Relocating to Atlanta, USA for two years

[ArtichokeAardvark]

An opportunity has come up with DH's job for us to relocate to Atlanta for a couple of years. We have two children (8 and 6) and a dog.

Whilst I initially loved the idea of moving abroad for a couple of years (it's probably the last opportunity for us to do it and not impact kids' schooling), I'm now second guessing myself when I look into the practicalities.

Can anyone offer any insight about moving to Atlanta, or the US generally? Cost of living, quality of public schools, difficulty of relocating?

Can I continue working remotely for my UK company whilst there? I know I won't be able to get a job out there, but wasn't sure of tax / visa implications of working for a UK firm..

If Atlanta is the only option to move to the US then I would take it. One of the best things about living anywhere in the US is easy access to the whole country. So far this year, we’ve done trips to San Diego, Chicago and Miami, with plans to do Nashville, New Orleans, Michigan, Philadelphia, Orlando and Austin later in the year.

Atlanta is solid for the kids, especially if you stick to North Fulton, but the car situation is a pain.

About the remote work—be careful. The US visa rules are a nightmare for that and you don't want to mess with the IRS. I was in the same boat a while back trying to keep my UK contract. I ended up talking to Kriezelman Burton & Associates just to make sure I wasn't breaking any laws. They handled the visa specifics for me so I wouldn't get flagged for tax residency. Definitely get a pro to look at your specific visa type before you pack your bags.

I wouldn’t move to any open carry state, and the school shootings would worry me if I had children.

I’ve lived in Atlanta for 17 years and never had a problem with crime. There’s a lot of talk about it but honestly have a good security system and live in a neighborhood known for safety and security. For example, Ansley Park in Midtown. Virginia Highlands. They’re just some places I would never live. I know the people in Buckhead like to complain about crime but honestly, the crime is not as bad as you would think. I’m originally from New York and the UK so I can promise you Atlanta is horrible for some things. For example the traffic but crime is something I don’t think about at all. I lived in New York for a decade and always felt safe. I have the same feeling here only it’s a lot less expensive and you have the most incredible tree canopy. It’s definitely worth living here for a couple of years if you need pointers about schools, let me know. I write a blog about the various schools in the area .

A few things to add (man do I ever hate Atlanta airport 😂).

You will need two cars. One isn’t optional . You will drive everywhere. You will also probably have to exchange your license so look into this before you go.

Schools are very different - the move there and then back in terms of cultural, teaching styles etc is very different. Some kids adjust, some don’t.

Starting holiday time is two weeks a year and normally you have to accrue before you can go. Some companies offer more and some offer more British amounts but this is normal. You may need to ask about this.

You go to the school in your area - none of this nonsense abiut applying for schools and being allocated so choose to live in an area with good schools.

Healthcare is expensive - make sure your husbands company has very good cover - you will still have to pay for prescriptions and extras though. Honestly the healthcare is excellent but you will be asked for health insurance cover BEFORE you are treated and your insurance provider will have to approve it (kinda like house insurance here). I say this knowing a close personal friend who didn’t have insurance, broke their leg, needed surgery and were billed £140,000.

Food is amazing and it’s a great general area. Beaches from South Carolina down to Florida are beautiful.

You won’t be able to work for a British company being in the US. Serious tax implications and companies can’t do it as legally you aren’t allowed.

So consider if you want to be by yourself, in a large house probably in the suburbs alone every day. I know a lot of people who really struggle with the move, culture and loneliness. Culture shock is real.

I think living abroad is amazing but it isn’t the US you may remember. I’m not sure I would want to move there but your best bet is Brits in the US Facebook pages which will offer loads of advise.

Good luck.