Ready To Move Abroad?
Get 5 Quotes In Just 3 Easy Steps
Network of 500+ movers
150,000 moves annually

Moving to New York City from UK

Moving and Living Costs, Jobs and Things to Know

Featured image

Planning a move to New York? Then check out our guide about how to move to New York from the UK. We’ll talk about costs, visas, checklists, jobs, and even free removal quotes. Keep reading for your one-stop guide to emigrating from the UK to America.

Moving to New York: Costs and Information

How much is it to move to New York? Moving to New York from the UK can cost around £2,900 – £4,000 for a 2-bedroom house.

You might be asking, How much is it to move to Ne York? Below is a rough estimate of how much moving to NYC from London can cost, depending on your household’s size:

Household sizeCost
1 bedroom£2,200 – £3,100
2 bedrooms£2,900 – £4,000
3 bedrooms£5,000 – £6,800
4 bedrooms£5,400 – £7,400
5 bedrooms£7,700 – £10,300

Disclaimer. These prices are only estimates and are not final. Your move will differ in price depending on distance, volume and your individual needs.

It’s important to note that the higher the volume of your move the higher the costs will be. Check out our page on container shipping costs to get more details.

Moving to New York?
Request up to five free moving quotes!

You can influence the cost of your move to New York from the UK by considering the following factors, which can bring the price up or down:

  • Choice of moving company – Receive up to 5 free removal quotes for comparison
  • Household size – The more you move, the costlier it’ll be, so why not calculate the volume?
  • Complexity– For example, fragile or heavy items.
  • Insurance – This service will add to the cost, but it’ll cover damage during moving.
  • Additional services – Packaging, assembling, and storage.

Removals Company New York

Moving to New York is a big journey, which is why having a good removal company is key. Have a look at the best moving companies below.

Check out our list and find the right moving company for your move.

Moving With a Dog to New York

If you are bringing your pets abroad, make sure they meet the U.S. regulations:

  • Must be microchipped
  • Should own a Health Certificate

Find more information on the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service official website on Bring a Pet From Another Country into the United States (Import).

How To Move to New York from the UK: Visa Requirements

When moving to New York from the UK, a visa is mandatory. For a visa application, you should prepare your valid passport, birth certificate, marriage certificate (if applicable), medical documentation, education certificates, insurance coverage, and shipping documents.

Visa Types when Moving to New York

Depending on your circumstances, you can apply for a work, family, study, or business/investor visa. For detailed information, check our visa page below:

Find all types of visas and the requirements to enter the country.

British Family Moving to New York

When moving to New York with your children and/or spouse, there are various visa options available based on your situation:

  • Work Visa: Children and spouses can apply for a dependent visa to accompany the primary visa holder.
  • Family-Based Visa: For spouses or finances and children of US citizens.

Moving to New York from the UK: Checklist

Sign up and receive our tips for moving house internationally & other guides
Sirelo uses the information you provide to us to contact you about our relevant content and services. You may unsubscribe at any time. For more information check our privacy policy

Healthcare Insurance

The US healthcare system is primarily private. While many employers offer coverage, it is essential to select an insurance plan that meets your specific needs.

To know more about healthcare in the USA, check out our page on healthcare in the USA.

Finances and Taxes

Notify HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) to declare your new residency to ensure you’re taxed correctly and avoid overpayments. If you continue to receive income from the UK (properties or investments), informing will also help you avoid double taxation due to existing treaties.

Miscellaneous

Before you move, make sure to review and cancel any subscriptions or utilities you won’t need at your new home. Remember to change your mailing address on the redirection page from Royal Mail so that your mail is sent to your new location.

Living and Working In New York

Understanding the living costs in New York and the lifestyle of the dream city is key to a smooth transition. Remember that living in New York, expenses can be high, but with good planning, things will work.

Cost of Living in New York vs London

According to Numbeo, life expenses in New York (including rent) are 41% higher than in London.

We gathered the costs in New York vs. London in the table below:

ExpenseNYCLondon
Milk (1L)£1.27£1.28
Egg (12)£4.40£3.50
Cappuccino£4.78£3.75
Restaurant Meal£57.00£40.00
One-way Transport Ticket£2.35£2.80
Basic Monthly Utilities£147.00£239.00
1-bedroom apartment rent£2,191£3,267

Source: Numbeo

Living in New York: Life and Culture

  • Embrace the fast-paced lifestyle of the city that never sleeps and be prepared for crowded places and the hustle and bustle.
  • Groceries can be bought in supermarkets, but small corner stores can also be lifesavers.
  • Build your network. Consider joining online groups, attending events, or signing up for hobbies.

Pros and Cons of Living in New York

Pros

 Many career opportunities
 Cultural diversity
 Convenient public transport
 Dynamic lifestyle

Cons

 High living costs
 Crowded and fast-paced
 Small and limited housing
 Noisy and traffic

Where Can I Move to From UK

New York has 5 boroughs: Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, Staten Island, and Bronx.

Each of them is like a city with its unique aspects and sites. Manhattan is by far the most expensive, with the Bronx on the lower end. The boroughs are just a subway ride away, except for Staten Island, where you may need to take a ferry.

How to Get a Job in New York for UK Citizens

Securing employment should be your top priority for entering the country. Remember that an American employer must offer you a job before you can apply for a work visa and live in New York.

Key industries include finance and insurance, real estate, and mass media and journalism. You can start your job hunting through the following job portals: NYTimes, LinkedIn, SimplyHired or by an Employment Agency or head-hunter.

Find out Charlie’s relocation to NY for a job.

Ready for Your Move to New York?

Well, this is the end of the article. By now, you likely have a good idea of what moving to New York entails. But, for those who don’t feel well prepared just yet, check out the articles we’ve picked for you below. We wish you luck with your move to New York.

Frequently asked questions

How can I move to New York from the UK?

How easy is it to move to New York?

Do you need a visa for New York?

Is New York a good place to live?

How expensive is it to live in New York City?

Can I work in New York?

How big is New York compared to London?

How long does it take to get to New York?

How far is the UK from America?