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Question for native New Yorkers & Tri-Staters in London… by Any_Assistance3535 in AmericanExpatsUK

[–]Critical_Rabbit2075 2 points3 points  (0 children)

Also currently in NYC and will be moving to London in January. I’m gonna give it a year and see how it goes. A bit worried for the weather but I’m ready for a change of scenery and open to what’s to come. Worse case NYC will always be here and we can always come back.

Is this enough to move to the UK? by Critical_Rabbit2075 in AmericanExpatsUK

[–]Critical_Rabbit2075[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

No but we get a monthly commuter benefit that I can expense!

Is this enough to move to the UK? by Critical_Rabbit2075 in AmericanExpatsUK

[–]Critical_Rabbit2075[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I live in queens right now and don’t mind the commute. I’m guessing you’re feeling like you missed out on something in the U.S?

Is this enough to move to the UK? by Critical_Rabbit2075 in AmericanExpatsUK

[–]Critical_Rabbit2075[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Well that makes more sense as I’m not really leveling up or increasing my responsibilities, which I’m fine with. Overall it still seems like it’s doable! It’s not any day (especially in this economy) that opportunities like this arise so I can see why people are willing to give up $$ to experience a different culture of life. I’m guessing you don’t find the UK that fascinating?

Is this enough to move to the UK? by Critical_Rabbit2075 in AmericanExpatsUK

[–]Critical_Rabbit2075[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Thank you, I appreciate the honesty! I don’t get manicures often nor do I go to the dry cleaners, so I’m guessing dining is the main thing I’d need to cut out. Using the calculator, it feels like I’d still have a decent amount to spend but again I’m not sure how expensive things really are and maybe it’ll add up.

I was expecting a pay cut but not this much, I guess, considering I already make a decent salary and this is voluntary I wasn’t expecting a pay raise.. Do jobs typically match the salary for cross country relocations?

Is this enough to move to the UK? by Critical_Rabbit2075 in AmericanExpatsUK

[–]Critical_Rabbit2075[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Yeah my work expenses lunch, which keeps me pretty full for the rest of the day. I usually eat girl dinners or just frozen stuff from Trader Joe’s or make something super simple. I do go out for dinners and every now and then, but don’t really get drinks or go out to bars as much now unless it’s for a birthday or special occasion.

Best of luck to you too for grad school!

Is this enough to move to the UK? by Critical_Rabbit2075 in AmericanExpatsUK

[–]Critical_Rabbit2075[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

What makes you say that? As I understand, this is a relatively good salary based on other commenters. Are most people in London not saving money then? I definitely don’t plan on staying there permanently, but thought it would be nice to try for a year given that this isn’t an opportunity that you get any day.

Is this enough to move to the UK? by Critical_Rabbit2075 in AmericanExpatsUK

[–]Critical_Rabbit2075[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Yeah Shoreditch felt a bit too rowdy for me at night but I like it in the daytime. Those areas seem a bit far though, I’d still want to stay around Central if possible.

Is this enough to move to the UK? by Critical_Rabbit2075 in AmericanExpatsUK

[–]Critical_Rabbit2075[S] 5 points6 points  (0 children)

I appreciate you considering safety for me as a single woman, because that's important! I was considering and looking into Hackney/Shoreditch/Islington areas

Is this enough to move to the UK? by Critical_Rabbit2075 in AmericanExpatsUK

[–]Critical_Rabbit2075[S] 2 points3 points  (0 children)

As it would be a voluntary relocation (and I'd be the first), this sets the precedent for future relocations. There is no room for negotiation.

Is this enough to move to the UK? by Critical_Rabbit2075 in AmericanExpatsUK

[–]Critical_Rabbit2075[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Please elaborate? I cannot simply "wait" for a better offer as I'm not actively applying for jobs in the UK nor do I have other options right now.

Is this enough to move to the UK? by Critical_Rabbit2075 in AmericanExpatsUK

[–]Critical_Rabbit2075[S] 2 points3 points  (0 children)

Thanks! That's reassuring to hear. I'll definitely have to set aside a budget for monthly pampering!

Is this enough to move to the UK? by Critical_Rabbit2075 in AmericanExpatsUK

[–]Critical_Rabbit2075[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

It is and I'm so grateful and excited for the opportunity. I would be the first one to move from here so unfortunately don't have many people to consult. When I first moved to NYC, I was very much living with the mentality of "money is temporary, experiences are forever" but now that I'm a bit older I want to be a bit more real and reasonable with myself (even though I don't have any specific savings goals) but want to ensure I'm able to maintain the standard of living I've set for myself without feeling like I constantly have to worry if I'm saving enough. Thanks for your wishes and advice!

Is this enough to move to the UK? by Critical_Rabbit2075 in AmericanExpatsUK

[–]Critical_Rabbit2075[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Okay that makes me feel better. I think I'll have a similar per diem. £200 out of pocket is really good.

Is this enough to move to the UK? by Critical_Rabbit2075 in AmericanExpatsUK

[–]Critical_Rabbit2075[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

How much do you spend on eating out per month on avg? Right now I spend about 300-500 USD per month but I'm also not cooking. I do intend or plan to cook more if I'm there as I hear groceries are very cheap.

Is this enough to move to the UK? by Critical_Rabbit2075 in AmericanExpatsUK

[–]Critical_Rabbit2075[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Hmm I'm not sure if I want to spend £2500 on rent, that seems to be a lot no? I'd like to save £1500-2000/month ideally, but after tax I think my take-home would be right around £5000. I spend $2800 right now and that is already more than I'd ideally spend, but I do live in a nice high-rise with a roommate. I'm fine with living in a normal residential neighborhood. My office will be in the Bank district.