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London, UK: Cost of Living, Healthcare, Local Clubs and Activities, Healthcare and What to Know About Living in London | Expat Exchange
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Berwick Street in London's Soho Neighborhood

London

By Joshua Wood, LPC

Last updated on Jun 01, 2024

Summary: London, UK is a vibrant, bustling city with a rich history and culture. Expats love the diversity of the city, the abundance of activities and attractions, and the easy access to the rest of Europe. The weather in London is generally mild, with temperatures ranging from the mid-30s to the mid-60s Fahrenheit (1-18 Celsius). The cost of living for an expat in London can vary greatly depending on lifestyle and location. Generally, the average cost of living for an expat in London is around $3,000-$4,000 USD per month. The cost of a one bedroom apartment in London can range from $1,500-$2,500 USD per month, while a two bedroom apartment can range from $2,000-$3,500 USD per month. The population of London is estimated to be around 8.9 million people.

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What do I need to know about living in London?

When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to London, they said:

"Before retiring in London, expats should research the cost of living in the city, as it is one of the most expensive cities in the world. They should also familiarise themselves with the UK's taxation system, as this will affect their pension income. Additionally, expats should consider the availability of healthcare services, as well as the quality of public transport in the city. It is also important to research the different neighbourhoods in London, as each area has its own unique character and amenities. Finally, expats should consider the language barrier, as English is the primary language spoken in London," wrote a member in London.

"Do not come unless you have no other choice. The weather is horrible, well except if you come from Scandinavia. If you do come, equip yourself for rainy and cold weather. Work and save up money for traveling, you get amazing deals to explore Europe and the world. Don't let them talk down to you," commented one expat who made the move to London.

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What do I need to know before moving to London?

When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to London, they said:

"Do it the same way like me, I am happy with my accomodation. However I do not like London, but I did not like it before I came here either. Weather, prices, social climate," said one expat who made the move to London.

"Before moving to London, expats should be aware of the cost of living, which is generally higher than in other parts of the UK. They should also research the different areas of London to find the best place to live for their needs. Additionally, expats should familiarize themselves with the public transportation system, which is extensive and efficient. It is also important to understand the UK visa and immigration process, as well as the local laws and customs. Finally, expats should be aware of the cultural diversity of London, which is home to people from all over the world," explained one expat living in London, England.

How do I find a place to live in London?

We asked expats how they chose their neighborhood and found a place to live. They answered:

"When looking for a place to live in London, it is important to consider your budget, desired location, and the type of accommodation you are looking for. Start by researching different areas of London to determine which areas best suit your needs. Consider factors such as proximity to public transportation, local amenities, and safety. Once you have narrowed down your search, you can begin looking for rental properties. Websites such as Rightmove, Zoopla, and Spareroom are great resources for finding rental properties in London. Additionally, you can contact local estate agents to help you find a place to live," commented one expat who made the move to London.

"Looked at map, found most convenient place for public transportation. Checked the neighborhood in a short weekend vacation before. Rented house with help of internet and let someone from the company check it out," remarked one expat living in London, UK.

What is a typical expat home or apartment like in London?

"Live in traditional terraced house. Some expats prefer city of London for living. I prefer suburb like now, living with the locals. Much more space for the money," wrote one member in London.

"Expat homes and apartments in London tend to be modern and well-equipped, with plenty of amenities. Many come with a fully-equipped kitchen, spacious living areas, and comfortable bedrooms. Many also have access to a balcony or terrace, offering stunning views of the city. Expat homes and apartments in London are often located in desirable areas, close to parks, shops, restaurants, and other attractions," remarked one expat who made the move to London.

What is the average cost of housing in London?

If you are thinking about moving to London, cost of living in probably a key consideration. Expats commented about the cost of housing:

"Much higher than Frankfurt Germany small house costs 1500$ excluding expenses 20 min by train from city (and that's a bargain! don't ask me where I live). Houses built like **** but everywhere the same, miss German quality very much," wrote a member in London.

"The cost of housing in London is generally quite high. The average cost of renting a one-bedroom apartment in London is around £1,500 per month, while the average cost of buying a property in London is around £500,000. Prices can vary significantly depending on the area and type of property," commented one expat who made the move to London.

How do I meet people in London?

