10 Things to Know Before Moving to London in 2026

Looking for the top things to know before moving to London? You’re in the right place, here’s everything I wish I knew before moving across the pond 10 years ago, from a London expat & travel blogger!

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When wide-eyed 18-year-old me moved to London from the U.S I had no idea what I was getting myself into.

Looking back, older, and hopefully wiser, I’ve learned a lot about this city, and now I’m sharing it with you.

In no particular order, here are 10 things to know before moving to London. 

About the Author

Hi, I’m Candace — a London-based travel writer and content creator who traded the East Coast of the US for the charm of the UK back in 2016. London’s been my home ever since.

On this blog, you’ll find hundreds of thoughtfully crafted London, UK, Europe and Worldwide travel guides alongside lots of insider London tips, honest hotel and restaurant reviews and advice for content creators.

P.S. – For more trip inspiration, travel videos, and behind-the-scenes adventures, be sure to follow along (and say hello, if you fancy) on Instagram, TikTok or YouTube.

🗞️📺 As featured on the BBC, USA Today & Recipe.TV.

📚 Moving to London? Grab Your Copy of Across the Pond:

Filled with over 200 pages of everything (and I do mean everything) you need to know about moving and living in London, UK. From a 7+ year London expat!

1. Opt for Experiences 

Mildly stating the obvious, but there is no way around it, London is expensive.

However, over the years, I’ve found there are tons of ways to create a lifestyle full of London adventure without necessarily breaking the bank. 

From taking advantage of London’s greenery and popping into free museums and events across the city (and the occasional afternoon tea, of course), being savvy with a pound and opting for experiences should become second nature if you’re calling London home. 

2. Choose Your Borough (and Flat) Wisely 

London is broken up into 32 boroughs, each with its own neighborhoods, distinct character, and culture.

From hipster Shoreditch to posh Kensington or Chelsea (above) and leafy Islington, take the time to get a feel for each borough before moving to London. 

Read More: Your Ultimate Neighbourhood Guide to London

Similarly, if you’re opting for flatmates, be sure to have ample conversations before moving and make sure you share a similar lifestyle.

If possible, stay in short-term accommodation in London while you flat hunt.

And never pay a deposit before seeing your place in person.

Read More: Ultimate London Packing List: What to Wear in Winter, Spring, Fall, Summer

3. Prepare for a Language Barrier 

We both speak English, how different can it be? The answer? Very.

British English and slang are their own vernacular, and unless you’d like to be me (i.e thinking “are you alright?” meant something was wrong with you and “queues” were a golf term), it’s worth getting familiar with *some* words and phrases before your move. 

P.S. – This article is a perfect start…

4. Find Your London Community 

Whether you’re moving for study or for work, when you’re living in a big city, loneliness is inevitable as everyone is constantly “on the move”.

To combat this, make sure to find a community and network to create bonds early on. 

Here are a few ideas…

• Join Bumble BFF
• or Groups like the Lonely London Girls Club
• or The Circle London
• Attend Eventbrite Events 
• Join a weekly fitness class (Yoga, Zumba etc.) 
• Go to Meetup events 
• Or Internations 
• Join Hobby-Led Facebook Groups (type in “your hobby, London”)

5. Don’t Forget to Get Out of London 

The Cotswolds

Okay, so I may be a bit biased, given the entirety of my existence seems to be dedicated to the capital. But it can be easy to get sucked into the allure of London and leave the rest of the UK behind. So don’t!

From discovering the Cotswolds to soaking up a seaside weekend in Whitstable, always make time for UK travel. 

Read More: The Best Day Trips from London

6. And Give up Driving 

It’s very rare for Londoners to drive, let alone own a car.

Luckily, London transport is one of the best in the world, and the Underground can pretty much take you anywhere and everywhere.

The city is also extremely walkable and cycle-friendly, so you may end up opting for a lazy stroll or popping on a Santander or Lime bike over the Tube sometimes, too.

But yeah, don’t expect to get behind the wheel anytime soon. 

Read More: How to Get Around London (your ultimate London transport guide)

7. Smalltalk Isn’t Really a Thing in London

The biggest culture shock coming from the US to London was the severe lack of small talk in the city.

Even on the lift, you’d be hard-pressed to find a friendly chat (it happens, but very rare).

I’ll admit, I still find myself trying to spark up the odd conversation, but just something to keep in mind. 

And of course, there are exceptions! Especially when pints are involved…

P.S. – The tube is also pin-silent, so don’t forget to invest in a good book or worthy podcast for your commute. 

8. And Healthcare is Free 

The UK healthcare scheme runs under the NHS, meaning it is utterly and wonderfully free (of course, through taxes).

If you’re coming from the US, this is definitely one of the best things about moving to London, as you’ll simply register for it as a part of your visa process and pay a one-time fee.

9. Download Citymapper

Before moving across the pond, you’ll want to fill your London app arsenal.

I personally couldn’t live without Citymapper for getting around, highly recommend!

10. And You’ll Probably Fall in Love…

…with London.

I’ll admit, although London isn’t always an easy place to live, there’s a magic in this city that I haven’t been able to find anywhere else.

If you’re anything like me, a few months will easily turn into a few years (oops) — and falling in love with the city is, unfortunately, all too easy.

Oh and never forget….

Look both ways.

Thanks for reading my Things to Know Before Moving to London Guide. If you enjoyed it, let me know on Instagram!

CHECK OUT MORE LONDON GUIDES:

• 8 Mental Health Tips for London Expats
• 5 Visas to Move to London – A Quick Guide
• 29 Quotes That’ll Make You Fall in Love with London
• 19 Important Things to Do Before Moving to London
• London Neighbourhood Guide
• How to Get a Job in London as an American: A Complete Guide
• Where to Live in London in Your 20s
• Say Cheese! An Expat’s Guide Seeing a Dentist in London

Happy Londoning,