Ready to start a new adventure in the United States? The USA remains one of the world's top destinations for expats, offering diverse landscapes, career opportunities, and cultural experiences unlike anywhere else. Whether you're moving for work, study, or a fresh start, this guide covers everything you need for a smooth relocation in 2026.
Searches such as "relocation to usa," "relocating service US," and "relocating company US" usually point to the same need: a verified mover that can explain packing options, ocean or air freight, insurance, and delivery timing. If you use UK or Commonwealth wording, removals to the States should still be planned as an international household move with clear quotes and documented inventory.
A search such as "move furniture to usa" is about relocating your household belongings, not generic freight. The decisions that matter are ocean versus air freight for furniture and large items, packing and crating for a long-distance move, US customs and import documentation, and a mover who specialises in door-to-door household delivery into the States.
The United States at a Glance
- Population
- Around 342 million
- Capital
- Washington, D.C.
- Currency
- US Dollar (USD)
- Average Salary
- Around $59,000/year ($4,500-5,500/month net)
- Language
- English (Spanish widely spoken in many regions)
- Climate
- Varies enormously — tropical (Hawaii/Florida) to arctic (Alaska)
- Time Zone
- 6 time zones: Eastern, Central, Mountain, Pacific, Alaska, Hawaii
Why Move to the United States in 2026
- Career opportunities: The world's largest economy with the highest salaries in many industries — tech, finance, healthcare, and engineering offer exceptional compensation.
- Entrepreneurial culture: The USA is the global leader in startups and innovation. E-2 investor visas make it accessible for entrepreneurs.
- Diverse landscapes: From New York's skyline to California's beaches, Colorado's mountains to Florida's sunshine — choose your climate and lifestyle.
- World-class education: Home to the most prestigious universities globally. K-12 public education is free for residents.
- Cultural diversity: A true melting pot — every culture, cuisine, and community exists somewhere in America.
- No language barrier for English speakers: Daily life, bureaucracy, and business are all in English.
- Innovation hub: Silicon Valley, Boston biotech, Austin tech, NYC finance — cutting-edge industries everywhere.
Moving Costs to the United States
Costs by Origin Region
| Origin | Estimated Cost Range | Shipment Type |
|---|---|---|
| UK to USA | $3,000 - $6,000 | 20ft container |
| Europe to USA | $3,200 - $6,500 | 20ft container |
| Australia to USA | $4,000 - $8,500 | 20ft container |
| Within USA (long distance) | $1,500 - $5,000 | 20ft container |
Component Costs Explained
- Transportation: $1,000 - $5,000 depending on distance and volume
- Insurance: $100 - $400
- Customs clearance: $200 - $600 (for international moves)
- Packing materials: $100 - $300
- Storage: $50 - $200/month
Real-life case: "I relocated to New York City in April 2025 with about 15 cubic meters of belongings using a shared 20-ft container. The total cost, including customs clearance and delivery, was around $3,200. The shipment arrived in about four weeks." — Simon C., moved in April 2025
Need a personalised estimate?
Get three vetted moving-company quotes in under 48 hours.
Visa & Residency Requirements
Main Visa Categories
Most used
H-1B (Specialty Occupation)
- Who it's for: Professionals with a bachelor's degree or higher in a specialized field
- Requirements: Job offer from US employer, employer files petition with USCIS
- Duration: 3 years, extendable to 6 years
- Annual cap: 65,000 + 20,000 for US master's degree holders (selection system)
- Key detail: As of 2026, a $100,000 supplemental fee applies to H-1B petitions for beneficiaries abroad (effective Sept 2025). Starting FY 2027, the random lottery is being replaced by a wage-weighted selection system that favors higher-paid positions.
- Note: Very competitive — apply early. Consult an immigration attorney for current rules.
