Best Virginia Beach to Santa Ana Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Virginia Beach to Santa Ana and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,817 mile move from Virginia to California go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 27 Virginia Beach 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 Pure Moving), how much the move costs (approximately $3,000 - $10,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Virginia Beach 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 Virginia Beach to Santa Ana Moving Companies

Company
Score Question
Affordability IndexLicense
1Pure Moving9.649.49Authorized For HHG
2Terry Moving & Storage9.379.2Authorized For HHG
3Marathon Moving Services9.299.25Authorized For HHG
4Prime Movers USA9.099.39Authorized For Property, HHG
5A Friendly & Affordable Mover8.238.74Authorized For Property, HHG
Phone (800) 787-5428

How Much Does it Cost to Move from Virginia Beach to Santa Ana?

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,817 miles from Virginia Beach, VA to Santa Ana, CA will cost on average $4,177 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Virginia Beach to Santa Ana move is roughly $10,100. 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$2,800300 ft³$9.33
1 Bedroom$4,177450 ft³$9.28
2 Bedrooms$6,924750 ft³$9.23
3 Bedrooms$10,1001100 ft³$9.18
4 Bedrooms$14,6111600 ft³$9.13
5+ Bedrooms$16,3471800 ft³$9.08
*Please note: These Virginia to California moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from Virginia & 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 VA to CA mover.
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Santa Ana to Virginia Beach guide.

Compare the 5 Best Virginia Beach to Santa Ana 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
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
2
Marathon Moving Services Logo

Marathon Moving Services

Exceptional
claimed company icon
9.29/10
based on 970+ data points

MMS

Virginia Beach, VA, 23464

About Marathon Moving Services

Are you looking for an independently-owned moving company that provides affordable and reliable moving services in Virginia Beach? Marathon Moving Services...

Services

  • Residential Moves
  • Commercial Moves
  • Packing & Delivery

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3572153 / 1552140

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans3
Registered Drivers8
Total Annual Miles Moved20,000 (2023)
View Full Review
3
Prime Movers USA Logo

Prime Movers USA

Exceptional9.09/10
based on 576+ data points

531 Fountain Lake Dr

Virginia Beach, VA, 23451

About Prime Movers USA

Based in Virginia Beach, VA, Prime Movers offers premium moving services at unmatched prices. Founded in 2015, it takes pride in...

Services

  • Local moves (within 50 miles)
  • Long distance moves (over 50 miles)
  • Packing/unpacking services

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2995403 / 21183

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved9,060 (2023)
View Full Review
4
A Friendly & Affordable Mover Logo

A Friendly & Affordable Mover

Very Good
claimed company icon
8.23/10
based on 1,134+ data points

516 Central Dr Suite 104

Virginia Beach, VA, 23454

About A Friendly & Affordable Mover

A Friendly and Affordable Mover is a locally-owned moving company in Virginia Beach, VA. Founded in 1989, this company is one...

Services

  • Local and long-distance professional moving services
  • Free in-home estimates
  • Loading and unloading services for rental trucks, storage areas, and PODS

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3239170 / 1036449

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers4
Total Annual Miles Moved60,000 (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.

Virginia Beach vs. Santa Ana Neighborhood Comparison

When relocating from one city to another, it can be challenging to find a neighborhood that feels like home. To ease this transition, let's compare local neighborhoods between Virginia Beach, VA & Santa Ana, CA . By looking at their similarities, we can help you find a new neighborhood in Santa Ana that mirrors the community you're leaving behind in Virginia Beach.

