santa ana to co

---
title: "Moving from Santa Ana to Colorado: Costs, Top Movers & What to Expect"
description: "Moving from Santa Ana to Colorado? Real cost estimates ($1,122–$7,407), top mover rankings, and side-by-side cost-of-living data for this 1,014-mile move."
author: Sean Sullivan
keywords: ["moving from Santa Ana to Colorado", "Santa Ana to Colorado movers", "Santa Ana moving companies", "moving cost Santa Ana to Colorado", "long distance movers Santa Ana", "California to Colorado moving", "Santa Ana movers"]
---

If you're moving from Santa Ana to [Colorado](/movers/colorado), you're leaving one of [California's](/movers/california) priciest real estate markets for a state where your dollar goes further and the mountains are right there. That's a genuinely good trade for a lot of people. But a 1,014-mile cross-country haul still requires a reliable mover, a realistic budget, and some prep on what's actually different about life on the other end.

I've reviewed 93 Santa Ana movers capable of handling state-to-state moves. Below are the five I'd point you toward for this route, along with real cost data and what you need to know before you sign anything.

## Top Santa Ana moving companies for your move to Colorado

Out of all the movers I evaluated, here are the top five for this specific long-distance route:

1. Meathead Movers — 4.72 / 5
2. Best California Movers — 4.66 / 5
3. NorthStar Moving Company — 4.62 / 5
4. Maison Moving — 4.50 / 5
5. Best Moving Service — 4.50 / 5

## Meathead Movers

**2430 South Grand Avenue, Santa Ana, CA 92705**

- [Yelp reviews](https://www.yelp.com/biz/meathead-movers-santa-ana-3?osq=meathead+movers): 4.7 / 5 (401 reviews)
- [Google reviews](https://www.google.com/search?q=anaheim+meathead+movers&oq=anaheim+meathead+movers&aqs=chrome..69i57j69i60.7321j0j4&sourceid=chrome&ie=UTF-8#lrd=0x80dcd94b1b448f3b:0x80800199e1901f0d,1,,,): 4.7 / 5 (11 reviews)
- [BBB: Grade A+](https://www.bbb.org/us/ca/santa-ana/profile/moving-companies/meathead-movers-1126-1000068324)
- 77% positive | 20% negative

Meathead Movers earns its top ranking through consistency: out of 596 customer feedback entries, 76.7% were positive — well above what I see from most carriers on this route. The praise centers on professional, polite crews who move efficiently and communicate clearly throughout the job. The negatives that do show up involve furniture damage, surprise charges, and occasional late arrivals. Worth discussing upfront, but not deal-breakers given the overall track record.

**State license:** 189849 | **DOT:** 921143 | **In business:** 27 years

**Services:** Local and interstate moves, packing, unpacking, offices, storage. Cash and credit card accepted.

---

## Best California Movers

**15 Hubble, Irvine, CA 92591**

- [Yelp reviews](https://www.yelp.com/biz/best-california-movers-and-storage-los-angeles-2): 4.6 / 5 (186 reviews)
- [Google reviews](https://www.google.com/search?q=Best+California+Movers&sca_esv=dcee15e95790235e): 4.6 / 5 (846 reviews)
- [BBB: Grade A+](https://www.bbb.org/us/ca/north-hollywood/profile/moving-companies/best-california-movers-1216-1418575)
- 99% positive | 1% negative

With 1,177 reviews and 98%+ positive feedback, Best California Movers is hard to argue with. Customers point to quick, careful moves, crews that show up on time, and pricing that matches the estimate — that last part matters a lot on a long interstate move. The 1% negative feedback involves item damage and slow claims handling, which is industry-standard risk, but worth noting if you're shipping anything fragile or valuable.

**State license:** T0192283 | **DOT:** 3489907 | **In business:** 6 years | **Rate:** ~$109/hr

**Services:** Local and interstate moves, packing, unpacking, offices, crating, storage. Credit card accepted. Deposit required.

