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($1,250) Cost to Move From Santa Ana, CA to Ann Arbor, MI

Easily compare and book your next move with moveBuddha
Estimated cost & time: Moving 2,237 miles from Santa Ana to Ann Arbor has an average cost ranging from $1,316 to $7,411. Anticipate a journey duration of roughly six–17 days. Final expenses can fluctuate based on the distance, date, size of the home, and whether you choose a DIY approach or hire professional movers.
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Best movers from Santa Ana to Ann Arbor

Best overall value
Safeway Moving Logo Safeway Moving
checkmark Best overall value
checkmark Veteran owned
checkmark Portion to charity
4.9
  • checkmarkBest overall value
  • checkmarkVeteran owned
  • checkmarkPortion to charity
American Van Lines Logo American Van Lines
checkmark Certified crews
checkmark Flat-rate pricing
checkmark Family-owned
4.5
  • checkmarkCertified crews
  • checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
  • checkmarkFamily-owned
North American Van Lines Logo North American Van Lines
checkmark 1,800 trucks
checkmark Storage available
checkmark Customized moving plans
4.5
  • checkmark1,800 trucks
  • checkmarkStorage available
  • checkmarkCustomized moving plans
Allied Van Lines Logo Allied Van Lines
checkmark Specialty packing services
checkmark White-glove reputation
checkmark 80+ years’ experience
4.8
  • checkmarkSpecialty packing services
  • checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
  • checkmark80+ years’ experience
Mayzlin Relocation Logo Mayzlin Relocation
checkmark Family owned
checkmark East coast focus
checkmark Affordable pricing
4.9
  • checkmarkFamily owned
  • checkmarkEast coast focus
  • checkmarkAffordable pricing

Best movers by type

Professional Icon
Professional
Container Icon
Container
Rental Truck Icon
Rental Truck
Freight Icon
Labor Only

Best professional movers from Santa Ana to Ann Arbor

Choosing a full-service mover is ideal when you prefer experts to oversee your interstate move from Santa Ana to Ann Arbor. These companies handle all the details, allowing you to dedicate your energy to your next steps.

There are 87 interstate moving companies in Santa Ana. We recommend the top selections to ensure a stress-free journey to Ann Arbor.

Safeway Moving
checkmark Best overall value
checkmark Veteran owned
checkmark Portion to charity
American Van Lines
checkmark Certified crews
checkmark Flat-rate pricing
checkmark Family-owned
Allied Van Lines
checkmark Specialty packing services
checkmark White-glove reputation
checkmark 80+ years’ experience
Mayzlin Relocation
checkmark Family owned
checkmark East coast focus
checkmark Affordable pricing
North American Van Lines
checkmark 1,800 trucks
checkmark Storage available
checkmark Customized moving plans

Estimated cost to move from Santa Ana to Ann Arbor

These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 2,237-mile move from Santa Ana to Ann Arbor using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 07, 2025. We source thousands of verified price points from moving companies nationwide and update them every month to mirror seasonal patterns and market trends. Actual pricing varies with the size of your move, optional services, access/parking challenges, fuel costs, and scheduling. For accuracy, compare estimates from more than one mover.
Studio Icon

Studio / 1 bedroom

  • Moving Company $2,565 – $5,598
  • Moving Container $1,705 – $3,285
  • Rental Truck $1,291 – $2,543
Two Three Bed Icon

2-3 bedrooms

  • Moving Company $3,513 – $7,411
  • Moving Container $2,078 – $4,567
  • Rental Truck $1,316 – $2,768
Four Bed Icon

