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($1,314) Cost to Move From Detroit, MI to Santa Ana, CA

Easily compare and book your next move with moveBuddha
Estimated cost & time: The cost for moving 2,279 miles from Detroit to Santa Ana is generally between $1,411 and $7,344. The trip duration should be approximately seven–18 days. Final cost is influenced by distance, date, the size of your home, and whether you opt for DIY or professional movers.
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Best movers from Detroit to Santa Ana

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 Detroit to Santa Ana

When it comes to handling your interstate move from Detroit to Santa Ana, 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 Detroit, you have a choice of 27 interstate moving companies. Let us introduce you to our top recommendations that will help you reach Santa Ana 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 Detroit to Santa Ana

These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 2,279-mile move from Detroit to Santa Ana 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 $2,522 – $5,985
  • Moving Container $1,642 – $3,137
  • Rental Truck $1,292 – $2,446
Two Three Bed Icon

2-3 bedrooms

  • Moving Company $3,830 – $7,344
  • Moving Container $2,192 – $4,721
  • Rental Truck $1,411 – $3,058
Four Bed Icon

4+ bedrooms

  • Moving Company $6,851 – $12,311
  • Moving Container $3,102 – $5,967
  • Rental Truck $1,835 – $3,642
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.
Roadway Moving
Plymouth, MI Avocado Heights, CA
4 Bedrooms
Oct 16, 2025
Safeway Moving
Harper Woods, MI Coto de Caza, CA
1 Bedroom (large)
Sep 26, 2025
Mayzlin Relocation
New Haven, MI Glendora, CA
2 Bedrooms
Sep 18, 2025
Mayflower Transit
Birmingham, MI Fontana, CA
1 Bedroom (large)
Sep 16, 2025
PODS
Orchard Lake Village, MI Huntington Beach, CA
5+ Bedrooms
Sep 14, 2025
Colonial Van Lines
Ypsilanti, MI South El Monte, CA
4 Bedrooms
Sep 07, 2025
Allied Van Lines
Algonac, MI Torrance, CA
2 Bedrooms
Sep 07, 2025
United Van Lines
Pontiac, MI Hacienda Heights, CA
5+ Bedrooms
Sep 01, 2025
North American Van Lines
Village of Grosse Pointe Shores, MI Canyon Lake, CA
3 Bedrooms
Aug 02, 2025
Budget Truck Rental
Barton Hills, MI West Whittier-Los Nietos, CA
2 Bedrooms
Jul 31, 2025

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

Top local movers for Detroit to Santa Ana moves

Searching for a dependable local mover in Detroit that also provides long-distance services to Santa Ana can feel overwhelming. That’s where we come in — we’ve analyzed 36 local movers in Detroit who specialize in long-distance relocations, factoring in cost, services, and customer feedback.

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

  1. College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving: 4.62 out of 5 stars
  2. Palmer Moving Services: 4.52 out of 5 stars
  3. White Star Movers, Inc.: 4.56 out of 5 stars
  4. Royal Movers Enterprises, LLC: 4.42 out of 5 stars
  5. O’Sullivan Moving & Storage CO.: 4.42 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
93.0% of all reviews were positive
7.0% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customers rave about College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving for their efficient service, polite and professional staff, and speedy moving process. Movers consistently handle belongings with care while maintaining clear communication, making the experience smooth and stress-free. Most clients say workers are reliable, prompt, and attentive. People also mention transparent pricing and easy scheduling as standout features. On the flip side, a small number of clients report damages to furniture or property and say that the company is slow to address such issues. A few mention challenges reaching customer service or experiencing rude behavior. With 298 customer reviews analyzed—93% positive—College Hunks stands out as a top performer compared to many moving services, excelling in speed, professionalism, and efficiency, but occasional mishandling and follow-up hassles mean attention to claims can be improved.
Get a Quote (336) 810-1801