When we asked people living in London about club and activities where newcomers can meet others, they responded:

"Because of the sheer diversity of London's people, simply going down to a local pub will offer you many opportunities to socialise and make new friends," wrote one member in London.

"Expats in London can join a variety of clubs and activities to meet people and make friends. Popular activities include joining a sports team, attending a language exchange, or joining a local meetup group. Expats can also meet people by attending cultural events, such as art exhibitions, music festivals, and theatre performances. Additionally, many expats find it helpful to join online forums and social media groups related to their interests. Finally, expats can also meet people by attending networking events, such as business conferences and seminars," remarked one expat who made the move to London.

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What should I bring when moving to London?

People living in London were asked what three things they wish they had brought and three they wish they had left behind. They wrote:

"I should have brought a years supply of german beer or more, a years supply of german sausages and a years supply of german brown bread. No need for bikes (streets in London too narrow), some wardrobes (a lot of built in wardrobes in houses or appartments here) and house with garden (no time no weather to sit there)," remarked one expat who made the move to London.

"When moving to London, it is important to pack items that will help you adjust to the climate and lifestyle. Pack warm clothing such as sweaters, coats, and scarves, as well as rain gear like an umbrella and waterproof shoes. Additionally, it is important to bring items that will help you feel at home, such as pictures of family and friends, favorite books, and any other items that will make you feel comfortable. Don't forget to bring any necessary documents such as a passport, visa, and other important paperwork. Finally, make sure to bring any necessary electronics such as a laptop, phone, and chargers," explained one expat living in London, England.

Where should I setup a bank account in London?

We asked expats in London what banks they use and there advice about banking. They advised:

"Before retiring in London, expats should research the cost of living in the city, as it is one of the most expensive cities in the world. They should also familiarise themselves with the UK's taxation system, as this will affect their pension income. Additionally, expats should consider the availability of healthcare services, as well as the quality of public transport in the city. It is also important to research the different neighbourhoods in London, as each area has its own unique character and amenities. Finally, expats should consider the language barrier, as English is the primary language spoken in London," wrote a member in London.

Will I be able to find a job in London?

When we asked people about industries and career opportunities in London, they reponded:

"Services: Banking, sales, telemarketing, travel industry, Accounting. People find work most of the time through an agency which will take a chunk off your salary away but it's nearly the only way. Alternatively there is a public job search centres in every borough," wrote one member in London.

"Foreigners often have a variety of jobs in London, such as working in hospitality, retail, finance, technology, and other professional services. They may also work in the creative industries, such as film, television, music, and fashion. Additionally, many foreigners work in the education sector, teaching English as a foreign language or providing other language instruction. Other popular jobs for foreigners include working as a nanny or au pair, or in the health care sector," remarked one expat who made the move to London.

What is life like in London?

When we asked people living in London what life is like and how people spend their time, they said:

"Life in London revolves around work. From my personal experience work is almost the only way to meet and become friends with people. This being if you find work at all, because is you are from overseas employers don't consider you competent enough despite of your flawless English and experience, so you start often at training level. However if you are a citizen of a common wealth country you are treated a little better. I find the English to be very funny, polite, organised and tolerant, but never embrasing. I find that different nationalitys and races live in harmony here but they often don't mix I feel people in London could be more open and friendly. I must say though, that as a gay man in my late 20's I could not ask for more entertainment alternatives and many are offered to the gay market, London is great like that. One last coment, my boyfriend is from New Zealand and our group of friends is formed only by expats, what a shame," said one expat who made the move to London.

"Life for expats and digital nomads in London is vibrant and exciting. The city offers a wide range of cultural activities, from world-class museums and galleries to theatre and music. There is a diverse range of restaurants, bars, and pubs to explore, as well as plenty of green spaces to relax in. The city is well connected, with excellent public transport links, making it easy to get around. The cost of living can be high, but there are plenty of affordable options available. Expats and digital nomads in London can also benefit from the city's strong job market, with many opportunities for remote work," explained one expat living in London, England.

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What do expats in London appreciate most about the local culture?

"Expats in London appreciate the city's rich history and cultural diversity. They enjoy the vibrant nightlife, the wide variety of restaurants, and the many cultural attractions. They also appreciate the city's excellent public transportation system, which makes it easy to get around. Additionally, expats appreciate the friendly locals and the fact that London is a truly international city, with people from all over the world living and working there," said one expat in London.

