The real numbers, not the Instagram version
One of the biggest mistakes UK emigrants make is underestimating the true cost of living in the United States. The salaries are higher, yes — but so are the costs in some critical categories.
We have crunched the numbers using 2026 data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, Numbeo, and real expat budgets.
Monthly cost comparison
All figures in GBP, converted at approximately $1.27 = £1.
| Category | UK (monthly) | USA (monthly) | Notes | |----------|-------------|---------------|-------| | Rent (2-bed) | £1,200-1,800 | £1,400-3,500 | Huge variation by city | | Groceries | £400-500 | £350-550 | Comparable, but less variety | | Utilities | £200-280 | £150-250 | AC in summer adds up | | Healthcare | £0 (NHS) | £300-800 | This is the big one | | Transport | £150-200 | £250-500 | Car-dependent in most areas | | Eating out | £300-500 | £350-600 | Tips add 18-25% | | Total | £2,250-3,280 | £2,800-6,200 | 25-90% higher |
The healthcare factor
This is where the USA cost of living diverges most dramatically from the UK. Without employer-sponsored health insurance, a family plan costs $1,500-2,500/month. Even with employer coverage, copays, deductibles, and out-of-network charges can add thousands per year.
An unexpected hospital visit without insurance can cost $10,000-50,000+. This is not a cost you can ignore or hope to avoid.
If your employer offers health insurance as part of your package, understand exactly what it covers before you accept. COBRA continuation after leaving a job costs the full premium — often $600-2,000/month per person.
Housing varies enormously
The USA housing market is not one market — it is hundreds. A two-bedroom apartment might cost:
- San Francisco: $3,500-5,000/month
- New York City: $3,000-5,500/month
- Austin, TX: $1,800-2,500/month
- Denver, CO: $1,800-2,400/month
- Raleigh, NC: $1,400-1,800/month
If you are flexible on location, your housing costs can differ by 300%+.
The costs people forget
Federal and state income tax — varies wildly
Some states (Florida, Texas, Nevada) have no state income tax. Others (California, New York) add 9-13% on top of federal rates. This can mean a £15,000+ annual difference in take-home pay.
Immigration fees — $2,000-15,000+
Visa application fees, USCIS filing fees, attorney fees, and premium processing add up quickly. H-1B lottery registration alone is $215, and attorney fees for a single visa petition typically run $3,000-8,000.
Social Security and Medicare — 7.65%
Similar to UK National Insurance, you pay 7.65% of gross income (your employer matches). Self-employed individuals pay both halves: 15.3%.
Car costs — essential in most areas
Outside NYC, Chicago, and a handful of other cities, you need a car. Budget $400-700/month for payment, insurance, fuel, and maintenance.
Tipping culture — 18-25% on everything
Restaurants, bars, taxis, hairdressers, hotels, delivery — tipping is expected and often 18-25%. This adds 15-20% to your dining and service budget.
How to budget realistically
Start with the assumption that your first 6 months will cost 30-40% more than your ongoing monthly budget. Security deposits (often first, last, and deposit), car purchase or lease, furniture, visa fees, and setup costs add up to £10,000-25,000 before you even start your normal spending.
We recommend having 6 months of living expenses saved, plus £15,000 minimum for setup costs.
How WestConnect helps
WestConnect matches you with vetted US tax advisors and financial planners who specialise in UK-to-USA moves. They can help you build a realistic budget, structure your finances efficiently, and navigate the tax treaty between the two countries.
Planning your move? Get matched with vetted partners →