---

## NorthStar Moving Company

**300 Spectrum Center Dr Ste 400, Irvine, CA 92618**

- [Yelp reviews](https://www.yelp.com/biz/northstar-moving-company-irvine-2): 4.6 / 5 (58 reviews)
- [Google reviews](https://www.google.com/search?q=northstar+moving+irvine+ca): 4.6 / 5 (320 reviews)
- [BBB: Grade A+](https://www.bbb.org/us/ca/northridge/profile/moving-companies/northstar-moving-company-1216-13019167)
- 94% positive | 4% negative

Thirty years in business, and NorthStar's reputation reflects it. Out of 68 detailed customer responses, 94% were positive — crews get praised for being organized, efficient, and willing to handle unplanned complications without drama. Transparent pricing and reliable scheduling come up repeatedly. The 4% of negatives mostly involve difficulty reaching reps and occasional timing issues — minor compared to what I see at similar companies. NorthStar is particularly solid for last-minute relocations and long-distance hauls.

**State license:** 0182466 | **DOT:** 1836576 | **In business:** 30 years

**Services:** Local, interstate, and international moves, packing, unpacking, offices, pianos, art, antiques, crating, full-valuation coverage, storage. Cash and credit card accepted.

---

## Maison Moving

**1371 Santa Fe Dr., Tustin, CA 92780**

- [Yelp reviews](https://www.yelp.com/biz/maison-moving-tustin): 4.5 / 5 (506 reviews)
- [Google reviews](https://www.google.com/search?q=maison+moving+%26+storage+tustin+ca): 4.5 / 5 (856 reviews)
- [BBB: Grade NR](https://www.bbb.org/us/ca/tustin/profile/moving-and-storage-companies/maison-moving-1126-100037842)
- 84% positive | 14% negative

Maison Moving earns consistently strong marks for efficiency and communication — 84% positive out of 293 reviews, with customers repeatedly noting timely arrivals and careful handling. The 14% negative feedback is higher than I'd like, though. Complaints center on damaged or missing items and a sluggish claims process. If you go with Maison, document everything before loading and clarify the claims procedure in writing before you sign.

**State license:** 0190726 | **DOT:** 76628 | **In business:** 17 years

*Also operates as: Orange County Movers Inc, College Boys Moving and Storage of Orange County, Affordable Moving and Storage of Orange County*

**Services:** Local, interstate, and international moves, packing, unpacking, offices, pianos, art, antiques, crating, storage. Credit card accepted.

---

## Best Moving Service

**1921 Wright Circle, Anaheim, CA 92806**

- [Yelp reviews](https://www.yelp.com/biz/best-moving-service-anaheim-3): 4.5 / 5 (363 reviews)
- [Google reviews](https://www.google.com/search?q=best+moving+service+anaheim+ca): 4.5 / 5 (10 reviews)
- [BBB: Grade A+](https://www.bbb.org/us/ca/anaheim/profile/moving-and-storage-companies/best-moving-service-1126-13196202)
- 90% positive | 8% negative

Best Moving Service has 32 years on this and shows it. Across 389 customer experiences, 90% are positive — speed, careful handling, and friendly crews are the consistent themes. Customers regularly recommend specific team members by name, which tells you more than a star rating. The negatives include some damage reports and professionalism lapses from select staff, plus occasional late arrivals. If you have high-value or fragile items, set expectations clearly before they show up.

