Moving from the UK to Boston, USA: A Complete Relocation Case Study (2026)
- Published:
-
Written By: Moin Pochi
- Last Updated: September 24, 2026
Introduction
Relocating to Boston from the UK is an attractive option for corporate assignments thanks to Massachusetts’ strong economy, world-class education system, and vibrant international community. This case study covers a family of five relocating from Berkshire, UK, to Boston, Massachusetts, USA, in 2025 for a three to five-year assignment with an international banking organisation, supported by Gerson Relocation.
The Relocation Challenge
Key considerations for this UK to Boston move included:
Securing the correct U.S. visa for the employee and dependents
Arranging short-term housing on arrival
Finding a suitable long-term rental home in a family-friendly area with excellent schools
Supporting school search and admissions for three children (ages 15, 12, and 8)
Helping the family settle in with practical orientation advice
Relocating the family’s 5-year-old Labrador dog
Immigration
What visa is required for this assignment?
For an internal transfer within a multinational bank, the most suitable visa category is the L-1 Intracompany Transfer Visa. This allows multinational companies to transfer employees to a U.S. office.
L-1A – for managerial or executive roles
L-1B – for employees with specialised knowledge
The spouse and children will apply for L-2 dependent visas.
Alternative visa options (2025)
H-1B visa for specialised occupation workers (though less common for intra-company transfers)
What is the process and timeline for obtaining the visa?
| Step | Process | Estimated Timeline (2025) |
|---|---|---|
| Employer Petition | U.S. employer files Form I-129 | 2–4 weeks |
| USCIS Processing | Standard or Premium Processing | 2–8 weeks |
| Visa Application | DS-160 + Embassy appointment (London) | 1–3 weeks |
| Visa Issuance | Passport stamping | 5–10 working days |
Estimated total timeline:
Standard processing: 8–12 weeks
Premium processing: 4–6 weeks
Additional Notes:
L-2 spouses are eligible to apply for U.S. work authorisation
Children may attend U.S. schools without restriction
Processing may slow down during the summer months and U.S. public holidays
Temporary Accommodation
What is the availability of temporary accommodation in Boston?
Boston offers strong availability of corporate housing and serviced apartments, particularly in areas popular with relocating families.
Average Monthly Costs (2025)
| Property Type | Low (USD) | High (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2-Bedroom Apartment | 5,500 | 7,500 | Short-Term Family Use |
| 3-Bedroom Apartment | 7,000 | 9,500 | Most Common Option |
| 4-Bedroom Townhouse | 9,000 | 12,000 | Limited Availability |
Inclusions: Furnishings, utilities, Wi-Fi, parking
Minimum stay: 30 days
Deposit: Typically 1 month’s rent
Long-Term Housing
What is the cost of renting a family home in Boston (2025)?
| Property Type | Monthly Rent (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 3-Bedroom House | 6,000 – 8,000 | Family suburbs |
| 4-Bedroom House | 8,000 – 11,000 | Premium school districts |
| 5-Bedroom House | 10,000 – 14,000 | Limited supply |
Preferred Expatriate Areas
Newton – Newton – excellent public schools, popular with British families
Brookline – close to private schools and central Boston
Wellesley – suburban environment, strong school system
Lexington – top-ranked schools, family-oriented community
Typical Lease Terms
Lease duration: 12 months standard, renewable
Security deposit: 1 month’s rent
First month’s rent payable in advance
Broker fee: often 1 month’s rent
Rent: paid monthly
School Search
What types of schools are available to expatriates?
Boston offers one of the strongest education systems in the United States, with excellent public and private options. Many schools follow the American curriculum, though international schools with British and IB programmes are also available.
Schooling considerations for this family
15-year-old: Entry into U.S. high school (Grade 10)
12-year-old: Middle school
8-year-old: Elementary school
Indicative School Costs (2025)
| School Type | Annual Fees (USD) | Estimated Timeline (2025) |
|---|---|---|
| Public Schools | Free | Residency-based |
| Private Day Schools | 45,000 – 65,000 | Per child |
| International / British Schools | 40,000 – 60,000 | Limited availability |
Admissions Notes:
Private schools require assessments, interviews, and academic records
Entry at age 15 requires careful academic planning for U.S. high school graduation requirements
Early application is essential due to competitive admissions
Pet Relocation
Preferred Expatriate Areas
Rabies vaccination
ISO-compliant microchip
Veterinary health certificate (issued within 10 days of travel)
CDC dog import form
Typical Lease Terms
No quarantine required when conditions are met
Estimated Cost:
USD 3,500 – 6,000, depending on airline and services
Interested in learning more about our Relocation Services?
Get in touch, we'll be happy to discuss the relocation options available to you and your company.
RELATED ARTICLES
Moving from the UK to Boston, USA: A Complete Relocation Case Study (2026)
Employee Relocation Policy: A Practical Guide for HR and Global Mobility Teams
Tax implications for relocating employees
Latest Insights
Moving from the UK to Boston, USA: A Complete Relocation Case Study (2026)
Guide to Getting a Job in Australia
Frequently Asked
Questions
How much does it cost to relocate from the UK to Cape Town?
Lightweight moves: £2,000-4,000 air freight or £3,500-6,000 sea freight. Full moves: £6,000-15,000. Budget for visa fees (£300-500/person), temp accommodation (ZAR 18,000-40,000/month or £850-1,900), rental deposits (2-3 months upfront: ZAR 36,000-90,000 or £1,700-4,300). Many employers provide lump-sum allowances.
How long does the US work visa take for families?
A relocation management company handles the logistics of moving employees on behalf of their employer — from household removals and visa support to expense management, immigration, and destination services. Gerson Relocation has provided these services since 1961, covering international moves for corporate clients across 180+ countries.
What are the school options for British children in Boston?
A relocation management company handles the logistics of moving employees on behalf of their employer — from household removals and visa support to expense management, immigration, and destination services. Gerson Relocation has provided these services since 1961, covering international moves for corporate clients across 180+ countries.
Can we bring our dog to the USA?
A relocation management company handles the logistics of moving employees on behalf of their employer — from household removals and visa support to expense management, immigration, and destination services. Gerson Relocation has provided these services since 1961, covering international moves for corporate clients across 180+ countries.
How much more expensive is Boston than Berkshire?
A relocation management company handles the logistics of moving employees on behalf of their employer — from household removals and visa support to expense management, immigration, and destination services. Gerson Relocation has provided these services since 1961, covering international moves for corporate clients across 180+ countries.
What about repatriation planning?
A relocation management company handles the logistics of moving employees on behalf of their employer — from household removals and visa support to expense management, immigration, and destination services. Gerson Relocation has provided these services since 1961, covering international moves for corporate clients across 180+ countries.