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($1,268) Cost to Move From Santa Ana, CA to Chapel Hill, NC

Easily compare and book your next move with moveBuddha
Estimated cost & time: The cost for moving 2,524 miles from Santa Ana to Chapel Hill is generally between $1,583 and $7,524. The trip duration should be approximately seven–21 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 Chapel Hill

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 Chapel Hill

When it comes to handling your interstate move from Santa Ana to Chapel Hill, 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 74 interstate moving companies. Let us introduce you to our top recommendations that will help you reach Chapel Hill 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 Chapel Hill

These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 2,524-mile move from Santa Ana to Chapel Hill using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Oct 22, 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 $2,611 – $5,797
  • Moving Container $1,757 – $3,298
  • Rental Truck $1,447 – $2,693
Two Three Bed Icon

2-3 bedrooms

  • Moving Company $3,684 – $7,524
  • Moving Container $2,229 – $4,830
  • Rental Truck $1,583 – $3,271
Four Bed Icon

4+ bedrooms

  • Moving Company $7,064 – $11,764
  • Moving Container $3,101 – $6,300
  • Rental Truck $1,903 – $3,972
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.
Colonial Van Lines
Yorba Linda, CA Goldston, NC
5+ Bedrooms
Sep 14, 2025
Mayzlin Relocation
Arcadia, CA Roxboro, NC
3 Bedrooms
Sep 12, 2025
United Van Lines
East San Gabriel, CA Liberty, NC
1 Bedroom (large)
Sep 03, 2025
PODS
Perris, CA Sanford, NC
2 Bedrooms
Aug 21, 2025
BLVD Moving
San Marino, CA Pittsboro, NC
4 Bedrooms
Aug 12, 2025
American Van Lines
La Crescenta-Montrose, CA Oxford, NC
4 Bedrooms
Jul 29, 2025
1-800-Pack-Rat
West Carson, CA Hillsborough, NC
4 Bedrooms
Jul 17, 2025
Allied Van Lines
El Segundo, CA Butner, NC
2 Bedrooms
Jul 10, 2025
Mayflower Transit
Temple City, CA Carrboro, NC
4 Bedrooms
Jul 09, 2025
Budget Truck Rental
Los Alamitos, CA Whitsett, NC
5+ Bedrooms
Jul 02, 2025

Top local movers for Santa Ana to Chapel Hill moves

Searching for a dependable local mover in Santa Ana that also provides long-distance services to Chapel Hill can feel overwhelming. That’s where we come in — we’ve analyzed 79 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 Chapel Hill.

  1. Meathead Movers: 4.86 out of 5 stars
  2. Terry Moving and Storage Inc.: 4.96 out of 5 stars
  3. Best California Movers: 4.9 out of 5 stars
  4. Maison Moving: 4.76 out of 5 stars
  5. Executive Moving Systems: 4.72 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
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
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
98.5% of all reviews were positive
1.4% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving perfection is rare, but Best California Movers comes close. Out of 1,177 pieces of customer feedback, over 98% are positive. Customers highlight the company’s efficient service, careful handling, quick moving process, professional staff, and great communication. Moves are completed swiftly without sacrificing care, and teams are consistently polite and attentive. Transparent pricing and quick response times also set this company apart from many others. On the flip side, a small number of people mention issues like item damage, inaccurate estimates leading to unexpected costs, and slow resolution to complaints. While most customers found pricing and final charges accurate, those few negative experiences reflect the main risks found in the industry—miscommunication, claim delays, and the rare mishandling of belongings. Compared to typical movers, Best California Movers receives far fewer complaints about property damage and shows higher reliability and responsiveness. The feedback shows why so many recommend them for hassle-free, well-managed moves.
Get a Quote Visit Website

Company Info

State license #: T0192283

Pricing: $109/hr

Years in Business: 6

DOT #: 3489907

Alternate Names: Best California Movers & Storage , An Moving Forward

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
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
77.0% of all reviews were positive
20.9% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Executive Moving Systems stands out for its highly professional team, careful handling of items, clear communication, and swift, efficient moving process, as highlighted by 77% of the 148 reviews analyzed. Movers earned strong praise for their politeness, organization, and ability to deliver damage-free moves, often exceeding customer expectations. Many noted jobs were completed quickly and on schedule, with helpful office staff and transparent service descriptions. On the downside, 21% of the feedback described incidents where items were damaged, communication fell short after booking, or unexpected charges increased costs significantly. A few customers reported broken or missing belongings and struggled with claims or delayed responses from the company. Compared to many movers, EMS receives notably more consistent praise for staff professionalism and reliability, but some negative accounts reinforce the importance of ongoing communication and attentive claims support. Most customers recommend EMS, but first-time users are urged to stay proactive about confirming arrangements and costs.
Get a Quote (714) 406-2400

Company Info

State license #: 0166469

Years in Business: 41

DOT #: 614506

Alternate Names: Executive Moving Systems Inc

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • DOD certified

How much does it cost to move from Santa Ana to Chapel Hill?

