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($1,303) Cost to Move From Santa Ana, CA to Detroit, MI

Easily compare and book your next move with moveBuddha
Estimated cost & time: The cost for moving 2,278 miles from Santa Ana to Detroit is generally between $1,328 and $7,439. The trip duration should be approximately seven–18 days. Final cost is influenced by distance, date, the size of your home, and whether you opt for DIY or professional movers.
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Best movers from Santa Ana to Detroit

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 Detroit

When it comes to handling your interstate move from Santa Ana to Detroit, entrusting professionals with the details is often the best decision. Full-service movers are equipped to manage everything, allowing you to concentrate on settling into your new place.

In Santa Ana, you have a choice of 87 interstate moving companies. Let us introduce you to our top recommendations that will help you reach Detroit smoothly and with confidence.

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 Detroit

These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 2,278-mile move from Santa Ana to Detroit using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 07, 2025. moveBuddha aggregates thousands of verified quotes from movers across the country and refreshes the dataset each month to track seasonal shifts and market changes. Your actual cost can differ based on shipment size, extra services, access or parking issues, fuel prices, and timing. We suggest gathering estimates from several companies to get the most accurate pricing.
Studio Icon

Studio / 1 bedroom

  • Moving Company $2,600 – $5,367
  • Moving Container $1,659 – $3,298
  • Rental Truck $1,241 – $2,397
Two Three Bed Icon

2-3 bedrooms

  • Moving Company $3,580 – $7,439
  • Moving Container $2,302 – $4,539
  • Rental Truck $1,328 – $2,882
Four Bed Icon

4+ bedrooms

  • Moving Company $6,592 – $11,731
  • Moving Container $3,042 – $6,151
  • Rental Truck $1,782 – $3,750
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.
Allied Van Lines
La Puente, CA South Rockwood, MI
5+ Bedrooms
Oct 21, 2025
American Van Lines
Jurupa Valley, CA Oak Park, MI
1 Bedroom (large)
Oct 18, 2025
Mayflower Transit
West Puente Valley, CA Village of Clarkston, MI
1 Bedroom (large)
Oct 12, 2025
Mayzlin Relocation
Fountain Valley, CA Westland, MI
5+ Bedrooms
Oct 01, 2025
Budget Truck Rental
El Monte, CA Grosse Pointe, MI
5+ Bedrooms
Sep 22, 2025
Colonial Van Lines
Whittier, CA Marine City, MI
1 Bedroom (small)
Sep 21, 2025
Safeway Moving
Eastvale, CA Sterling Heights, MI
1 Bedroom (small)
Sep 11, 2025
BLVD Moving
Perris, CA Utica, MI
2 Bedrooms
Sep 10, 2025
Roadway Moving
Menifee, CA Pleasant Ridge, MI
Studio apartment
Sep 02, 2025
North American Van Lines
Home Gardens, CA Flat Rock, MI
2 Bedrooms
Aug 29, 2025

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

Top local movers for Santa Ana to Detroit moves

Searching for a dependable local mover in Santa Ana that also provides long-distance services to Detroit can feel overwhelming. That’s where we come in — we’ve analyzed 93 local movers in Santa Ana who specialize in long-distance relocations, factoring in cost, services, and customer feedback.

These are the best local moving companies for getting from Santa Ana to Detroit.

  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 Detroit?

Movers in California generally charge an average of $128 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 $1,303 – $4,922 $1,270 – $2,999 $1,241 – $2,471
2 – 3 bedrooms $3,580 – $7,439 $2,302 – $4,539 $1,328 – $2,882
4+ bedrooms $6,592 – $11,731 $3,042 – $6,151 $1,782 – $3,750
*These price ranges are rough estimates for a 2,278-mile move from Santa Ana to Detroit, based on pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 07, 2025. moveBuddha gathers thousands of verified price points from movers nationwide and refreshes the dataset monthly to reflect seasonal shifts and market trends. Your final cost can change with factors like move size, add-on services, parking or access constraints, fuel rates, and timing. We recommend comparing quotes from multiple movers to get the most accurate pricing.