Company Info

Years in Business: 14

DOT #: 2378173

Alternate Names: JCAL Holdings, LLC

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
81.2% of all reviews were positive
15.2% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Standout service and attention define customer feedback for Palmer Moving Services. With 250 reviews analyzed, 81% report positive experiences highlighted by professional staff, careful handling of items, efficient processes, strong communication, and timely moves. Customers often mention courteous crews going out of their way to accommodate needs, as well as accurate quotes and seamless execution—attributes that place Palmer ahead of many competitors. Feedback often credits Palmer for reducing moving day stress and protecting property. On the downside, a smaller portion of customers report major concerns such as items damaged during moves, difficulties in reaching staff, and final invoices higher than expected. Lost or mishandled belongings and slow claims resolution also receive criticism, matching common complaints faced by most moving companies. Most customers cite friendly, skilled crews as a strong reason for recommending Palmer, but those experiencing issues see communication gaps and claims processes as areas for improvement.
Get a Quote (586) 834-3400

Company Info

Years in Business: 114

DOT #: 511993

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
89.0% of all reviews were positive
10.3% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customers repeatedly describe White Star Movers as fast, professional, and genuinely careful with belongings, giving them a much higher satisfaction rate than most moving companies. Out of 290 reviews analyzed, 89% gave positive feedback. Movers are frequently praised for efficiency, careful handling, courteous behavior, prompt arrivals, and effective communication, making moves less stressful. Many clients found the booking process and pricing straightforward, with teams flexibly accommodating last-minute changes and treating homes and possessions respectfully. In contrast, a small number of negative experiences mention breakage, missing items, and issues around pricing or item estimates. Complaints often center on goods being lost or damaged, with a handful citing unexpected fees or miscalculated estimates. Compared to typical industry standards, White Star attracts more consistent praise for professionalism and reliability but, like any moving service, occasional claims about item damage surface. The company’s strong points—speed, care, and politeness—set it apart, though customers moving valuable or irreplaceable objects should review best practices for inventory and insurance. Most feedback confirms White Star provides a dependable, customer-focused move.
Get a Quote (586) 977-0400

Company Info

Years in Business: 39

DOT #: 624288

Alternate Names: Whitestar Movers, Inc.

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Crane vans
  • Shipment tracking
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Pay by credit card
  • DOD certified
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
74.3% of all reviews were positive
25.7% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Royal Movers Enterprises, LLC receives standout marks for professionalism, careful handling, speed, and value according to 280 pieces of customer feedback. About three-quarters of the input is positive, highlighting the staff’s courteous approach, affordable pricing, and consistent attention to protecting belongings and property during quick moves. Customers frequently mention thorough furniture wrapping, clear communication, and efficiency—traits that set Royal Movers apart from larger competitors, who customers sometimes cite as less careful or more expensive. Yet, a quarter of reviewers describe troubling experiences, with multiple reports of rude or unprofessional behavior, pricing disputes, and lack of clear updates or responsiveness. Unprofessional conduct, surprise cost increases, and breakdowns in communication form the backbone of these complaints. Royal Movers stands out for affordable, careful, and efficient service, but potential clients should be aware that some have encountered significant issues with customer service and billing transparency.
Get a Quote (313) 483-2250

Company Info

Years in Business: 17

DOT #: 1673815

Alternate Names: Royal Movers

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by money order
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
73.1% of all reviews were positive
24.1% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving with O’Sullivan means fast work and respectful treatment of your belongings. Out of 320 pieces of feedback, 73% rated the company positively, reflecting efficient service, professionalism, careful handling, speed, and reasonable rates as standout features. Customers frequently compliment the team’s ability to move quickly while keeping items safe, and many say the pricing is budget-friendly compared to other movers in the area. The booking process is usually described as easy, with frequent recommendations citing trustworthy, hardworking crews. Some negative input highlights recurring problems: several clients reported damage to their items or property and faced slow responses or unreturned calls when seeking compensation. Unexpected or higher-than-expected charges also appear regularly in the negative feedback. In contrast to other movers, O’Sullivan receives high levels of repeat and referral business, pointing to a generally higher satisfaction rate but is also flagged for inconsistent resolution of claims. If customer communication and claims response matched their crews’ care and speed, customer satisfaction would likely be among the best in the region.
Get a Quote (800) 430-7881

