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($1,262) Cost to Move From Santa Ana, CA to Arlington, VA

Easily compare and book your next move with moveBuddha
Estimated cost & time: The cost for moving 2,661 miles from Santa Ana to Arlington is generally between $1,519 and $7,454. 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 Arlington

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 Arlington

When it comes to handling your interstate move from Santa Ana to Arlington, 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 Arlington 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 Arlington

These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 2,661-mile move from Santa Ana to Arlington 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 $2,582 – $5,702
  • Moving Container $1,946 – $3,383
  • Rental Truck $1,432 – $2,861
Two Three Bed Icon

2-3 bedrooms

  • Moving Company $3,787 – $7,454
  • Moving Container $2,330 – $5,108
  • Rental Truck $1,519 – $3,271
Four Bed Icon

4+ bedrooms

  • Moving Company $6,909 – $12,141
  • Moving Container $3,278 – $6,684
  • Rental Truck $2,100 – $3,931
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
Rancho Palos Verdes, CA McLean, VA
2 Bedrooms
Oct 22, 2025
1-800-Pack-Rat
Murrieta, CA Haymarket, VA
5+ Bedrooms
Oct 15, 2025
United Van Lines
Corona, CA Burke Centre, VA
2 Bedrooms
Oct 11, 2025
Mayzlin Relocation
East San Gabriel, CA Franconia, VA
1 Bedroom (large)
Oct 03, 2025
Mayflower Transit
Woodcrest, CA Fairfax Station, VA
4 Bedrooms
Sep 20, 2025
North American Van Lines
El Monte, CA Leesburg, VA
1 Bedroom (large)
Sep 17, 2025
Allied Van Lines
Pomona, CA Woodbridge, VA
1 Bedroom (large)
Sep 15, 2025
Colonial Van Lines
Rolling Hills Estates, CA County Center, VA
1 Bedroom (small)
Sep 09, 2025
American Van Lines
San Dimas, CA Great Falls, VA
Studio apartment
Sep 06, 2025
Budget Truck Rental
Bell, CA Sterling, VA
2 Bedrooms
Aug 01, 2025

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

Top local movers for Santa Ana to Arlington moves

Searching for a dependable local mover in Santa Ana that also provides long-distance services to Arlington 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 Arlington.

  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 Arlington?

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 $1,262 – $5,493 $1,285 – $3,201 $1,505 – $2,861
2 – 3 bedrooms $3,787 – $7,454 $2,330 – $5,108 $1,519 – $3,271
4+ bedrooms $6,909 – $12,141 $3,278 – $6,684 $2,100 – $3,931
*These price ranges are rough estimates for a 2,661-mile move from Santa Ana to Arlington, 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 Arlington

Moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Santa Ana to Arlington typically costs between $1,262 and $5,493. For a two- or three-bedroom home, expect prices to fall between $3,787 and $7,454 when moving from Santa Ana to Arlington. If you’re tackling a large move (think four or five bedrooms) from Santa Ana to Arlington, you’re looking at costs ranging from $6,909 up to $12,141.

Cost of moving containers from Santa Ana to Arlington

If you’re relocating from Santa Ana to Arlington, you’ll typically spend between $1,285 and $3,201 for a small move. Have a two or three-bedroom home? Plan for costs to range from $2,330 up to $5,108. If you’re moving a larger home — four bedrooms or more — expect to pay anywhere between $3,278 and $6,684. 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 Arlington

Renting a moving truck is typically the most budget-friendly choice for a Santa Ana to Arlington 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 $1,505 and $2,861. For a two- or three-bedroom move, costs usually range from $1,519 to $3,271. If you’re tackling a four-bedroom or bigger move, your rental truck will likely run between $2,100 and $3,931.

Estimated fuel costs are already factored into these quotes.

Major factors affecting moving costs from Santa Ana to Arlington

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 Arlington might be as low as $2,721, while a four-bedroom could reach $11,360.
  • 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 $1,505 to $3,663 — but you’ll handle all the labor vs. letting professionals do it.

What to know before moving from Santa Ana to Arlington

Expect a bump in monthly expenses after the move – Arlington runs about 8% higher for singles and 7% higher for families than Santa Ana.

Singles spend around $6,867 in Santa Ana versus $6,333 in Santa Ana; families pay $11,970 compared with $11,160.

