Best Scottsdale to Santa Ana Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Scottsdale to Santa Ana and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 368 mile move from Arizona to California go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 35 Scottsdale to Santa Ana 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 Sterling Interstate LLC), 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 Scottsdale compared to Santa Ana. 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 Scottsdale to Santa Ana Moving Companies

Company
Score Question
Affordability IndexLicense
1Sterling Interstate LLC9.769.64Authorized For HHG
2Pure Moving9.649.49Authorized For HHG
3Terry Moving & Storage9.379.2Authorized For HHG
4New Beginnings Moving Solutions9.339.4Authorized For Property
5Creative Moving and Packing, LLC9.319.18Authorized For HHG
Phone (800) 787-5428

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

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 368 miles from Scottsdale, AZ to Santa Ana, CA will cost on average $2,094 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Scottsdale to Santa Ana move is roughly $5,009. 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$1,411300 ft³$4.70
1 Bedroom$2,094450 ft³$4.65
2 Bedrooms$3,453750 ft³$4.60
3 Bedrooms$5,0091100 ft³$4.55
4 Bedrooms$7,2061600 ft³$4.50
5+ Bedrooms$8,0171800 ft³$4.45
*Please note: These Arizona to California moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from Arizona & 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 AZ to CA mover.
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Santa Ana to Scottsdale guide.

Compare the 5 Best Scottsdale to Santa Ana Movers

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

Sterling Interstate LLC Logo

Sterling Interstate LLC

Exceptional
claimed company icon
9.76/10
based on 2,064+ data points

Phoenix, AZ, 85022

About Sterling Interstate LLC

Established in 2017, Sterling Interstate opened with the intention to change the stigma around the moving industry by providing reliable, customizable...

Services

  • Local moving services
  • Long-distance moving services
  • Packing services

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/9/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3006713 / 26956

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans6
Registered Drivers7
Total Annual Miles Moved115,000 (2022)
View Full Review
1
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
2
Terry Moving & Storage Logo

Terry Moving & Storage

Exceptional9.37/10
based on 2,011+ data points

25958 Commercentre Dr

Lake Forest, CA, 92630

About Terry Moving & Storage

Terry Moving & Storage offers full-service moves locally and throughout the 11 Western States. This Lake Forest-based business has helped thousands...

Services

  • Local Move
  • Interstate Move
  • Packing Services

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

649215 / 306297

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans11
Registered Drivers11
Total Annual Miles Moved315,000 (2022)
View Full Review
3
New Beginnings Moving Solutions Logo

New Beginnings Moving Solutions

Exceptional9.33/10
based on 887+ data points

6757 W Charter Oak Rd

Peoria, AZ, 85381

About New Beginnings Moving Solutions

New Beginnings Moving Solutions is a full-service moving company specializing in long-distance moves. It is locally-owned and operated and has been...

Services

  • Long Distance Moves
  • Local Moves
  • Business Relocation

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 9/27/2022)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3656946 / 1262843

Authorized For Property

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers8
Total Annual Miles Moved500 (2021)
View Full Review
4
Creative Moving and Packing, LLC Logo

Creative Moving and Packing, LLC

Exceptional
claimed company icon
9.31/10
based on 3,672+ data points

4012 W Turney Ave

Phoenix, AZ, 85019

About Creative Moving and Packing, LLC

Since 2008, Creative Moving and Packing has served the Phoenix, AZ, area with high-quality local and long-distance relocation services. This company's...

Services

  • Local Moving Services
  • Long-Distance Moving Services
  • Commercial Moving Services

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/9/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1877603 / 1173916

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans10
Registered Drivers11
Total Annual Miles Moved150,000 (2023)
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.

Scottsdale vs. Santa Ana Neighborhood Comparison

When you're moving to a new city, getting to know your new neighborhood is crucial for feeling at home. This guide aims to bridge the gap for those relocating from Scottsdale, AZ to Santa Ana, CA. By drawing parallels between the top neighborhoods in Scottsdale with the most similar areas in Santa Ana, we hope to simplify the transition. This comparison of local neighborhoods between Scottsdale, AZ & Santa Ana, CA will get you acquainted with your new surroundings in no time.

