Moving to San Diego From the UK: What Brits Need to Know Before the Big Move

Last Updated: 14th May 2025 by Martha Lott

Dreaming of trading grey skies for golden beaches? For many Brits, moving to San Diego offers the promise of year-round sunshine, a laid-back lifestyle, and vibrant coastal culture. From its Mediterranean climate and stunning Pacific coastline to its thriving job market and rich cultural influences, San Diego is one of California’s most appealing destinations for UK expats.

But relocating across the Atlantic is no small feat. Moving to the U.S. comes with a unique set of challenges, from securing the right visa to navigating healthcare, housing costs, and job opportunities. This comprehensive guide covers everything UK residents need to know before making the leap, including key insights into cost of living, education, transport, and more.

Whether you’re chasing career growth, outdoor adventure, or a new chapter for your family, this article will help you prepare when moving to San Diego from the UK.

Visa and Immigration Process for Moving to San Diego, USA

The first step for British citizens planning a move to San Diego is determining the right visa pathway. Some main options include:

• Work Visas: For employment-based relocation, the main work visa is the H-1B for skilled specialty occupations, obtained through employer sponsorship. Other work visas include L-1 for intra-company transfers and O-1 for individuals with extraordinary ability.
• Family Visas: Spouses of American citizens can apply for K-3 visas, while other family relationships like parents, children and siblings may be eligible for family preference visas.
• Investor Visas: Options like the E-2 treaty investor visa allow qualified foreign investors to reside in the US. You typically need to invest a substantial capital amount in an American commercial enterprise.
• Student Visas: F-1 visas allow foreign students to undertake academic studies at American universities and colleges. J-1 visas offer exchange study and work programs.
• Green Card: Gaining permanent residency status allows you to live and work freely in the US. Employment-based and family-based paths are available to qualify for a green card. Marrying an American citizen is the fastest route.

The visa application process entails submitting the right forms, documentation, and fees to the relevant authorities like the USCIS or U.S consulate. Typical documents needed include passport, photos, financial records, medical history, police certificates and evidencing your eligibility like employment contracts or marriage certificates.

Reading official guides from the U.S. Department of State and UK Government websites ensures you understand the timeline, costs, eligibility criteria and process completely for navigating your specific situation smoothly. The type of visa shapes the employment and study options open to you in San Diego.

What is the Cost of Living like in San Diego?

Recognised as one of America’s most picturesque cities, San Diego comes with a high cost of living but also offers an exceptional quality of life. It is generally more expensive compared to UK cities like Bristol and Edinburgh, primarily due to the higher costs of housing and childcare. Overall, the cost of living in San Diego is 45% higher than the US average.

The estimated living costs for a family of four are approximately $7,974 per month. For individuals, this figure is around $3,428. Salaries in San Diego, however, can be higher than UK averages for several professions, compensating for the high living costs. It is crucial for prospective residents to weigh the costs against the lifestyle perks, job opportunities, services, and taxes.

Housing is the most significant expenditure in San Diego, and is 112% higher than the national average. A one-bed apartment in the city centre averages around $2,980 per month, and the average house price in the city is $1,113,702. The monthly food cost for a family of four can be as much as $1,965 according to livingcost.org, with groceries being 17% more expensive than in London. Of course, this figure heavily depends on lifestyle and consumption patterns, and we suspect a much lower monthly food cost can be achieved if you are on a budget. Bargains on grocery shopping can be found at Costco, Walmart, and local farmers’ markets.

A monthly transport pass is around $72, which is 70% cheaper than in London. A litre of gas is about $1.30, again 31.5% more affordable than London. Utility costs, including electricity and heat, are around $277.55 per month, varying widely based on usage. High-speed internet averages around $77 per month. Services like gym memberships typically cost around $50 per month, and the average cost of a beer in a pub is about $9. Childcare is notably expensive, ranging from $800 to $1,500 per month for a toddler.

Sales tax in San Diego is 7.75%. Contrary to the notion of modest income tax, California has one of the highest state income tax rates in the U.S. Healthcare can also be substantial, and while having insurance can mitigate some of the costs, out-of-pocket expenses can still be significant, depending on medical needs and insurance coverage.

