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Local moving companies in Santa Ana
Out of 93 Santa Ana movers that can handle state-to-state moves, here are the top 5 that can handle your move to Iowa.
- 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
Local moving services in Santa Ana, CA
A quick snapshot of how many Santa Ana movers provide add-on specialty services:
Cost to move from Santa Ana, CA to Iowa
The following table outlines average prices to move from Santa Ana to Iowa, organized by home size and moving service.
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,237 – $4,737 | $1,060 – $2,458 | $967 – $1,916 |
| 2-3 bedrooms | $2,944 – $6,840 | $1,796 – $3,820 | $1,133 – $2,394 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $5,519 – $10,379 | $2,631 – $5,022 | $1,360 – $2,789 |
*These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 1,722-mile move from Santa Ana, CA, to Iowa using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 17, 2025. moveBuddha collects thousands of verified price points from moving companies nationwide and updates this data monthly to reflect seasonal fluctuations and market trends. Your final price may vary depending on move size, added services, parking or access challenges, fuel rates, and scheduling. We always recommend comparing quotes from multiple movers to get an accurate idea of pricing.
Cost to hire movers from Santa Ana to Iowa
When moving a studio or one-bedroom from Santa Ana to Iowa, you’ll likely pay between $1,237 and $4,737. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, expect costs to fall somewhere between $2,944 and $6,840 for the same journey. Moving four or five bedrooms? Typical prices range from $5,519 to $10,379.
Cost of moving containers from Santa Ana to Iowa
When you’re heading from Santa Ana to Iowa, and you’re only moving a few items, you can expect to spend between $1,060 and $2,458. For a two- or three-bedroom place, prices usually fall between $1,796 and $3,820. If you’re packing up a large home with four or more bedrooms, the cost can range from $2,631 to $5,022. Want more details? Check out our complete PODS cost guide.
Explore the top budget-friendly moving container companies to make your move from Santa Ana easier and more affordable.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Santa Ana to Iowa
A moving rental truck is generally the cheapest option, but it requires you to do all of the driving and labor.
Moving a studio or one-bedroom apartment from Santa Ana to Iowa in a rental truck will cost around $967 to $1,916. A two to three-bedroom move will cost $1,133 to $2,394, and moving a home with four or more bedrooms costs around $1,360 to $2,789.
These quotes include the estimated fuel cost.
Factors influencing moving costs from Santa Ana to IA
Several factors influence the cost of movers in Santa Ana:
- Move size: A studio move is far less expensive than relocating a large household.
- Time of year: Higher demand in the summer season pushes up moving company rates.
- DIY vs. professional mover: DIY options are budget-friendly but labor-intensive; hiring movers costs more but makes the process easier.
What you should know before moving from Santa Ana to IA
Transitioning from Santa Ana to Iowa can bring a different lifestyle and may ease financial pressures. With Santa Ana often being expensive, living in Iowa could be a more cost-effective option.
Browse through the cost of living data below to find out how Santa Ana stacks against Iowa, ensuring you’re equipped for the road ahead.
Compare cost of living: Santa Ana vs. Iowa
| Santa Ana, CA | Iowa | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent | $2,650 | $914 |
| Average home cost | $843,858 | $220,277 |
| Average income (per capita) | $77,283 | $70,571 |
| Cost of living index | 165 | 89 |
| Unemployment rate | 7.0% | 3.0% |
| State income tax | 13.3% | 4.4% |
Iowa sources: Zumper, Zillow, Numbeo
- Rent in Iowa runs roughly 66% less than in Santa Ana, which means monthly savings.
- Your mortgage costs should go down, since homes in Iowa are about 74% cheaper than in Santa Ana.
- Salaries in Iowa are about 9% lower than in Santa Ana, which could mean less flexibility in your budget.
- In Iowa, the cost of living is around 46% cheaper than in Santa Ana, offering potential savings each month.
- Job seekers may have an advantage in Iowa, where the unemployment rate is 57% lower than in Santa Ana.
- Income taxes are 67% lower in Iowa than in California, leaving you with more money each month.
How life is different in Santa Ana, CA from Iowa
If you’re moving from Santa Ana to Iowa, everything from the weather and local population to the predominant political views can feel pretty different. Let’s break down what life in Iowa is like compared to Santa Ana.
| Santa Ana, CA | Iowa | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 310,227 | 3,207,004 |
| Political leaning | Democratic 49.8-48.3 | Republican 53-45 |
| Summer high | 82ºF | 84ºF |
| Winter low | 47ºF | 10ºF |
| Annual rain | 13″ | 35″ |
| Annual snow | 0″ | 30″ |
| Crime index | 54.17 | 16.18 |
Iowa Sources: Wikipedia, AllTransit, Walk Score, NeighborhoodScout, AirNow
- In the last presidential election, Iowa leaned Republican, while Santa Ana supported Democratic.