Company Info

State license #: 20587

Years in Business: 42

DOT #: 1660642

Alternate Names: O’Sullivan Moving & Storage

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Crating
  • Storage

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

Movers in Michigan generally charge an average of 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 $1,314 – $5,594 $1,233 – $2,938 $1,305 – $2,446
2 – 3 bedrooms $3,830 – $7,344 $2,192 – $4,721 $1,411 – $3,058
4+ bedrooms $6,851 – $12,311 $3,102 – $5,967 $1,835 – $3,642
*These price ranges are rough estimates for a 2,279-mile move from Detroit to Santa Ana, 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 Detroit to Santa Ana

Moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Detroit to Santa Ana typically costs between $1,314 and $5,594. For a two- or three-bedroom home, expect prices to fall between $3,830 and $7,344 when moving from Detroit to Santa Ana. If you’re tackling a large move (think four or five bedrooms) from Detroit to Santa Ana, you’re looking at costs ranging from $6,851 up to $12,311.

Cost of moving containers from Detroit to Santa Ana

If you’re relocating from Detroit to Santa Ana, you’ll typically spend between $1,233 and $2,938 for a small move. Have a two or three-bedroom home? Plan for costs to range from $2,192 up to $4,721. If you’re moving a larger home — four bedrooms or more — expect to pay anywhere between $3,102 and $5,967. For a full breakdown, check out our complete PODS cost guide.

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

Cost of moving truck rentals from Detroit to Santa Ana

Renting a moving truck is typically the most budget-friendly choice for a Detroit to Santa Ana 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 $1,305 and $2,446. For a two- or three-bedroom move, costs usually range from $1,411 to $3,058. If you’re tackling a four-bedroom or bigger move, your rental truck will likely run between $1,835 and $3,642.

Estimated fuel costs are already factored into these quotes.

Major factors affecting moving costs from Detroit to Santa Ana

The cost of Detroit movers will depend on:

  • Move size: The cost of your move depends on how much you’re bringing. A one-bedroom from Detroit to Santa Ana might be as low as $2,575, while a four-bedroom could reach $11,494.
  • When you move: Moving in summer often costs more, since it’s the busiest season for movers in Detroit.
  • DIY moves vs. full-service help: Truck rentals cost less — around $1,305 to $3,322 — but you’ll handle all the labor vs. letting professionals do it.

What to know before moving from Detroit to Santa Ana

Expect a bump in monthly expenses after the move – Santa Ana runs about 153% higher for singles and 67% higher for families than Detroit.

Singles spend around $6,333 in Detroit versus $2,500 in Detroit; families pay $11,160 compared with $6,687.

Dig into the side-by-side details here:

Detroit Santa Ana
Average 1 BR rent $1,325 $2,200
Average 3 BR rent $2,542 $3,000
Average home value $73,156 $843,858
Average income (per capita) $37,761 $77,283
Cost of living (single) $2,500 $6,333
Cost of living (family of four) $6,687 $11,160
Unemployment rate 9.06% 7.0%
Sales tax 6.0% 9.25%
State income tax 4.25% 13.3%
  • Consider this before moving: Rent can be about 112% higher in Santa Ana than in Detroit, which may impact your monthly finances.
  • A larger mortgage budget will be necessary since home prices are about 1054% higher in Santa Ana than in Detroit.
  • Exciting news here, the average income is about 105% higher in Santa Ana than in Detroit, so you should have more to save or invest each month.
  • Anticipate increased living expenses in Santa Ana, as the cost of living for a single person in Santa Ana is 153% greater than in Detroit. This covers typical expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transport.
  • As you plan your move to Santa Ana, consider the possibility of increased living costs. The cost of living for a family there is 67% more than it is in Detroit.
  • With an unemployment rate approximately 23% lower than Detroit, Santa Ana boasts a favorable employment scene and thriving economic conditions, ideal for new arrivals.
  • Sales taxes in Santa Ana exceed those in Detroit by 54%, which can mean paying extra for usual purchases like clothes and electronics.
  • Income taxes are 213% higher in California than in Michigan. This means a larger portion of your earnings will go to state taxes, potentially reducing your take-home pay.