San Diego Housing Market

Relocating always brings the excitement of finding the perfect new home. San Diego’s housing market is notably competitive, marked by a constrained inventory despite ongoing construction. Homes typically sell within 27 days and receive 4 offers. It is usually recommended to rent initially, allowing time to familiarise yourself with various neighbourhoods before committing to a purchase.

Many expatriate families prefer suburban communities such as Carmel Valley, Del Mar, La Jolla, Encinitas, and Chula Vista due to their top-ranking school districts, plentiful parks, beach access, and relatively short drives to downtown, usually within 40 minutes. The median single-family home prices in these areas vary significantly, ranging from $900,000 $1.8 million or more, with rental costs between $3,000 to $5,000 monthly.

For those favouring urban environments, Downtown, Little Italy, Hillcrest, and North Park offer shorter commutes and are rich in amenities like restaurants and entertainment venues. The average purchase price for condos and apartments in these areas is around $650,000, with average monthly rents around $2,800.

When choosing a location, considerations should include commuting distance to the workplace, proximity to shops, schools, and parks. Engaging a local real estate agent experienced with relocating families can provide invaluable insight and assistance. Initially signing a one-year lease can offer the flexibility to explore and understand the local market before committing to a purchase. Online platforms like Zillow and Trulia are helpful to scout listings and gauge prices and neighbourhoods.

Remember, given the high costs and competitive nature of the market, realistic planning and adequate time are crucial to navigate the San Diego housing market smoothly and effectively.

San Diego’s Best Neighbourhoods

San Diego presents a diversified tableau of neighbourhoods, each exuding a distinctive character and allure. With over 100 neighbourhoods, from the vibrant downtown districts to the serene coastal locales, the city hosts a variety of options catering to different preferences, demographic profiles, and budgetary constraints.

Neighbourhoods Tailored to Distinct Lifestyles

Affluent Living

• La Jolla: Often termed the “jewel” of San Diego, La Jolla is synonymous with luxury, offering an upscale living experience with its captivating beach vistas, refined dining establishments, and an average home value of $2.1M. Apt for professionals who relish opulence.

Downtown Vibes

1. Little Italy: A historical and culinary hub, Little Italy, draws attention with its vivacious festivals, plethora of restaurants, and an active social scene. Noteworthy for those who prefer a sociable environment, and decently priced dwellings, with an average home value of $691k.
2. East Village: Extolled for its amenability to walking and abundant amenities, it appeals particularly to young professionals and retirees. With average rents of $2925, it seamlessly melds convenience and accessibility.
3. Gaslamp Quarter: If nightlife is your penchant, the historic Gaslamp Quarter, renowned for its lively nocturnal activities and rich history, warrants consideration.

Beachfront Serenity

1. Pacific Beach: Melding an eclectic beach town vibe with proximity to downtown, Pacific Beach, with an average home value of $1.2M, it is lauded for its suitability to various demographics, from families to young professionals and retirees.
2. Ocean Beach & Point Loma: This locale entwines safety, affordability, and phenomenal ocean views, posing as an idyllic setting for young professionals.

Coastal & North County Charms

1. Encinitas: Esteemed for its classic surf suburb ambiance and commendable school districts, it’s particularly enticing for families and retirees.
2. Carlsbad Village: With optimal amenities and family-friendly environments, it secures its spot as a prime choice for families and professionals, boasting an average home value of $859k.

Bohemian and Artistic Enclaves

• North Park: Saturated with art, craft beer, and a distinctive culture, it’s a haven for hipsters and those with an alternative lifestyle.
• Leucadia: This funky, artsy beach community, though leaning towards the higher end of the rent and home value spectrum, is particularly attractive to retirees and vacationers.
• Barrio Logan: Steeped in culture and adorned with striking murals and authentic Mexican cuisine, it’s an affordable option for young professionals and cultural aficionados.

Community and Diversity

• Hillcrest: Celebrated as a vibrant LGBTQIA+ hub with a lively culture, it stands out not just for its inclusive environment but also for its fantastic dining experiences.
• Kensington & Normal Heights: Exuding a funky, close-knit community vibe and proximity to downtown, it’s conducive for young professionals seeking a tight-knit community.

Historic Allure

• Old Town: Often dubbed the ‘birthplace of California’, Old Town captivates history buffs with its rich heritage and traditional Mexican establishments.