- Summer highs hover close to 84ºF in Iowa and near 82ºF in Santa Ana. With such similar temperatures, you’ll find adapting to the new climate relatively straightforward. Don’t forget to consider factors like humidity, overall weather dynamics, and energy usage when picturing your summer experience in the new locale.
- Colder winters in Iowa mean lows of 10ºF, compared to Santa Ana at 47ºF. Expect higher heating bills and more demanding conditions, but also snowy landscapes and seasonal fun.
- Prepare for around 35 inches of rainfall annually in Iowa, compared with just 13 inches in Santa Ana. With more rain comes greener scenery and a few more wet days, so plan for that adjustment.
- Iowa gets about 30 inches of snow each year, while Santa Ana sees none. Moving to Iowa means preparing for snowy winters — beautiful scenery and seasonal activities, but also shoveling, upkeep, and winter gear.
- With a lower crime index of 16.18, Iowa offers a safer environment compared to Santa Ana, which posts a higher index of 54.17.
Other considerations when moving to Iowa
When moving from Santa Ana to Iowa, think beyond just hiring movers and boxing up your stuff to keep things running smoothly. Don’t forget to check local regulations, permits, and any other logistics that could affect your move.
- HOA rules: Some neighborhoods have specific rules for move-in days — verify with your HOA before moving.
- Elevator reservation: Many buildings require advance booking of elevators for moves — check before your moving date.
- Truck parking permits: Some cities require a parking permit if you’re using a moving truck or larger vehicle. Be sure to check ahead of time to see if you’ll need one for your move.
- State licensing: When moving within Iowa, make sure to hire a company that is licensed by the Iowa Department of Transportation. Each household goods mover in the state should have an Iowa Motor Carrier (IOWAMC) Number, which means they’ve met minimum insurance and highway safety requirements. Make sure the moving company you use has a license before hiring.
- State regulator: You can check the status of a Iowa moving license anytime on the official state regulator’s website.
- Moving permits: You won’t need a moving permit in Iowa, but it’s a good idea to check the local parking regulations ahead of your move.
- Change of address: Be sure to fill out your USPS change of address form at least a week before your move. You can set your official move date so your mail is forwarded to Iowa without any hiccups. Start here.
- Moving insurance: Insurance rules differ from state to state, so your specific needs will depend on your location. Choose cost-free Released Value Protection from movers for basic coverage at 60 cents per pound.
- Moving checklist: Peace of mind is priceless. Our moving checklist will help you know you’ve got everything covered.
Things to do in Iowa
No matter what you’re into—parks, museums, sports, or universities—you’ll find plenty of options to enjoy in Iowa.
Museums in Iowa
- National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium
- Figge Art Museum
- National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library
- The Putnam Museum & Science Center
- Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center
Parks in Iowa
- Vander Veer Botanical Park
- Gray’s Lake Park
- Pappajohn Sculpture Park
- Eagle Point Park
- Terry Trueblood Recreational Area
Sports teams in Iowa
- Iowa Wolves (NBA G League)
- Iowa Hawkeyes (NCAA)
- Northern Iowa Panthers (NCAA)
- Iowa State Cyclones (NCAA)
- Drake Bulldogs (NCAA)
Universities in Iowa
- Iowa State University
- University of Iowa
- University of Northern Iowa
- Maharishi International University
- Grinnell College
FAQ
How long does a move from Santa Ana to Iowa take?
Wondering how long your move from Santa Ana, CA to Iowa will take? Timing depends on the service you choose, but it typically takes four to 15 days. Keep in mind, if you’re moving during the busy summer months, your move might take a little longer.
If you want your move to go smoothly and avoid delays, make sure to ask about the delivery timeframe before booking your moving company.
Can I find movers that build custom crates in Santa Ana?
Yes—68 movers in Santa Ana offer custom crating, ideal for protecting artwork, antiques, and other fragile pieces. When requesting a quote, ask a Santa Ana mover about crate construction, padding, and lead times.
What is the best way to get a car from Santa Ana to Iowa?
Need to ship your car from Santa Ana to Iowa? Trust professionals who’ll protect your vehicle and manage all the details seamlessly. See our top choices for car shipping from California to Iowa.
Why are people moving from Santa Ana to Iowa?
Many people are moving to Iowa because of its low cost of living and ample economic opportunity.
Read more about the Pros & cons of moving to Iowa.
Where can I find a list of long-distance moving companies in Santa Ana?
Here are our top picks for the best long-distance movers in Santa Ana.
Can I pay for my move from Santa Ana, CA, with cash?
There are 37 movers in Santa Ana that accept cash payments. That said, cash is not common in the moving industry—most companies prefer card, ACH, or cashier’s check for traceability and receipts. Typically, you’ll pay a deposit to secure your booking and move date, with the remaining balance collected at pickup or after delivery (policy varies by mover). Always confirm accepted payment types and the timing of each payment before you book.
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