{"id":116901,"date":"2026-06-23T14:10:44","date_gmt":"2026-06-23T13:10:44","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.shipit.co.uk\/blog\/?p=116901"},"modified":"2026-07-02T14:39:27","modified_gmt":"2026-07-02T13:39:27","slug":"cost-of-moving-to-usa","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.shipit.co.uk\/blog\/cost-of-moving-to-usa","title":{"rendered":"How Much Does It Cost to Move to America From the UK in 2026?"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You can expect to pay between $13,000 (USD) to $30,000 (USD) or more to move to America from the UK. Your total moving costs will depend on your exact circumstances.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">From Visa application fees, flight tickets, and shipping your belongings, costs can quickly add up. In this guide, we will cover exactly how much you should expect to pay to move from the UK to the USA so that you can budget accordingly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Breakdown of the costs of moving to America<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Visa and Document Costs<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">1. Visa Application Fees<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Visa application costs depend on the type of visa you apply for.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Non-immigrant visas (e.g. work, study, visitor): typically $185 to $315 USD <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Immigrant visa application fees: typically $325 to $345 USD <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Immigrant petition fees (USCIS): the I-130 family petition is $675 by post (or $625 online), and the I-140 employment petition is $715.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Additional costs may apply depending on your circumstances, including document processing and consular fees. For the most up-to-date fees, refer to the official <a href=\"https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/content\/travel\/en\/us-visas\/visa-information-resources\/fees\/fees-visa-services.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">U.S. Department of State website.<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">2. Medical Examination \/ Immigration Physical<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Immigrant visa (green card) applicants must undergo a <a href=\"https:\/\/uk.usembassy.gov\/immigration-medical-examination\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">medical exam<\/a> performed by the US Embassy&#8217;s approved panel physician in London before the visa interview. The fee is \u00a3400 for adults (15 and over) and \u00a3250 for children (roughly $530 and $330), with a \u00a3100 charge for missed or late-cancelled appointments. Most temporary visa categories, including tourist and the majority of work and study visas, do not require this exam unless the consular officer specifically requests it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">3. Skills Assessment<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Depending on the type of Visa, you may need a skills assessment. Expect to pay between $125-$380 or more.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">4. Immigration Attorney Fees<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If required, the cost for an Immigration Attorney is in the range of $1,500 \u2013 $3,000 for simple cases. More complex cases may cost more (upwards of $5,000). Learn more about <a href=\"https:\/\/us.iasservices.org.uk\/immigration-lawyer-costs\/#how-much-does-an-immigration-lawyer-cost\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">immigration lawyer costs.<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">5. Document Authentication and Notarization<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Some documents may require notarization or authentication which typically costs $50 to $150.00<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Travel and Relocation Costs<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">1. Flights<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For a one-way flight from the UK to the USA, expect to pay around $350 to $900 in 2026.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">2. Shipping Your Belongings<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Shipping your household goods from the UK to the USA typically costs between <strong>\u00a3680 and \u00a312,000+ in 2026<\/strong>, depending on the size of your move and the shipping method used.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For an average <strong>3-bedroom house<\/strong>, expect to pay around <strong>\u00a37,500 to \u00a39,000<\/strong> for a full container service.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Most moves are shipped by sea freight, which is significantly more cost-effective than air freight. Costs are primarily based on the total volume of goods being shipped, along with factors such as packing, insurance and final delivery location.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Typical Shipping Costs UK to USA (2026)<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table is-style-stripes\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><thead><tr><td><strong>Move Size<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Typical Cost<\/strong><\/td><th class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">Estimated Cost<\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td>Boxes \/ personal items only<\/td><td>Shared Container<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">\u00a3680 &#8211; \u00a31,200<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Studio \/ small move<\/td><td>Shared Container<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">\u00a31,000 &#8211; \u00a31,500<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>1-bed flat<\/td><td>Shared container<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">\u00a31,500 &#8211; \u00a32,500<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>2-bed house or flat<\/td><td>Shared Container<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">\u00a32,500 &#8211; \u00a34,500<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>3-bed house 20ft<\/td><td>Full container<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">\u00a37,500 &#8211; \u00a39,000<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>4+ bed house 40ft<\/td><td>Full container<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">\u00a39,000 &#8211; \u00a312,000+<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><tfoot><tr><td>Last Updated: March 2026<\/td><td><\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\"><\/td><\/tr><\/tfoot><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Prices are based on sea freight shipping, standard export packing and typical delivery to major US destinations like New York, Miami, Los Angeles, and Houston.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">3. Pet Shipping<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you have a pet that you would like to take with you, pet transport services to the USA are available and range from&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.fetchapet.co.uk\/pet-export\/usa\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">$1,700 &#8211; $8,200<\/a>&nbsp;depending on a variety of factors.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">4. Security Deposits and First Month\u2019s Rent<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Landlords in the US often require this upfront. For a 1 bedroom apartment at $1,500 per month, you should expect to pay $1,500 (first month\u2019s rent) plus the security deposit which can range from $1,500 \u2013 $3,000.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">5. Utilities<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You will likely need to place a deposit when setting up basic utilities such as electricity, gas and internet, especially as you are new to the country and do not have a US credit history. This deposit is typically two months of the billed service. You should expect to pay $315 \u2013 $1000 or higher, depending on you circumstances (family size, usage etc.