Virginia BeachSanta AnaHow They're Similar
AlantonFloral ParkHistoric homes, community feel
Bay ColonyWest Floral ParkPrestigious, tree-lined streets
Great NeckPark SantiagoFamily-friendly, near parks
Green RunArtesia PilarDiverse, active community
HilltopFrench ParkUrban vibe, walkable
Kings GrantMorrison ParkQuiet, spacious lots
Ocean ParkRiverviewWaterfront views, relaxed lifestyle
Red Mill FarmFisher ParkFamily-oriented, recreational spots
ThaliaHeninger ParkCulturally rich, historic
Windsor WoodsWashington SquareClose-knit, charming

Neighborhoods like Park Santiago in Santa Ana offer a family-friendly atmosphere similar to Great Neck in Virginia Beach, with easy access to beautiful parks such as Santiago Park. If you're drawn to the historic charm and community feel of Alanton, you'll find a similar vibe in Floral Park, which is known for its historic homes and bustling community events. For those who appreciate the waterfront views and relaxed lifestyle of Ocean Park, Riverview in Santa Ana presents an appealing counterpart with its scenic views and laid-back lifestyle. These comparisons aim to make your transition smoother by highlighting neighborhoods that don't just resemble your old home in terms of aesthetics but also in community spirit and lifestyle.

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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 Virginia Beach to Santa Ana

Moving from Virginia Beach, VA to Santa Ana, CA represents a significant change, combining the challenges of relocation with the excitement of new opportunities. This comparison is designed to offer an honest reflection of both the good and bad attributes of this relocation, helping you weigh the pros against the cons in a clear and structured manner.

CONs
PROs
Virginia Beach, VA iconVirginia Beach, VA
  • Higher humidity
  • Less cultural diversity
  • Smaller job market
  • Fewer entertainment options
Santa Ana, CA iconSanta Ana, CA
  • Milder climate
  • Rich cultural diversity
  • Larger job market
  • More entertainment options
Santa Ana, CA iconSanta Ana, CA
  • No beachfronts
  • Higher cost of living
  • Faster-paced lifestyle
  • Less outdoor variety
Virginia Beach, VA iconVirginia Beach, VA
  • Beachfront living
  • Lower cost of living
  • Laid-back lifestyle
  • Abundant outdoor activities

When moving from Virginia Beach to Santa Ana, you're trading the laid-back beach lifestyle for an urban setting teeming with cultural diversity and opportunities. Santa Ana welcomes new residents with its warm climate and a bustling job market, notably in technology and hospitality sectors. The city is home to unique attractions like the Bowers Museum (Bowers Museum) and vibrant local spots such as 4th Street Market (4th Street Market), offering an eclectic mix of cuisine and retail experiences. Despite the higher cost of living, many find the trade-off worthwhile for the rich cultural tapestry and enhanced professional prospects. Conversely, Virginia Beach's appeal lies in its serene beachfronts, lower living costs, and an outdoor lifestyle that's hard to give up, but the move to Santa Ana promises an exciting new chapter with different rewards.

Virginia Beach vs. Santa Ana Food Guide

This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Virginia Beach & Santa Ana to help you understand the culinary environment you're moving into. Food plays a crucial role in experiencing local culture and knowing what culinary delights await can enhance your relocation journey.

Virginia Beach
Santa Ana
Most iconic local food item
Seafood Boil
Tacos
Most popular meat dish
Pulled Pork BBQ
Carne Asada
Most popular street food item
Midnight Tacos
Elote
Most popular vegan food
Seitan Sandwiches
Vegan Tacos
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Restaurant A
  • Restaurant B
  • Restaurant C
  • Restaurant X
  • Restaurant Y
  • Restaurant Z
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness
💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks
🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene
🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly
🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱
🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

When you move to Santa Ana, you'll find yourself immersed in a vibrant culinary scene renowned for its variety and authenticity, especially when it comes to Mexican cuisine. The city's tacos, particularly those from street vendors in neighborhoods like Downtown and the 4th Street Market area, are not to be missed. Vegan options are plentiful, with vegan tacos standing out as a popular choice among locals and newcomers alike. Iconic restaurants such as Restaurant X, Y, and Z offer a taste of the local food scene that reflects Santa Ana's diverse and dynamic culture. Whether you're craving traditional dishes or innovative vegan alternatives, Santa Ana's culinary landscape is ready to welcome you with open arms.

Virginia Beach vs. Santa Ana Restaurant Comparison

Understanding that food plays a vital role in making a place feel like home, this restaurant comparison between Virginia Beach and Santa Ana will guide you in finding a new favorite dining spot. Whether you're craving upscale dining or a casual bite, these suggestions aim to ease your transition by connecting you with familiar tastes and experiences in your new city.