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 $1,268 – $5,078 $1,268 – $3,351 $1,405 – $2,720
2 – 3 bedrooms $3,684 – $7,524 $2,229 – $4,830 $1,583 – $3,271
4+ bedrooms $7,064 – $11,764 $3,101 – $6,300 $1,903 – $3,972
*These price ranges are rough estimates for a 2,524-mile move from Santa Ana to Chapel Hill, based on pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Oct 22, 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 Chapel Hill

Moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Santa Ana to Chapel Hill typically costs between $1,268 and $5,078. For a two- or three-bedroom home, expect prices to fall between $3,684 and $7,524 when moving from Santa Ana to Chapel Hill. If you’re tackling a large move (think four or five bedrooms) from Santa Ana to Chapel Hill, you’re looking at costs ranging from $7,064 up to $11,764.

Cost of moving containers from Santa Ana to Chapel Hill

If you’re relocating from Santa Ana to Chapel Hill, you’ll typically spend between $1,268 and $3,351 for a small move. Have a two or three-bedroom home? Plan for costs to range from $2,229 up to $4,830. If you’re moving a larger home — four bedrooms or more — expect to pay anywhere between $3,101 and $6,300. 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 Chapel Hill

Renting a moving truck is typically the most budget-friendly choice for a Santa Ana to Chapel Hill 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 $1,405 and $2,720. For a two- or three-bedroom move, costs usually range from $1,583 to $3,271. If you’re tackling a four-bedroom or bigger move, your rental truck will likely run between $1,903 and $3,972.

Estimated fuel costs are already factored into these quotes.

Major factors affecting moving costs from Santa Ana to Chapel Hill

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 Chapel Hill might be as low as $2,718, while a four-bedroom could reach $11,044.
  • 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 $1,405 to $3,767 — but you’ll handle all the labor vs. letting professionals do it.

What to know before moving from Santa Ana to Chapel Hill

Many movers find Chapel Hill easier on the wallet than Santa Ana – roughly 65% less for singles and 57% less for families.

Monthly basics average $2,248 for one person in Chapel Hill versus $6,333 in Santa Ana. For a family of four, it’s $4,790 compared with $11,160.

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

Santa Ana Chapel Hill
Average 1 BR rent $2,200 $1,325
Average 3 BR rent $3,000 $3,433
Average home value $843,858 $592,460
Average income (per capita) $77,283 $65,621
Cost of living (single) $6,333 $2,248
Cost of living (family of four) $11,160 $4,790
Unemployment rate 7.0% 3.2%
Sales tax 9.25% 7.5%
State income tax 13.3% 4.5%
  • Good news! When moving to Chapel Hill from Santa Ana, you’ll benefit from rent being an estimated 26% less, allowing for a more relaxed budget.
  • With home prices being nearly 30% cheaper in Chapel Hill, 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 15% lower in Chapel Hill than in Santa Ana.
  • Prepare to enjoy reduced routine costs such as groceries, fuel, and utilities in Chapel Hill. The cost of living for a single person is 65% less compared to Santa Ana.
  • Relocating to Chapel Hill could provide savings on routine expenses for your family, including transportation, utilities, and groceries. The cost of living for a family is 57% lower than in Santa Ana.
  • With an unemployment rate approximately 54% lower than Santa Ana, Chapel Hill boasts a favorable employment scene and thriving economic conditions, ideal for new arrivals.
  • Sales taxes are 19% lower in Chapel Hill than Santa Ana, a factor that could decrease expenditure on taxable items if your consumption is higher.
  • Income taxes are 66% lower in North Carolina 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 Chapel Hill, from monthly bills to routine purchases:

Living Expense Santa Ana Chapel Hill
Basic utilities $200.96 $156.99
Cell phone plan $54.33 $55.25
Dozen eggs $5.45 $4.53
Loaf of bread $4.59 $4.04
Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) $25.00 $15.00
Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) $100.00 $80.00
Gym membership $25.00 $42.00
  • Basic utilities tend to be more expensive in Santa Ana than in Chapel Hill.
  • Cell phone plans are cheaper in Santa Ana than in Chapel Hill.
  • Eggs cost more in Santa Ana than in Chapel Hill.
  • Bread is more expensive in Santa Ana than in Chapel Hill.
  • A quick meal tends to cost more in Santa Ana than in Chapel Hill.
  • A mid-range dinner for two is pricier in Santa Ana than in Chapel Hill.
  • Gym memberships are more affordable in Santa Ana than in Chapel Hill.

