Did you know more and more Kiwis are making the big move to the USA? While it used to be a rare occurrence for us to make that particular move, New Zealanders are now finding their way to America more than ever. When it comes to moving to Los Angeles, it’s likely that our burgeoning film industry has something to do with enhanced interest in this thriving entertainment capital – or maybe it’s the stunning weather that lasts year-round and the gorgeous beaches!
While there are more direct flights and more Kiwis on the ground, this is still a huge move that can feel both exhilarating and daunting. The Moving Company has lots of experience with moving people, pets and house lots to the US, having moved many NZ citizens to Los Angeles over the last few years. This has given us some insider knowledge of what to expect, so here we have compiled a list of things you will need to know when you embark on this exciting journey.
Read on to discover seven things Kiwis need to know about when looking to relocate to Los Angeles, including tips about navigating the city, understanding the unique cultural melting pot, and a realistic view of the cost of living.
1. Sprawling Metropolis
Los Angeles’ urban area covers over 1,300 square kilometres, which is almost three times the size of Auckland. Within this area, you will find around 3.8 million people. This city sprawls, and within its boundaries, there are some incredibly diverse neighbourhoods in terms of socio-economic brackets and the range of people who live here. It pays to do some serious research when you are looking at moving to Los Angeles as it is not a walkable city; a network of freeways surrounds it, and getting from one place to another can take a good chunk of time, so it’s best to understand where you might be in relation, to schools, work and any other activities you want to sign up for when you get there.
You may find extended commute times with bumper-to-bumper traffic quite an adjustment when you relocate to Los Angeles; however, with the right information, you can set yourself up close to the places you will be spending time and the amenities that are important to you.
2. Healthcare Options
America has a different system than New Zealand when it comes to getting access to healthcare. While free healthcare is largely off the table for non-residents across America, and health insurance tied to particular work can be tricky, LA County has recently introduced access to free doctor and hospital visits, preventative care and prescriptions for adults aged 26-49 through the Medi-Cal system – regardless of immigration status. It’s a good idea to do your research, speak to prospective employers and make certain that you can access help when you need it without paying sometimes exorbitant prices for basic or emergency care.
3. Housing Options & Costs
As a general rule, housing is more expensive in LA than in New Zealand, which applies to both buying and renting property. Obviously, the plush neighbourhoods, like Beverly Hills and Calabasas, and those neighbourhoods closer to the beach, like Santa Monica, will command a greater fee. New Zealanders can purchase property in LA. However, this doesn’t affect or move your Visa status forward, and it pays to be aware of the unique legal frameworks surrounding property purchases – including estate and property tax and income tax if you rent your property out.
4. Celebrating Diverse Cultures
Los Angeles draws people from all over the globe to its shores. It has long been considered a place that offers opportunity, an easy lifestyle, enticing climate, and, of course, the possibility of stardom! There are lots of different enclaves across LA where you will find a concentration of people from all over the world. This creates a wonderfully diverse landscape where you can experience different cuisines, explore unique traditions and make friends from around the globe.
Do your research when you are looking at living opportunities in various neighbourhoods. Spend some time in an Air BNB in the area if you can before you settle on where you want to buy or rent. Make sure the neighbourhood you choose is safe and that it is not going to be a massive commute to the amenities you need and work you are interested in.
5. Navigating the Job Market
Leading the world in the entertainment, technology, and health sectors, there is a wealth of opportunity available to Kiwis who want to launch their careers in LA. The best of the best come to California, which can make it a really exciting place to compete for the job you want. Networking is a big deal in LA, so make sure you hone your skills and seek out groups, events and people who may be able to connect you to the work you want to secure. It pays to get a jump start by using LinkedIn or local job platforms to connect with potential employers before you relocate to Los Angeles.
6. Hot in the City
Since its founding, people have been moving to Los Angeles to experience the West Coast climate – which is similar to the Mediterranean climate. This means mild winters and hot, dry summers. Kiwis accustomed to New Zealand’s more temperate climate may find the summer heat intense, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C (86°F). Air conditioning is standard in most homes and businesses, and luckily, the mighty Pacific Ocean is never too far away when you relocate to Los Angeles.
7. Outdoor Living
Another great thing about moving to Los Angeles is the opportunity to spend lots of time in the great outdoors. The city is fitness-focused to a large degree, and there are ample opportunities to embrace an active lifestyle. From the celebrated hiking trails in Griffiths Park to roller skating on Santa Monica Boulevard and surfing Malibu’s famous breaks, when you relocate to Los Angeles, you can access all sorts of fun outdoor activities. Nearby, Joshua Tree National Park is a firm favourite with the locals, and Big Bear Lake is close enough to make a regular trip to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.
Moving to Los Angeles with The Moving Company
Feeling excited but a little bit nervous? Don’t worry, we have done this all before. When you are looking to relocate to Los Angeles, we can help. Our team offers competitively priced door-to-door shipping and moving services for both air and sea freight options. We are New Zealand’s largest private moving company, and we handle thousands of export and import shipments to the USA each year.
If you are ready to relocate to LA, get in touch today for a free quote. Our experienced team can get your belongings and your pets there on time and within your budget.