Cost to hire movers from Santa Ana to Detroit

Moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Santa Ana to Detroit typically costs between $1,303 and $4,922. For a two- or three-bedroom home, expect prices to fall between $3,580 and $7,439 when moving from Santa Ana to Detroit. If you’re tackling a large move (think four or five bedrooms) from Santa Ana to Detroit, you’re looking at costs ranging from $6,592 up to $11,731.

Cost of moving containers from Santa Ana to Detroit

If you’re relocating from Santa Ana to Detroit, you’ll typically spend between $1,270 and $2,999 for a small move. Have a two or three-bedroom home? Plan for costs to range from $2,302 up to $4,539. If you’re moving a larger home — four bedrooms or more — expect to pay anywhere between $3,042 and $6,151. For a full breakdown, check out our complete PODS cost guide.

Explore our top budget-friendly moving container companies for your move from California.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Santa Ana to Detroit

Renting a moving truck is typically the most budget-friendly choice for a Santa Ana to Detroit 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 $1,241 and $2,471. For a two- or three-bedroom move, costs usually range from $1,328 to $2,882. If you’re tackling a four-bedroom or bigger move, your rental truck will likely run between $1,782 and $3,750.

Estimated fuel costs are already factored into these quotes.

Major factors affecting moving costs from Santa Ana to Detroit

The cost of Santa Ana movers will depend on:

  • Move size: The cost of your move depends on how much you’re bringing. A one-bedroom from Santa Ana to Detroit might be as low as $2,710, while a four-bedroom could reach $10,416.
  • When you move: Moving in summer often costs more, since it’s the busiest season for movers in Santa Ana.
  • DIY moves vs. full-service help: Truck rentals cost less — around $1,241 to $3,192 — but you’ll handle all the labor vs. letting professionals do it.

What to know before moving from Santa Ana to Detroit

Many movers find Detroit easier on the wallet than Santa Ana – roughly 61% less for singles and 40% less for families.

Monthly basics average $2,500 for one person in Detroit versus $6,333 in Santa Ana. For a family of four, it’s $6,687 compared with $11,160.

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

Santa Ana Detroit
Average 1 BR rent $2,200 $1,325
Average 3 BR rent $3,000 $2,542
Average home value $843,858 $73,156
Average income (per capita) $77,283 $37,761
Cost of living (single) $6,333 $2,500
Cost of living (family of four) $11,160 $6,687
Unemployment rate 7.0% 9.06%
Sales tax 9.25% 6.0%
State income tax 13.3% 4.25%
  • Good news! When moving to Detroit from Santa Ana, you’ll benefit from rent being an estimated 53% less, allowing for a more relaxed budget.
  • With home prices being nearly 91% cheaper in Detroit, your mortgage budget will remain the same without any significant changes.
  • Be sure to look over your budget before making the move. The average income is about 51% lower in Detroit than in Santa Ana.
  • Prepare to enjoy reduced routine costs such as groceries, fuel, and utilities in Detroit. The cost of living for a single person is 61% less compared to Santa Ana.
  • Relocating to Detroit could provide savings on routine expenses for your family, including transportation, utilities, and groceries. The cost of living for a family is 40% lower than in Santa Ana.
  • The unemployment rate in Detroit exceeds that of Santa Ana by about 29%, resulting in a larger pool of potential workers and thus more hiring competition.
  • Sales taxes are 35% lower in Detroit than Santa Ana, a factor that could decrease expenditure on taxable items if your consumption is higher.
  • Income taxes are 68% lower in Michigan than in California. Lower income tax rates mean less money is withheld from your paycheck, giving you more flexibility to save, invest, or cover everyday expenses.