4+ bedrooms

  • Moving Company $6,661 – $11,986
  • Moving Container $3,002 – $6,304
  • Rental Truck $1,800 – $3,357
Recent Moving Price Estimates
The following are real, anonymized quotes requested by moveBuddha readers in the past 48 hours. Prices change with dates and availability; use these as a ballpark, not a guarantee.
1-800-Pack-Rat
La Palma, CA Melvindale, MI
5+ Bedrooms
Oct 12, 2025
North American Van Lines
Ladera Ranch, CA Inkster, MI
2 Bedrooms
Oct 12, 2025
Roadway Moving
Fountain Valley, CA Walled Lake, MI
4 Bedrooms
Sep 25, 2025
Mayzlin Relocation
Inglewood, CA Romulus, MI
1 Bedroom (large)
Sep 20, 2025
Mayflower Transit
South Gate, CA Flat Rock, MI
1 Bedroom (small)
Sep 07, 2025
Allied Van Lines
Costa Mesa, CA Britton, MI
1 Bedroom (large)
Sep 06, 2025
Colonial Van Lines
Pomona, CA Berkley, MI
2 Bedrooms
Aug 30, 2025
United Van Lines
Downey, CA Chelsea, MI
4 Bedrooms
Aug 15, 2025
American Van Lines
Los Angeles, CA Webberville, MI
1 Bedroom (large)
Aug 13, 2025
PODS
Meadowbrook, CA Plymouth, MI
4 Bedrooms
Aug 10, 2025

Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from Ann Arbor, MI to Santa Ana, CA guide.

Highly rated local moving companies for Santa Ana to Ann Arbor moves

Organizing a move from Santa Ana to Ann Arbor can be daunting, particularly when trying to identify a reliable mover that offers long-distance services. We’ve done the groundwork for you, evaluating 93 local movers in Santa Ana known for their long-distance moving capabilities, assessing them on pricing, customer experiences, and reliability.

Here are the best local movers for long-distance moves from Santa Ana to Ann Arbor.

  1. Meathead Movers: 4.62 out of 5 stars
  2. Maison Moving: 4.52 out of 5 stars
  3. Best Fit Movers: 4.52 out of 5 stars
  4. NorthStar Moving Company : 4.56 out of 5 stars
  5. Terry Moving and Storage Inc.: 4.58 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
76.7% of all reviews were positive
20.0% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Meathead Movers stands out for hustle, professionalism, and customer care. Out of 596 feedback entries, 76.7% reflected positive experiences, far surpassing most moving services. Customers consistently mention the professional and polite attitude of staff, quick and efficient moves, careful handling of belongings, and clear communication throughout the process. On the other hand, some input details damage to furniture or property, unexpected costs, and occasional delays with arrival or delivery. Still, the frequency of efficient and careful service notably outweighs these issues. Based on customer input, Meathead Movers sets a higher standard for moving companies by maintaining reliable service, though attention to damage prevention and transparent pricing could be further improved to match their strong reputation.
Get a Quote (949) 485-7883

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
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
84.3% of all reviews were positive
14.3% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Word spreads fast about a moving company that gets the job done. Out of 293 customer reviews, Maison Moving earned high marks, with 84% giving glowing feedback. Customers repeatedly mention the efficiency, professionalism, and care shown by the movers, highlighting strong communication, timely arrivals, and careful handling of belongings. Many found booking straightforward, pricing transparent, and crews helpful and polite. Moving day stresses were often eased by their quick, organized approach. Negative feedback, making up 14% of input, centered on damaged or missing items and rare delays or unprepared crews. Some clients were frustrated by the claims process or communication breakdowns after problems. Only 1% described neutral experiences, usually pointing out minor issues like unexpected fees or average service. Compared to others, Maison Moving stands out for its reliable, efficient service but could improve on accountability and claims handling when things go wrong.
Get a Quote (800) 832-5950

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
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
92.5% of all reviews were positive
7.0% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Movers at Best Fit Movers deliver speed and professionalism. Analyzing 227 customer reviews, 92.5% reflect favorable experiences, often calling out efficient service, careful handling of belongings, and polite, helpful staff. Many mention quick moving processes and attention to customer needs. On the downside, 7% of feedback notes serious problems, mostly tied to belongings being damaged, prices ending up higher than expected, or crews arriving later than planned. A small slice of feedback highlighted inconsistent communication and issues resolving claims. Customers choosing Best Fit Movers will likely notice a much higher satisfaction rate than found at most moving companies, although the sharpest concerns come from those whose items were damaged or whose final bills differed from what they’d been quoted. For those seeking reliability and fast-moving teams, Best Fit Movers stands out, but a handful of users report major disappointments related to mishandled property or added expenses.
Get a Quote (949) 996-9940