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

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

How life is different in Detroit vs. Santa Ana

Detroit Santa Ana
Population 639,111 310,227
Transportation score 7 7
Walkability score 51 67
Bike friendliness score 52 62
Crime index 72.92 54.17
Safety index 27.08 45.83
Air quality Good Moderate
  • Santa Ana’s population is about 51% less than Detroit.
  • Santa Ana’s public transportation score is within about 5% of Detroit, making them very similar.
  • Santa Ana is more walkable than Detroit with a score of 67 out of 100 vs Detroit’s 51 out of 100.
  • With a score of 62 out of 100, Santa Ana is more bike-friendly than Detroit, which has a score of 52 out of 100. The higher a city’s score, the more suited it is to safely accommodating cyclists.
  • Santa Ana’s crime rate is lower than Detroit with a score of 54.17 compared to Detroit’s 72.92. This means that Santa Ana neighborhoods are safer than 54.17% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Detroit neighborhoods are safer than 72.92%.
  • Santa Ana is considered to be safer than Detroit with a safety index of 45.83 vs Detroit’s 27.08.
  • Air quality in Santa Ana is Moderate, and in Detroit it’s Good.

Other things to consider for your Detroit to Santa Ana 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: When contacting a local moving company for an estimate in California, make sure each has a “T Number” issued by the California Public Utilities Commission (CAPUC). Moving companies with valid T Numbers have met state requirements for insurance, safety, and financial stability and have passed criminal clearance checks conducted by the California Department of Justice. Make sure the moving company you use has a license before hiring.
  • State regulator: You can check the status of a California moving license through the state’s public utilities commission.
  • Moving Permits: You won’t need a moving permit in California, 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 Santa Ana 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. Opt for Released Value Protection – a cost-free choice provided by movers with minimal coverage. The liability is capped at 60 cents per pound per article. For instance, if a 50-inch TV weighing 25 pounds is lost or damaged, your reimbursement is only $15 (60 cents x 25 pounds). To ensure comprehensive coverage for your items’ full value, consult with your chosen moving company or consider third-party insurance options.
  • Moving checklist: Our moving checklist will help you have the peace of mind that you’ve got everything covered.

Where to live in Santa Ana

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

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • Fairbridge Square
  • South Coast
  • Park Santiago
  • Sanpointe
  • Meredith Parkwood

Best neighborhoods for families

  • Meredith Parkwood
  • Fairbridge Square
  • West Grove Valley
  • South Coast

Things to do in Santa Ana

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

  • Arts and culture: Cultural attractions in Santa Ana include museums and art centers like the Bowers Museum, Lyon Air Museum, Discovery Cube Orange County, and Heritage Museum of Orange County.
  • Outdoor recreation: Outdoor lovers will appreciate Santiago Park Nature, 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 Los Angeles Angels (in Anaheim)Anaheim Ducks (in Anaheim)Santa Ana College Dons (Baseball, Basketball, Cross Country, Football, Soccer, Track & Field, Wrestling)Santa Ana United (Soccer Team) game.

FAQ

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

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

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

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

Covering 2,279 miles, the move from Detroit, MI to Santa Ana, typically takes seven to 18 days. Some Detroit movers may offer faster options, and if your timing is flexible, storage services in Santa Ana can help bridge the gap.

Do movers in Detroit offer any discounts?

Many do — and the types of discounts available can help you cut costs. 2 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 Detroit can handle specialty items for my move to Santa Ana?

Specialty moving services aren’t offered by every company. In Detroit, 22 movers can handle pianos. 8 offer antique moving services. Compared to the rest of MI, there are 51 piano movers and 19 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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