Best Tacoma to Santa Ana Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Tacoma to Santa Ana and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 1,134 mile move from Washington to California go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 29 Tacoma 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 $2,000 - $6,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Tacoma 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 Tacoma to Santa Ana Moving Companies

Company
Score Question
Affordability IndexLicense
1Pure Moving9.649.49Authorized For HHG
2Terry Moving & Storage9.379.2Authorized For HHG
3John Volken Academy Movers9.349.65Authorized For HHG
4First Due Movers9.269.06Authorized For Property, HHG
5People Movers9.179.54Authorized For Property
Phone (800) 787-5428

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

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 1,134 miles from Tacoma, WA to Santa Ana, CA will cost on average $2,746 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Tacoma to Santa Ana move is roughly $6,601. 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$1,845300 ft³$6.15
1 Bedroom$2,746450 ft³$6.10
2 Bedrooms$4,538750 ft³$6.05
3 Bedrooms$6,6011100 ft³$6.00
4 Bedrooms$9,5221600 ft³$5.95
5+ Bedrooms$10,6221800 ft³$5.90
*Please note: These Washington to California moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from Washington & 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 WA to CA mover.
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Santa Ana to Tacoma guide.

Compare the 5 Best Tacoma 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
John Volken Academy Movers Logo

John Volken Academy Movers

Exceptional9.34/10
based on 1,485+ data points

921 Central Ave N

Kent, WA, 98032

About John Volken Academy Movers

John Volken Academy Movers is a not-for-profit moving company that helps people move across Western and Eastern Washington. This local business...

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Commercial Moving
  • Residential Moving

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2261169 / 1666977

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans6
Registered Drivers8
Total Annual Miles Moved200 (2015)
View Full Review
3
First Due Movers Logo

First Due Movers

Exceptional9.26/10
based on 1,462+ data points

8126 304th Ave SE

Preston, WA, 98050

About First Due Movers

First Due Movers is based in Preston, Washington, but offers nationwide moving services. The company is actually owned by local Washington...

Services

  • Residential Moves
  • Commercial Moves
  • Long-Distance Moves

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1990914 / 865709

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans12
Registered Drivers20
Total Annual Miles Moved205,000 (2022)
View Full Review
4
People Movers Logo

People Movers

Exceptional9.17/10
based on 3,248+ data points

11808 NE 160th St

Bothell, WA, 98011

About People Movers

People Movers is a fully licensed moving company in Bothell, WA. It has relocated hundreds of happy customers in Greater Seattle...

Services

  • Local moving
  • Long-distance moving
  • Cross-country moving

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2895681 / 1597195

Authorized For Property

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved25,000 (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.

Tacoma vs. Santa Ana Neighborhood Comparison

Moving from one city to another can be a daunting task, especially when it comes to finding a new neighborhood that feels like home. To assist in this transition, we've created a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Tacoma, WA & Santa Ana, CA. This guide is designed to help you familiarize yourself with your new environment by using your current city as a baseline, making the unknown a bit more known.

TacomaSanta AnaHow They're Similar
North EndFloral ParkHistoric homes, community-oriented
Proctor DistrictWest Floral ParkActive community, charming local businesses
Stadium DistrictHistoric French ParkArchitecture, historic charm
HilltopArtesia PilarDiverse, vibrant community spirit
Old TownHeninger ParkSense of history, cultural engagement
CentralWashington SquareFamily-friendly, well-established
South TacomaWilshire SquareAffordable, tight-knit community
New TacomaDowntown Santa AnaUrban living, cultural hotspots
EastsideMadison ParkCommunity parks, family-oriented
Pacific AvenueBristol MemoryEmerging culinary scene, convenience

Tacoma's North End, with its array of historic homes and tight-knit community, finds a kindred spirit in Santa Ana's Floral Park, where tree-lined streets and classic architecture foster a warm, welcoming atmosphere. For those drawn to the vibrant urban life of Tacoma's New Tacoma neighborhood, Downtown Santa Ana awaits with its dynamic cultural venues, such as the Grand Central Art Center, and the bustling 4th Street Market, a culinary hub that has become a central gathering spot for foodies. The serene and family-friendly environment of Eastside Tacoma is mirrored in Santa Ana's Madison Park, where spacious parks like Madison Park offer a tranquil retreat for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike. This guide aims to ease your transition by highlighting comparable neighborhoods, making your move from Tacoma to Santa Ana as seamless as possible.

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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 Tacoma to Santa Ana

Moving from one city to another presents a mix of emotions and logistical considerations. This comparison between Tacoma, WA, and Santa Ana, CA, aims to highlight the advantages and challenges associated with this relocation . By examining both the pros and cons, you'll gain a clearer understanding of what awaits you in your new city, allowing for a more informed decision-making process.

