World-renowned academic institutions, excellent job opportunities and historic landmarks make England a popular destination for American expats. Each region has its own charming history and culture, and the island’s small size makes it easy to explore.
Moving to England from the US is straightforward when you partner with Atlas International. From visa rules to mastering the local lingo, here’s what you need to know before starting your English adventure.
Alongside an international moving checklist, understanding the following nuances can make moving to England seamless.
Unless you qualify for British citizenship, applying for a UK visa is the only route to working and living in England and the rest of the UK. The most common visa types used by American citizens are:
How much money you need to move to the UK depends on your visa type. Family visa holders must demonstrate a qualifying combined household income of £29,000 per year or more, plus £3,800 per year for one child and £2,400 per year for subsequent children. You may also be eligible if you meet the minimum cash savings threshold for a Family visa.
You can apply for a UK visa online. Fees vary by visa type — use the visa application fee checker to determine your costs.
The average private rent in England is around £1,276 per month, although where you plan to live can dramatically affect how much you pay. As of February 2024, the average house price in England is £298,000. Like rents, English house prices vary significantly by region. Some of the most popular cities expats choose to live in are:
American expats may be pleasantly surprised by the cost of essentials in the UK. The cost of living in the UK is around 13.5% lower than in the US. Excluding housing costs, single Brits spend an average of £808.50 per month on bills, food and discretionary expenses, or approximately £2,732 per month for two adults and two children.
The National Health Service (NHS) is a significant advantage of moving to England. After paying the healthcare surcharge (£776 per year for students and children and £1,035 per year for other applicants), you can use NHS services without paying a fee.
Although the British and American cultures have numerous similarities, English people tend to greet strangers more formally than Americans and are often more reserved when interacting with people they don’t know well. However, social norms vary by region, and you’ll notice differences in culture, accent and informal vocabulary across relatively short distances.
After moving to your new English home, you’ll need to register with your local council to pay council tax and set up accounts with utility providers. You'll also need to register with a General Practitioner to access NHS services.
Joining social groups and attending local events can help you integrate with your new community. Many cities, towns and small villages in England have their own Facebook groups to keep locals informed. Town Hall notice boards and coffee shop pinboards are also great sources of local knowledge, and many pubs have their own thriving communities with regular social events.
Atlas International has over 60 years of experience supporting individuals and families moving to England from the US. Our network of global moving partners has exceptional knowledge of English moving regulations and customs arrangements, and our comprehensive international moving services cover everything you need for a straightforward transition. Here’s our step-by-step formula for a successful move abroad:
Atlas International is ready to ease your relocation to England and help you plan your move with confidence. Contact us today to receive a personalized quote and international moving plan.