Moving to America

moving-to-america

Moving to America from the UK

International Moving Guide

A thousand tales have been written about living in America, home of the brave and land of the free. For years, moving to America has been the dream of many, and now you are taking the leap across the water to carve out a new life in the United States. In Purdie Worldwide’s International Guide on how to move to America from the UK, we’ll delve into the statistics behind America, the quality of life, and most importantly, the cost of moving to the USA.

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America is home to 50 unique states

Discover America before you Move

What initially captivated your interest in moving to the USA from the UK? Was it the iconic skyline of New York City, the majestic beauty of the Grand Canyon, or the cultural diversity of cities like Los Angeles? Perhaps you were drawn to the wide-open spaces in states like Texas or Wyoming.

No matter your motivations for moving from the UK to the USA, be prepared to be enchanted by the diverse climates and landscapes it has to offer. From the sunny beaches of California to the snowy peaks of the Rocky Mountains, America boasts a range of environments waiting to be explored with the help of your trusted international removals partner, Purdie Worldwide.

Don’t forget the dynamic expatriate community, representing a myriad of cultures and backgrounds. Whether you’re in bustling urban centres or quaint rural towns, you’re sure to find a welcoming atmosphere as you move to America from the UK.

America Statistics

Currency – American Dollars (USD)
Languages – English
Population – approx. 331.9 million
No. of British Ex-Pats – 678,000
Popular Cities – New York, Chicago, San Francisco, Los Angeles, Las Vegas
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Empire State Building at Sunset, New York, USA

Cost of Living in America Compared to the UK

Costs/CountryAmericaUnited Kingdom
Family Cost of Living$5,701$5,140
Family Rent$2,723$2,363
Food Expenses$619$500
GDP per Capita$76,330$46,125
Transport Expenses$105$151
Life Expectancy76.380.7
Quality of Life8790
Costs pulled from LivingCost.org

Key Considerations When Moving to the USA from the UK

• Renting/Buying in America

Upon moving to America, consider temporary housing options like hotels, hostels, or Airbnb accommodations while settling in. Once ready, explore more permanent living arrangements. Renting is recommended before buying property long-term. As of 2024, the average rent in America is $1,200 per month, reflecting an 8% increase from 2023.

• Opening a Bank Account

Managing your finances when moving to America from the UK requires opening a local bank account. You will need identification such as a passport or driving license and proof of address, like a utility bill. Popular banks include Chase Bank, Bank of America, and Wells Fargo.

• Healthcare System

Healthcare in America differs from the UK. While Medicare provides state-funded healthcare, many non-residents find private healthcare more suitable to cover unexpected medical expenses.

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Fancy traveling down Route 66 on a motorbike?

How to Move to the USA from the UK

If you’re wondering, “Can I move to America from the UK?” the answer is yes—with the right visa. Various pathways exist for moving to the US from the UK, which can be found on the official website of the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, including:

  1. Family-based Permanent Residence Visa: Designed for individuals with immediate family members or relatives who are U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents.
  2. Employment-based Permanent Residence Visa: Tailored for foreign nationals sponsored by American employers to work in the United States.
  3. Business or Investment-based Permanent Residence Visa: Geared towards entrepreneurs seeking to establish a new business or invest in the American economy. Typically, sponsorship from a government agency is required to apply for this visa.
moving-to-america-new-york-view-with-empire-state-building
Looking for spectacular city views? Try New York.

Becoming an American Citizen

There are several requirements that must be met before you become a American Citizen. The majority of applications have a cost involved to them, with a written test and interview as the final stage of the process, along with an oath of allegiance. Find out exactly how much this costs on the American Citizenship website.

The most common ways to becoming an American Citizen are as follows:

• Birth in the United States – anyone born on U.S. soil automatically acquires U.S. citizenship, with very few exceptions.

Naturalisation – This process is available to individuals who have been lawful permanent residents (green card holders) for a certain period of time (usually five years, but shorter for certain qualifying categories) and meet other eligibility requirements. These requirements typically include being able to read, write, and speak English, having a basic understanding of U.S. history and government (civics), and demonstrating good moral character.

Derivative Citizenship: Children born outside the United States to at least one U.S. citizen parent may acquire U.S. citizenship at birth through this process. The rules for derivative citizenship can be complex and may vary depending on factors such as the date of the child’s birth, the marital status of the parents, and whether the child was born in wedlock.

Through Parents: In some cases, individuals may acquire U.S. citizenship automatically through their parents, either at birth or after birth through a process called acquisition. 

Through Military Service: Members of the U.S. armed forces and certain veterans may be eligible for expedited naturalization under special provisions of the Immigration and Nationality Act.

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Check out the famous Golden Gate Bridge

Planning Your Move to the US from the UK

  1. Research International Removals Companies: Select a reputable removals company experienced in international moves to America. Seek recommendations, read reviews, and compare quotes to ensure a reliable and efficient service.
  2. Inventory and Packing: Make a detailed inventory of your belongings and decide which items to take with you. Consider selling or donating items that you no longer need. Pack your belongings securely and label the boxes for easy identification during unpacking.
  3. Transportation: Depending on the volume of your possessions, consider sea or air freight options. Sea freight is cost-effective for larger shipments, while air freight is faster but more expensive. At Purdie Worldwide, we will guide you through the logistics process and help you choose the best option for your situation.
  4. Customs and Import Regulations: Familiarize yourself with customs regulations for importing personal belongings and household goods into America. Ensure you have the necessary documentation, such as an inventory list, packing list, and proof of ownership, to clear customs smoothly. For example, if you’re looking to move to America, knives, animals, live plants and even Absinthe are not permitted.
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Manhattan Skyline, New York, USA

Move to America with Purdie Worldwide

Moving to America offers an exciting chance to embrace a fresh start in the land of opportunity. With proper preparation and attention to detail, you can get your move started with Purdie Worldwide today!

Entrusting your move to America with a reputable international moving company, such as Purdie Worldwide, ensures a smooth transition to your new American abode. From bustling cities to breathtaking natural wonders, American beckons with its diverse landscapes and vibrant culture. Begin your journey today by completing our international relocation form below, and kickstart your American adventure today!

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article serves as a general guide. It’s crucial to consult official government websites and seek professional advice for the most up-to-date and accurate information regarding the requirements and regulations when looking at moving to America.

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For city skylines you can’t beat New York.
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