Santa Ana, CA to Richmond, VA Movers (NEW 2026 Costs)

How we chose the best movers CA→VA movers

At moveBuddha, our specialists conducted a thorough evaluation of 368 California moving companies, identifying the leading ones by examining client satisfaction, reviews, and value.

Customer satisfaction (40%): The company consistently delivers services in a timely matter with good communication and within the estimated cost.
Dispute resolution (20%): Errors happen in moving. The best companies acknowledge them quickly and take real steps to resolve any problems for their customers.
Industry reputation (15%): Within the moving field, the company has earned respect and regularly engages in conferences and trade groups.
Online reputation (15%): The organization ensures its website is reliable and actively addresses online customer inquiries in a professional manner.
Service options (10%): Top movers provide versatile offerings including packing, storage, special-item handling, and the option for faster delivery when needed.

Here is our full moving company rating methodology.

The best local movers for Santa Ana to Richmond moves

It’s not always easy to find a reliable local moving company in Santa Ana that also handles long-distance moves to Richmond. Luckily, we’ve done the research for you. We evaluated 93 local movers in Santa Ana who offer long-distance services, looking at cost, service quality, and customer reviews.

Below are the top local moving companies for long-distance moves from Santa Ana to Richmond.

Meathead Movers: 4.66 out of 5 stars
Maison Moving: 4.56 out of 5 stars
Best Moving Service: 4.56 out of 5 stars
Best Fit Movers: 4.52 out of 5 stars
NorthStar Moving Company : 4.58 out of 5 stars

Meathead Movers

2430 South Grand Avenue, Santa Ana, CA 92705 US

77% of all reviews were positive

20% 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

Maison Moving

1371 Santa Fe Dr., Tustin, CA 92780 US

84% of all reviews were positive

14% 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

Best Moving Service

1921 Wright Circle, Anaheim, CA 92806 US

90% of all reviews were positive

8% 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

Best Fit Movers

3731 W Warner Ave, Santa Ana, CA 92704 US

93% of all reviews were positive

7% 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

NorthStar Moving Company

300 Spectrum Center Dr Ste 400, Irvine, CA 92618 US

94% of all reviews were positive

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

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

The average hourly rate for movers in California is $130. Here are some general cost estimates for a full-service moving company, a moving container, or a rental truck:

Move size	Moving company	Moving container	Rental truck
Studio / 1 bedroom	$1,201 – $4,900	$1,302 – $3,240	$1,455 – $2,549
2 – 3 bedrooms	$3,722 – $7,745	$2,289 – $4,957	$1,545 – $3,163
4+ bedrooms	$7,000 – $11,649	$3,216 – $6,488	$1,990 – $3,723

*Approximate cost ranges for a 2,614-mile move from Santa Ana to Richmond are based on moveBuddha pricing data as of Feb 16, 2026. moveBuddha sources thousands of verified price points from moving companies across the U.S. and updates this information monthly to mirror seasonal swings and market trends. Your final price may change due to move size, add-on services, parking/access hurdles, fuel costs, and timing. We always suggest gathering quotes from several movers for the most accurate pricing.

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Cost to hire movers from Santa Ana to Richmond

Hiring movers for a studio apartment or one-bedroom home from Santa Ana to Richmond will cost between $1,201 and $4,900. The cost to move a two- to three-bedroom home from Santa Ana to Santa Ana will range from $3,722 to $7,745, and a large move from Santa Ana to Richmond will cost from $7,000 to $11,649.

Cost of moving containers from Santa Ana to Richmond

If you’re moving from Santa Ana to Richmond, expect to pay between $1,302 and $3,240 for a small load. For a home with two or three bedrooms, prices typically range from $2,289 up to $4,957. Larger moves of four bedrooms or more can run between $3,216 and $6,488. Check out our guide on PODS cost for more details.

Check out the most affordable moving container companies for your move from California.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Santa Ana to Richmond

Renting a moving truck from Santa Ana to Richmond is usually your cheapest option, but keep in mind you’ll be handling all the loading, unloading, and driving yourself.