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
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
94.1% of all reviews were positive
4.4% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving day becomes stress-free with NorthStar Moving Company, based on feedback from 68 customers—94% shared strong praise. Their most valued traits include efficient service, careful handling of items, and a professional, helpful crew. Customers frequently highlight the movers’ speed, organization, and willingness to assist with unplanned needs, setting NorthStar apart from other companies. Pricing transparency and reliable scheduling also add extra appeal, while both large and small moves often run smoothly, thanks to teams going above and beyond. Some dissatisfied input focused on hard-to-reach representatives, poor communication, and a few timing issues which caused frustration. Still, negative experiences accounted for less than 5% of all feedback, and most clients endorsed NorthStar for local, long distance, and even last-minute relocations. Compared to other moving companies, NorthStar consistently impresses with attentive teams and smooth execution, making it a top choice for those seeking security and reliability during a move.
Get a Quote (800) 275-7767

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
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
93.8% of all reviews were positive
5.0% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Word travels fast when a moving company stands out, and Terry Moving and Storage Inc. has built a strong reputation with feedback from 419 customers—nearly 94% of whom share positive input. Customers consistently praise the speed and efficiency of service, the professionalism and courtesy of the moving team, and especially their careful handling of valuable items. Staff members receive high marks for their great communication, making the moving process less stressful. Common negatives reported include occasional damage to belongings, unexpected fees or pricing differences, and some gaps in communication during problem situations. While some reviewers faced issues with lost items or claims handling, these incidents are much less frequent than is typical for the industry. Compared to most moving companies, Terry Moving and Storage Inc. is viewed as more reliable and responsive, with a reputation for organization and genuinely helpful crews. The significant volume of positive input confirms this company sets a high bar for moving and storage providers.
Get a Quote (949) 587-9490

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 Ann Arbor?

On average, moving companies in California charge about $128 per hour. Consider these typical rates for a full-service moving company, moving container, or rental truck:

Move size Moving company Moving container Rental
truck
Studio / 1 bedroom $1,250 – $5,236 $1,205 – $3,050 $1,303 – $2,422
2 – 3 bedrooms $3,513 – $7,411 $2,078 – $4,567 $1,316 – $2,768
4+ bedrooms $6,661 – $11,986 $3,002 – $6,304 $1,800 – $3,357
*Estimated cost ranges for a 2,237-mile move from Santa Ana to Ann Arbor are shown here using moveBuddha data as of Nov 07, 2025. We compile thousands of verified price points from nationwide movers and update the dataset monthly to account for seasonal patterns and broader market trends. Your total may differ depending on volume, selected services, parking/access limitations, fuel prices, and timing. Comparing quotes from multiple moving companies is the best way to pinpoint a precise price.

Cost to hire movers from Santa Ana to Ann Arbor

When planning a move to Ann Arbor from Santa Ana, for a studio or one-bedroom, you’ll likely pay between $1,250 and $5,236. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, expect costs to fall somewhere between $3,513 and $7,411 for the same journey. Moving four or five bedrooms? Typical prices range from $6,661 to $11,986.

Cost of moving containers from Santa Ana to Ann Arbor

When you’re heading from Santa Ana to Ann Arbor, and you’re only moving a few items, you can expect to spend between $1,205 and $3,050. For a two- or three-bedroom place, prices usually fall between $2,078 and $4,567. If you’re packing up a large home with four or more bedrooms, the cost can range from $3,002 to $6,304. Want more details? Check out our complete PODS cost guide.

Explore the top budget-friendly moving container companies to make your move from California easier and more affordable.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Santa Ana to Ann Arbor

A moving rental truck from Santa Ana to Ann Arbor is generally the cheapest option, but it requires you to do all of the driving and labor.

Moving a studio or one-bedroom apartment in a rental truck will cost around $1,303 to $2,422. A two to three-bedroom move will cost $1,316 to $2,768, and moving a home with four or more bedrooms from Santa Ana to Ann Arbor costs around $1,800 to $3,357.

These quotes include the estimated fuel cost.

