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($1,169) Cost to Move From Raleigh, NC to Santa Ana, CA

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Estimated cost & time: For a 2,550 mile move from Raleigh to Santa Ana, costs typically range from $1,576 to $7,243. Plan for the travel time to be around seven–21 days. Costs will vary depending on factors such as the distance, moving date, home size, and your choice of DIY or hiring professionals.
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Best movers from Raleigh 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 Raleigh to Santa Ana

If you want to simplify your interstate move from Raleigh to Santa Ana, consider hiring a full-service mover. These professionals will take care of everything, so you can prioritize settling into your new environment without the extra hassle.

With 27 interstate moving companies located in Raleigh, we’ve curated a selection of the best to make your move to Santa Ana seamless and enjoyable.

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 Raleigh to Santa Ana

These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 2,550-mile move from Raleigh to Santa Ana using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 07, 2025. Drawing on thousands of verified rates from U.S. moving companies, moveBuddha updates its figures monthly to account for seasonal and market shifts. Your ultimate cost may vary with shipment size, added services, access or parking issues, fuel prices, and the date you move. We advise comparing multiple mover quotes for the most accurate pricing picture.
Studio Icon

Studio / 1 bedroom

  • Moving Company $2,382 – $5,528
  • Moving Container $1,756 – $3,440
  • Rental Truck $1,455 – $2,736
Two Three Bed Icon

2-3 bedrooms

  • Moving Company $3,355 – $7,243
  • Moving Container $2,417 – $5,078
  • Rental Truck $1,576 – $3,420
Four Bed Icon

4+ bedrooms

  • Moving Company $6,637 – $11,657
  • Moving Container $3,070 – $6,708
  • Rental Truck $1,836 – $4,155
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.
American Van Lines
Oxford, NC Chino, CA
3 Bedrooms
Oct 14, 2025
Budget Truck Rental
Morrisville, NC Bloomington, CA
3 Bedrooms
Oct 03, 2025
Safeway Moving
Four Oaks, NC Manhattan Beach, CA
3 Bedrooms
Sep 30, 2025
North American Van Lines
Zebulon, NC Azusa, CA
1 Bedroom (small)
Sep 23, 2025
Mayzlin Relocation
Sims, NC Hawaiian Gardens, CA
Studio apartment
Sep 21, 2025
Roadway Moving
Godwin, NC Canyon Lake, CA
1 Bedroom (small)
Sep 12, 2025
United Van Lines
Benson, NC Buena Park, CA
1 Bedroom (large)
Aug 30, 2025
1-800-Pack-Rat
Butner, NC Burbank, CA
Studio apartment
Aug 25, 2025
PODS
Angier, NC Covina, CA
4 Bedrooms
Aug 24, 2025
Mayflower Transit
Princeton, NC Hawthorne, CA
1 Bedroom (large)
Aug 11, 2025

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

The best local movers for Raleigh to Santa Ana moves

It’s not always easy to find a reliable local moving company in Raleigh that also handles long-distance moves to Santa Ana. Luckily, we’ve done the research for you. We evaluated 28 local movers in Raleigh 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 Raleigh to Santa Ana.

  1. Bellhop Moving: 4.58 out of 5 stars
  2. Little Guys Movers : 4.56 out of 5 stars
  3. Athens Moving Experts: 4.58 out of 5 stars
  4. Excel Moving & Storage: 4.52 out of 5 stars
  5. Next Stop Movers: 4.48 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
62.0% of all reviews were positive
34.8% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Bellhop Moving earns high marks for efficiency and professionalism, with 62% of input reflecting strong satisfaction out of the 92 reviews analyzed. Customers highlight prompt, careful service from polite movers, quick moving processes, and competitive pricing. Many praise the care taken with belongings, friendly attitudes, and seamless booking. On the downside, over one-third of customer feedback cites frustration with damages to furniture or property, poor communication, and instances where movers lacked experience or preparation. A few reviewers also faced unresolved claims, delays, or insufficient compensation for damaged items. While Bellhop offers more budget-friendly rates and efficient service compared to many moving companies, the risk of damages and inconsistent quality underscores the importance of clear communication and setting expectations. Most who use Bellhop for standard, smaller moves appreciate the value, but concerns remain for complex or larger moves requiring extra care or experience.
Get a Quote (866) 774-5063

Company Info

State license #: 2934

Years in Business: 14

DOT #: 2878240

Alternate Names: Bellhops, Inc.