What do expats find most challenging?

"Expats in London often find the local culture to be quite different from what they are used to. The pace of life can be quite fast and the cost of living can be high. Additionally, the weather can be unpredictable and the public transport system can be confusing to navigate. Furthermore, the language barrier can be a challenge for those who do not speak English as their first language. Finally, the cultural norms and expectations can be difficult to adjust to, as they may be quite different from what expats are used to," commented one expat who made the move to London.

Is there a lot of crime in London?

We asked people if there is a lot of crime. They answered:

"Crime is a reality in London, as it is in many cities around the world. While the overall crime rate in London has been decreasing in recent years, there are still areas of the city where crime is more prevalent. Violent crime, such as knife crime, is a particular concern in some parts of the city. In addition, there is a significant problem with property crime, such as burglary and theft. The Metropolitan Police Service works hard to tackle crime in London, and the city remains a safe place to live and visit," wrote a member in London.

Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in London accepting of differences?

"London gives New York a run for its money in terms of diversity. More nationalities are represented than probably any other city in the world. In general, Londoners are very accepting or diversity, - although, like anywhere there are skinheads, and the like," remarked one expat who made the move to London.

"London is a very diverse city, with people from all over the world living and working there. Londoners are generally very accepting of differences, and the city is known for its multiculturalism and tolerance. London is home to a wide variety of cultures, religions, and lifestyles, and this diversity is celebrated and embraced," explained one expat living in London, England.

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What are the schools in London like?

"If you go and look at the school, don't judge it based on their premises. Speak to the director of administration, look at the classes, speak to the head teacher and if possible, to the teacher of the class where your child is supposed to go. Visit their Website at www.skola.co.uk," explained one expat living in London, UK.

"The American School in London (ASL) is one of the best international schools in London. It is a co-educational, independent day school for students aged 3 to 18. ASL offers a rigorous American-style curriculum, with a strong emphasis on the arts, sciences, and technology. The school also offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, including sports, music, and drama. The French Lycée International de Londres Winston Churchill is a bilingual school in London, UK. It is a co-educational school for students aged 3 to 18, offering a French curriculum with an emphasis on the sciences and humanities. The school also offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, including sports, music, and drama. The German School London is a bilingual school in London, UK. It is a co-educational school for students aged 3 to 18, offering a German curriculum with an emphasis on the sciences and humanities. The school also offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, including sports, music, and drama. The International Community School (ICS) is a bilingual school in London, UK. It is a co-educational school for students aged 3 to 18, offering a curriculum based on the International Baccalaureate (IB) program. The school also offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, including sports, music, and drama," said one parent with children at in London.

What are the pros and cons of living in London?

Expats, digital nomads and retirees living in London responded:

"London is a very international city with many opportunities, however it can be expensive. You can make friends and date, however you need to make an effort. Unfortunately the British are quite insular and Brexit has not helped this and will not help the country economically in future. The National Health Service is overall quite good, however you sometimes need to be assertive to get what you need as they're always trying to save money. The cost of housing can be quite high, but that doesn't mean the quality or cleanliness is good. Renting a nice, clean flat at a reasonable price can be problematic," said an expat in London.

"Expats and digital nomads often appreciate the vibrant culture and diverse population of London. They also enjoy the city's excellent public transportation system, which makes it easy to get around. Additionally, London is home to a wide variety of restaurants, shops, and entertainment venues, making it a great place to explore and experience new things. On the other hand, expats and digital nomads may find the cost of living in London to be quite high, and the city can be quite crowded and noisy," remarked one expat in London.

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What type of social life can someone expect in London?

When we asked expats and global nomads about their social experiences in London, they replied:

"London is very international and if you make an effort you can have friends from a variety of countries," wrote one expat living in London.

"Expats, retirees and digital nomads living in London typically have an active social life. There are many opportunities to meet people from all over the world, as well as locals, through a variety of activities such as attending meet-ups, joining clubs and societies, and taking part in cultural events. London is also home to a vibrant nightlife, with plenty of bars, pubs, and clubs to explore. Additionally, there are many online communities and forums that expats, retirees and digital nomads can join to connect with like-minded people," commented one expat who moved to London.