Take a detailed look at how everyday expenses stack up between Santa Ana and Detroit, from monthly bills to routine purchases:

Living Expense Santa Ana Detroit
Basic utilities $200.96 $251.12
Cell phone plan $54.33 $55.77
Dozen eggs $5.45 $3.52
Loaf of bread $4.59 $2.94
Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) $25.00 $18.00
Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) $100.00 $68.50
Gym membership $25.00 $43.00
  • Basic utilities cost less in Santa Ana than in Detroit, helping trim your monthly bills.
  • Cell phone plans are cheaper in Santa Ana than in Detroit.
  • Eggs cost more in Santa Ana than in Detroit.
  • Bread is more expensive in Santa Ana than in Detroit.
  • A quick meal tends to cost more in Santa Ana than in Detroit.
  • A mid-range dinner for two is pricier in Santa Ana than in Detroit.
  • Gym memberships are more affordable in Santa Ana than in Detroit.

How life is different in Santa Ana vs. Detroit

Santa Ana Detroit
Population 310,227 639,111
Transportation score 7 7
Walkability score 67 51
Bike friendliness score 62 52
Crime index 54.17 72.92
Safety index 45.83 27.08
Air quality Moderate Good
  • Detroit’s population is about 106% greater than Santa Ana.
  • Detroit’s public transportation score is within about 5% of Santa Ana, making them very similar.
  • Detroit is less walkable than Santa Ana with a score of 51 out of 100 vs Santa Ana’s 67 out of 100.
  • Detroit has a bike-friendliness score of 52 out of 100, which means it isn’t as accessible or safe for cyclists as Santa Ana, which has a score of 62.
  • Detroit’s crime rate is higher than Santa Ana with a score of 72.92 compared to Santa Ana’s 54.17. This means that Detroit neighborhoods are safer than 72.92% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Santa Ana neighborhoods are safer than 54.17%.
  • Detroit is considered to be less safe than Santa Ana with a score of 27.08 vs Santa Ana’s 45.83.
  • Air quality in Detroit is Good, and in Santa Ana it’s Moderate.

Other things to consider for your Santa Ana to Detroit 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: 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. Make sure the moving company you use has a license before hiring.
  • State regulator: You can check the status of a Michigan moving license through the state’s public utilities commission.
  • Moving Permits: You won’t need a moving permit in Michigan, 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 Detroit 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. 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: Our moving checklist will help you have the peace of mind that you’ve got everything covered.

Where to live in Detroit

Ready to relocate to America’s Comeback City? Here are some of the top neighborhoods to consider in Detroit.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • Corktown
  • Brush Park
  • Woodbridge
  • Downtown
  • Lafayette Park

Best neighborhoods for families

  • Sherwood Forest
  • Palmer Woods
  • University District
  • Corktown
  • Lafayette Park

Things to do in Detroit

Now that you’ve made the move to Michigan, it’s the perfect time to explore Detroit. From local hotspots to hidden gems, there’s something to enjoy for every lifestyle:

  • Arts and culture: Cultural attractions in Detroit include museums and art centers like the Detroit Institute of Arts, Motown Museum, The Ford Piquette Avenue Plant, and Detroit Historical Museum.
  • Outdoor recreation: Outdoor lovers will appreciate Belle Isle Park, Beacon Park, Palmer Park, and Balduck Park, 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 Detriot Tigers (MLB)Detroit Red Wings (NHL)Detroit Lions (NFL)Detroit Pistons (NBA) game.

FAQ

When is the best time to move from Santa Ana to Detroit?

Spring and fall are the ideal times to move from Santa Ana to Detroit. You’ll benefit from more comfortable weather and avoid the higher prices that come with peak moving season in Santa Ana.

When is the cheapest time to move from Santa Ana to Detroit?

With many people choosing to move from Santa Ana to Detroit 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 Santa Ana to Detroit take?

Covering 2,278 miles, the move from Santa Ana, CA to Detroit, typically takes seven to 18 days. Some Santa Ana movers may offer faster options, and if your timing is flexible, storage services in Detroit can help bridge the gap.

Do movers in Santa Ana offer any discounts?

Many do — and the types of discounts available can help you cut costs. 1 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 Santa Ana can handle specialty items for my move to Detroit?

Specialty moving services aren’t offered by every company. In Santa Ana, 73 movers can handle pianos. 60 offer antique moving services. Compared to the rest of CA, there are 297 piano movers and 227 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

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