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
93.7% of all reviews were positive
5.4% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Rave input says Little Guys Movers stands out for reliable, professional teams who handle belongings with care and keep things moving efficiently. Out of 315 reviews, an overwhelming 93.7% rate the company highly, often calling out polite staff, excellent communication, careful handling, and fast, organized service as reasons to recommend them. Quotes usually match the final cost, and customers note that movers arrive on time, stay upbeat, and make stressful moves feel easy. On the other hand, negative feedback—about 5.4%—focuses on damaged items, with a few cases of slow or careless service, and occasional complaints about unexpectedly high or confusing charges and poor communication during claims or repairs. With positive ratings far above industry averages, Little Guys Movers garners trust through skilled teams and transparent pricing practices, though a handful of customers encounter problems with damage resolution or billing discrepancies.
Get a Quote (919) 439-2454

Company Info

State license #: 2548

Years in Business: 31

DOT #: 1931566

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
93.7% of all reviews were positive
4.8% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Athens Moving Experts gets top marks from customers who appreciate reliable, courteous, and hardworking crews. Nearly 94% of feedback is positive across 334 reviews. People routinely mention how efficiently the teams work, how carefully they handle belongings, and how friendly and communicative they are throughout the process. Fair pricing stands out as another frequent highlight compared to competitors. A few clients, however, report issues such as damaged or poorly packed items, especially during busy or larger moves. Some negative input also cites crews lacking experience or rushing, which led to mistakes. In the rare neutral reviews, most concerns relate to minor service lapses or pandemic-related policy misunderstandings rather than major moving problems. Athens’s consistent reputation for speed, respectful service, and professionalism places them ahead of most local movers, but a small number of clients wish for even greater attention to packing quality and oversight during complex jobs.
Get a Quote (919) 760-7774

Company Info

State license #: 2657

Years in Business: 8

DOT #: 3205320

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Shipment tracking
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by money order
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
78.4% of all reviews were positive
18.0% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Excel Moving & Storage stands out with a stellar reputation for professionalism, efficient moves, and careful handling of belongings. Of 283 customer experiences reviewed, 78% highlight attentive staff, timely communication, and a smooth moving process. Customers value the team’s politeness, quick work, and the sense that their possessions are respected. When compared to typical industry input, Excel’s high marks for effective communication and detail-oriented care put them ahead of many competitors. Despite the strong positive feedback, 18% report concerns, mainly regarding damaged or missing items and communication lapses after incidents. While most feedback applauds reliability, negative reviews reveal challenges with problem resolution, lost goods, and slow or absent responses when something goes wrong. Neutral feedback, just over 3%, notes good customer service but occasional delivery delays or minor damages. Excel earns frequent recommendations for large or complex moves, but customers should confirm policies on claims and coverage for valuable items. The company reliably delivers efficient, careful moves, though improvements in post-move communication could further strengthen their standing.
Get a Quote (919) 213-6694

Company Info

State license #: 2311

Years in Business: 26

DOT #: 076235

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
100.0% of all reviews were positive
0.0% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving made easy—customers praise Next Stop Movers for quick and careful service, friendly and professional staff, and a consistently hassle-free experience. Seven customer feedback entries analyzed, with 100% rated positively. Movers handle furniture attentively, offer efficient solutions, and communicate clearly. People appreciate affordable rates and flexibility, standing out compared to less responsive companies. No negative feedback was reported, and no recurring issues surfaced among the reviews.
Get a Quote (919) 249-8351