CONs
PROs
Tacoma, WA iconTacoma, WA
  • Higher rainfall
  • Cooler summers
  • Less cultural diversity
  • Smaller city vibe
Santa Ana, CA iconSanta Ana, CA
  • Sunnier days
  • Warmer winters
  • More cultural diversity
  • Larger urban area
Santa Ana, CA iconSanta Ana, CA
  • Urban density
  • Faster pace
  • Higher living costs
  • Further from nature
Tacoma, WA iconTacoma, WA
  • Natural beauty
  • Quieter lifestyle
  • More affordable housing
  • Proximity to mountains

Moving from the lush, green landscapes of Tacoma to the vibrant streets of Santa Ana brings a significant change in scenery and lifestyle. In Santa Ana, you'll find an abundance of cultural diversity, showcased in areas such as the Bowers Museum and the bustling 4th Street Market, a food-focused marketplace. While Tacoma offers a quieter setting with natural beauty at every turn, such as the serene Point Defiance Park, Santa Ana pulses with life, providing endless dining options, such as those in the historic Downtown Santa Ana, which is a vibrant arts and culture hub. This move offers an exciting opportunity to explore a richer urban experience amidst a warmer climate, though it may come with higher living costs and a faster-paced lifestyle.

Tacoma vs. Santa Ana Food Guide

This comparison of the local cuisine between Tacoma, WA and Santa Ana, CA offers insight into the food scene you'll encounter in your new city. Food is a vital part of understanding the local culture and living experience. Let's dive into the culinary contrasts to better inform you about where you're moving.

Tacoma
Santa Ana
Most iconic local food item
Dungeness Crab
Chilaquiles
Most popular meat dish
Pacific Northwest Salmon
Carnitas
Most popular street food item
Fish Tacos
Tacos al Pastor
Most popular vegan food
Tempeh Bowl
Vegetarian Pho
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • The Table
  • Pacific Grill
  • Indochine Asian Dining Lounge
  • Tacos Tu Madre
  • Playground
  • 4th Street Market
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness
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Abundance of Food Trucks
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🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene
🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly
🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱
🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

When moving from Tacoma, WA to Santa Ana, CA, you'll transition from the seafood-centric dishes of the Pacific Northwest to the vibrant and diverse flavors of Southern California. Santa Ana, known for its bustling food scene, boasts iconic dishes like Chilaquiles and Carnitas, found in local gems such as Tacos Tu Madre and the culinary hub 4th Street Market. The city's high score for abundance of food trucks and a thriving foodie scene reflect its diverse and inclusive culinary landscape, catering to both meat-lovers and vegans alike. Santa Ana's neighborhoods, particularly Downtown, are vibrant showcases of its gastronomic diversity, offering something delicious for every palate.

Tacoma vs. Santa Ana Restaurant Comparison

Food plays a pivotal role in making a new city feel like home. This comparison aims to ease your move from Tacoma, WA, to Santa Ana, CA, by helping you find local eateries that echo your familiar favorites. By drawing parallels between top restaurants in Tacoma to their counterparts in Santa Ana , you'll discover your next go-to dining spots, ensuring a smoother transition to your new surroundings.

TacomaSanta AnaWhat You'll Love
Indochine Asian Dining LoungeBamboo BistroAuthentic Asian flavors with a contemporary flair
The TableAnepalcoModern takes on classic dishes with a Mexican twist
Over the Moon CaféCraveQuaint, cozy atmosphere serving comfort food favorites
Harbor LightsWater Grill Santa AnaFresh seafood offerings overlooking scenic views
Metro CoffeePortola Coffee RoastersInnovative coffee bar with unique brews
Pacific GrillTaqueria GuadalajaraA blend of traditional and innovative Mexican cuisine
Doyle's Public HouseThe Olde ShipBritish pub atmosphere with a wide selection of beers
MSM DeliSandwich SocietySandwiches with fresh, high-quality ingredients and creative flavors
Marzano Italian RestaurantAntonello RistoranteClassic Italian dishes with a touch of elegance
Cook's TavernHaven Craft Kitchen+BarSeasonally inspired dishes with an innovative twist

While Tacoma and Santa Ana boast unique culinary landscapes, there are establishments in Santa Ana that evoke the essence of Tacoma's beloved dining spots. Restaurants like Anepalco mirror the innovation and creativity found at Tacoma's The Table, with their own Mexican-inspired twist on classic dishes. Then there's the comparison between Bamboo Bistro and Indochine Asian Dining Lounge, where both restaurants celebrate Asian flavors while adding their own contemporary interpretations. If cozy and comforting is what you seek, similar to Over the Moon Café in Tacoma, Crave in Santa Ana offers a quaint atmosphere paired with comfort food favorites that are sure to hit the spot. Each pair reflects a commitment to quality, innovation, and the creation of a welcoming space for diners, ensuring that your new culinary experiences in Santa Ana will remind you of home.

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Ready to start your move?

Tacoma vs. Santa Ana Real Estate & Living Facts

Real estate is one of the most important aspects of a move. Knowing how the housing markets in Tacoma, WA, and Santa Ana, CA compare can help you make an informed decision. This comparison looks into cost, architecture, lifestyle, and more.

