England exists in a bit of a bubble. Despite its island status and Brexit-shaped foot out the door, the country remains at the heart of European culture and history. Think castles, witch trials, and literary icons like Shakespeare and the Brontës. If you’re moving to England for studies or career growth, London’s pull is strong—and with so much on offer, the famously bad weather almost seems like a fair trade.
I may have been born and raised in England, but I’m not blind to its flaws. I started saving up at 16 and left right after high school at 18. After two years in Australia, I came back for university—and the process of relocating to England was harder than I ever imagined. Moving back taught me a lot. Now, I use England as a home base (one of the perks of being a travel journalist and digital nomad), but my relationship with the country has evolved entirely.
Here’s what I wish I’d known about living in England—because, honestly, I could’ve used this advice a decade ago. Whether you’re relocating from Europe or moving to England from the US, you shouldn’t miss out on these insights now.
#1. The North/South Divide Is Still Real
You’ve probably heard of England’s north/south divide. It’s not just folklore—it has economic and cultural roots. The North once thrived on heavy industry but declined after deindustrialization, while the South, especially London, prospered financially.
By 2025, the gap is closing, but differences remain. Housing is cheaper in many northern cities, while London’s cost of living is so high that salaries often come with a “London weighting.”
Disputes still arise over funding and infrastructure—like the 2021 decision to scrap plans connecting Leeds to London in favor of Southern routes. The divide is often joked about, but in finance and politics, it still matters.
#2. The Country Struggles with Any Kind of Weather
For a place that constantly complains about rain, England ironically isn’t equipped to handle much else. The summer heat? A joke. Winter ice? Dangerous, especially with standard tires and uneven roads. England’s weather arrives in unpredictable waves—snow one month, floods the next, then a heatwave and a hosepipe ban.
If you’re moving to England, your accommodations really matter. Maximize your comfort—avoid ground or first-floor flats so you can leave windows open safely at night. Air conditioning (as in most of Europe) is rare, and plug-in fans will drive you mad. A cool breeze can be a lifesaver.
Research floodplains before signing a lease. Think ahead about snow, too—main roads get gritted first, so minor roads often become impassable. Plan alternative routes or be ready to work from home when needed.
#3. The Nightlife Is Better Than You’d Think
England knows how to drink. The legal drinking age is 18, and underage drinking is, let’s say, not uncommon. Football culture and pub life make alcohol a staple of socializing. Freshers’ Week during university is a nationwide party. And with England’s famously dry humor, nightlife can be unexpectedly fun.
Fridays and Saturdays are big nights out, with Wednesdays reserved for student parties. The clubbing scene is solid—especially in summer, when festivals and raves ramp things up. Pubs keep regular hours, serving food and drinks all day and into the night.
#4. Public Healthcare Is (Mostly) Free
Ask any local and they’ll say the NHS is a point of pride. Funded by taxes, healthcare in England is largely free. The exceptions? Dental care, eyewear, and prescriptions (typically paid for by anyone over 18).
Emergency care is always free. If you’re an expat, residency usually qualifies you for full NHS access, although some visas require you to pay an immigration health surcharge. One ironic twist? Brits who move abroad lose this benefit.
#5. Some Accents Are Seriously Thick
I didn’t realize how homesick I was in Australia until I heard two boys on a bus speaking in thick Leeds accents. That moment reminded me just how diverse English accents really are. Many assume we all sound like the Queen or Hugh Grant, but that’s far from the truth.
From the nasal Scouse of Liverpool to the melodic Geordie of Newcastle, regional accents vary wildly. You’ll hear Cockney, Brummie, Yorkshire, and more—and some can be tough to understand at first. Don’t stress if you’re confused. You won’t be the only one.
#6. Get Out of London When You Can
London is England’s beating heart, but life doesn’t start and end there. I lived in the capital during university and loved it—but I urge you to look beyond. If you’re moving to London England, just know: the rest of the country is well worth exploring.
Whether for a day trip or a full relocation, venturing outside London is essential. Many locals fall into the “London trap,” never exploring beyond its limits. But the country is full of gems: The Cotswolds, Brighton, Bath, Cambridge, Manchester, Liverpool—the list goes on.
Trains can whisk you to France or Scotland, and national parks are just a car hire away. The countryside is a cornerstone of English identity. And yes, the stereotype holds—Londoners can be a little standoffish.
#7. Food Is a Gray Area
English weather gets a bad rap, but food might be even more divisive. After sampling cuisines around the world, I’ll admit: England can be hit or miss. The country has a reputation for blandness—but it’s not all bad.
Indian curries are a national treasure, and nothing beats proper fish and chips. Yorkshire puddings, Cornish pasties, and toad in the hole are worth trying, too. Expect hearty, pub-style meals: meat, potatoes, gravy, and seasonal veggies. Don’t skip traditions like afternoon tea. Scones and bone china cups are part of the charm.
#8. Visas Are No Joke
England may be polite, but its visa system is anything but. In 2025, visa applications dropped due to increasingly strict criteria. It’s worth checking your eligibility with an official visa test.
Personally, though I have a UK passport, I’ve seen the struggle up close. My cousin’s wife has been denied visitor visas multiple times—just to attend a birthday or meet family. It’s expensive, stressful, and unfair.
The Skilled Worker Visa is often the clearest route to residency, but it hinges on securing a job offer from abroad. Brace yourself—and consider legal help. Especially if you’re moving to England from the US, prepare in advance for delays and documentation.
#9. Tipping Culture Is… Meh
Tipping isn’t a big deal in England. Unlike the U.S., no one will chase you for stiffing the server. Generally, a 10% tip at sit-down restaurants is appreciated but not expected.
In casual spots like cafés, pubs, hotels, or for deliveries, tipping is rare but welcome. If you’re paying at a register, don’t worry about it. Tipping is a nice gesture—but not a social obligation.
#10. Know the History
England’s past is rich and complex. You’ll learn the most by immersing yourself. Visit places like the Tower of London or Kensington Palace. Explore abandoned mines in Cornwall, or crumbling castles in Yorkshire—each place brings the past to life.
Also, understand modern England’s role within the UK. Learn about its relationships with Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. The political and cultural ties within the union are layered and ongoing.
Read more like this: Thinking of moving to the UK? Complete Travel Essentials
The Fine Print
England is full of contradictions: patriotic but self-deprecating, ancient yet forward-facing, rainy yet charming. Moving to England will challenge and surprise you. But if you keep an open mind—and pack an umbrella—you’ll find a version of England that feels like home.
FAQs – Moving to England
How do I move to England?
You’ll need to secure the right visa, arrange housing, and register for services like the NHS. Planning ahead makes the process smoother.
How can I move to England from the US?
Start with a visa application—Skilled Worker or Student are common routes. Hiring a visa consultant can help streamline the process.
What should I know before relocating to England?
Expect regional quirks, unpredictable weather, a mostly free healthcare system, and a rich cultural history. Oh—and bring layers.
Is moving to London England different from the rest of the country?
Yes. London is fast-paced, pricey, and diverse. The rest of England can feel very different—often quieter, more affordable, and with tighter-knit communities.
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Eibhlis Gale-Coleman is a travel writer from the UK. She has an ever-growing bucket list of “everywhere” and took her first solo trip abroad at 16 to volunteer in marine conservation.