Company Info

State license #: 1267633

Years in Business: 4

DOT #: 3619230

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Hot Tubs
  • Pool Tables
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Safes
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card

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

The average hourly rate for movers in North Carolina is $145. 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 $1,169 – $4,854 $1,321 – $3,451 $1,455 – $2,736
2 – 3 bedrooms $3,355 – $7,243 $2,417 – $5,078 $1,576 – $3,420
4+ bedrooms $6,637 – $11,657 $3,070 – $6,708 $1,836 – $4,155
*Approximate cost ranges for a 2,550-mile move from Raleigh to Santa Ana are based on moveBuddha pricing data as of Nov 07, 2025. 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.

Cost to hire movers from Raleigh to Santa Ana

Hiring movers for a studio apartment or one-bedroom home from Raleigh to Santa Ana will cost between $1,169 and $4,854. The cost to move a two- to three-bedroom home from Raleigh to Raleigh will range from $3,355 to $7,243, and a large move from Raleigh to Santa Ana will cost from $6,637 to $11,657.

Cost of moving containers from Raleigh to Santa Ana

If you’re moving from Raleigh to Santa Ana, expect to pay between $1,321 and $3,451 for a small load. For a home with two or three bedrooms, prices typically range from $2,417 up to $5,078. Larger moves of four bedrooms or more can run between $3,070 and $6,708. Check out our guide on PODS cost for more details.

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

Cost of moving truck rentals from Raleigh to Santa Ana

Renting a moving truck from Raleigh to Santa Ana 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 $2,736. For two to three bedrooms, rates typically fall between $1,576 and $3,420. Relocating a four-bedroom (or bigger) home? You’re likely looking at anywhere from $1,836 up to $4,155 for your rental truck.

These quotes include estimated fuel costs.

Key factors that influence moving costs from Raleigh to Santa Ana

The cost of Raleigh movers will depend on:

  • The size of your home: Smaller moves (like one-bedrooms) cost less, sometimes just $2,464, while larger moves (four-bedrooms) can hit $10,101.
  • Time of year: Summer is peak moving season in Raleigh, which means higher prices.
  • The type of mover you choose: Renting a truck ($1,455–$3,790) saves money but adds work compared to hiring pros.

What to know before moving from Raleigh to Santa Ana

Expect a bump in monthly expenses after the move – Santa Ana runs about 4% higher for singles and 84% higher for families than Raleigh.

Singles spend around $6,333 in Raleigh versus $6,077 in Raleigh; families pay $11,160 compared with $6,077.

Dig into the side-by-side details here:

Raleigh Santa Ana
Average 1 BR rent $1,820 $2,200
Average 3 BR rent $3,000 $3,000
Average home value $431,795 $843,858
Average income (per capita) $2,572 $77,283
Cost of living (single) $6,077 $6,333
Cost of living (family of four) $6,077 $11,160
Unemployment rate 4.3% 7.0%
Sales tax 7.25% 9.25%
State income tax 4.5% 13.3%
  • Rent is estimated to be 59% higher in Santa Ana compared to Raleigh; it’s essential to account for this in your budget planning.
  • Prepare for increased mortgage costs as home prices are roughly 95% greater in Santa Ana than in Raleigh.
  • Here’s some promising news: the average income is around 2905% higher in Santa Ana than in Raleigh, which could mean added opportunities to save or invest each month.
  • The cost of living for a single person is within about 5% of the same in Santa Ana and Raleigh, so you likely won’t notice a major difference.
  • When relocating to Santa Ana, it’s important to be aware that living expenses may rise. The cost of living for a family in Santa Ana is 84% greater than in Raleigh.
  • In Santa Ana, the unemployment rate is approximately 63% higher than in Raleigh, indicating a larger group of job seekers. This can lead to increased competition for positions.
  • Sales taxes rise by 28% in Santa Ana over Raleigh, leading to heightened expenses for everyday essentials.
  • Income taxes are 196% higher in California than in North Carolina, meaning that a larger fraction of your income will be spent on state taxes, potentially reducing your savings.

