Settling in London Essentials

Everyday Essentials for Expats Settling in London (2025 Guide)

Relocating to London in 2025 is both exciting and overwhelming. Beyond choosing a neighbourhood or workplace, you’ll need to sort out the practical everyday essentials that make life run smoothly — from SIM cards and utilities to banking, transport, and recycling.

Setting Up Your Phone & Internet in 2025

Getting a UK SIM Card

Mobile networks in London are highly competitive in 2025, with 5G widely available and 6G trials already underway. Popular providers:

• EE – best coverage, especially outside central London
• O2 – strong international bundles (useful for expats)
• Vodafone – flexible family and global plans
• Three – affordable data-heavy options

💡 2025 Tip: Most providers now let you order a digital eSIM online before you arrive, so your phone is ready the moment you land.

Home Internet & Wi-Fi

• Providers like BT, Virgin Media, Sky, and Hyperoptic now offer gigabit speeds across much of London.
• Average cost in 2025: £35–£55 per month, depending on speed.
• Installation wait times have reduced — most expats can get connected in under 7 days.

Utilities in London (2025 Update)

Electricity & Gas

• Providers: Octopus Energy, British Gas, EDF Energy, E.ON Next.
• Average monthly bills in 2025: £130–£220 depending on property size and energy use.
• Smart meters are now standard in most London homes.

Water Supply

• Managed by Thames Water in most boroughs.
• Average bill: £35–£45 per month.

Council Tax

• Rates for 2025: £110–£330 per month, depending on borough and property band.

💡 2025 Tip: More providers now offer green energy tariffs — popular with eco-conscious expats.

Recycling & Waste Management

Recycling remains a local council responsibility, but in 2025, London has pushed further into zero-waste initiatives.

• Most boroughs provide separate bins for food waste, recyclables, and general rubbish.
• Weekly collection schedules can be checked on your council’s app or website.
• Plastic reduction campaigns are stricter in 2025 — many supermarkets now require reusable bags and offer recycling drop-off points.

Banking in London for Expats (2025 Edition)

Opening a Bank Account

Still essential for salaries, rent, and bills.

• Required: passport, visa/BRP, and proof of address.
• Some banks now accept digital rental agreements or employer letters as proof.

Best Banking Options for Expats

• HSBC Expat & Barclays International – global banking for professionals
• Monzo, Revolut, Starling – digital banks, popular for quick setup and international transfers
• Wise Account – excellent for cross-border money management

💡 2025 Tip: Many digital banks now integrate multi-currency wallets, letting you manage GBP, USD, EUR, and more in one app.

Healthcare in 2025: NHS & Private Options

• Expats still access the NHS by paying the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS), included in most visa applications.
• Register with a local GP once you have an address.
• Private insurance is increasingly popular in 2025, with companies like Bupa, AXA, and Vitality offering packages tailored to expats who prefer faster access.

Transportation in London (2025 Update)

• The Elizabeth Line (Crossrail) has expanded, making commuting across London faster.
• An Oyster card or contactless bank card is still the easiest way to pay.
• Electric scooters and bike hires are now regulated citywide, with docking stations in most central areas.
• Apps like Citymapper 2025 and TfL Go provide real-time updates with AI-powered journey planning.

First 30 Days in London – 2025 Checklist

• Activate an eSIM or pick up a local SIM card
• Set up electricity, gas, water, and council tax
• Arrange broadband installation
• Learn recycling and waste rules in your borough
• Open a UK bank account (digital or high-street)
• Register with a local GP for NHS services
• Get an Oyster/contactless travel setup
• Explore local expat communities and networks

Download the Full Relocation Guide

Settling into London in 2025 is easier when you have a roadmap. Our Comprehensive Relocation Guide for Expats in London includes: Step-by-step checklists, tips on utilities, healthcare, schools, and housing.

Download the guide to make your first months in London stress-free.