Factors that affect moving costs from Santa Ana to Ann Arbor

The cost of Santa Ana movers will depend on:

  • How much stuff you have: A one-bedroom move from Santa Ana to Ann Arbor may only cost $2,542, whereas a full four-bedroom relocation can approach $10,359.
  • The season you’re moving in: Movers charge more in summer, the busiest months in Santa Ana.
  • Which type of mover you use: Save with a truck rental ($1,303–$3,161), but expect more hassle than hiring pros.

What to know before moving from Santa Ana to Ann Arbor

Many movers find Ann Arbor easier on the wallet than Santa Ana – roughly 66% less for singles and 52% less for families.

Monthly basics average $2,176 for one person in Ann Arbor versus $6,333 in Santa Ana. For a family of four, it’s $5,344 compared with $11,160.

See the cost breakdown below to pinpoint where the savings add up:

Santa Ana Ann Arbor
Average 1 BR rent $2,200 $1,831
Average 3 BR rent $3,000 $3,763
Average home value $843,858 $474,909
Average income (per capita) $77,283 $66,964
Cost of living (single) $6,333 $2,176
Cost of living (family of four) $11,160 $5,344
Unemployment rate 7.0% 3.5%
Sales tax 9.25% 6.0%
State income tax 13.3% 4.25%
  • Rent is about 15% less expensive in Ann Arbor than in Santa Ana, so you will have more cash on hand each month.
  • Expect your mortgage payments to be easier on the wallet, as home prices are around 44% cheaper in Ann Arbor than in Santa Ana.
  • You might want to reassess your budget before relocating. The average income is roughly 13% less in Ann Arbor than in Santa Ana.
  • Expect to spend less on everyday needs such as food, fuel, and utilities in Ann Arbor. The cost of living for a single person there is 66% below that of Santa Ana.
  • A move to Ann Arbor can offer your family a more affordable lifestyle, with savings on everyday costs such as utilities, groceries, and transport. The cost of living for a family is 52% lower compared to Santa Ana.
  • Ann Arbor has a lower unemployment rate than Santa Ana by about 50%. This signals a stronger job market and healthier local economy, both promising indicators for someone relocating.
  • Sales taxes are 35% cheaper in Ann Arbor compared to Santa Ana. This could significantly slash costs for families or individuals with higher spending on taxable necessities.
  • Income taxes are 68% less in Michigan compared to California, offering a relief on your paycheck, which can enhance your budgeting options.

Here’s the side-by-side view of common monthly bills and day-to-day expenses in Santa Ana versus Ann Arbor:

Living Expense Santa Ana Ann Arbor
Basic utilities $200.96 $158.05
Cell phone plan $54.33 $48.64
Dozen eggs $5.45 $2.70
Loaf of bread $4.59 $3.60
Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) $25.00 $15.00
Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) $100.00 $75.00
Gym membership $25.00 $44.00
  • Basic utilities tend to be more expensive in Santa Ana than in Ann Arbor.
  • Cell phone plans typically cost more in Santa Ana than in Ann Arbor.
  • Eggs cost more in Santa Ana than in Ann Arbor.
  • Bread is more expensive in Santa Ana than in Ann Arbor.
  • A quick meal tends to cost more in Santa Ana than in Ann Arbor.
  • A mid-range dinner for two is pricier in Santa Ana than in Ann Arbor.
  • Gym memberships are more affordable in Santa Ana than in Ann Arbor.

How life is different in Santa Ana vs. Ann Arbor

Santa Ana Ann Arbor
Population 310,227 123,851
Transportation score 7 7
Walkability score 67 52
Bike friendliness score 62 71
Crime index 54.17 31.0
Safety index 45.83 79.18
Air quality Moderate Moderate
  • Ann Arbor’s population is about 60% less than Santa Ana.
  • Ann Arbor’s public transportation score is within about 5% of Santa Ana, making them very similar.
  • Ann Arbor is less walkable than Santa Ana with a score of 52 out of 100 vs Santa Ana’s 67 out of 100.
  • With a score of 71 out of 100, Ann Arbor 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.
  • Ann Arbor’s crime rate is lower than Santa Ana with a score of 31.0 compared to Santa Ana’s 54.17. This means that Ann Arbor neighborhoods are safer than 31.0% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Santa Ana neighborhoods are safer than 54.17%.
  • Ann Arbor is considered to be safer than Santa Ana with a safety index of 79.18 vs Santa Ana’s 45.83.
  • Air quality in Ann Arbor is Moderate, and in Santa Ana it’s Moderate.