Tacoma
Santa Ana
Typical Architecture Style
Craftsman
Spanish Colonial
Walkability
👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing
Views of Mt. Rainier
Proximity to beaches

When choosing between Tacoma and Santa Ana, it’s clear that each city offers its unique living conditions. While Tacoma boasts its affordable Craftsman homes with breathtaking views of Mt. Rainier, Santa Ana attracts with its pricier Spanish Colonial architecture and proximity to iconic Southern California beaches. A higher urban lifestyle score in Santa Ana hints at a slightly more vibrant, walkable, and bike-friendly environment compared to Tacoma, reflecting its dense, lively neighborhoods. Consider your lifestyle preferences, budget, and the type of community you want to be a part of as you weigh your options.

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.

Tacoma vs. Santa Ana Weather Considerations

When moving from one location to another, understanding how the weather compares is crucial. This guide aims to illustrate the differences between the weather in Tacoma, WA, and Santa Ana, CA. Knowing what to expect can help you prepare for your new climate.

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

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

75°F / 53°F
83°F / 64°F
Winter icon

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

47°F / 37°F
70°F / 48°F


Rainfall icon

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

37.49
13.33
Snowfall icon

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

4.6
0


Moving from Tacoma to Santa Ana introduces you to a significantly warmer and drier climate with more sunny days per year. This change means adapting to higher temperatures, especially in summer, and much less rainfall. The humidity in Santa Ana is typically lower than Tacoma, contributing to a more comfortable feel despite the hotter temperatures. Air quality and natural disaster risks do shift, with wildfires becoming a more relevant concern in Santa Ana as opposed to the volcanic activity around Tacoma. Awareness and preparedness for these differences will ease your transition.

Ready to start your move?

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

Moving from one city to another significantly impacts your finances. This comparison is aimed at giving you a clearer picture of what to expect in terms of money when transitioning from Tacoma, WA to Santa Ana, CA. It helps to understand how the cost of living, taxes, and income levels might differ.

Tacoma
Santa Ana
Avg. Household Income
$77,141
$80,265
Cost of Living Index
109.5
136.4
State Income Tax
0
13.3 (max rate)
Avg. Property Tax
1.1
0.72
Avg. Sales Tax
10.2
7.75
Top 3 Industries
Healthcare, Retail, Manufacturing
Manufacturing, Retail, Education
Affluence
Moderate
Moderately High
Poverty
Moderate
High
Homelessness
Significant
Significant

The table above provides a financial comparison of Tacoma and Santa Ana, highlighting vital differences. Notably, although the average household income is slightly higher in Santa Ana, the cost of living index significantly outweighs the income increase. This is partly due to California's higher state income tax rates, despite a lower average property tax compared to Tacoma. Moreover, both cities battle significant homelessness rates, underscoring the complexity of their economic landscapes. Understanding these differences gives you a starting point for financial planning and readiness for the move.

Tacoma vs. Santa Ana Political & Religious Comparison

Moving from Tacoma, WA to Santa Ana, CA brings not only a change in scenery but also introduces you to a new community dynamic. This quick overview is designed to offer a snapshot of the political and religious makeup comparing Tacoma & Santa Ana , providing insights into what you can expect in terms of local political leanings and religious communities.

Tacoma
Santa Ana
Political Make-up
Lean Democratic
Strongly Democratic
Local Politics
Progressive on social issues
Focus on immigrant rights and inclusion
Religion
Diverse; presence of Lutheran colleges
Predominantly Catholic

Tacoma and Santa Ana differ significantly in their political and religious landscapes. While both cities lean Democratic, Santa Ana has a stronger alignment with Democratic principles, particularly when it comes to issues of immigrant rights and inclusion. This focus in Santa Ana's local politics reflects its diverse population and the community's drive towards creating an inclusively welcoming environment. On the religious front, Tacoma offers a diverse mix, influenced by Lutheran educational institutions, such as Pacific Lutheran University, contributing to a varied religious presence. In contrast, Santa Ana's religious makeup is predominantly Catholic, a reflection of its historically large Hispanic community and the influence of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Orange. These differences highlight the unique cultural and political atmospheres you'll encounter as you transition from Tacoma to Santa Ana.

Tacoma vs. Santa Ana Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Understanding the differences in traffic and transportation options between Tacoma & Santa Ana is essential for anyone planning to make the move. This comparison aims to provide insights into what you can expect from your daily commute in terms of time, congestion, public transit availability, and the feasibility of living without a personal vehicle in these cities.

Tacoma
Santa Ana
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)
29
25
Traffic Congestion
6 out of 10
7 out of 10
Availability of Public Transit
5 out of 10
6 out of 10
Can you get by without car?
Possible but challenging
More feasible, especially near the city center

In both Tacoma and Santa Ana, you'll find that commuting plays a significant role in daily life, but there are distinct differences. Tacoma presents a slightly longer average commute time and a moderate level of traffic congestion. While public transit exists, its coverage and convenience may not meet everyone's needs, making living without a car more of a challenge. Conversely, Santa Ana, with its marginally better public transit score and lesser average commute time, offers a bit more flexibility for those looking to rely less on personal vehicles. This difference is largely attributed to Santa Ana's more extensive public transit system and efforts to create a more walkable city center.

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