Best Santa Ana to Fresno Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Santa Ana to Fresno and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 249 mile long distance California move go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 98 Santa Ana to Fresno moving companies and more than 20,000 movers nationwide to provide up-to-date and data-driven information about: which moving company to hire (our top recommendation is Pure Moving), how much the move costs (approximately $1,500 - $5,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Santa Ana compared to Fresno. With a move this big, you want big data on your side and Great Guys Moving is your trusted ally to help you sift through the noise to make informed moving decisions.

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Best Santa Ana to Fresno Moving Companies

Company
Score Question
Affordability Index
1Pure Moving9.649.49
2Family Affair Moving9.589.61
3Universal OC Moving9.589.4
4Strong Oak Moving9.289.15
5College Hunks Hauling Junk and Moving9.209.14
Phone (800) 787-5428

How Much Does it Cost to Move from Santa Ana to Fresno?

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 249 miles from Santa Ana, CA to Fresno, CA will cost on average $1,993 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Santa Ana to Fresno move is roughly $4,762. See the chart below for a detailed breakdown by type of move and home size. Pricing will vary based upon the exact locations of pickup and dropoff as well as several other factors. The most important pricing component that is often overlooked is how far away the move date is. The earlier you can reserve movers, the better your pricing and options will be.

Home SizeMoving CostVolume of Packed Items (ft³)$/ft³
Studio$1,344300 ft³$4.48
1 Bedroom$1,993450 ft³$4.43
2 Bedrooms$3,284750 ft³$4.38
3 Bedrooms$4,7621100 ft³$4.33
4 Bedrooms$6,8461600 ft³$4.28
5+ Bedrooms$7,6121800 ft³$4.23
*Please note: These California to California moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from California & California. The volume listed here represents the estimated cubic footage of your household items when packed and loaded into a moving truck. To determine the exact costs associated with your move, get a quote from a licensed CA to CA mover.
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Fresno to Santa Ana guide.

Compare the 5 Best Santa Ana to Fresno Movers

These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)

Pure Moving Logo

Pure Moving

Exceptional9.64/10
based on 7,662+ data points

1450 2nd St ste 225

Santa Monica, CA, 90401

About Pure Moving

Pure Moving has six locations across California, including an office in Los Angeles. This locally operated business moves over 10,000 clients...

Services

  • Residential moving
  • Commercial moving
  • Long-distance moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3207734 / 1115049

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers1
Total Annual Miles Moved100,000 (2022)
View Full Review
1
Family Affair Moving Logo

Family Affair Moving

Exceptional9.58/10
based on 3,576+ data points

Dana Point, CA, 92629

About Family Affair Moving

Family Affair Moving is an experienced and reputable moving company that has been serving the Southern California region for many years....

Services

  • Commercial Movers
  • Residential Movers
  • Last Minute Movers

Interstate Moving License

Circle X Mark
Not Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3085303 / -

Not Authorized

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans4
Registered Drivers5
Total Annual Miles Moved10,000 (2023)
View Full Review
2
Universal OC Moving Logo

Universal OC Moving

Exceptional
claimed company icon
9.58/10
based on 557+ data points

Laguna Woods, CA, 92637

About Universal OC Moving

Universal OC Moving is a full-service moving and furniture assembly company based in Irvine, Orange County. Established in 2017 by CEO...

Services

  • Storage Service
  • Assembly/Disassembly
  • Packing/Unpacking
View Full Review
3
Strong Oak Moving Logo

Strong Oak Moving

Exceptional9.28/10
based on 321+ data points

Tulare, CA

About Strong Oak Moving

Strong Oak Moving is a full-service California moving company serving customers in Visalia, Tulare, Hanford, Lemoore, Fresno, Clovis, and surrounding areas....

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Long-Distance Moving
  • Cross-Country Moving
View Full Review
4
College Hunks Hauling Junk and Moving Logo

College Hunks Hauling Junk and Moving

Exceptional9.20/10
based on 3,202+ data points

317 W Bedford Ave # 106

Fresno, CA, 93711

About College Hunks Hauling Junk and Moving

College Hunks Hauling Junk and Moving is the moving company for people who want the job done right, every time. Founded...

Services

  • Full-service moving company
  • Junk Removal & Trash Pickup
  • Hourly moving & packing services

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 9/11/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2966877 / 53286

Authorized For Property

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans5
Registered Drivers5
Total Annual Miles Moved50,000 (2022)
View Full Review
5
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Dependable Rankings You Can Count On!