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">6. Healthcare<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In the US, healthcare costs significantly surpass those in the UK, where the NHS covers most services for free. For example, a routine doctor\u2019s visit in the US can cost $150-$500 out-of-pocket, compared to being free under the NHS. Health insurance premiums in the US vary widely but can average between $550 and $1,000 per month for an individual, with family plans costing more.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">7. Car Shipping<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Did you know, you can ship a car from the UK to the USA duty free as long as it\u2019s over 25 years of age. You can find out more about the&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.autoshippers.co.uk\/blog\/everything-you-need-to-know-about-the-25-year-rule\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">US 25 year rule here<\/a>. Shipping costs around $1,100.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">8. Driving Licence<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The good news is in the short term you can drive for up to 3 months with your UK driving licence. If you plan to become a US resident then you will need to obtain a drivers licence. The process varies from state to state but generally involves passing a written knowledge test. Some states may waive the road test if you already hold a full UK driving licence. Expect to pay for a written or online test from $50.00 and then a licence fee which depends on which state you are resident in. You can find more information on each&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.usa.gov\/state-motor-vehicle-services\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">USA states driving requirements and apply for a state licence here<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Cost of Living Index by State<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">To further understand how living costs vary within the U.S., it\u2019s essential to look at the\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/worldpopulationreview.com\/state-rankings\/cost-of-living-index-by-state\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">cost of living indexes<\/a>\u00a0for different states. For example, Oklahoma has one of the lowest costs of living with an index of around 86, roughly 14% below the national average. At the opposite end, Hawaii sits highest at around 185, driven mainly by housing and the cost of shipping goods to the islands.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Here&#8217;s a quick look at some state comparisons:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Oklahoma: around 86 (among the lowest) <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Mississippi: around 87 <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>District of Columbia: around 148 <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Hawaii: around 185 (highest)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Final Thoughts<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Adding it all up, you should expect to pay between $13,000 and $30,000 to move from the UK to the USA in 2026. The final cost will depend on factors outlined above such as whether you are an individual or a family and the size of your move.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">While this upfront cost to move to America may seem large, the cost should be viewed as an investment in you and your family\u2019s future. Life in the United States may offer many benefits to areas such as your quality of life or career prospects.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">As a quick aside, here is a brief look at the average annual salaries in various U.S. States:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Northeast:<\/strong>&nbsp;$65,383<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>West:<\/strong>&nbsp;$60,579<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Midwest:<\/strong>&nbsp;$56,114<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>South:&nbsp;<\/strong>$54,718<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Some states have significantly higher average salaries, such as California at $73,000 and Massachusetts at $76,000. See more U.S. salary information here on&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/business\/average-salary-by-state\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">Forbes<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">While salaries are undoubtably higher in the USA compared to the UK, be sure to research salaries in your specific field and desired location. Also bear in mind that the cost of living in the U.S. is also higher than the UK which may eat into the difference slightly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Beyond the tangible benefits of higher income potentials and improved living standards, it\u2019s about the personal growth that comes with embracing a new culture and environment. The American Dream is very much alive for those who are prepared to embark on this journey with open eyes and a well-thought-out budget.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Our role at 1<sup>st<\/sup>&nbsp;Move International is the ease the transition for you and your family by providing comprehensive removals and relocation services to ensure that your move is fast, safe and seamless. From unbeatable packing to shipment protection cover, shipping to customs formalities, we handle every detail so you can focus on the exciting opportunities ahead.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">And while the process of <a href=\"https:\/\/www.shipit.co.uk\/removals-to-usa\">moving to the USA<\/a> involves navigating various costs and administrative hurdles, consider it a stepping stone towards achieving a better live overseas. With the right expectations and a solid budget, the financial commitment involved will pave the way for a fulfilling life for you and your family in one of the world\u2019s most developed countries.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>You can expect to pay between $13,000 (USD) to $30,000 (USD) or more to move to America from the UK. Your total moving costs will&#8230;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":3,"featured_media":1021,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_cloudinary_featured_overwrite":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[21,23],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-116901","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-guides","category-usa"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.shipit.co.uk\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/116901","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.shipit.co.uk\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.shipit.co.uk\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.shipit.co.uk\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/3"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.shipit.co.uk\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=116901"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/www.shipit.co.uk\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/116901\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":120188,"href":"https:\/\/www.shipit.co.uk\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/116901\/revisions\/120188"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.shipit.co.uk\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/1021"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.shipit.co.uk\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=116901"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.shipit.co.uk\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=116901"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.shipit.co.uk\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=116901"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}