Thinking about moving to North America? You’re not alone – many are drawn by the promise of adventure and opportunity. From relaxing on distant shores, skiing in alpine regions, exploring vast deserts (with no roos!), to delving into the vibrant and vast cities seeking new challenges or chasing dreams.
Before you pack up and head out, it’s important to have a plan. An international move is no small feat. We’ve got you covered with our quick guide to relocating to North America, conscious considerations and current insights to make your transition smooth and stress-free.
Have you chosen your city?
Your lifestyle will vary greatly depending on your chosen city. North America offers big-city options for a fast-paced lifestyle and smaller towns with stunning landscapes. Here are some compelling reasons to make the leap to the USA and Canada:
- Diverse cities: From the bustling streets of New York and Toronto to the cultural hubs of Los Angeles and Vancouver, North America offers a variety of cities, each with its unique charm and opportunities.
- Stunning landscapes: North America’s vast and diverse landscapes are perfect for exploration. Discover the majestic Grand Canyon, the serene Great Lakes, and the stunning Rocky Mountains, offering endless adventures for nature lovers and thrill-seekers alike.
- Job opportunities: North America is the land of opportunity, especially for those with big dreams. Whether you aspire to break into Hollywood, make it on Wall Street, or lead in Silicon Valley, there are countless paths to success in various fields including entertainment, finance, and technology.
Cost of Living
If you’re well into planning your move to North America, you’re likely aware of the potential expenses (unless you’re still unaware, in which case, enjoy the bliss… but reality may strike when you face high rent for a small city apartment). Now is the time to create your budget.
- Rent: In major cities like New York or San Francisco, a 1-bedroom apartment in the city centre can cost around $3000-$4000 per month, while a 3-bedroom in trendy neighbourhoods might set you back $5000 or more.
- Food: Expect to spend about $15-$20 for lunch in the suburbs and closer to $25 in city centres. Average monthly bills: Calculate based on your current expenses.
- Transport: Cities like New York has extensive public transit systems; for example, New York uses OMNY or MetroCards for subways and buses. Driving? Factor in parking costs (often $30+ per day in city garages), toll roads (up to $25 per trip), and monthly fuel costs (around $150).
- Treating yourself: A pint of beer can cost $4-$7 or more, depending on the city and venue. And if you’re in the south, Mexico is just a short trip away where you can get Stem Cell treatments.
The Draw Cards
Alright, now you know that moving to an iconic city’s may have a price tag. But what about moving to be closer to things that you actually like to do?
- For culture lovers: Explore world-class museums and galleries in New York City, Toronto, and Los Angeles. Attend live performances, Broadway shows, and film festivals to immerse yourself in the vibrant arts scenes. There is also a new haven for comedy growing in Austin Texas after covid lockdowns in LA encouraged many performers to move from LA.
- For foodies: Indulge in diverse cuisines by exploring iconic neighbourhoods and local markets. Try the famous New York pizza, fresh seafood in Vancouver, or the artisanal offerings at San Francisco’s Ferry Building Marketplace. Checkout ‘Barbecue Showdown’ on Netflix for some mouth watering inspiration.
- For thrill-seekers: Head to amusement parks like Six Flags or Cedar Point for adrenaline-pumping roller coasters that’ll make your stomach drop faster than a hot dog at a baseball game. In 2025, Universal Orlando will be opening their fourth park, Epic Universe featuring Super Nintendo World and Harry Potter’s Minister of Magic.
- For music aficionados: Catch live shows at iconic venues such as The Fillmore in San Francisco, The Troubadour in Los Angeles, or The Bowery Ballroom in New York City—where legendary bands and emerging artists alike rock the stage.
- For urban outdoor enthusiasts: Enjoy the stunning natural landscapes by hiking in Griffith Park in Los Angeles, exploring Stanley Park in Vancouver, or biking across the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco. Visit nearby beaches or mountains for a quick escape from urban life.
- For the REAL outdoor enthusiasts: North America offers a diverse range of landscapes perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. In a short flight, you could explore the deserts of Grand Canyon National Park in Arizona, hike the forests of Yellowstone Park in Wyoming, and watch your reflection in the blue lakes of Banff National Park in Alberta. Or, if you’re up for a challenge, try driving through these breathtaking spots in 24 hours! Also check out Outdoor Boys on YouTube, for a closer look at all North America has to offer for you and your whole family…. (“Mmmm honey butter.”)
Some Realistic Considerations
But anyway, it’s not all rainbows and butterflies. Plus, Australia is pretty awesome, so by comparison, there are some trade-offs, and you are more than likely to face a few new challenges.
- Higher healthcare costs: In the US, medical expenses can skyrocket without insurance.
- Extreme nature: In Canada and parts of the US, the winters are harsh and the summers hot, contrasting with Australia’s milder weather. Natural disasters such as hurricanes, wildfires, and blizzards are common. Additionally, North America is home to dangerous animals not found in Australia, like bears, wolves, alligators, mountain lions, ticks, moose, and rabid raccoons.
- Higher crime rates: The US and Canada face higher crime rates, partly due to gun violence. Both countries also deal with challenges related to the war on drugs, affecting law enforcement, public health, and homelessness.
Check out ‘Channel 5’ with Andrew Callahan on YouTube for a closer look into these issues.
Sorry for the down buzz vibes… but consider this: Until its banned TikTok is buzzing with videos of people enjoying the vibrant culture and diverse experiences in the US and Canada. For instance, #VanLife has become a trending topic, with many sharing their journeys of travelling across North America in custom vans, exploring national parks, and discovering hidden gems. Additionally, the #WorkFromAnywhere movement showcases individuals thriving in remote work setups while living in picturesque locations, highlighting the flexibility and opportunities available in these countries.
Ready to Make Your Move?
Moving internationally might seem daunting, but with careful planning and the right support, it can be an exciting transition. At TAXIBOX, we specialise in making your move stress-free – see what our thousands of customers have to say about us. Our mobile self-storage solutions are perfect for keeping your belongings safe during the transition and making sure they show up at your next door. Whether you’re moving from Melbourne, Sydney, Adelaide, Perth, Brisbane, or nearby cities, we’ve got you covered.
Relocating to North America is a significant step that opens up a world of possibilities. By planning and taking the necessary steps, you can ensure a smooth transition and start enjoying your new life across the pond. Remember, every journey begins with a single step—and by considering TAXIBOX, you’re already on the right path.