Dig into the side-by-side details here:

Santa Ana Arlington
Average 1 BR rent $2,200 $2,475
Average 3 BR rent $3,000 $4,350
Average home value $843,858 $810,670
Average income (per capita) $77,283 $128,145
Cost of living (single) $6,333 $6,867
Cost of living (family of four) $11,160 $11,970
Unemployment rate 7.0% 4.0%
Sales tax 9.25% 6.0%
State income tax 13.3% 5.75%
  • Switching from Santa Ana to Arlington won’t strain your budget, as rent prices are nearly identical.
  • The home prices in Arlington and Santa Ana differ by less than 5%, so there’s no need for a change in your mortgage funding unless you’re considering a larger residence.
  • Exciting news here, the average income is about 66% higher in Arlington than in Santa Ana, so you should have more to save or invest each month.
  • Anticipate increased living expenses in Arlington, as the cost of living for a single person in Arlington is 8% greater than in Santa Ana. This covers typical expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transport.
  • As you plan your move to Arlington, consider the possibility of increased living costs. The cost of living for a family there is 7% more than it is in Santa Ana.
  • With an unemployment rate approximately 43% lower than Santa Ana, Arlington boasts a favorable employment scene and thriving economic conditions, ideal for new arrivals.
  • Sales taxes are 35% lower in Arlington than Santa Ana, a factor that could decrease expenditure on taxable items if your consumption is higher.
  • Income taxes are 57% lower in Virginia 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 Arlington, from monthly bills to routine purchases:

Living Expense Santa Ana Arlington
Basic utilities $200.96 $208.70
Cell phone plan $54.33 $59.67
Dozen eggs $5.45 $4.26
Loaf of bread $4.59 $4.18
Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) $25.00 $24.50
Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) $100.00 $90.00
Gym membership $25.00 $77.25
  • Basic utilities cost less in Santa Ana than in Arlington, helping trim your monthly bills.
  • Cell phone plans are cheaper in Santa Ana than in Arlington.
  • Eggs cost more in Santa Ana than in Arlington.
  • Bread is more expensive in Santa Ana than in Arlington.
  • A quick meal tends to cost more in Santa Ana than in Arlington.
  • A mid-range dinner for two is pricier in Santa Ana than in Arlington.
  • Gym memberships are more affordable in Santa Ana than in Arlington.

How life is different in Santa Ana vs. Arlington

Santa Ana Arlington
Population 310,227 238,643
Transportation score 7 9
Walkability score 67 71
Bike friendliness score 62 72
Crime index 54.17 15.67
Safety index 45.83 79.15
Air quality Moderate Good
  • Arlington’s population is about 23% less than Santa Ana.
  • Arlington’s public transportation score of 9 out of 10 is higher than Santa Ana’s score of 7.
  • Arlington is more walkable than Santa Ana with a score of 71 out of 100 vs Santa Ana’s 67 out of 100.
  • With a score of 72 out of 100, Arlington 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.
  • Arlington’s crime rate is lower than Santa Ana with a score of 15.67 compared to Santa Ana’s 54.17. This means that Arlington neighborhoods are safer than 15.67% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Santa Ana neighborhoods are safer than 54.17%.
  • Arlington is considered to be safer than Santa Ana with a safety index of 79.15 vs Santa Ana’s 45.83.
  • Air quality in Arlington is Good, and in Santa Ana it’s Moderate.

Other things to consider for your Santa Ana to Arlington 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: In addition to filing tariffs and complying with insurance, bond, and highway safety requirements, all intrastate moving companies in Virginia must have a certificate from the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (VaDMV). Make sure the moving company you use has a license before hiring.
  • State regulator: You can check the status of a Virginia moving license through the state’s public utilities commission.
  • Moving Permits: You won’t need a moving permit in Virginia, 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 Arlington 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 Virginia, movers commonly offer Released Value Protection at no additional cost, providing coverage at 60 cents per pound. For increased protection, consider discussing Full Value Protection options with the moving company. Alternatively, explore third-party insurance providers for personalized plans. It’s essential to understand coverage limits, potential additional costs, and read reviews to make an informed decision about your moving insurance in Virginia.
  • Moving checklist: Our moving checklist will help you have the peace of mind that you’ve got everything covered.

Where to live in Arlington

Ready to relocate to ? Here are some of the top neighborhoods to consider in Arlington.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • Aurora Highlands
  • Ballston-Virginia Square
  • Bluemont
  • Clarendon-Courthouse
  • Radnor-Ft Myer Heights

Best neighborhoods for families

  • Arlington Ridge
  • Barcroft
  • Chain Bridge Forest
  • Cherrydale
  • Dominion Hills
  • Forest Glen
  • Lyon Village
  • Penrose
  • Westover Village

Things to do in Arlington

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

  • Arts and culture: Cultural attractions in Arlington include museums and art centers like the JW Tumbles, Ball-Sellers House Museum, David M. Brown Planetarium, and Arlington Historical Museum.
  • Outdoor recreation: Outdoor lovers will appreciate Gravelly Point Park, Long Bridge Park, Bon Air Park, and Upton Hill Regional 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 Arlington Youth Football Club game.

FAQ

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

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

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

Covering 2,661 miles, the move from Santa Ana, CA to Arlington, typically takes seven to 21 days. Some Santa Ana movers may offer faster options, and if your timing is flexible, storage services in Arlington 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 Arlington?

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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