**State license:** 176151 | **DOT:** 1706316 | **In business:** 32 years

*Also operates as: US Household Movers Inc, American Pride Moving, Best Moving & Storage*

**Services:** Local, interstate, and international moves, packing, unpacking, offices, storage. Credit card accepted.

---

## Local moving services in Santa Ana, CA

Here's a snapshot of specialty service availability across the Santa Ana mover pool:

| Service | Movers offering | % of total |
|---|---|---|
| Interstate moves | 87 | 93.55% |
| Small moves | 44 | 47.31% |
| Antiques | 60 | 64.52% |
| Art | 58 | 62.37% |
| Pianos | 73 | 78.49% |
| Fragile-only packing | 27 | 29.03% |

## Cost to move from Santa Ana, CA to Colorado

These are the typical cost ranges for a 1,014-mile move from Santa Ana to Colorado, broken down by home size and moving method. Use the [moving cost calculator](/calculator) to plug in your specific load and get a sharper number.

| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,122 – $4,476 | $819 – $1,880 | $649 – $1,161 |
| 2–3 bedrooms | $2,475 – $5,941 | $1,483 – $2,725 | $647 – $1,436 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $4,056 – $7,407 | $2,020 – $3,622 | $812 – $1,730 |

*Estimates based on pricing data compiled as of January 2026. Your total will vary with load size, extra services, parking or access conditions, fuel prices, and move date. Get multiple quotes before committing.*

### Cost to hire movers from Santa Ana to Colorado

A studio or one-bedroom move runs **$1,122 to $4,476** with a full-service mover. Two- or three-bedroom homes typically land between **$2,475 and $5,941**. For a large household — four bedrooms or more — budget **$4,056 to $7,407**.

Those ranges look wide because [long-distance movers](/best/long-distance-movers) price on weight, distance, and add-ons, and the variables compound quickly on a cross-country job. I'd get at least three quotes and compare the weight estimates carefully, not just the headline price. [Safe Ship Moving](/company/safe-ship-moving) is one carrier worth including in your quote mix — they handle interstate runs like this one and have a solid track record.

### Cost of moving containers from Santa Ana to Colorado

[Moving containers](/best/moving-containers) let you pack on your own schedule while the carrier handles the driving — a solid middle ground for most people. A small move (studio or one-bedroom) runs **$819 to $1,880**. Two or three bedrooms land between **$1,483 and $2,725**. Four or more bedrooms will cost **$2,020 to $3,622**.

### Cost of a rental truck from Santa Ana to Colorado

A [rental truck](/best/truck-rentals) is almost always the cheapest option, but on a 1,014-mile haul, "cheap" means you're doing all the packing, loading, driving, and unloading yourself. For a small move, expect **$649 to $1,161**. Mid-size moves run **$647 to $1,436**, and large moves land between **$812 and $1,730**. Fuel costs are already factored into these estimates.

## Factors that affect your moving cost from Santa Ana to Colorado

Three things will move your final number more than anything else:

- **Move size:** The weight and volume of your shipment is the single biggest driver on a long-distance job. Declutter before you get quotes — it directly affects your bill.
- **Time of year:** Summer is peak season for movers. If your timeline is flexible, moving in fall, winter, or early spring can meaningfully cut your rate.
- **DIY vs. full-service:** Handling it yourself saves money, but doing a 1,000-mile move solo adds real logistical complexity. Factor in your time, energy, and risk tolerance before defaulting to the cheaper option.

## What you need to know before moving from Santa Ana to Colorado

The financial case for this move is pretty clear-cut. Here's the data.

### Cost of living: Santa Ana vs. Colorado

| | Santa Ana, CA | Colorado |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent | $2,650 | $1,594 |
| Average home cost | $843,858 | $541,072 |
| Per capita income | $77,283 | $87,598 |
| Cost of living index | 165 | 91 |
| Unemployment rate | 7.0% | 4.1% |
| State income tax | 13.3% | 5.49% |

*Santa Ana sources: World Population Review, Zillow, US Census Bureau, US BLS, Tax Foundation. Colorado sources: Zumper, Zillow, Numbeo.*

- **Rent** is about 40% lower in Colorado. That's hundreds of dollars back in your pocket every month from day one.
- **Home prices** run roughly 36% lower, which makes ownership a realistic goal considerably sooner.
- **Per capita income** is actually about 13% higher in Colorado — you're likely earning more and spending less simultaneously.
- **Overall cost of living** is approximately 45% lower. That's one of the bigger single-move financial improvements most people can make.
- **Unemployment** is about 41% lower in Colorado, pointing to a tighter, more competitive job market.
- **State income tax** drops from California's 13.3% top rate to Colorado's flat 5.49%. Do that math for your income level — it's a meaningful number.

