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($1,216) Cost to Move From Santa Ana, CA to Houston, TX

Easily compare and book your next move with moveBuddha
Estimated cost & time: Relocating 1,534 miles from Santa Ana to Houston typically costs between $982 and $6,713. The trip is expected to last from four–15 days. Costs depend on factors like distance, date, home size, and your choice between DIY or professional services.
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Best movers from Santa Ana to Houston

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 Houston

Opting for a full-service mover can make your interstate move from Santa Ana to Houston much easier by letting professionals manage the entire process. This choice allows you to focus on what matters most instead of the logistics of moving.

In Santa Ana, there are 87 interstate moving companies that can assist you. Discover our top picks that ensure a relaxed and efficient move to Houston.

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 Houston

These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 1,534-mile move from Santa Ana to Houston using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Dec 11, 2025. moveBuddha’s database includes thousands of authenticated prices from movers around the country, refreshed monthly to capture seasonal swings and market movement. Your final quote can change based on volume, extra services, parking or access hurdles, fuel rates, and timing. It’s wise to request quotes from multiple providers to nail down a precise range.
Studio Icon

Studio / 1 bedroom

  • Moving Company $2,256 – $5,056
  • Moving Container $1,355 – $2,616
  • Rental Truck $880 – $1,654
Two Three Bed Icon

2-3 bedrooms

  • Moving Company $2,992 – $6,713
  • Moving Container $1,661 – $3,515
  • Rental Truck $982 – $1,948
Four Bed Icon

4+ bedrooms

  • Moving Company $5,119 – $9,679
  • Moving Container $2,427 – $4,743
  • Rental Truck $1,248 – $2,405
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.
PODS
Menifee, CA Piney Point Village, TX
1 Bedroom (small)
Nov 12, 2025
North American Van Lines
El Segundo, CA La Marque, TX
1 Bedroom (large)
Nov 10, 2025
Mayflower Transit
Temple City, CA Splendora, TX
2 Bedrooms
Nov 09, 2025
BLVD Moving
La Habra Heights, CA Bonney, TX
1 Bedroom (large)
Nov 01, 2025
United Van Lines
Hawthorne, CA Taylor Lake Village, TX
3 Bedrooms
Oct 29, 2025
Allied Van Lines
Laguna Beach, CA Beach City, TX
1 Bedroom (small)
Oct 28, 2025
Roadway Moving
Signal Hill, CA Arcola, TX
1 Bedroom (small)
Oct 27, 2025
American Van Lines
Rossmoor, CA Thompsons, TX
3 Bedrooms
Sep 16, 2025
1-800-Pack-Rat
Rialto, CA Baytown, TX
3 Bedrooms
Sep 05, 2025
Safeway Moving
West Hollywood, CA Richmond, TX
4 Bedrooms
Sep 02, 2025

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

Top-rated movers to make your Santa Ana to Houston move easy

Finding a trusted local moving company in Santa Ana that offers long-distance services to Houston 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 Houston.

  1. Maison Moving: 4.62 out of 5 stars
  2. Meathead Movers: 4.58 out of 5 stars
  3. Best California Movers: 4.66 out of 5 stars
  4. NorthStar Moving Company : 4.62 out of 5 stars
  5. Best Moving Service: 4.5 out of 5 stars
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
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
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
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
90.0% of all reviews were positive
8.2% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Top marks for speed, care, and professionalism—Best Moving Service earns high praise from 90% of 389 customer experiences. Movers work quickly, protect property, communicate clearly, and reliably deliver stress-free relocations. Many mention careful handling of fragile items and proactive, friendly teams. Booking and scheduling earn compliments for straightforwardness. Clients regularly cite competitive rates and even recommend specific crews for future moves. Yet, some feedback highlights recurring negatives. Customers report damage to belongings, unprofessional conduct from select staff, and occasional late arrivals. A few mention insurance issues or unresolved claims after property damage or loss. Compared to other moving companies, Best Moving Service stands out for efficiency and courtesy, but would benefit from consistent training and quality control to limit incidents of careless handling or unprofessional behavior. For most, hiring Best Moving Service means a remarkably smooth, fast move with peace of mind—though it’s wise to discuss expectations clearly if you have high-value or delicate items.
Get a Quote (714) 409-0170

Company Info

State license #: 176151

Years in Business: 32

DOT #: 1706316

Alternate Names: US Household Movers Inc , American Pride Moving , Best Moving & Storage

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card

How much does it cost to move from Santa Ana to Houston?