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

Living Expense Raleigh Santa Ana
Basic utilities $190.88 $200.96
Cell phone plan $64.40 $54.33
Dozen eggs $4.71 $5.45
Loaf of bread $4.12 $4.59
Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) $19.50 $25.00
Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) $75.00 $100.00
Gym membership $40.18 $25.00
  • Basic utilities cost less in Raleigh than in Santa Ana, helping trim your monthly bills.
  • Cell phone plans typically cost more in Raleigh than in Santa Ana.
  • Eggs are less expensive in Raleigh than in Santa Ana.
  • Bread costs less in Raleigh than in Santa Ana.
  • A quick meal is cheaper in Raleigh than in Santa Ana.
  • A mid-range dinner for two costs less in Raleigh than in Santa Ana.
  • Gym memberships cost more in Raleigh than in Santa Ana.

How life is different in Raleigh vs. Santa Ana

Raleigh Santa Ana
Population 467,665 310,227
Transportation score 4 7
Walkability score 31 67
Bike friendliness score 39 62
Crime index 38.87 54.17
Safety index 60.13 45.83
Air quality Moderate Moderate
  • Santa Ana’s population is about 34% less than Raleigh.
  • Santa Ana’s public transportation score of 7 out of 10 is higher than Raleigh’s score of 4.
  • Santa Ana is more walkable than Raleigh with a score of 67 out of 100 vs Raleigh’s 31 out of 100.
  • With a score of 62 out of 100, Santa Ana is more bike-friendly than Raleigh, which has a score of 39 out of 100. The higher a city’s score, the more suited it is to safely accommodating cyclists.
  • Santa Ana’s crime rate is higher than Raleigh with a score of 54.17 compared to Raleigh’s 38.87. This means that Santa Ana neighborhoods are safer than 54.17% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Raleigh neighborhoods are safer than 38.87%.
  • Santa Ana is considered to be less safe than Raleigh with a score of 45.83 vs Raleigh’s 60.13.
  • Air quality in Santa Ana is Moderate, and in Raleigh it’s Moderate.

Other things to consider for your Raleigh to Santa Ana 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: 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. Always verify licensing details before committing to a mover.
  • State regulator: You can verify a California moving license and its status through the state’s public utilities commission.
  • Moving Permits: California 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 Santa Ana. Start the process here.
  • Moving company insurance: Every state sets its own rules for what insurance moving companies need to maintain. 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: Follow our moving checklist to keep your move organized and stress-free.

Where to live in Santa Ana

Now that you’ve decided to make the move to , these are the best neighborhoods to move to 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

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

  • Arts and culture: You’ll find museums and cultural hubs throughout Santa Ana, such as the Bowers Museum, Lyon Air Museum, Discovery Cube Orange County, and Heritage Museum of Orange County.
  • Outdoor recreation: The city’s Santiago Park Nature — 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 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 Raleigh to Santa Ana?

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

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

Since spring and fall are the most popular times to move from Raleigh to Santa Ana, 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 Raleigh to Santa Ana take?

Moving from Raleigh, NC to Santa Ana, covers 2,550 miles and usually takes seven to 21 days. Need to move faster? Some Raleigh movers offer expedited options. If you’re not ready to receive your items, look into storage solutions in Santa Ana.

Which movers in Raleigh give price breaks?

Some companies go the extra mile by offering discounts to certain groups. 1 movers give special rates to military members. 1 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 Raleigh?

Specialty items need extra care and the right equipment. 20 movers in Raleigh advertise piano moving expertise. 8 movers in Raleigh provide antique moving services. State totals show 78 piano movers and 38 antique movers, with nationwide availability at 2,303 and 1,466.

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

Helpful moving resources

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