Uprooting your life is a huge decision to make, but one that can open a lot of doors. The UK capital, London, is one of the best places to move for work. Not only is it one of the most populated cities, but it offers an untold number of job opportunities across a wide range of industries.
If you are considering moving to London for work, here are some things to consider.
Cost of living
There is no escaping the fact that London is an expensive city to live in. Some zones and boroughs are slightly more affordable for rent or mortgage payments, but they are usually further away from the city centre, so your transportation costs will be affected.
Before you pack up the moving van, take some time to do your research. You can look at the average cost of bills and food shopping in different areas and see how that stacks up against your finances. It is estimated that the average cost of living for a single person in London sits at £2,550 and £4,400 for a family of four.
Secure housing early
The London housing market tends to move incredibly quickly so prioritise getting your housing sorted as early as possible. If you are worried about the cost of rent, look into house shares or being a lodger. This will help you assess your finances and save up for a new place.
If you are thinking more about the long-term and want to buy in the capital, then be sure to speak to a London mortgage broker. They will be able to advise you based on your personal circumstances and get you a competitive rate.
Understand the transport services
For non-Londoners, the transportation situation can seem a bit baffling. It is unlikely that you will need a car to get around as parking is limited and often permit-only.
The public transport network is incredibly extensive and reliable, and should suit all of your needs. London is split into six transport zones with Zone 1 being central London and Zone 6 finishing in the outskirts of the city. If you expect to travel regularly, get yourself a pre-paid Oyster Card so you can get through the system easily and save on costs.
Meeting new people
Moving to a new city can lead to feelings of isolation and loneliness, so try to get out there and meet new people as best you can.
Workplaces are a good place to start when it comes to meeting like-minded people. It can be tempting to shy away from after-work drinks, but these are a great opportunity to get to know others and have a relaxed chat outside the office.
Once you are settled in your new home you can start to explore the local area. If you are feeling confident, ask for recommendations for hobby groups and pub quizzes on social media groups. People may even offer to meet up with you beforehand so that you don’t need to go alone.