L-1 (Intracompany Transfer)
- Who it's for: Employees transferring within the same company to a US office
- Requirements: 1 year employment with the company abroad, managerial/executive (L-1A) or specialized knowledge (L-1B)
- Duration: L-1A up to 7 years, L-1B up to 5 years
- Key detail: No annual cap — good option if your company has US offices
O-1 (Extraordinary Ability)
- Who it's for: Individuals with extraordinary ability in sciences, arts, education, business, or athletics
- Requirements: Evidence of extraordinary achievement (awards, publications, high salary)
- Duration: Initial stay up to 3 years for the specific event/engagement; extensions available in 1-year increments with no maximum cap
- Key detail: No annual cap — excellent for top professionals
E-2 (Treaty Investor)
- Who it's for: Nationals of treaty countries investing in a US business
- Requirements: Substantial investment in a real, operating business
- Duration: 2 years, renewable indefinitely
- Key detail: Not available to all nationalities — check treaty list
F-1 (Student Visa)
- Who it's for: Students enrolled in US educational institutions
- Requirements: Acceptance at SEVP-certified school, proof of funds
- Duration: Duration of studies + OPT (1-3 years for STEM)
- Key detail: OPT (Optional Practical Training) allows 12 months work after graduation; STEM extends to 36 months
J-1 (Exchange Visitor)
- Who it's for: Exchange programs — au pairs, interns, researchers, teachers
- Requirements: Program sponsor, DS-2019 form
- Duration: Varies by program (6 months to 5 years)
- Key detail: Some J-1 categories require 2-year home residency after program
Green Card (Permanent Residence)
- EB-1: Extraordinary ability, outstanding professors/researchers, multinational managers
- EB-2: Advanced degree professionals or exceptional ability
- EB-3: Skilled workers, professionals, other workers
- EB-5: Investors ($800,000-$1,050,000 investment)
- Diversity Visa Lottery: 55,000 green cards annually to citizens of eligible countries
- 9-digit number issued to US citizens, permanent residents, and temporary workers
- Required for employment, tax filing, banking, and credit building
- Apply at Social Security Administration office after arriving with work authorization
- For non-residents and others who need a US tax ID but aren't eligible for SSN
- Apply through the IRS with Form W-7
Finding Housing in the United States
The US housing market varies enormously by city and region.
Average Rents by Major City (2025-2026)
| City | 1-Bedroom (Center) | 1-Bedroom (Outside) | Market Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| New York City | $3,000 - $5,500 | $1,500 - $2,500 | Extremely competitive |
| San Francisco | $2,500 - $3,800 | $1,800 - $2,800 | Extremely competitive |
| Los Angeles | $1,800 - $2,800 | $1,300 - $2,000 | Very competitive |
| Chicago | $1,400 - $2,200 | $900 - $1,500 | Competitive |
| Houston | $1,100 - $1,800 | $800 - $1,300 | Moderate |
| Phoenix | $1,000 - $1,600 | $800 - $1,200 | Moderate |
How to Find Housing
Online Platforms:
- Zillow.com: Largest US property portal
- Apartments.com: Apartment-focused listings
- Craigslist: Direct-from-owner listings (watch for scams)
- Facebook Marketplace: Increasingly popular for rentals
Required Documents for Renting
- Valid ID/passport
- SSN or ITIN
- Proof of income (pay stubs, offer letter — typically 3x rent required)
- Credit report (FICO score — see below)
- References from previous landlords
- Application fee: $25-$75 per application
Credit Score (FICO) — Critical for Renting
The US credit score system is unlike anything in Europe. Your FICO score (300-850) determines your ability to rent apartments, get loans, and even affects some job applications.
- As a newcomer: You likely have NO credit history, which makes renting harder
- Building credit: Get a secured credit card, use it responsibly, pay in full monthly
- Alternatives for newcomers: Some landlords accept international credit reports, larger deposits, or co-signers
- Services: Nova Credit can translate international credit histories for US landlords
Tips for Foreigners
- Have proof of income ready — landlords want to see 3x the monthly rent in income
- Be prepared to pay first month + last month + security deposit upfront
- In competitive markets (NYC, SF), apartments go within hours — be ready to decide
- Consider short-term furnished rentals (Furnished Finder, Airbnb) while you build credit
Healthcare & Insurance
The US has NO universal healthcare. Insurance is essential and can be very expensive.