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 – $4,753 $949 – $2,289 $880 – $1,773
2 – 3 bedrooms $2,992 – $6,713 $1,661 – $3,515 $982 – $1,948
4+ bedrooms $5,119 – $9,679 $2,427 – $4,743 $1,248 – $2,405
*These ranges provide an approximation for a 1,534-mile move from Santa Ana to Houston, calculated from moveBuddha’s pricing dataset as of Dec 11, 2025. moveBuddha collects thousands of verified rates from movers nationwide and refreshes the data monthly to reflect seasonal variability and market conditions. Actual charges can vary with shipment size, extra services, parking or access issues, fuel rates, and scheduling. To get a reliable estimate, request quotes from multiple movers.

Cost to hire movers from Santa Ana to Houston

If you’re packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move to Houston from Santa Ana, you can expect prices to land between $1,216 and $4,753. For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from $2,992 to $6,713 for the trip from Santa Ana to Houston. If you’re moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you’re likely looking at a price tag between $5,119 and $9,679.

Cost of moving containers from Santa Ana to Houston

Moving containers from Santa Ana to Houston will cost you $949 to $2,289 for a small move. For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $1,661 to $3,515. A four-bedroom move or bigger will cost $2,427 to $4,743. 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 Houston

Renting a moving truck from Santa Ana to Houston typically costs the least, but you’ll be responsible for both the heavy lifting and all the driving.

Expect to pay between $880 and $1,773 to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move, prices usually range from $982 to $1,948. If you’re relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you’ll likely spend anywhere from $1,248 to $2,405.

These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.

Key factors that impact the cost of your Santa Ana to Houston move

The cost of Santa Ana movers will depend on:

  • Home size: The number of rooms makes a big difference. Expect around $2,410 for a one-bedroom, or up to $8,386 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 $880 to $2,131, but require more effort than hiring movers.

What to know before moving from Santa Ana to Houston

Many movers find Houston easier on the wallet than Santa Ana – roughly 56% less for singles and 36% less for families.

Monthly basics average $2,770 for one person in Houston versus $6,333 in Santa Ana. For a family of four, it’s $7,157 compared with $11,160.

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

Santa Ana Houston
Average 1 BR rent $2,200 $1,658
Average 3 BR rent $3,000 $3,195
Average home value $843,858 $263,945
Average income (per capita) $77,283 $69,833
Cost of living (single) $6,333 $2,770
Cost of living (family of four) $11,160 $7,157
Unemployment rate 7.0% 4.1%
Sales tax 9.25% 8.25%
State income tax 13.3% 0.0%
  • When relocating from Santa Ana to Houston, expect to find rent about 42% cheaper, letting you enjoy more financial freedom monthly.
  • You can relax about your monthly mortgage expenses, thanks to home prices being nearly 69% more affordable in Houston compared to Santa Ana.
  • Reviewing your financial plan is wise before moving. The average income is nearly 10% lower in Houston compared to Santa Ana.
  • You’ll save on routine expenses like food, gas, and utilities in Houston, as the cost of living for a single person is 56% lower compared to Santa Ana.
  • A move to Houston 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 36% less than what it costs in Santa Ana.
  • The unemployment rate in Houston is about 41% 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 11% less in Houston relative to Santa Ana. This will help shrink your living expenses, especially if you tend to buy more taxable goods.
  • Texas has no income tax, meaning you keep more of your gross income, which can be a major advantage for salaried workers, freelancers, and retirees with taxable income.

