Moving from London to Los Angeles represents a significant life change that requires careful planning and understanding of both cities’ distinct characteristics.
Before You Move: Essential Planning
The first step is securing the right to live and work in the US through appropriate visas or permits.
- Employment-based visas (H-1B, L-1, E-2)
- Family-based immigration
- Investment visas (EB-5)
Cost Considerations
Los Angeles typically offers more space for your money compared to London, but certain areas like Beverly Hills or Santa Monica can be equally expensive.
| Expense | London | Los Angeles |
|---|---|---|
| Average Rent (1 bed) | £1,700 | $2,200 |
| Public Transport | £150 | $100 |
| Utilities | £150 | $120 |
Healthcare Changes
Unlike the NHS, healthcare in Los Angeles is primarily private, requiring comprehensive health insurance coverage.
Practical Moving Tips
- Ship belongings 2-3 months ahead of your move
- Consider selling large furniture items instead of shipping
- Get quotes from international moving companies like Crown Relocations or Allied
- Organize important documents in a separate carry-on
Transportation Differences
While London relies heavily on public transport, Los Angeles is predominantly car-dependent.
Getting Settled
- Set up a US bank account (Bank of America and Chase have extensive networks)
- Obtain a California driver’s license within 10 days of establishing residency
- Register for a Social Security number if working
- Find housing in areas that match your lifestyle (Santa Monica for beach life, Pasadena for families)
Recommended Areas for Ex-Londoners
- Santa Monica: Beach living with walkable areas
- Silver Lake: Hip area with coffee shops and boutiques
- Pasadena: Family-friendly with good schools
- Downtown LA: Urban feel similar to London
Cultural Adjustments
Los Angeles operates on a different schedule than London, with earlier dining times and a more casual approach to business.
Useful Resources
- British Consulate in Los Angeles: +1 (310) 789-0031
- British American Business Council: www.babcla.org
- DMV California: www.dmv.ca.gov
- Social Security Administration: www.ssa.gov
Contact a relocation specialist or immigration lawyer for personalized guidance on your specific situation.
Weather and Lifestyle Changes
Los Angeles offers year-round sunshine compared to London’s variable weather, requiring different wardrobe and lifestyle adjustments.
- Average LA temperatures: 15-29°C (60-85°F)
- Minimal rainfall compared to London
- More outdoor lifestyle opportunities
Seasonal Activities
Unlike London’s indoor-focused winters, LA maintains consistent outdoor activities throughout the year.
Professional Life
The work culture in Los Angeles differs significantly from London, particularly in creative and entertainment industries.
- Earlier working hours (typically 8am-5pm)
- More casual business attire
- Different networking approaches
- Industry-specific hubs (Entertainment in Burbank, Tech in Silicon Beach)
Education Considerations
For families with children, understanding the US education system is crucial.
- Public vs. private school options
- School district variations
- Different academic calendar (August-June)
Conclusion
Moving from London to Los Angeles requires thorough preparation across various aspects of life, from legal requirements to lifestyle adjustments. Success in the transition depends on:
- Proper visa and immigration planning
- Understanding healthcare differences
- Adapting to car-dependent lifestyle
- Establishing necessary financial and legal arrangements
- Being prepared for cultural and climate changes
With careful planning and an open mind to new experiences, the transition can be a rewarding adventure offering unique opportunities for personal and professional growth.
FAQs
- What visa do I need to move from London to Los Angeles?
You’ll need either an immigrant visa (Green Card) or an appropriate non-immigrant visa such as an H-1B (work), L-1 (transfer), or E-2 (investor). The specific visa depends on your purpose of relocation and qualifications. - How do I transfer my UK driving license to a California one?
You must apply for a California driver’s license within 10 days of establishing residency. You’ll need to take a written test, vision test, and possibly a driving test. Your UK license won’t automatically transfer. - What’s the average cost of living difference between London and Los Angeles?
While rent prices are similar in both cities, Los Angeles generally has lower overall living costs than London. However, healthcare costs in LA are significantly higher, and you’ll likely need a car, which adds transportation expenses. - Do I need to establish credit history when moving to the US?
Yes, UK credit history doesn’t transfer to the US. You’ll need to build US credit from scratch, typically starting with a secured credit card or becoming an authorized user on someone else’s card. - How do I arrange international shipping of my belongings?
Use an international moving company that specializes in UK-US relocations. Sea freight takes 6-8 weeks but is most economical. Air freight is faster but significantly more expensive. - What’s the process for bringing pets from the UK to Los Angeles?
Pets need an ISO microchip, valid rabies vaccination, and health certificate issued within 10 days of travel. Dogs must be vaccinated against rabies at least 30 days before arrival if it’s their first vaccination. - How does the healthcare system differ from the NHS?
The US healthcare system is primarily private and insurance-based. You’ll need to secure health insurance either through your employer or privately, with significant out-of-pocket costs compared to the NHS. - What areas in Los Angeles are popular with British expats?
Santa Monica, Marina Del Rey, and West Hollywood are popular among British expats due to their walkability, proximity to the beach, and European-style amenities. - How do I set up basic utilities and banking in Los Angeles?
You’ll need to set up accounts with LADWP for water and power, SoCalGas for gas, and choose an internet provider. For banking, bring your passport, visa, and proof of address to open an account at major banks like Bank of America, Chase, or Wells Fargo. - What tax implications should I consider when moving from the UK to LA?
You’ll need to file both US federal and California state tax returns. The US-UK tax treaty prevents double taxation, but you may need to continue filing UK tax returns if you maintain UK income sources or spend significant time there.