If you’re moving a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck, expect to spend between $1,455 and $2,549. For two to three bedrooms, rates typically fall between $1,545 and $3,163. Relocating a four-bedroom (or bigger) home? You’re likely looking at anywhere from $1,990 up to $3,723 for your rental truck.

These quotes include estimated fuel costs.

Key factors that influence moving costs from Santa Ana to Richmond

The cost of Santa Ana movers will depend on:

The size of your home: Smaller moves (like one-bedrooms) cost less, sometimes just $2,433, while larger moves (four-bedrooms) can hit $10,276.
Time of year: Summer is peak moving season in Santa Ana, which means higher prices.
The type of mover you choose: Renting a truck ($1,455–$3,541) saves money but adds work compared to hiring pros.

What to know before moving from Santa Ana to Richmond

Many movers find Richmond easier on the wallet than Santa Ana – roughly 64% less for singles and 52% less for families.

Monthly basics average $2,270 for one person in Richmond versus $6,333 in Santa Ana. For a family of four, it’s $5,336 compared with $11,160.

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

	Santa Ana	Richmond
Average 1 BR rent	$2,200	$1,537
Average 3 BR rent	$3,000	$2,539
Average home value	$843,858	$350,897
Average income (per capita)	$77,283	$59,606
Cost of living (single)	$6,333	$2,270
Cost of living (family of four)	$11,160	$5,336
Unemployment rate	7.0%	7.1%
Sales tax	9.25%	6.0%
State income tax	13.3%	5.75%

source: World Population Review, Zillow, US Census Bureau, US BLS, Tax Foundation

If you’re heading to Richmond from Santa Ana, you’ll find that rent is roughly 40% cheaper, potentially boosting your monthly savings.
Your budget can breathe easier with home prices being close to 58% less in Richmond than in Santa Ana.
Consider checking your finances before the transition. The average income is approximately 23% lower in Richmond compared to Santa Ana.
Get ready to save some money on recurring expenses like food, gas, and utility bills in Richmond. On average, the cost of living for a single person there is 64% lower than in Santa Ana.
Choosing to move to Richmond can significantly lower your family’s regular expenses, such as utilities, transport, and groceries. The cost of living for a family of four is 52% less than in Santa Ana.
The unemployment rates of Richmond and Santa Ana are very similar, with less than a 5% difference, thus maintaining a consistent employment landscape.
Sales taxes drop 35% in Richmond compared to Santa Ana, providing a relief on your cost of living, especially for frequent shoppers.
Income taxes are 57% less in Virginia than in California. With these lower tax rates, you can enjoy more take-home pay, simplifying your financial management.

Here’s a closer snapshot of how common everyday costs and monthly bills compare between Santa Ana and Richmond:

Living Expense	Santa Ana	Richmond
Basic utilities	$200.96	$148.21
Cell phone plan	$54.33	$51.67
Dozen eggs	$5.45	$4.95
Loaf of bread	$4.59	$3.66
Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal)	$25.00	$20.00
Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant)	$100.00	$100.00
Gym membership	$25.00	$59.72

Basic utilities tend to be more expensive in Santa Ana than in Richmond.
Cell phone plans typically cost more in Santa Ana than in Richmond.
Eggs cost more in Santa Ana than in Richmond.
Bread is more expensive in Santa Ana than in Richmond.
A quick meal tends to cost more in Santa Ana than in Richmond.
The cost of a mid-range dinner for two is about the same in both cities.
Gym memberships are more affordable in Santa Ana than in Richmond.