Safe and Family-Friendly

• South Park & Golden Hill: Praised for its affordability, impressive vistas, and proximity to downtown, it offers a balanced mix of tranquillity and accessibility for younger demographics.
• Carlsbad Village: Blending top-tier amenities with a family-friendly atmosphere, it renders an agreeable environment for families and professionals alike.

San Diego not only caters to diverse preferences but also provides a kaleidoscopic experience of cultures, lifestyles, and aesthetics. From the affluent corners of La Jolla to the historic lanes of Old Town, the city enfolds a myriad of choices to consider when choosing a place to call home. Whether your preferences lean towards the eclectic and bohemian vibes of North Park or the family-oriented and peaceful streets of Carlsbad Village, San Diego’s expansive offerings harbour something for everyone.

Moving your Belongings to San Diego with 1st Move International

Once visas, jobs, and housing are secured in San Diego, it’s time for the big international move! Here at 1st Move International, we know how to safely transport your household goods door-to-door between the UK and the USA. For over 25 years, we have specialized in overseas removals to destinations worldwide.

Our unique palletised packing system provides unparalleled safety and security for your belongings. We wrap and seal your items onto custom pallets rather than loading loose into containers. This minimises handling and prevents damage. We then encase pallets in durable weatherproof shrink-wrap plastic and strap them securely.

This enables us to ship weekly using space in commercial containers. Unlike other removers relying on consolidated groupage containers, your move is not delayed waiting to fill a shared container. Our streamlined process means we can advise accurate transit times upfront.

Once loaded, we track your shipment’s progress through each step of its journey. Our pallets are security sealed and barcoded for total visibility. This ensures your possessions arrive safely at your new home ready for easy delivery. We’ve perfected overseas moving through intelligence and innovation.

For a free quote on your upcoming San Diego move, simply fill out the 60-second quote form on our website or check out our international removals UK to USA services here. Our decades of experience taking the stress out of UK-USA moves means your relocation is in safe hands. Contact us now to ship your belongings overseas with confidence.

Healthcare in San Diego

Understanding how to access healthcare is vital when moving abroad. The system in San Diego provides quality care through private providers paid by medical insurance, unlike the UK’s centralised National Health Service.

Health insurance is usually tied to employment, with companies offering private plans. Even part-time jobs come with basic coverage. Individual private plans can be purchased from providers like Blue Shield. Co-pays apply for doctor visits and prescriptions. Emergency care at stellar hospitals like UC San Diego Medical Center and Scripps Health is covered by all plans.

For preexisting conditions, maintain coverage under the NHS until eligible for U.S. insurance. While expensive without insurance, out-of-pocket costs are reasonable for basic care. For example, a doctor visit is $125 and an antibiotic prescription $20 without insurance.

Obtaining medical records from your UK doctor ensures continuity of care. Most plans offer new patient health assessments. Choosing a primary care physician to coordinate overall care is recommended. Virtual telehealth options like Teladoc offer convenient urgent care consults. Overall, San Diego’s first-rate healthcare system delivered through job-based or private insurance takes adjustment but provides quality care to rely on.

Learn more: Navigating the US Healthcare System

Job Market and Employment in San Diego

With key industries like military, tourism, and technology thriving in San Diego, promising career opportunities await. The unemployment rate is in line with the national average at 4.2%. Top fields like healthcare, defence contracting, engineering, IT and life sciences are hiring. Tourism supports many hospitality, retail, and recreation jobs.

For job seekers, a California Professional License (aka DCA license) may be required for certain regulated fields like nursing or accounting. Certification bodies (like CGFNS International for healthcare professionals) can help navigate credential evaluation. Obtain a Social Security Number for formal employment. Update your CV to U.S. formatting. Job search platforms like LinkedIn, Glassdoor and local job boards are useful resources. Recruiters specialising in your sector can assist too.

Expect an intense interview process of multiple rounds for top positions. Research expected salaries based on role experience using sites like Indeed and Salary.com. Cost of living also determines pay rates. For example, nurses earn $112,790 annually in San Diego. Software engineers earn $124,320 on average.

Overall, San Diego offers exciting career pathways in thriving industries. With eligibility through the right work visa status, desirable skills, and preparation, seizing a great job opportunity is very feasible. Consulting with recruitment specialists and employment lawyers ensures you navigate the job market effectively.