How life is different in Santa Ana vs. Chapel Hill

Santa Ana Chapel Hill
Population 310,227 63,764
Transportation score 7 6
Walkability score 67 34
Bike friendliness score 62 50
Crime index 54.17 26.42
Safety index 45.83 73.58
Air quality Moderate Moderate
  • Chapel Hill’s population is about 79% less than Santa Ana.
  • Chapel Hill’s public transportation score of 6 out of 10 is lower than Santa Ana’s score of 7.
  • Chapel Hill is less walkable than Santa Ana with a score of 34 out of 100 vs Santa Ana’s 67 out of 100.
  • Chapel Hill has a bike-friendliness score of 50 out of 100, which means it isn’t as accessible or safe for cyclists as Santa Ana, which has a score of 62.
  • Chapel Hill’s crime rate is lower than Santa Ana with a score of 26.42 compared to Santa Ana’s 54.17. This means that Chapel Hill neighborhoods are safer than 26.42% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Santa Ana neighborhoods are safer than 54.17%.
  • Chapel Hill is considered to be safer than Santa Ana with a safety index of 73.58 vs Santa Ana’s 45.83.
  • Air quality in Chapel Hill is Moderate, and in Santa Ana it’s Moderate.

Other things to consider for your Santa Ana to Chapel Hill 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: For-profit household goods carriers in the state fall under the jurisdiction of the North Carolina Utilities Commission, Transportation Division. All legitimate movers should have a “C Number” issued by the commission, signifying that they’ve met minimum insurance requirements and adhere to the provisions outlined in the state’s Maximum Rate Tariff (MRT). Make sure the moving company you use has a license before hiring.
  • State regulator: You can check the status of a North Carolina moving license through the state’s public utilities commission.
  • Moving Permits: You won’t need a moving permit in North Carolina, 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 Chapel Hill 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. Choose Released Value Protection for no-cost, minimal coverage from movers, with responsibility limited to 60 cents per pound per article. For comprehensive coverage, explore alternatives with your chosen moving company or consider a third-party insurance provider.
  • Moving checklist: Our moving checklist will help you have the peace of mind that you’ve got everything covered.

Where to live in Chapel Hill

Ready to relocate to Southern Part of Heaven? Here are some of the top neighborhoods to consider in Chapel Hill.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • Downtown Chapel Hill
  • Franklin Street Area
  • Carrboro
  • Midtown Chapel Hill
  • East 54

Best neighborhoods for families

  • Meadowmont
  • The Oaks
  • Winmore
  • The Preserve at Jordan Lake
  • Southern Village
  • Briar Chapel
  • Dunhill
  • Governor’s Club
  • Westfall
  • Claremont/Claremont South

Things to do in Chapel Hill

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

  • Arts and culture: Cultural attractions in Chapel Hill include museums and art centers like the The Carolina Basketball Museum, Ackland Art Museum, Morehead Planetarium and Science Center, and Kidzu Children’s Museum.
  • Outdoor recreation: Outdoor lovers will appreciate North Carolina Botanical Garden, Coker Arboretum, Brumley Forest Nature Preserve, and Battle 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 UNC Tar Heels (Various sports) game.

FAQ

When is the best time to move from Santa Ana to Chapel Hill?

Spring and fall are the ideal times to move from Santa Ana to Chapel Hill. 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 Chapel Hill?

With many people choosing to move from Santa Ana to Chapel Hill 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 Chapel Hill take?

Covering 2,524 miles, the move from Santa Ana, CA to Chapel Hill, typically takes seven to 21 days. Some Santa Ana movers may offer faster options, and if your timing is flexible, storage services in Chapel Hill 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 Chapel Hill?

Specialty moving services aren’t offered by every company. In Santa Ana, 66 movers can handle pianos. 56 offer antique moving services. Compared to the rest of CA, there are 288 piano movers and 222 antique movers, while nationwide the numbers are 2,173 and 1,401 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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