### How life is different in Colorado vs. Santa Ana

| | Santa Ana, CA | Colorado |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 310,227 | 5,877,610 |
| Political leaning | Democratic (49.8–48.3) | Democrat (54–46) |
| Summer high | 82°F | 86°F |
| Winter low | 47°F | 13°F |
| Annual rainfall | 13″ | 16″ |
| Annual snowfall | 0″ | 63″ |
| Crime index | 54.17 | 36.4 |

*Sources: US Census Bureau, 270TOWIN, NeighborhoodScout, BestPlaces, Wikipedia.*

- **Politics:** Both lean Democratic, so the political environment won't feel like a sharp shift.
- **Summer:** Colorado's highs average 86°F versus Santa Ana's 82°F — comparable enough that heat won't be the adjustment. Pay attention to elevation and humidity instead.
- **Winter:** This is the real change. Santa Ana bottoms out around 47°F. Colorado averages 13°F in winter. Budget for heating costs, winter gear, and weatherproofing your home.
- **Rainfall:** Nearly identical — 13 inches in Santa Ana, 16 in Colorado. The seasonal rhythm differs, but the overall volume won't shock you.
- **Snow:** Going from zero to 63 inches per year is a genuine lifestyle shift. Prepare for it: winter tires, a snow blower or shovel, and extra time on your morning commute. In exchange, you get some of the best skiing in the country out your back door.
- **Crime:** Colorado's crime index of 36.4 compares favorably to Santa Ana's 54.17 — generally safer neighborhoods across the board.

### Other things to handle before your move to Colorado

- **HOA rules:** If you're moving into a community with an HOA, check their policies on move-in days, hours, and truck access before your crew shows up.
- **Elevator reservations:** If your building has an elevator, reserve it in advance — most require 48 to 72 hours notice.
- **Truck parking permits:** Some Colorado municipalities require permits for large moving vehicles on public streets. Check with your destination city before move day.
- **State licensing:** The Colorado Public Utilities Commission (COPUC) regulates movers operating locally and into the state. Verify your mover's Colorado license before you sign a contract.
- **Moving permits:** Colorado doesn't require a general moving permit, but local parking restrictions vary. Confirm with your specific city.
- **Change of address:** File your USPS change of address at least a week before moving day and set your official move date so forwarding starts on time.
- **Moving insurance:** Released Value Protection is the default — free, but it covers only 60 cents per pound per item. On a long interstate haul, that's practically nothing for electronics or furniture. Ask your mover about full-value protection, or look at third-party options if you have anything irreplaceable.
- **Moving checklist:** Use our [moving checklist](/resources/moving-checklist) to track every deadline. On a cross-country move, the details pile up fast — lease timing, utility transfers, vehicle registration, school enrollment. Having a single list prevents things from slipping.

## Things to do in Colorado

Once you land and unpack, there's plenty waiting for you.

### Museums in Colorado

- Denver Botanic Gardens
- Argo Mill and Tunnel
- Rosemount Museum
- Benson Park Sculpture Garden
- Denver Museum of Nature & Science

### Parks in Colorado

- Rocky Mountain National Park
- Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve
- Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park
- Mesa Verde National Park
- Canyons of the Ancients National Monument

### Sports teams in Colorado

- Denver Broncos (NFL)
- Denver Barbarians (RSL)
- Denver Nuggets (NBA)
- Colorado Rockies (MLB)
- Colorado Avalanche (NHL)

### Universities in Colorado

- University