See how the cost of everyday necessities and regular monthly payments differs between Santa Ana and Houston:

Living Expense Santa Ana Houston
Basic utilities $200.96 $200.52
Cell phone plan $54.33 $60.77
Dozen eggs $5.45 $4.11
Loaf of bread $4.59 $3.05
Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) $25.00 $20.00
Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) $100.00 $80.00
Gym membership $25.00 $38.29
  • Basic utilities tend to be more expensive in Santa Ana than in Houston.
  • Cell phone plans are cheaper in Santa Ana than in Houston.
  • Eggs cost more in Santa Ana than in Houston.
  • Bread is more expensive in Santa Ana than in Houston.
  • A quick meal tends to cost more in Santa Ana than in Houston.
  • A mid-range dinner for two is pricier in Santa Ana than in Houston.
  • Gym memberships are more affordable in Santa Ana than in Houston.

How life is different in Santa Ana vs. Houston

Santa Ana Houston
Population 310,227 2,301,572
Transportation score 7 5
Walkability score 67 47
Bike friendliness score 62 49
Crime index 54.17 63.5
Safety index 45.83 36.5
Air quality Moderate Good
  • Houston’s population is about 642% greater than Santa Ana.
  • Houston’s public transportation score of 5 out of 10 is lower than Santa Ana’s score of 7.
  • Houston is less walkable than Santa Ana with a score of 47 out of 100 vs Santa Ana’s 67 out of 100.
  • Houston has a bike-friendliness score of 49 out of 100, which means it isn’t as accessible or safe for cyclists as Santa Ana, which has a score of 62.
  • Houston’s crime rate is higher than Santa Ana with a score of 63.5 compared to Santa Ana’s 54.17. This means that Houston neighborhoods are safer than 63.5% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Santa Ana neighborhoods are safer than 54.17%.
  • Houston is considered to be less safe than Santa Ana with a score of 36.5 vs Santa Ana’s 45.83.
  • Air quality in Houston is Good, and in Santa Ana it’s Moderate.

Other things to consider for your Santa Ana to Houston 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: In-state movers operating in the Lone Star State are legally required to be licensed by the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles (TXDMV), which issues 10-digit TXDMV numbers to commercial carriers. Before booking, ensure the moving company is officially licensed to handle your move.
  • State regulator: Texas’s public utilities commission provides official mover license verification.
  • Moving Permits: Texas 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 Houston. Start the process here.
  • Moving company insurance: The amount and type of insurance movers must have depends on state regulations. In Texas, movers typically provide Released Value Protection at no additional cost, covering items at 60 cents per pound. For enhanced protection, consider discussing Full Value Protection options with the moving company. Alternatively, explore third-party insurance providers for customized plans. It’s crucial to understand coverage limits, potential additional costs, and read reviews to make an informed decision about your moving insurance in Texas.
  • Moving checklist: Our moving checklist gives you the peace of mind that comes with being fully prepared.

Where to live in Houston

Planning your move to HOU? Take a look at our picks for the best neighborhoods to call home in Houston.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • Downtown
  • Greenway/Upper Kirby
  • Montrose
  • Museum District

Best neighborhoods for families

  • Clear Lake City
  • Friendswood
  • Kingwood
  • Memorial
  • Sugar Land

Things to do in Houston

After settling into your new Texas home, you’ll want to branch out and explore your new city. Luckily, Houston has lots to offer, no matter what you’re interested in:

  • Arts and culture: Houston features a variety of museums and cultural arts centers, including the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston, Children’s Museum of Houston, The Menil Collection, and Houston Museum of Natural Science.
  • Outdoor recreation: The city’s Hermann Park, Terry Hershey Park, Lake Houston Park, and Memorial 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 Houston Texans (NFL)Houston Astros (MLBHouston Dash (NWSL)Houston Dynamo FC (MLS)Houston Rockets (NBA)Houston SaberCats (MLR) game.

FAQ

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

Planning your move from Santa Ana to Houston? 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 Houston?

Because most people are moving from Santa Ana to Houston 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 Houston take?

The 1,534-mile journey from Santa Ana, CA to Houston, , typically takes four to 15 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 Houston.

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 296 piano movers and 227 antique movers, while nationwide there are 2,300 and 1,465 respectively.

Always confirm the mover’s experience and packing methods for fragile or specialty items before booking.

Helpful moving resources

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