Best Santa Ana to San Diego Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Santa Ana to San Diego and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 90 mile long distance California move go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 149 Santa Ana to San Diego 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 Little Guy Big Truck Moving), how much the move costs (approximately $1,500 - $4,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Santa Ana compared to San Diego. 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.
Best Santa Ana to San Diego Moving Companies
| Rank | Company | Score  | Affordability Index |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Little Guy Big Truck Moving | 9.70 | 9.81 |
| 2 | Pure Moving | 9.64 | 9.49 |
| 3 | 1st Choice Movers | 9.63 | 9.7 |
| 4 | Family Affair Moving | 9.58 | 9.61 |
| 5 | Pasadena Moving Company LLC | 9.57 | 9.22 |
(800) 787-5428How Much Does it Cost to Move from Santa Ana to San Diego?
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 90 miles from Santa Ana, CA to San Diego, CA will cost on average $1,858 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Santa Ana to San Diego move is roughly $4,431. 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 Size | Moving Cost | Volume of Packed Items (ft³) | $/ft³ |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio | $1,254 | 300 ft³ | $4.18 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,858 | 450 ft³ | $4.13 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $3,059 | 750 ft³ | $4.08 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $4,431 | 1100 ft³ | $4.03 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $6,365 | 1600 ft³ | $3.98 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $7,071 | 1800 ft³ | $3.93 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from San Diego to Santa Ana guide.
Compare the 5 Best Santa Ana to San Diego Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
Little Guy Big Truck Moving
National City, CA
About Little Guy Big Truck Moving
Little Guy Big Truck Moving is a BBB-accredited, family-owned and operated business offering local and long-distance moving services at an affordable...
Services
- Affordable fast friendly movers
- Local and long distance moving
- Fully licensed and insured
Pure Moving
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
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3207734 / 1115049 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
| Registered Drivers | 1 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 100,000 (2022) |
1st Choice Movers
8250 Miramar Mall
San Diego, CA, 92121
About 1st Choice Movers
With hundreds of satisfied customers, 1st Choice Movers is true to its name as a preferred local choice for moving and...
Services
- Local moving services
- Long-distance moving services
- Cross-country moving services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2776935 / - Not Authorized Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 3 |
| Registered Drivers | 2 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 60,000 (2023) |
Family Affair Moving
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
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3085303 / - Not Authorized Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 4 |
| Registered Drivers | 5 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 10,000 (2023) |
Pasadena Moving Company LLC
Winters, CA, 95694
About Pasadena Moving Company LLC
Pasadena Moving Company LLC, based in Pasadena, is celebrated for its understanding of the local area and efficient relocation services, extending...
Services
- Local Moves
- Long-Distance Moves
- Overnight Services
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.
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. San Diego Neighborhood Comparison
Relocating can be a big step, especially when moving to an unfamiliar city. To ease this transition, we've crafted a unique guide that highlights the comparison of the local neighborhoods between Santa Ana, CA & San Diego, CA . By comparing popular areas in Santa Ana to those in San Diego, you can find a new home neighborhood that feels familiar, making your move smoother and more exciting.
| Santa Ana | San Diego | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Floral Park | North Park | Historic homes, artsy vibe |
| West Floral Park | South Park | Quaint, with community feel |
| French Park | Golden Hill | Historic charm, close to downtown |
| Morrison Park | Kensington | Quiet, family-friendly |
| Wilshire Square | Normal Heights | Eclectic, walkable neighborhood |
| Washington Square | Hillcrest | Vibrant LGBTQ+ community, great dining |
| Heninger Park | City Heights | Diverse, with strong sense of community |
| Eastside | Barrio Logan | Cultural richness, vibrant street art |
| Flower Park | University Heights | Cozy feel, indie shops |
| Artesia Pilar | Logan Heights | Growing arts scene, historic |
Finding the right neighborhood is about more than just comparable living situations; it's about finding the essence of what makes an area feel like home. In San Diego, neighborhoods like North Park and Hillcrest offer a vibrant, community-focused atmosphere akin to Santa Ana's Floral Park and Washington Square. Both North Park and Hillcrest are renowned for their historical homes, lush parks, and a plethora of dining options, from cozy cafes like Communal Coffee to gourmet restaurants. Similarly, if the artistic and cultural richness of Santa Ana’s Eastside captures your heart, then Barrio Logan in San Diego, with its vibrant street art and cultural festivals, will resonate with you. These communities not only mirror the physical characteristics of Santa Ana's neighborhoods but also the spirit and energy that make each area uniquely inviting.