How Healthcare Works
- Employer-sponsored: Most working Americans get health insurance through their employer (typically covers employee + family)
- ACA Marketplace (Obamacare): For self-employed, unemployed, or those without employer coverage — subsidies available based on income
- Medicaid: Free/low-cost coverage for low-income individuals (varies by state)
- Medicare: For 65+ and certain disabled individuals
- COBRA: Temporary continuation of employer coverage after leaving a job (expensive — you pay full premium)
Health Insurance Costs
- Employer-sponsored: $100-$500/month (employee share; employer pays remainder)
- ACA Marketplace: $200-$700/month (without subsidies)
- Deductibles: $1,000-$8,000/year before insurance kicks in
- Out-of-pocket maximum: $10,600 individual / $21,200 family (2026 ACA limits)
Critical Warning
Medical costs in the US without insurance are astronomical:
- ER visit: $1,000-$5,000+
- Hospital stay: $2,000-$10,000+/day
- Ambulance ride: $500-$2,000
- Prescription medications: Often much more expensive than other countries
Always have health insurance in the USA.
Get a personalised relocation plan
Drop your email and we'll send a tailored checklist plus three quotes from vetted movers.
Banking & Finance
Opening a Bank Account
Required documents:
- Valid passport
- Visa or proof of legal status
- Proof of US address (utility bill, lease)
- SSN or ITIN (some banks allow opening without)
- Initial deposit ($25-$100)
Top banks
Top pick
Chase
- Largest US bank
- extensive ATM network
Bank of America
- Nationwide presence
- good for newcomers
Wells Fargo
- Large branch network
Citibank
- Good for international transfers
Capital One
- Good online banking
- no-fee accounts
Credit Card and Building Credit
Get a credit card immediately to start building your FICO score:
- Secured credit card: Deposit-based, guaranteed approval — best for newcomers
- Discover it Secured: Popular starter card
- Capital One Platinum: Good for limited credit history
- Always pay in full each month — this builds credit without paying interest
Tax System
- Federal income tax: Progressive rates from 10% to 37%
- State income tax: 0% (Texas, Florida, Nevada, etc.) to 13.3% (California)
- Social Security: 6.2% of gross income (employee share)
- Medicare: 1.45% of gross income (employee share)
- No VAT: Sales tax varies by state (0% in Oregon to ~10% in some areas)
- April 15: Tax filing deadline every year — even if you leave the US, you may owe taxes
Important: The US taxes citizens and residents on worldwide income. Consult a tax professional.
401(k) and Retirement
- 401(k): Employer-sponsored retirement savings — employer often matches contributions (free money!)
- IRA/Roth IRA: Individual retirement accounts — tax-advantaged savings
- No mandatory pension: Unlike Europe, retirement savings are largely your responsibility
Cost of Living in the United States
Monthly Budget Breakdown by City
| City | One-Person Budget | Family of 3 Budget | Cost Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| New York City | $3,000 - $5,000 | $5,500 - $10,000 | Very High |
| San Francisco | $3,000 - $5,000 | $5,500 - $10,000 | Very High |
| Los Angeles | $2,200 - $3,800 | $4,000 - $7,500 | High |
| Chicago | $1,800 - $3,000 | $3,500 - $6,000 | Moderate-High |
| Houston | $1,400 - $2,400 | $2,800 - $4,500 | Moderate |
| Phoenix | $1,300 - $2,200 | $2,500 - $4,000 | Moderate |
Detailed Cost Breakdown
Housing:
- 1-bedroom (city center): $1,500 - $4,000/month (varies enormously)
- 1-bedroom (outside center): $900 - $2,500/month
- Utilities: $100 - $300/month
- Internet: $30 - $80/month
Groceries & Food:
- Monthly groceries (1 person): $300 - $600
- Restaurant meal (inexpensive): $12 - $20
- Mid-range restaurant for 2: $50 - $100
- Coffee (Starbucks): $3 - $6
Transportation:
- Monthly transit pass: $60 - $130 (NYC uses OMNY tap-and-ride, base fare $3/ride; many cities: no good transit)
- Car payment: $300 - $700/month (almost essential outside major cities)
- Car insurance: $100 - $300/month
- Gas: $3 - $4/gallon (varies by state)
Comparison with Other Countries
- vs UK: USA is 10-20% more expensive overall; salaries are higher but healthcare costs can be enormous
- vs Germany: USA is 15-25% more expensive; healthcare, education, and childcare are dramatically more costly
- vs Australia: Comparable in many aspects; USA has higher salary ceiling but less social safety net
Language & Culture Tips
Although most official business is conducted in English, the Census Bureau estimates that more than 350 languages are spoken in the United States.