How life is different in Santa Ana vs. Richmond

	Santa Ana	Richmond
Population	310,227	226,610
Transportation score	7	7
Walkability score	67	51
Bike friendliness score	62	51
Crime index	54.17	48.45
Safety index	45.83	51.55
Air quality	Moderate	Good

source: Wikipedia, AllTransit, Walk Score, NeighborhoodScout, AirNow

Richmond’s population is about 27% less than Santa Ana.
Richmond’s public transportation score is within about 5% of Santa Ana, making them very similar.
Richmond is less walkable than Santa Ana with a score of 51 out of 100 vs Santa Ana’s 67 out of 100.
Richmond has a bike-friendliness score of 51 out of 100, which means it isn’t as accessible or safe for cyclists as Santa Ana, which has a score of 62.
Richmond’s crime rate is lower than Santa Ana with a score of 48.45 compared to Santa Ana’s 54.17. This means that Richmond neighborhoods are safer than 48.45% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Santa Ana neighborhoods are safer than 54.17%.
Richmond is considered to be safer than Santa Ana with a safety index of 51.55 vs Santa Ana’s 45.83.
Air quality in Richmond is Good, and in Santa Ana it’s Moderate.

Other things to consider for your Santa Ana to Richmond move

HOA rules: Be sure to review your community or HOA guidelines before moving day to avoid any surprises or delays.
Elevator reservation: Make sure to arrange elevator access in advance if your building requires reservations for moving.
Truck parking permits: To avoid fines or delays, check whether a parking permit is needed for your moving truck.
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). Always verify licensing details before committing to a mover.
State regulator: You can verify a Virginia moving license and its status through the state’s public utilities commission.
Moving Permits: Virginia doesn’t require moving permits, but it’s still a good idea to check local parking rules before your move-in day.
Change of address: To avoid missing any mail, we recommend submitting your USPS change of address form at least a week before your move. You can choose your official move date to make sure everything gets forwarded properly to Richmond. Start the process here.
Moving company insurance: Every state sets its own rules for what insurance moving companies need to maintain. 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: Follow our moving checklist to keep your move organized and stress-free.

Where to live in Richmond

Now that you’ve decided to make the move to Capital of the South, these are the best neighborhoods to move to in Richmond.

Best neighborhoods for singles

Monroe Ward
The Fan District
The Museum District
Woodland Heights

Best neighborhoods for families

Bellevue
Byrd Park
Museum District
Three Chopt
Westover Hills

Things to do in Richmond

Once you’re settled into your new home in Virginia, it’s time to get out and discover what Richmond has to offer. No matter your interests, there’s something for everyone here:

Arts and culture: You’ll find museums and cultural hubs throughout Richmond, such as the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, White House of the Confederacy, Science Museum of Virginia, and Edgar Allan Poe Museum.
Outdoor recreation: The city’s Belle Isle, Libby Hill Park, Pony Pasture Park (James River Park System), and Capitol Square Park — and more — offering great opportunities to hike, bike, or relax in nature.
Sports: Sports fans can join the excitement by supporting local favorites at an Richmond Kickers (USL League One)Richmond Flying Squirrels (Double-A East) game.

source: AttractionsofAmerica

FAQ

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

The best time to move from Santa Ana to Richmond is during the spring or fall. These seasons offer milder weather and avoid higher moving costs during the peak moving season in Santa Ana.

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

Since spring and fall are the most popular times to move from Santa Ana to Richmond, moving in the winter could help you save money. Check out our guide on moving discounts for more tips.

How long does a move from Santa Ana to Richmond take?

Moving from Santa Ana, CA to Richmond, covers 2,614 miles and usually takes seven to 21 days. Need to move faster? Some Santa Ana movers offer expedited options. If you’re not ready to receive your items, look into storage solutions in Richmond.

Which movers in Santa Ana give price breaks?

Some companies go the extra mile by offering discounts to certain groups. 1 movers give special rates to military members. 2 movers have deals for seniors.

Always ask for a full discount list and check eligibility requirements before you commit to a mover.

Who can move pianos or antiques in Santa Ana?

Specialty items need extra care and the right equipment. 73 movers in Santa Ana advertise piano moving expertise. 60 movers in Santa Ana provide antique moving services. State totals show 296 piano movers and 227 antique movers, with nationwide availability at 2,301 and 1,465.

Book early if you need these services — demand can outpace supply during busy moving seasons.