Virginia BeachSanta AnaWhat You'll Love
Tautog's RestaurantPlaygroundOffers a similar cozy and innovative dining experience.
Waterman's Surfside GrilleBaja Fish TacosKnown for fresh seafood with a laid-back vibe.
Citrus Breakfast and LunchBreakfast RepublicBoth are beloved for their creative takes on breakfast classics.
Catch 31BluegoldBeachfront dining with a focus on seafood and local ingredients.
Doc Taylor'sBlackmarket BakeryOffers a homey feel with great breakfast and comfort food.
Le Yaca French RestaurantMix Mix Kitchen BarInnovative cuisine with a French and global influence.
Ipanema GrillGreen Parrot VillaBoth provide a unique international dining experience.
Blue Seafood & SpiritsAnchor SouthSavor maritime favorites in a casual, refined setting.
Steinhilber's RestaurantChapter One: the modern localBoth are known for their upscale comfort food with a twist.
Pocahontas Pancake HousePlums Café and CateringOffers a west coast interpretation of breakfast and brunch favorites.

For adventurous foodies, the transition from Tautog's Restaurant in Virginia Beach to Playground in Santa Ana promises an exciting culinary journey. Both establishments share a commitment to innovative dining experiences, with Playground offering an eclectic menu that caters to varied palates, much like Tautog's. Seafood lovers relocating to Santa Ana will find comfort in the offerings of Baja Fish Tacos, reminiscent of the fresh, coastal flavors at Waterman's Surfside Grille. And for those leisurely weekend brunches, the shift from Citrus Breakfast and Lunch to Breakfast Republic will be seamless, where you can continue to indulge in creative and hearty breakfast dishes that start your day on a delicious note.

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Ready to start your move?

Virginia Beach vs. Santa Ana Real Estate & Living Facts

Real estate plays a crucial role in your move, making it essential to understand how Virginia Beach, VA, and Santa Ana, CA, housing options compare. This comparison will illuminate the differences in cost, architecture, and lifestyle to help you make an informed decision.

Virginia Beach
Santa Ana
Typical Architecture Style
Colonial, Beachfront cottages
Spanish Colonial, Modern
Walkability
👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing
Ocean Views, Open Floor Plans
Proximity to Downtown, Updated Kitchens

When considering a move from Virginia Beach to Santa Ana, you'll find significant differences in the housing scene. Santa Ana, with a median home price notably higher than Virginia Beach, reflects California's overall higher cost of living. However, Santa Ana compensates with its urban lifestyle score indicating a vibrant city life with more walkability and bikeability compared to the more suburban feel of Virginia Beach. The architecture in Santa Ana leans towards Spanish Colonial and modern styles, offering a stark contrast to Virginia Beach's colonial and beachfront cottages. If a more urban, walkable environment is appealing to you, Santa Ana might be the right choice despite the higher cost of living. Additionally, the uptick in urban lifestyle score highlights Santa Ana's array of downtown attractions and amenities, potentially making it a more engaging environment for those who prefer city life.

Pet-friendly neighborhoods background image

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.

Virginia Beach vs. Santa Ana Weather Considerations

Moving from Virginia Beach, VA to Santa Ana, CA presents an exciting opportunity for new experiences, including a significant change in weather. Understanding how the climate varies between these two locations is crucial for a smooth transition. This comparison will help you grasp what to expect and how to prepare for your new environment.

Virginia Beach
Santa Ana
Days of Sunshine per Year
☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. Annual Humidity
💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦
💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦
Avg. UV Index
🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Natural Disasters
Hurricanes, Floods
Earthquakes, Wildfires
Air Quality
Moderate
Good
Summer icon

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

87°F / 70°F
83°F / 64°F
Winter icon

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

50°F / 32°F
70°F / 47°F


Rainfall icon

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

47
13
Snowfall icon

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

6
0


When comparing the weather characteristics from Virginia Beach to Santa Ana, several key aspects stand out. Firstly, Santa Ana enjoys more days of sunshine per year and milder winters, making it an attractive location for those who prefer warmer weather year-round. The lower annual rainfall and absence of snow in Santa Ana is in stark contrast to Virginia Beach's climate, which sees more precipitation in both rain and snow. Additionally, the shift from concerns over hurricanes and floods to earthquakes and wildfires marks a significant change in natural disaster preparedness. Understanding these differences can significantly impact your lifestyle choices, from the selection of housing to daily activities and planning for emergency situations.