Learn more: How to Get a Job in the USA as an Expat

Education System in San Diego

San Diego offers world-class education options. Public schools operated by districts are free but vary in quality. Top districts like Poway, San Dieguito, and La Jolla offer outstanding academics and activities. Private schools provide excellent instruction often with a specialised focus but charge tuition.

School admissions are zone-based, with priority for neighbourhood residents. Top districts use lotteries for admission. Unlike the UK, most schooling is co-educational. Extra-curricular participation is valued highly. Gifted, special needs and English language programs are available. Standardised testing and GPA scores determine college admissions. SAT prep is common.

Higher education features prestigious University of California San Diego and San Diego State University. Community colleges like Mesa College offer associate degrees. Costs are reasonable for state residents but higher for international students. Scholarships, loans and part-time work provide financial aid options.

Overall, investing time to identify the right schools and districts for your children is worthwhile. Consider cost, quality of instruction, activities, class size, facilities, and transport. Consulting with admissions counsellors and relocation agents provides insider tips.

Lifestyle and Culture

San Diego offers an idyllic lifestyle with the weather, scenery, and attractions to enjoy life to the fullest. With 70 miles of spectacular coastline and a mild Mediterranean climate, you’ll live outdoors enjoying beaches, water sports and hiking. Neighbourhood farmers’ markets and craft breweries cultivate community vibes. A vibrant arts and food scene thrives in districts like Little Italy and North Park.

Historic Balboa Park, UCSD Birch Aquarium and the world-famous San Diego Zoo offer family-friendly explorations. Pro sports teams like the Padres and Chargers unite locals. With diversity and Mexican influences, experiencing different cuisines is a must. Yoga studios and cycle trails promote healthy living. Overall, an abundance of sights and activities enable you to immediately dive into San Diego’s enviable lifestyle.

Creating new social connections locally helps overcome homesickness and integrate into the community. Joining associations like British-American Business Council provides networking opportunities. Your children’s school and sports activities will help meet other parents. Websites like Meetup offer social activities and events of all kinds in the San Diego area to help you connect with likeminded people. Overall, San Diego’s temperate climate, safety and pleasant demeanour of locals enable a joyful lifestyle to embrace.

Learn more: UK vs USA Culture Comparison

Transportation

Getting around this sprawling city relies on driving, with a limited but developing public transport network. Owning a car is recommended for access and convenience however it is not required. You can import your UK license for a year before acquiring a California license. Gas costs half of the UK. Road tax and insurance are mandatory with premiums higher in congested areas. Buy used cars to save.

San Diego freeways facilitate driving, but traffic can be heavy. The I-5 runs north-south and I-8 goes inland. Electric vehicle charging stations are expanding. Rules differ, so study the California Driver Handbook.

Metropolitan Transit System buses and San Diego Trolley trains serve main areas. Fares are $2.50 per ride. Coaster and Amtrak trains connect north county. Route planning on Google Maps helps navigate public transport which, while not as extensive as in UK cities, gets you where you need to go.

Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are popular. Cycling is encouraged but infrastructure trails are limited. Walking is feasible for neighbourhood commutes. Plan realistically for a driving-focused transport routine.

Conclusion

With enticing attributes from the weather to the economy, San Diego offers an alluring locale to relocate to. But meticulous planning and research around visas, costs, housing, jobs and services ensures you make the most of the Californian lifestyle. Patience navigating the visa process opens your pathway. Control expenses by living modestly initially. Explore neighbourhoods before deciding where to settle. Understand how to access healthcare and education tailored to your family’s needs. Pursue employment that provides purpose and income. Connect locally to establish your sense of belonging. With this advice and recommended resources, the joys of America’s Finest City can be yours to cherish for years to come.

Learn more: Moving to the USA from the UK – The Definitive Guide (2023)

When you’re ready to make the move from the UK to sunny San Diego, trust the faster, safer removals services of 1st Move International to ship your belongings door-to-door.

For over 25 years, we have specialised in overseas removals to the USA using our unique palletised packing system that minimises handling and prevents damage. Our weekly container services avoid the delays facing some removers, so you can plan your move with confidence.

Don’t gamble with unpredictable groupage shipping. When it’s time to ship your life to San Diego, get a free quote from the proven experts at 1st Move International. Our decades of experience providing smart, safe UK to USA moves means your relocation is in the most trusted hands.