Moving to the UK from the USA
If you want to live in Europe but don’t have a knack for learning languages, the United Kingdom may be the place for you. But moving across the pond isn’t as simple as moving down the street, so let’s cover how to seamlessly move from the United States to the UK!
What to Know About Living in the UK
The United Kingdom is broken up into 4 different nations, kind of like how the U.S. is divided into states. So, while each country has its own unique characteristics, you can expect a generally consistent quality of life across the UK.
We’ll start by addressing what to know about living in the UK as a whole, then proceed to see what each country has to offer.
Cost of Living
The cost of living in the UK will mostly depend on where you decide to live, much like the United States. Overall, while healthcare and grocery prices are lower in the UK, the monthly salary can be almost half as much as the average American salary. So, it may sound like a good deal initially, but you’re looking at comparable prices.
Quality of Life & Employment
In the UK, you can expect to work shorter hours and almost a month’s worth of paid vacation days. Mothers also receive longer maternity leave, some offering up to 52 weeks of leave (an entire year!). Unless you’re a workaholic, you may enjoy the more leisurely lifestyle across the pond.
Healthcare
The United Kingdom has nationalized health care, which means that in general, it is much cheaper to receive care. While the National Health Service is a huge benefit to the citizens of the UK, it can take a while to access the care you need.
Public Transportation
The United Kingdom has plenty of public transport available, so odds are you won’t miss your car over there. From high-speed trains that can take you all the way to Paris, to buses and coaches that can take you from town to town, you’ll have no shortage of options.
How to Move to the UK from the US
Secure the Proper Visa
If you want to stay in the UK long term, you’re going to need to have a visa to do so. Many expats secure work-sponsored or student visas, but there are plenty of options. In fact, there are unique visas for family members or even recent university graduates!
Moving to the UK with U-Box International Moves
No matter what country you’re trying to move to, there is a lot of organization involved. If it sounds overwhelming, the good news is, you don’t have to do it all alone! With U-Box International Moves, you get assigned a moving manager than helps you handle all the logistical details with your move. This means they’ll help with any paperwork you need to fill out and ship all your stuff overseas. Basically, all you have to do is inventory and pack up your containers and provide the proper documentation to ship, we will handle the rest.
Ready to get a quote? Fill out our form and one of your moving experts will be in contact with you!
What to Know About Living in England
England is home to many cultural marvels, like Buckingham Palace and Big Ben. When you think of the United Kingdom, odds are London will be one of the first things that come to mind. Obviously, there are plenty of other cities and towns all over England, so whether you’re looking for an urban-feeling city or quiet countryside, you’ll be able to find whatever you’re looking for right in the heart of the UK.
Where Should I Live in England?
Birmingham: Located in the heart of England, Birmingham has a long history of being a populous trade hub. Today, it’s a youthful and vibrant city where many expats and locals come to shop, study, and embrace city life. This city is diverse, affordable, and constantly growing with new businesses popping up all over.
What to Know About Living in Scotland
Scottland is so much more than green landscapes and bagpipes! In fact, it’s one of the most affordable nations in the UK, about 10% cheaper than other popular cities in the UK. But you may have to learn how to decode the extensive Scottish slang, which can sometimes feel like learning an entirely new language!
Where Should I Live in Scotland?
Glasgow: There’s a popular Scottish saying, “If you’re lucky enough to live in Glasgow you’re lucky enough.” If that’s not a vote of confidence, what is? While Glasgow isn’t the capital of Scotland, it’s the largest city in the nation. Keep in mind, while living in Scotland is affordable, the housing market is competitive, so you may need to look a little extra harder to land a place to live.
What to Know About Living in Ireland
Ireland is split up into two different sections: the north and the south. The northern side of Ireland is part of the United Kingdom, while the southern part is known as it’s own Republic of Ireland. In the northern part of the nation, you’ll find a rich history and affordable living. If you’re looking for a nation with spirit, gorgeous landscapes, and great pubs, you’ll love life in the Emerald Isle.
Where Should I Live in Northern Ireland?
Belfast: Since it's one of the smaller capital cities in the UK, Belfast has a more small-town feel while simultaneously being a cultural and economic hub for Northern Ireland. If you want to live in an up-and-coming city that still has the best yet to come, Belfast is a potential city to consider.
What to Know About Living in Wales
If you’re interested in a more rural place to live, Wales could be the spot for you. Living in Wales is about a quarter of the price of the rest of the UK. Not to mention, about a quarter of the land in Wales is either a national park or otherwise breathtaking landscape.
Remember that Wales is a small country, and even the sheep outnumber the people! If you’re the type of person that needs a little more social interaction instead of solitude, you may want to try moving to the capital city, Cardiff.
Where Should I Live in Wales?
Cardiff: When it comes to national parks, green spaces, and medieval architecture, you can’t beat Cardiff. While this lowkey city may be better suited for the nature-loving quiet type, there are plenty of social opportunities out there, too! With nightclubs, great food, arts, and sports, you’re sure to get the best Wales has to offer in this capital city.