Relocating to the United States is exciting, but understanding the cost of living is essential for British expats. Expenses in the U.S. can vary significantly depending on the city, lifestyle, and visa type. This guide breaks down the key areas where costs differ and what you should budget for before making your move.
🏠 Housing and Accommodation
Housing is often the largest expense for expats.
- Major Cities (New York, San Francisco, Los Angeles): Rent for a one-bedroom apartment can range from $2,000–$4,000 per month, considerably higher than many UK cities.
- Smaller Cities or Suburbs: Locations like Austin, Raleigh, or Phoenix offer more affordable options, with one-bedroom apartments averaging $1,000–$1,500 per month.
- Buying Property: Property prices vary widely. In high-demand urban areas, a small condo can cost over $500,000, whereas suburban homes may be considerably less.
Tip: Research local neighborhoods, transportation links, and amenities before committing to a rental or purchase.
🛒 Food and Groceries
- Groceries in the U.S. can be slightly cheaper than in the UK for staple items, but imported goods may cost more.
- Eating out varies: a casual meal may cost $12–$20, whereas a three-course restaurant dinner can range from $40–$80.
- Many expats enjoy farmer’s markets, which can be cheaper for fresh produce and support local communities.
🚗 Transportation
- Public transport is excellent in cities like New York and Washington D.C., but limited in suburban areas.
- Car ownership is often necessary outside major urban centers.
- Gasoline is cheaper than in the UK, but insurance can be expensive depending on your age, driving history, and location.
💊 Healthcare Costs
Healthcare in the U.S. is private and can be expensive:
- Health insurance is mandatory, and premiums vary based on age, coverage, and state.
- Out-of-pocket costs for appointments, medications, and hospital visits can be high without insurance.
- Many expats opt for comprehensive international health insurance plans for peace of mind.
💡 Utilities and Internet
- Utilities (electricity, heating, cooling, water) typically cost around $150–$250 per month for a standard apartment.
- Internet averages $50–$70 per month, depending on provider and speed.
📚 Education Costs
For families moving to the U.S.:
- Public schools are free and high-quality in most districts.
- Private schools can range from $10,000–$50,000 per year, depending on location and prestige.
- Universities and colleges can be expensive for international students, with annual tuition fees often exceeding $20,000–$50,000.
🏖️ Lifestyle and Entertainment
- Gym memberships average $30–$60 per month.
- Movie tickets cost around $12–$15.
- Cultural activities, dining out, and travel vary by city but are generally comparable to UK prices.
💰 Taxes
- Federal income tax is progressive, ranging from 10–37%, and state taxes may also apply.
- There is no national VAT, but sales taxes range from 0–10%, depending on the state.
- Expats may still need to file UK taxes if they maintain ties but can often claim foreign tax credits.
🌍 Making Your Move
Planning your finances is critical for a smooth relocation. Advance Moves makes it easy with a Quick Quote system for removals from the UK to the U.S., helping you budget for shipping your belongings efficiently.
👉 Get an instant estimate and connect with trusted movers via moving to United States from UK.
With careful planning and the right support, moving to the U.S. can be an exciting, financially manageable adventure for British expats.