Other things to consider for your Santa Ana to Ann Arbor move

  • HOA rules: Costs across Santa Ana and Ann Arbor are largely aligned, so your monthly budget shouldn’t shift much after the move.
  • Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator you’ll want to check on how to reserve it for move day.
  • Truck parking permits: Many cities require special permits for parking large moving trucks. Check in advance to see if one is needed for your move.
  • State licensing: The agency regulating local and intrastate household goods movers in Michigan is the Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC). State regulation and oversight activities include commercial vehicle registration and safety compliance, review of published tariff rates, licensing, and consumer protection efforts. Ensure the company you choose is licensed to handle your move.
  • State regulator: To confirm a moving company’s license in Michigan, visit the state’s public utilities commission.
  • Moving Permits: Moving permits aren’t typically required in Michigan, but always confirm with local authorities to avoid surprises.
  • Change of address: You can set an official move date on the form and this way all of your mail will get properly forwarded to Ann Arbor. Get started here.
  • Moving company insurance: Each state has its own requirements for the level of insurance moving companies must carry. In Alabama, Massachusetts, and Michigan, choose the economical option of Released Value Protection, provided by movers at no extra cost. However, it offers minimal coverage at 60 cents per pound per article. For comprehensive coverage of your items’ full value, consult with your moving company for alternatives or explore third-party insurance providers.
  • Moving checklist: Let our moving checklist guide you through the process and help ensure nothing slips through the cracks.

Where to live in Ann Arbor

With your sights set on Tree Town, these are some of the most popular neighborhoods to consider in Ann Arbor.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • Kerrytown
  • Lower Burns Park
  • Old West Side
  • Northside/Lower Town
  • Allen Creek/Old West Side

Best neighborhoods for families

  • Burns Park
  • Eberwhite
  • Water Hill
  • Ann Arbor Hills
  • Dicken

Things to do in Ann Arbor

With your move to Michigan complete, you can dive right into experiencing Ann Arbor. From cultural attractions to outdoor adventures, you’ll never run out of things to do:

  • Arts and culture: Ann Arbor is home to museums and cultural arts centers like the Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum, University of Michigan Museum of Art, University of Michigan Museum of Natural History, and Kelsey Museum of Archaeology.
  • Outdoor recreation: The city’s Gallup Park, Hudson Mills Metropark, County Farm Park, and Buhr Park — among other spots — perfect for hiking, biking, or simply soaking up the outdoors.
  • Sports: Experience the energy of a live game and back the home team at an Michigan Wolverines (Big Ten) game.

FAQ

When is the best time to move from Santa Ana to Ann Arbor?

If you’re flexible with timing, spring and fall are great seasons to move from Santa Ana to Ann Arbor. You’ll dodge the heat, the crowds, and the higher moving costs typical of peak season in Santa Ana.

When is the cheapest time to move from Santa Ana to Ann Arbor?

Want to save on your move from Santa Ana to Ann Arbor? Consider scheduling it in winter, when demand is lower and rates are often cheaper. Our moving discounts guide shows you how.

How long does a move from Santa Ana to Ann Arbor take?

The 2,237-mile move from Santa Ana, CA, to Ann Arbor, , takes six to 17 days. Some Santa Ana movers may offer expedited moving if you need it faster. If you need more time, ask your mover about storage options in Ann Arbor.

What kinds of discounts do Santa Ana movers offer?

Many local moving companies provide ways to save, from ongoing deals to seasonal offers. 1 movers offer special pricing for military members. 2 movers extend discounts to senior citizens.

Check with each mover to confirm discount availability, eligibility requirements, and how much you can save.

Need help moving a piano or antiques in Santa Ana?

These delicate items require movers with specialized training. Currently, 73 movers in Santa Ana provide piano moving services. 60 can transport antiques with care. Statewide, there are 297 piano movers and 227 antique movers, with nationwide counts at 2,303 and 1,466.

Demand for these services can be high, so schedule your specialty move as far ahead as possible.

Helpful moving resources

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