Our rankings are data-driven — movers cannot purchase a spot on our list. Here's why you can have confidence in our recommendations:

  • No Paid Placements: Every company earns its spot through merit, not payment.
  • Extensive Analysis: Evaluated over 24,000 movers across the country for our rankings.

Santa Ana vs. Fresno Neighborhood Comparison

Moving to a new city can be daunting, especially when you're not familiar with your new neighborhood options. To ease the transition, we're making a comparison of local neighborhoods between Santa Ana, CA & Fresno, CA , helping you find a similar community vibe to what you've grown to love. With this guide, you'll get acquainted with your new surroundings in no time.

Santa AnaFresnoHow They're Similar
Floral ParkOld Fig GardenHistoric homes, mature landscaping
French ParkTower DistrictVintage charm, arts scene
Washington SquareSunnysideFamily-friendly, spacious parks
Morrison-Eldridge ParVan Ness ExtensionUpscale, large estates
West Floral ParkWoodward ParkAffluent, access to outdoor activities
South CoastFig Garden LoopModern living, shopping plazas
Heninger ParkPinedaleDiverse community, historical significance
Artesia PilarTarpey VillageClassic suburbia, community vibe
FairhavenBullardQuiet, tree-lined streets
WillardHuntingtonHigh walkability, local eateries

Finding your perfect neighborhood in Fresno, similar to what you loved in Santa Ana, is easier than you think. For those who cherished the historic homes and mature landscapes of Floral Park, Old Fig Garden offers a comparable aesthetic with its own unique flair. Fans of the vibrant art scene and vintage charm in French Park will find a similar cultural heartbeat in the Tower District—a hotspot for local artists and musicians. Meanwhile, if the family-friendly atmosphere and spacious parks of Washington Square topped your list, Sunnyside in Fresno mirrors these aspects beautifully. These carefully matched neighborhoods maintain the essence of community spirit and lifestyle preferences that matter most to you, making your transition to Fresno as seamless as possible.

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Things to Do in Fresno

  • Explore Fresno Chaffee Zoo
  • Visit Shinzen Japanese Garden
  • Hike in Yosemite National Park
  • Taste wines at Madera Wine Trail
  • Shop at River Park Shopping Center
  • Enjoy Arte Americas cultural exhibits
  • Play at Island Waterpark

Ready to start your move?

Pros and Cons of Moving from Santa Ana to Fresno

Moving cities can be daunting, yet exciting. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Santa Ana, CA to Fresno, CA . By examining the pros and cons through comprehensive charts, this guide will help you weigh the benefits and drawbacks of such a significant transition in your life.

CONs
PROs
Santa Ana, CA iconSanta Ana, CA
  • Higher living costs
  • Dense traffic
  • Smaller green spaces
Fresno, CA iconFresno, CA
  • Lower living costs
  • Less traffic congestion
  • Larger parks
Fresno, CA iconFresno, CA
  • Poorer air quality
  • Far from the beach
  • Less cultural diversity
Santa Ana, CA iconSanta Ana, CA
  • Better air quality
  • Beach proximity
  • More cultural diversity

Moving from Santa Ana to Fresno means trading the bustling city life for a more laid-back atmosphere, but it's not without its trade-offs. While you might miss the beach and the vibrant mix of cultures in Santa Ana, you’ll find solace in Fresno's sprawling parks and River Parkway, perfect for weekend picnics and hikes. Fresno prides itself on its community-focused neighborhoods, each with unique eateries like The Annex Kitchen offering a taste of Italy right in your backyard, or the Tioga-Sequoia Brewing Company for local craft beer enthusiasts seeking a relaxed vibe. Despite Fresno's lesser-known cultural scene, the Fresno Art Museum and annual events like the Fresno Greek Fest still provide a slice of cultural immersion. Adjusting to life in Fresno from Santa Ana involves embracing these changes and discovering the unique aspects of your new home.

Santa Ana vs. Fresno Food Guide

This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Santa Ana & Fresno, showing how food is a significant part of local culture and living experience. By examining each city's culinary scene, you'll get a more informed outlook on what to expect food-wise in your new home.