ScottsdaleSanta AnaHow They're Similar
Old Town ScottsdaleHistoric French ParkRich heritage, vibrant arts scene
McCormick RanchFloral ParkFamily-friendly, lush greenery
Gainey RanchWest Floral ParkExclusive, well-manicured estates
DC RanchArmstrong RanchLuxurious, gated community vibes
North ScottsdalePortola ParkSprawling homes, scenic landscapes
South ScottsdaleWindsor VillageDiverse, vibrant community life
GrayhawkPark SantiagoModern living, recreational amenities
ArcadiaWashington SquareQuaint charm, welcoming atmosphere
Paradise ValleyFisher ParkUpscale, secluded luxury
KierlandRiverview WestShopping, dining hotspots

If you're moving from Scottsdale's charming Old Town with its bustling arts and nightlife scene, you'll find a similar vibe in Santa Ana's Historic French Park where history meets a lively cultural scene. For those accustomed to the family-oriented environments of McCormick Ranch, Floral Park in Santa Ana offers a similarly welcoming community with beautiful parks and green spaces. Meanwhile, luxury seekers from areas like Gainey Ranch or DC Ranch will appreciate the exclusivity and well-kept estates of West Floral Park and Armstrong Ranch, respectively. Not to forget, shopping and dining aficionados moving from Kierland will enjoy exploring the hotspots in Riverview West, promising an endless array of leisure activities.

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Things to Do in Santa Ana

  • Explore the Santa Ana Public Library
  • Visit Discovery Cube Orange County
  • Stroll through Santiago Park Nature
  • Enjoy art at Bowers Museum
  • Shop at 4th Street Market
  • See a show at The Yost Theater
  • Join a class at Downtown Santa Ana

Ready to start your move?

Pros and Cons of Moving from Scottsdale to Santa Ana

Moving from Scottsdale, AZ, to Santa Ana, CA, is a big step that comes with its own set of challenges and rewards. This comparison aims to offer an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of this relocation, focusing on the differences between Scottsdale and Santa Ana. By weighing both sides, you can make a well-informed decision.

CONs
PROs
Scottsdale, AZ iconScottsdale, AZ
  • Hotter summers
  • More expensive living
  • Less greenery
Santa Ana, CA iconSanta Ana, CA
  • Milder climate
  • More diverse culture
  • More parks
Santa Ana, CA iconSanta Ana, CA
  • Higher traffic
  • Denser population
  • Costlier housing
Scottsdale, AZ iconScottsdale, AZ
  • More upscale areas
  • Lower crime rates
  • Greater job opportunities

Moving from Scottsdale to Santa Ana introduces you to a milder climate that promises an escape from Arizona's intense heatwaves, offering a more comfortable outdoor experience all year round. Santa Ana prides itself on its rich cultural diversity and vibrant communities such as the Historic French Park for its beautiful historic homes and active community associations. For green space enthusiasts, Santa Ana provides an array of parks like Santiago Park Nature, where the Santiago Creek meanders, offering trails and natural scenic beauty. Moreover, Santa Ana's downtown is a melting pot of culinary delights, with local favorites such as 4th Street Market that is a foodie’s paradise. On the flip side, be prepared for California's notorious traffic, especially during peak hours, as Santa Ana's urban density can lead to longer commute times compared to Scottsdale. Nonetheless, the trade-offs come with the excitement of exploring new neighborhoods, each with its unique character and charm, making Santa Ana an engaging new place to call home.

Scottsdale vs. Santa Ana Food Guide

Understanding local cuisine is key to appreciating the cultural vibe of a new city. Here, we compare the local cuisine between Scottsdale & Santa Ana to help you grasp the culinary landscape of your new home, ensuring a smoother transition into the local food scene.

Scottsdale
Santa Ana
Most iconic local food item
Southwestern cuisine
Mexican seafood (Mariscos)
Most popular meat dish
Carne Asada
Al Pastor
Most popular street food item
Tacos
Tacos
Most popular vegan food
Avocado Toast
Vegetable Tamales
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
    • Pizzeria Bianco
    • elements at Sanctuary Camelback Mountain
    • FnB
    • Playground
    • 4th Street Market
    • Taqueria Tapatia
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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🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

In transitioning from Scottsdale to Santa Ana, you'll find both cities share a love for tacos as a popular street food item, highlighting the deep-rooted influence of Mexican cuisine in both areas. However, Santa Ana leans heavily into its authentic Mexican seafood dishes, often referred to as Mariscos, best enjoyed in places like Santa Ana's Santéria Grill which is renowned for its vibrant seafood offerings. Whereas Scottsdale’s culinary scene is more about the Southwestern flavors with a contemporary twist, found in establishments like elements. The health and fitness conscientiousness in Scottsdale is slightly higher, evident from its variety of health-focused eateries, but Santa Ana holds its ground with plenty of vegan options and a bustling food truck scene that offers a broad spectrum of flavors satisfying both locals and visitors alike.

