 297 piano movers and 227 antique movers, while nationwide there are 2,303 and 1,466 respectively.
Always confirm the mover’s experience and packing methods for fragile or specialty items before booking.
Helpful moving resources
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