Santa Ana
Fresno
Most iconic local food item
Tacos
Tri-tip
Most popular meat dish
Carnitas
Grilled Chicken
Most popular street food item
Tamales
Tacos
Most popular vegan food
Vegan Tacos
Vegan Burrito
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • The Blinking Owl
  • 4th Street Market
  • The Laughing Planet
  • The Annex Kitchen
  • Pismo's Coastal Grill
  • Cornerstone Coffee Company
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness
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Abundance of Food Trucks
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Foodie Scene
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Vegan Friendly
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While Santa Ana shines with its vibrant street food scene, featuring iconic foods like tacos and tamales, often found in bustling areas like Downtown Santa Ana or the Santa Ana Food Hall, Fresno brings its own unique flavors with a strong focus on meat dishes, particularly its famed Tri-tip. However, both cities offer diverse culinary scenes that cater to various palates, including those looking for vegan options. Restaurants like The Blinking Owl in Santa Ana and The Annex Kitchen in Fresno are must-visits for newcomers, showcasing the best of local cuisines and atmospheres. Whether you're exploring the rich variety of food trucks in Santa Ana or diving into Fresno's farm-to-table experiences, you'll find that both cities hold their unique charm and flavors worth exploring.

Santa Ana vs. Fresno Restaurant Comparison

Relocating can be a daunting task, but finding your new favorite dining spots shouldn't have to be. This restaurant comparison chart is designed to ease your transition from Santa Ana, CA to Fresno, CA, making sure your culinary experiences feel just like home. Let's dive into the tastes and atmospheres that make each city unique, yet familiar.

Santa AnaFresnoWhat You'll Love
PlaygroundThe Annex KitchenItalian-inspired, farm-to-table dining
Burritos La PalmaTaqueria El Premio MayorAuthentic street-style tacos
Lola GasparCasa de TamalesCreative and traditional tamales
HabanaCastillo's Mexican FoodHomestyle Mexican cuisine
CraveBatter Up PancakesGourmet pancakes and breakfast fare
Chapter One: the modern localThe Lime LiteNew American cuisine with a local twist
4th Street MarketFulton Street Coffee RoastersArtisan coffee and light bites
Taqueria El ZamoranoLa Elegante TaqueriaKnown for its birria and seafood tacos
Mariscos HectorPismo's Coastal GrillFresh seafood in a casual setting
El Mercado Modern CuisineCracked Pepper BistroEclectic fine dining experience

Whether you're craving the innovative farm-to-table experience found at Playground in Santa Ana or looking for its Fresno counterpart in The Annex Kitchen, your culinary journey doesn't have to end when you move. Both restaurants highlight the best of their local regions with a focus on fresh, sustainable ingredients. For those who appreciate the art of Mexican cuisine, Burritos La Palma's unique flavors can be nostalgically revisited at Taqueria El Premio Mayor. This place mirrors the authenticity and zest that food lovers in Santa Ana adore. Moreover, transitioning from the coastal seafood delights of Mariscos Hector will be seamless when you discover Pismo's Coastal Grill in Fresno, where the essence of the ocean's bounty is celebrated in each dish. Exploring these establishments will not only satiate your taste buds but will also make Fresno feel more like home.

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Ready to start your move?

Santa Ana vs. Fresno Real Estate & Living Facts

Real estate significantly influences the decision-making process when relocating. Understanding how Santa Ana and Fresno compare in terms of housing characteristics can offer insights into your potential new city. Let’s dive into the aspects such as cost , architecture , and lifestyle .

Santa Ana
Fresno
Typical Architecture Style
Spanish Colonial
Modern and Ranch
Walkability
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Bikeability
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Urban Lifestyle
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Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing
Proximity to amenities, Gated communities
Large yards, Quiet neighborhoods

Between Santa Ana and Fresno, you'll find significant variations in housing costs and lifestyles. Santa Ana's homes, typically in the Spanish Colonial style, reflect its rich cultural heritage. Its real estate market is buoyed by its proximity to amenities and desire for gated communities, catering to an urban lifestyle with a higher walkability and bikeability score. On the other hand, Fresno offers Modern and Ranch-style homes at a lower median price, appealing to those looking for spacious yards and quieter neighborhoods. Despite its lower walkability score, Fresno's focus on large, open spaces and a slower-paced lifestyle might be just what you're seeking.

Pet-friendly neighborhoods background image

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Fresno, CA

1. Woodward Park : You and your furry friend will love the numerous trails and large park spaces ideal for walking, playing, and socializing.

2. Fig Garden : This neighborhood offers a variety of pet-friendly amenities and green spaces that make it easy for you to enjoy outdoor activities with your pets.

3. River Park : With its welcoming community vibe, you'll find plenty of pet-friendly dining options and open areas for your four-legged companion to explore.