Scottsdale vs. Santa Ana Restaurant Comparison

Relocating signifies not just a change of address but adapting to a new culinary landscape. This restaurant comparison aims to ease the transition from Scottsdale to Santa Ana, guiding you towards finding new favorite eateries that reflect the gastronomic diversity and quality you've cherished back home. Let this serve as your culinary compass in the exciting exploration of your new city.

ScottsdaleSanta AnaWhat You'll Love
Citizen Public HouseTerrace by Mix MixEuropean influenced dishes
Virtù Honest CraftCraveHigh-quality, seasonal ingredients
Pomo PizzeriaIl Dolce PizzeriaAuthentic Neapolitan pizza
Fat OxVacaDiverse and upscale steakhouse menu
ZuZu at Hotel Valley HoAveo Table + BarClassic dishes with a twist
The MissionAnepalcoModern Mexican cuisine
Cowboy CiaoPlaygroundBold flavors and innovative dishes
FnBTaco MariaFarm-to-table Mexican-inspired dishes
Atlas BistroChapter One: the modern localDiverse American cuisine
Olive & IvyPuebloMediterranean plates with a SoCal twist

Equating the dining experiences between Scottsdale and Santa Ana shines a light on the unique gastro-cultural vibes each city has to offer. For aficionados of artisanal pizzas, Il Dolce Pizzeria in Santa Ana delivers an authentic Neapolitan experience akin to Pomo Pizzeria, celebrating traditional techniques and ingredients. For those savoring modern twists on classic dishes, the inventive Mexican cuisine at Anepalco offers a surprising parallel to Scottsdale's The Mission, where Latin flavor profiles are elevated into haute culinary art. These establishments represent just a snapshot of how your beloved flavors from Scottsdale can find resonances and new expressions in the rich food tapestry of Santa Ana, making the transition not just about finding a substitute, but exploring complementing culinary experiences.

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Ready to start your move?

Scottsdale vs. Santa Ana Real Estate & Living Facts

Real estate is one of the most important aspects of a move. It's important to know how the two cities compare in terms of housing. This comparison will help you understand the housing costs, styles, and lifestyle in Scottsdale, AZ and Santa Ana, CA, making your decision more informed.

Scottsdale
Santa Ana
Typical Architecture Style
Southwestern, Modern
Spanish Colonial, Mid-century Modern
Walkability
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Bikeability
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🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing
Outdoor pools, Golf course proximity
Cultural diversity, Proximity to beaches

When comparing Scottsdale, AZ to Santa Ana, CA, it's clear that both cities offer unique living experiences tailored to different preferences. Scottsdale often highlights outdoor pools and golf course proximity due to its luxurious, relaxed lifestyle and love for outdoor activities. On the other hand, Santa Ana prides itself on cultural diversity and proximity to beaches, catering to those who appreciate a rich, urban lifestyle with access to diverse cultural experiences and the relaxed vibe of coastal living. The architecture in Santa Ana leans towards Spanish Colonial and Mid-century Modern, reflecting California's historical roots and post-war boom, whereas Scottsdale's Southwestern and Modern architecture showcase the area's desert landscape and contemporary trends.

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Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Santa Ana, CA

1. Floral Park : You’ll love the tree-lined streets and ample green space, as well as the welcoming atmosphere for dog walkers and pet owners.

2. South Coast Metro : This neighborhood offers numerous parks and pet-friendly trails, making it easy for you and your furry friend to enjoy the outdoors together.

3. Riverview West : You'll find a community of pet enthusiasts here, with convenient access to pet amenities and a supportive environment for your four-legged companions.

Scottsdale vs. Santa Ana Weather Considerations

Moving from one city to another can be a major life change, especially when considering how the weather will affect your daily life. When relocating from Scottsdale, AZ to Santa Ana, CA, understanding the variations in weather is crucial for a seamless transition. This comparison aims to highlight the key differences you can expect.