Things to Do in San Diego
Visit the San Diego Zoo- Tour the USS Midway Museum
- Explore Balboa Park
- Relax at Coronado Beach
- Dine in Little Italy
- Experience SeaWorld San Diego
- Play golf at Torrey Pines
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Santa Ana to San Diego
Moving from Santa Ana, CA to San Diego, CA involves weighing various factors to make an informed decision. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of both the good and the bad attributes of this relocation, helping you understand what to anticipate in terms of changes in lifestyle, climate, and opportunities.
Santa Ana, CA- Higher crime rate
- Dense traffic
- Smaller cultural scene
- Fewer beaches
- Lesser green spaces
San Diego, CA- Lower crime rate
- Better traffic management
- Larger cultural scene
- More beaches
- More parks and greenery
San Diego, CA- Higher living costs
- More individualistic
- Farther from LA
- Less street art
- Slightly worse air quality
Santa Ana, CA- Lower living costs
- Communal vibe
- More central location
- Vibrant street art
- Better air quality
Moving to San Diego offers you access to a plethora of beautiful beaches like La Jolla Shores and Coronado Beach that are perfect for various water activities or simply relaxing by the sea. The city is known for Balboa Park, a sprawling green space that's not just a park but a hub for museums, art galleries, and the famed San Diego Zoo. For dining, areas like Little Italy and the Gaslamp Quarter offer a vibrant scene with a variety of restaurants, such as Born & Raised and Juniper & Ivy, that cater to any taste. Despite the higher living costs in San Diego, the quality of life, including better traffic management and a larger cultural scene, often outweighs the financial aspect, making it a worthwhile move.
Santa Ana vs. San Diego Food Guide
Understanding that food is a significant element of local culture and reflects the living experience in a given area, it's essential to know what culinary delights await you. This guide will help you dive into the food scene as we execute a comparison of the local cuisine between Santa Ana & San Diego , ensuring you're well-informed about where you're moving to.
- Las Brisas
- El Camino Real
- Baja Fish Tacos
- Hodad's
- Phil's BBQ
- Sushi Ota
In Santa Ana, you'll find an authentic mix of Latin American flavors, especially noted for its Mexican street tacos found in areas like Fourth Street Market. Meanwhile, San Diego boasts a more diverse cuisine, with its iconic fish tacos representing the local love for fresh, coastal ingredients. When craving a meat dish, Santa Ana's carnitas, often served in traditional taquerias throughout the city, are a must-try, while San Diego's Carne Asada takes the spotlight, easily found in neighborhoods like Little Italy or the Gaslamp Quarter. Each city offers unique vegan options and vibrant food scenes that cater to health and fitness enthusiasts, making them both exciting places to explore gastronomically.
Santa Ana vs. San Diego Restaurant Comparison
Understanding that cuisine and dining play a significant part in feeling at home in a new city, this comparison of top restaurants from Santa Ana to their counterparts in San Diego is designed to help you discover your next favorite dining spots. By using this guide, you'll have a head start on where to find meals that echo the familiar flavors of Santa Ana, right in your new neighborhood of San Diego.
| Santa Ana | San Diego | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Burritos La Palma | Lola 55 | Crafting similarly award-winning burritos with a focus on high-quality, authentic ingredients |
| Playground | Juniper & Ivy | Innovative and upscale dining experiences that push the boundaries of modern American cuisine |
| Crave | Great Maple | Known for their trendy vibe and decadent modern American comfort food, akin to Crave’s offerings |
| Chapter One: the modern local | Herb & Wood | Both restaurants focus on a contemporary twist to traditional dishes, creating a memorable dining experience |
| Shabu Shabu Bar | Tajima | Both offer a high-quality, authentic shabu shabu experience, making it a go-to for fans of Japanese hot pot |
| Falasophy | The Kebab Shop | Similar in their approach to Middle Eastern cuisine, offering fresh, high-quality, and flavorful wraps and plates |
| Antonello Espresso Bar | James Coffee Co. | Both establishments take their coffee seriously, offering expertly crafted espresso drinks in a cozy atmosphere |
| Mariscos Hector | Oscar’s Mexican Seafood | Both are celebrated for their fresh, flavorful seafood dishes, particularly their ceviche and tacos |
| Wursthaus | Werewolf | American Pub offering a variety of craft beers and hearty dishes, including sausages that rival those at Wursthaus |
| The Blind Pig | Seven Grand | With a diverse selection of whiskey and inventive cocktails, both spots offer a speakeasy vibe perfect for a night out |
While the journey from Santa Ana to San Diego may change your scenery, it doesn't mean you have to leave behind the culinary experiences you've come to love. For instance, Lola 55 in San Diego mirrors the dedication to authentic Mexican cuisine and quality ingredients found in Santa Ana's Burritos La Palma, ensuring your burrito cravings are well catered to. On the other hand, those who've enjoyed the modern and eclectic American dishes at Playground will find a similar pioneering spirit in the kitchen of Juniper & Ivy. This restaurant, known for using local, seasonal ingredients to create inventive dishes, will remind you of the creative culinary experiences back in Santa Ana. Meanwhile, coffee aficionados missing Antonello Espresso Bar's expert brews can find solace in James Coffee Co., where the coffee culture is equally revered, offering a diverse range of high-quality, artisan coffee in a setting that encourages lingering over every cup.