Common Non-English Languages
- Spanish: One of the fastest-growing languages. Hispanic communities in every state. Essential in Miami, LA, and much of the Southwest.
- Chinese: Large communities in California, New York, and Texas.
- Tagalog (Filipino): Concentrated in California.
Cultural Norms
Tipping culture:
- Restaurants: 18-22% of the bill (expected — servers depend on tips)
- Bars: $1-2 per drink or 15-20% of tab
- Taxis/Uber: 15-20%
- Haircuts: 15-20%
- Delivery: $3-5 minimum
- Not tipping is considered very rude
Social norms:
- Americans are generally friendly and outgoing — small talk is common
- Personal space is respected — arm's length in conversations
- Diversity is celebrated — people from every background
- Work culture can be intense — limited vacation (often only 10-15 days/year)
Regional differences:
- East Coast: Faster pace, more formal (NYC, Boston)
- West Coast: Relaxed, outdoor-oriented (LA, Seattle, Portland)
- South: Warm, hospitable, slower pace (Atlanta, Nashville, Houston)
- Midwest: Friendly, down-to-earth (Chicago, Minneapolis)
- Texas: Independent, proud, everything is bigger
Moving Checklist
3 Months Before Moving
- Research visa requirements and start application
- Secure job offer or university acceptance
- Get quotes from international moving companies
- Research cities and neighborhoods
- Arrange health insurance coverage for arrival
1-2 Months Before Moving
- Apply for US visa at embassy/consulate
- Book moving company or shipping
- Arrange temporary accommodation for first 1-3 months
- Notify banks and institutions in home country
2-4 Weeks Before Moving
- Pack belongings
- Arrange travel (flights)
- Gather important documents (birth certificate, diplomas, medical records)
- Get sufficient prescription medications for transition period
First Week in the US
- Get US phone number (T-Mobile, AT&T, Verizon, or MVNOs like Mint Mobile)
- Open US bank account
- Apply for SSN at Social Security office (if eligible)
- Apply for secured credit card to start building credit
First Two Weeks
- Begin housing search
- Get US health insurance (employer, ACA marketplace, or short-term)
- Set up US address for mail
- Get a driver's licence or state ID
First Month
- Sign a lease and move into permanent housing
- Set up utilities (electricity, water, internet)
- Register car or purchase one (essential in most cities)
- Explore your neighborhood and community
Frequently asked
Job Market and Salaries
When looking for jobs, consider the living costs of your target city. The most in-demand jobs include:
- Software Engineer: $90,000 - $200,000+/year
- Data Scientist: $85,000 - $170,000/year
- Nurse Practitioner: $110,000 - $140,000/year
- Product Manager: $100,000 - $180,000/year
- Financial Analyst: $70,000 - $130,000/year
Education System
K-12 Education
- Public Schools: Free for residents, funded by local property taxes. Quality varies by district.
- Private Schools: $10,000 - $40,000+/year
- Charter Schools: Publicly funded, independently operated
Higher Education
- Community Colleges: $3,000 - $10,000/year (2-year programs)
- Public Universities: $10,000 - $25,000/year (in-state); $25,000 - $50,000 (out-of-state)
- Private Universities: $35,000 - $60,000+/year
Student Visas (F-1)
- Can work on-campus up to 20 hours/week during term
- OPT allows 12 months work after graduation (36 months for STEM)
Internet, TV, and Mobile Services
Internet Providers
- Comcast Xfinity: Available in 39 states
- AT&T Fiber: Available in 21 states
- Spectrum: Available in 41 states
- Cost: $30-$150/month depending on speed
Mobile Phone
- Major carriers: Verizon, AT&T, T-Mobile
- Budget options: Mint Mobile, Visible, Cricket
- Cost: $25-$90/month
TV Services
- Streaming dominant: Netflix, Hulu, YouTube TV, Disney+
- Cable declining but still available: Comcast, Spectrum
- Cost: $25-$100/month for streaming bundles
Where to Find Tools and Resources
ReloAdvisor Tools:
- Volume calculator
- Video survey
- Moving cost calculator
Official US Resources:
- USCIS — Immigration and citizenship
- USA.gov — Official government portal
- Social Security Administration — SSN applications
Expat Communities:
- Expat.com USA
- Internations USA
- InterNations — Global expat network
Related Guides:
- Moving to Canada
- Moving to the UK