Scottsdale
Santa Ana
Days of Sunshine per Year
☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. Annual Humidity
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Avg. UV Index
🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Natural Disasters
Heatwaves
Earthquakes
Air Quality
Moderate
Good
Summer icon

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

104°F / 81°F
83°F / 64°F
Winter icon

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

68°F / 44°F
70°F / 48°F


Rainfall icon

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

9.85"
13.33"
Snowfall icon

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

0"
0"


While both Scottsdale and Santa Ana enjoy an abundance of sunny days each year, you will find significant differences in humidity and temperature extremes. In Scottsdale, you've likely grown accustomed to very dry conditions, with summer highs reaching up into the 100s. Santa Ana, however, offers milder summers and slightly cooler winters with more humidity. This could mean a more comfortable outdoor experience in the summer but adjust your expectations for a different type of heat. Furthermore, Santa Ana's proximity to the coast introduces a risk of earthquakes, contrasting with Scottsdale's heatwaves. Both cities share a moderate to good air quality rating, which is comforting, but allergy sufferers should prepare for a change in prevalent allergens.

Ready to start your move?

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

Moving from Scottsdale, AZ to Santa Ana, CA necessitates a familiarity with financial contrasts. It’s vital to understand how cost of living, taxes, and incomes in Scottsdale differ from those in Santa Ana to ensure a smooth transition and financial planning.

Scottsdale
Santa Ana
Avg. Household Income
$99,097
$80,265
Cost of Living Index
101.2
136.4
State Income Tax
2.59 - 4.50
1.00 - 13.30
Avg. Property Tax
0.62
0.72
Avg. Sales Tax
8.05
7.75
Top 3 Industries
Technology, Healthcare, Finance
Manufacturing, Retail, Education
Affluence
Wealthy
Moderate
Poverty
Lower
Higher
Homelessness
Minimal
Notable

Comparing Scottsdale and Santa Ana reveals significant financial differences that will impact your living experience. While Scottsdale boasts a higher average household income and lower poverty rates, the cost of living is surprisingly higher in Santa Ana despite it having a moderate affluence level. State income tax varies widely between both locations, potentially affecting your take-home pay differently. Understandably, these contrasts underline the importance of planning your finances with the local economic landscape in mind to ensure stability in your new home.

Scottsdale vs. Santa Ana Political & Religious Comparison

This concise guide offers you a quick glance at the key differences in the political and religious landscapes between Scottsdale, AZ, and Santa Ana, CA. By understanding the makeup of these communities, you'll gain insights into how your lifestyle and beliefs might align within your new city. This is a comparison of the politics between Scottsdale & Santa Ana to help ease your transition.

Scottsdale
Santa Ana
Political Make-up
Leans Conservative
Leans Liberal
Local Politics
Moderately Republican
Strongly Democratic
Religion
Christianity dominant, with a mix of other faiths
Christianity dominant, significant Catholic presence

Relocating from Scottsdale to Santa Ana will introduce you to a more liberal and Democratic political environment, reflective of the broader political landscape of California. Local politics in Santa Ana heavily engage with socio-economic issues, immigration, and community development, showing a contrast to the more conservative governance in Scottsdale. Additionally, while Christianity is the predominant religion in both cities, Santa Ana has a larger Catholic community, influenced significantly by its Hispanic or Latino demographic. This shift underscores a more diverse religious scene which may offer you a different spiritual community and support network than what you're accustomed to in Scottsdale.

Scottsdale vs. Santa Ana Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving from one city to another brings many changes, including how you will commute daily. This concise guide aims to compare the traffic and transportation options between Scottsdale & Santa Ana, giving you a clearer understanding of what to expect in your daily travels in these areas.

Scottsdale
Santa Ana
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)
25
23
Traffic Congestion
6 out of 10
7 out of 10
Availability of Public Transit
4 out of 10
6 out of 10
Can you get by without car?
Challenging
Possible, but limited

When comparing Scottsdale and Santa Ana, you'll notice some key differences in commuting experiences. Scottsdale presents a moderately challenging scenario for those relying on public transit, with services less extensive than those found in Santa Ana. However, traffic congestion in Scottsdale is slightly lower, which might make for a slightly smoother daily drive if you have a car. Nevertheless, living in Santa Ana without a car is more feasible due to better public transit coverage, though it still comes with limitations. Consider your lifestyle preferences and necessities when deciding between these two cities.

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