Ready to start your move?
Santa Ana vs. San Diego Real Estate & Living Facts
When planning a move, comparing Santa Ana and San Diego in terms of real estate provides insightful data to guide your decision. Understanding the housing market, including cost, architecture, and lifestyle, is crucial for a smooth transition.
While both Santa Ana and San Diego offer appealing options for potential homeowners and renters, there are noticeable distinctions. San Diego's higher home prices and monthly rents reflect its robust real estate market, bolstered by its picturesque sea views and abundant access to beaches. The architecture in San Diego also presents a mix of the modern alongside the traditional Spanish Colonial style, accommodating a wide range of tastes. Despite these differences, both cities offer a relatively urban lifestyle, with San Diego slightly edging out in terms of walkability and bikeability, aspects that contribute to its vibrant, active community.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in San Diego, CA
1. Ocean Beach : You'll love the dog-friendly atmosphere with a dedicated dog beach where your furry friend can splash and play off-leash.
2. North Park : This hip neighborhood offers many pet-welcoming cafes and parks, making it easy for you to enjoy outings with your pets.
3. Hillcrest : Known for its inclusive culture, you'll find numerous pet-friendly restaurants and bars, along with a welcoming community for your pets.
Santa Ana vs. San Diego Weather Considerations
When moving from one city to another, understanding how the weather compares is crucial for a smooth transition. This comparison will help you grasp the differences in climate you might experience when moving from Santa Ana to San Diego . From average temperatures to expected natural disasters, this guide is designed to outline the key weather differences between these two Californian cities.
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
While both Santa Ana and San Diego offer a pleasant climate with ample sunshine and mild winters, there are subtle differences you'll want to prepare for. San Diego tends to have a slightly cooler summer but warmer winters, which might be more appealing if you prefer more uniform temperatures year-round. Additionally, San Diego experiences fewer days of sunshine but enjoys better air quality compared to Santa Ana. Understanding these nuances will help you adjust your wardrobe and daily habits to better suit your new environment.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Santa Ana to San Diego
When planning a move from one city to another, understanding the financial implications is crucial. This comparison provides a clear view of the economic landscape, helping you gauge how the cost of living and other financial factors in Santa Ana compare to San Diego . It's an essential step in making an informed decision about your relocation.
While both Santa Ana and San Diego share the same state income and sales tax rates, due to California's statewide standards, there are noticeable differences in the average household income and the cost of living index between the two cities. For instance, despite having a slightly higher average household income, San Diego's cost of living index is significantly higher than Santa Ana's, indicating you may need a higher income to maintain the same lifestyle. Furthermore, the dominant industries in each city reflect distinct local economies, which could impact employment opportunities and economic growth. Considering these disparities is crucial in making a well-informed decision about your move.
Santa Ana vs. San Diego Political & Religious Comparison
Moving from Santa Ana to San Diego marks more than just a change in scenery; it's a transition between diverse communities with unique vibes. This comparison of the politics between Santa Ana & San Diego aims to provide a quick glimpse into the political and religious landscapes you're moving from and into, making your transition as informed as possible.
In both Santa Ana and San Diego, you'll find a political climate that leans Democratic, but the way local politics play out can differ significantly. Santa Ana's diverse representation echoes its multicultural population, making community-focused initiatives and cultural celebrations a common sight. On the other hand, San Diego's progressive trends underscore its status as a forward-thinking city, with an emphasis on sustainability and innovation. Regarding religion, Santa Ana's character is reflective of its strong Catholic roots buoyed by its vibrant immigrant communities. Meanwhile, San Diego offers a tapestry of religious beliefs with a notable non-religious community, showcasing its broad spectrum of personal and collective philosophies.
Santa Ana vs. San Diego Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Santa Ana, CA to San Diego, CA? Understanding the differences between driving/transiting in Santa Ana & San Diego will help you better understand what your daily commute and traffic will be like in your new city.
In comparison, getting around San Diego might feel a bit more manageable than in Santa Ana due to slightly lower traffic congestion and a somewhat better public transit system. While commuting times are nearly the same for both cities, San Diego offers a wider variety of public transit options, including trolleys, buses, and trains, making it slightly easier to navigate without a vehicle. Nevertheless, both cities present challenges for those looking to rely solely on public transportation, implying that having access to a car might still be a necessity for the most convenient and time-efficient travel.
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