"London is a vibrant and diverse city with a wide range of social activities to suit all tastes. From traditional pubs and clubs to modern bars and restaurants, there is something for everyone. There are also plenty of cultural events, such as theatre, music, art and film, as well as a variety of festivals throughout the year. London is also home to a thriving nightlife, with a range of clubs and bars to suit all tastes. Whether you're looking for a quiet evening out or a wild night on the town, London has something for everyone," said one expat living in London.

What advice to expats in London have about housing?

"1. Research the area you are interested in living in thoroughly before committing to a rental agreement. 2. Consider the cost of living in the area, including transportation, groceries, and other amenities. 3. Be aware of the different types of housing available, such as flats, houses, and apartments. 4. Make sure to read the tenancy agreement carefully before signing it. 5. Ask for references from previous landlords or tenants. 6. Be aware of the different types of tenancy agreements, such as assured shorthold tenancies and periodic tenancies. 7. Consider the safety of the area, including the crime rate and the quality of the local schools. 8. Be aware of the different types of fees associated with renting, such as deposits, agency fees, and utility bills. 9. Make sure to budget for the cost of moving, including packing materials, removal services, and storage. 10. Consider the proximity of the property to your workplace, public transportation, and other amenities," commented one expat who moved to London.

What are medical services in London like?

When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in London, they replied:

"NHS is okay for minor healthcare - check ups, vaccines, etc. that said, the women's check up (PAP smea) is archaic! Facilities don't have the proper examination table-stirrups to do a thorough screen," commented one expat living in London, UK.

"London offers a wide range of medical services to its residents. The National Health Service (NHS) provides free healthcare to all UK citizens, including those living in London. The NHS offers a variety of services, including general practice, hospital care, mental health services, and specialist services. Private healthcare is also available in London, with a range of private hospitals and clinics offering a variety of treatments. London also has a number of walk-in centres and urgent care centres, providing quick access to medical care for minor illnesses and injuries," remarked one expat living in London.

Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in London?

"Healthcare and health insurance in London can be expensive. The cost of healthcare in the UK is largely determined by the National Health Service (NHS), which provides free healthcare to all UK citizens. However, private healthcare and health insurance can be costly, as they are not covered by the NHS. Private health insurance can cover a range of services, such as specialist consultations, diagnostic tests, and treatments, which are not available on the NHS. Additionally, private health insurance can provide access to shorter waiting times for appointments and treatments," said an expat in London.

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Is the cost of living in London high?

We asked people about the cost of living in London, they wrote:

"The cost of living in London is generally considered to be high. Rent prices for a nice 1 bedroom apartment in London, UK can range from around $2,000 to $3,000 USD per month, while a nice 2 bedroom apartment can range from around $3,000 to $4,500 USD per month. Eating dinner at a moderately priced restaurant in London, UK can cost around $20 USD per person," mentioned one expat inLondon.

What are the visa & residency requirements in London?

"In order to visit London, a visitor must obtain a visa prior to their arrival. The process of applying for a visa involves submitting an application form, providing supporting documents, and paying the applicable fee. Depending on the type of visa, the applicant may also need to attend an interview. In order to become a resident of London, UK, an individual must apply for a residence permit. The process of applying for residency involves submitting an application form, providing supporting documents, and paying the applicable fee. Depending on the type of residence permit, the applicant may also need to attend an interview. Additionally, the applicant may need to provide proof of their financial means and/or proof of their employment status," said an expat in London.

Why do people move to London?

When we asked people why foreigners move to London, they responded:

"London is a vibrant and cosmopolitan city, offering a wealth of cultural, educational and career opportunities. It is a global hub for business, finance, media, art, fashion, research, technology, education, and entertainment. The city is home to some of the world's most iconic landmarks, such as the Houses of Parliament, Buckingham Palace, and the Tower of London. London is also renowned for its excellent transport links, with five international airports, an extensive underground network, and a comprehensive bus and rail network. The city is also renowned for its diverse and multicultural population, with over 300 languages spoken in the city. Additionally, London is a great place to live, with a wide range of housing options, excellent healthcare, and a high quality of life. All of these factors make London an attractive destination for expats looking to relocate," commented one expat who moved to London.

About the Author

Joshua Wood Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.

Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.

Berwick Street in London's Soho Neighborhood

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