Santa Ana vs. Fresno Weather Considerations

Moving to a new city involves adapting to a variety of changes, and understanding local weather conditions is crucial. Comparing the weather between Santa Ana and Fresno highlights key differences and similarities that will affect your daily life. This comparison ensures you are well-prepared for your new environment.

Santa Ana
Fresno
Days of Sunshine per Year
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Avg. Annual Humidity
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Avg. UV Index
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Natural Disasters
Earthquakes, Wildfires
Droughts, Wildfires
Air Quality
Good
Moderate
Summer icon

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

83°F/64°F
97°F/69°F
Winter icon

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

70°F/48°F
55°F/38°F


Rainfall icon

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

13 inches
12 inches
Snowfall icon

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

0 inches
0 inches


While both Santa Ana and Fresno enjoy abundant sunshine, the higher average summer temperatures and cooler winters in Fresno compared to Santa Ana are significant considerations for anyone moving. Fresno's moderate air quality and specific allergens such as dust and pollen can also affect your daily comfort and health. Moreover, the almost equal amount of annual rainfall contrasts with the varied seasonal temperatures, offering a clear insight into the adaptive measures you might need to take when relocating.

Ready to start your move?

Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Santa Ana to Fresno

When planning a move, it's crucial to understand how the cost of living and other financial aspects will change, especially when moving from Santa Ana to Fresno . This comparison will help you anticipate the adjustments needed for your budget and finances in your new city.

Santa Ana
Fresno
Avg. Household Income
$80,265
$61,250
Cost of Living Index
136.4
117.3
State Income Tax
9.3
9.3
Avg. Property Tax
0.72
0.77
Avg. Sales Tax
9.25
7.975
Top 3 Industries
Healthcare, Retail, Education
Agriculture, Manufacturing, Healthcare
Affluence
Moderate
Lower
Poverty
Moderate
Higher
Homelessness
High
Significant

In considering a move from Santa Ana to Fresno, it’s important to note that despite Fresno’s lower average household income, it enjoys a significantly lower cost of living index. This difference could mean that your earnings may go further in Fresno than in Santa Ana, particularly in housing and daily expenses due to the lower sales tax rate. However, the sectors driving the economies of the two cities are distinct, with Fresno having a strong agricultural base, which might influence job prospects depending on your industry expertise. Additionally, both cities face challenges with homelessness and poverty, though the specifics and magnitudes of these issues can vary. Understanding these dynamics is essential for making an informed decision about relocating.

Santa Ana vs. Fresno Political & Religious Comparison

Moving between cities is not just about a change of scenery; it's about transitioning to a community with potentially different values and beliefs. This guide provides a comparison of the politics between Santa Ana & Fresno to give you a quick snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the cities you're moving from and to.

Santa Ana
Fresno
Political Make-up
Leans Democratic
Moderately Democratic
Local Politics
Focus on local businesses and community development
Emphasis on agriculture and water rights
Religion
Mix of Catholic and Protestant, with significant Latino influence
Diverse with Protestant, Catholic, Sikh, and Muslim communities

Delving deeper, the political landscape of Santa Ana and Fresno might reflect broader state trends but with local nuances that make each city unique. In Santa Ana, the dense urban environment and diverse population fuel a progressive outlook, especially concerning community development and support for local businesses. Conversely, Fresno's economy and politics are deeply intertwined with agriculture, affecting local discourse, especially around water rights—a critical issue in the region. Religion in both cities reflects California's broader diversity, but Fresno stands out for its particularly varied religious community, including significant Sikh and Muslim populations. This diversity enriches the cultural fabric of the city and influences its community events and social dynamics.

Santa Ana vs. Fresno Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

When considering a move from Santa Ana to Fresno, understanding the differences in traffic and transportation options between Santa Ana & Fresno can greatly influence your daily life. This comparison aims to give you a clearer picture of what your commute might look like.

Santa Ana
Fresno
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)
25
22
Traffic Congestion
7 out of 10
4 out of 10
Availability of Public Transit
6 out of 10
5 out of 10
Can you get by without car?
Possible, but challenging
Difficult

While the average commute time is slightly shorter in Fresno than in Santa Ana, the difference in traffic congestion is notable, with Fresno experiencing less congestion. This might make your daily drive more pleasant. However, both cities face challenges with public transportation, though Santa Ana scores slightly higher, suggesting a bit more convenience and options. Living without a car in Fresno can be more difficult due to its lesser availability of public transit options and the city’s spread out nature, compared to Santa Ana where it’s slightly more feasible, yet still challenging. Understanding these differences can help you plan your move and daily life in your new city more effectively.

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