Ready to start your move?

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

When you're relocating, it's crucial to get acquainted with the financial landscape of your new home compared to what you're accustomed to. This comparison aims to illuminate the differences and similarities in money and finance when moving from Virginia Beach, VA, to Santa Ana, CA, offering a clearer understanding of your potential financial environment.

Virginia Beach
Santa Ana
Avg. Household Income
$81,634
$80,265
Cost of Living Index
96.6
136.4
State Income Tax
5.75
13.3
Avg. Property Tax
0.80
0.72
Avg. Sales Tax
6.0
7.75
Top 3 Industries
Defense, Tourism, Healthcare
Manufacturing, Retail, Healthcare
Affluence
Moderate
Modest
Poverty
Low
Higher
Homelessness
Moderate
Significant

Between Virginia Beach and Santa Ana, you'll find notable differences in the financial landscape. The average household income is slightly higher in Virginia Beach, providing a somewhat stronger financial base for residents. However, the cost of living in Santa Ana is noticeably higher, driven by California's inflated housing market and sales tax rate. This disparity may be mitigated by the city's vibrant manufacturing and retail sectors, which offer ample employment opportunities. Moreover, while Virginia Beach boasts a lower state income tax rate, Santa Ana's rich cultural tapestry and significant healthcare industry provide a different set of opportunities and challenges. It's vital to weigh these economic factors alongside personal and career considerations when making your move.

Virginia Beach vs. Santa Ana Political & Religious Comparison

Moving from one city to another can be an opportunity for fresh experiences and new communities. To help you get acquainted with your potential future home in Santa Ana, CA, it's crucial to understand the landscape you're leaving behind in Virginia Beach, VA. Specifically, this comparison will provide a quick glance at the political and religious makeup of the residents between Virginia Beach & Santa Ana , offering insight into what might feel familiar or different in your new locale.

Virginia Beach
Santa Ana
Political Make-up
Moderately conservative
Liberal
Local Politics
Republican-leaning city council
Democrat-majority city council
Religion
Christian, with a significant presence of Evangelical Protestants
Primarily Catholic, reflecting its rich Hispanic heritage

When considering your move from Virginia Beach to Santa Ana, it's interesting to note the contrasting political climates. Virginia Beach, with its Republican-leaning tendencies, contrasts sharply with Santa Ana's Democrat-dominant political scene. This shift reflects broader cultural and demographic differences between the two cities. On the spiritual front, Virginia Beach's evangelical Protestant community might differ from what you'll find in Santa Ana, where the Catholic faith plays a central role, deeply intertwined with the city's Hispanic culture. Understanding these differences can help you adjust and connect with your new community more effectively.

Virginia Beach vs. Santa Ana Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

This comparison aims to provide insight into the traffic and transportation options between Virginia Beach & Santa Ana, helping you better understand what to expect regarding your daily commute and traffic experiences in both cities.

Virginia Beach
Santa Ana
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)
24
26
Traffic Congestion
6 out of 10
8 out of 10
Availability of Public Transit
3 out of 10
6 out of 10
Can you get by without a car?
No
Yes, with some effort

While both Virginia Beach and Santa Ana offer unique living experiences, differences in traffic congestion and public transit availability significantly impact daily life. Virginia Beach, with its slightly shorter average commute time, still rates lower in public transportation options, making it challenging to depend on them for your commute. On the other hand, Santa Ana, despite its higher congestion level, has a more developed public transit system, giving you a better shot at navigating the city without a car. Nonetheless, even in Santa Ana, being without a vehicle requires some planning and effort to make use of the available public transit options efficiently.

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