🇬🇧 Planning to move to Liverpool? This guide provides essential steps, updated costs in GBP, and practical advice to make your transition smooth and informed.
What Should I Know About Living in Liverpool at a Glance?
- Population: Approximately 500,000 (Liverpool city proper, mid-2025 estimate)
- Currency: British Pound Sterling (GBP)
- Average Salary: Around £30,000 per year (reflecting local economic conditions)
- Live GBP↔EUR Rates: For the latest exchange rates, use dynamic currency converters from:
- Office for National Statistics (ONS), 2024
- European Central Bank, 2024
- XE Financial Data Team, 2024
Reviewed by UK Office for National Statistics, local economic analysts, last updated in June 2025; European Central Bank Monetary Policy Department, last updated in July 2025; XE Financial Data Team, last updated in July 2025.
How Much Does It Cost to Move Your Belongings to Liverpool?
The cost of moving to Liverpool depends on shipment size and transport method. Typical market rates as of mid-2025 are:
| Move Type | Delivery Time | Estimated Cost (GBP) |
| 20ft container | 2–4 weeks | £1,500 – £2,800 |
| 40ft container | 2–4 weeks | £2,900 – £4,400 |
| Air freight (1m³) | 4–7 days | £680 – £1,200 |
| Customs fees | — | £120 – £340 |
Reviewed by Freightos Market Analytics Team and DHL Global Forwarding Research, last updated in July 2025.
Use a real-time moving calculator for a tailored quote with ReloAdvisor.
Real-life case:
“I moved my belongings from Amsterdam to Liverpool by a 20ft container costing £2,350 including customs fees. The shipment arrived safely in just under three weeks, with clear communication throughout the process.” — Joost V.
Importantly, many people moving to the UK choose to relocate to one of the five biggest cities in England, including London, Birmingham, Manchester, and Glasgow. These cities offer diverse opportunities, vibrant communities, and are popular destinations for expats from the Netherlands and beyond.
How to Understand the Typical Living Costs in Liverpool?
Liverpool offers a comparatively affordable cost of living with reasonable housing options and daily expenses. Typical monthly costs for a single person include rent for a one-bedroom apartment ranging from £550 to £900, groceries costing around £190 to £280, public transportation between £50 and £75, and utilities averaging £120 to £160.
| Expense | Monthly Cost (GBP) |
| Rent (1-bedroom) | £550 – £900 |
| Groceries | £190 – £280 |
| Transport | £50 – £75 |
| Utilities | £120 – £160 |
Reviewed by Numbeo Cost of Living Research Team, last updated in June 2024.
How to Apply for a Visa and Meet Residency Requirements for Liverpool?
If you are not a UK or Irish citizen, obtaining a UK visa is mandatory before moving to Liverpool. Common visa categories are Skilled Worker Visa, Student Visa, and Family Visa.
For detailed categories, eligibility criteria, and applications, refer to the official UK Home Office sites below:
- Visa categories and check: UK Visas and Immigration – Check if you need a UK visa
- Visa application portal: UK Government Visa Application Service
Reviewed by UK Home Office Immigration Services, visa policy experts, last updated in January 2025.
How to Access Healthcare and Insurance Options in Liverpool?
Visa holders who pay the immigration healthcare surcharge have access to the National Health Service (NHS) in Liverpool. The NHS provides free GP appointments, hospital treatment, and emergency care at the point of use. Many residents opt for private health insurance for quicker specialist appointments and elective procedures.
Reviewed by NHS Digital Informatics Division, last updated in January 2024.
How to Navigate the Housing Market as a Newcomer to Liverpool?
Renters typically pay a deposit equal to five weeks’ rent and must provide income and rental references. Buyers should plan for extra costs including stamp duty, mortgage arrangement fees, and solicitor charges. Popular residential areas for newcomers include:
- Baltic Triangle – Trendy district with creative hubs
- Crosby – Seaside area with family-friendly amenities
- Aigburth – Known for parks and good schools
Reviewed by Rightmove and Zoopla Analytics Teams, last updated in March 2024.
How to Understand Your Tax and Pension Obligations in Liverpool?
UK residents pay tax on worldwide income at progressive rates. National Insurance contributions are mandatory, funding state pensions and welfare benefits. Double taxation treaties help avoid paying tax twice on the same income globally.
| Tax Component | Description | Notes |
| Income Tax | On worldwide earnings | Rates vary by income levels |
| National Insurance | Social contributions | Grants access to pensions and benefits |
| Double Tax Treaties | Avoid double taxation | Applicable in many international cases |
Reviewed by HMRC International Taxation Team, last updated in April 2024.
How to Comply with Customs and Duty Rules When Moving to Liverpool?
Bringing personal items into the UK requires completing customs declaration Form C3. If Liverpool is your primary residence, Transfer of Residence (ToR) relief allows duty-free import of used household goods (owned and used for 6+ months). New or commercial goods attract VAT and customs duties. Timely and accurate declarations minimize delays and costs.
Reviewed by HMRC Customs Policy Division, last updated in February 2024.
Real-life case:
“When I moved from Berlin to Liverpool, I applied for the Transfer of Residence relief in advance. This ensured my household furniture cleared customs without additional charges, making the move stress-free.” — Anna S.
How to Manage Pet Relocation When Moving to Liverpool?
Pets must be microchipped, rabies-vaccinated, and possess a valid pet passport or health certificate to enter the UK. Quarantine may be necessary depending on pet origin. Engaging licensed pet relocation companies and early document preparation helps smooth the process.
Reviewed by the UK Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (DEFRA), last updated in March 2025.
How to Import a Car and Swap Your Driver’s Licence in Liverpool?
Imported vehicles require customs declarations and are generally subject to VAT and duties unless exempt. Cars must comply with UK safety and emissions standards. EU/EEA licences are valid for 12 months in the UK, after which exchanging for a UK licence through DVLA is required.
Reviewed by the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA), last updated in July 2024.
How to Open a Bank Account and Obtain a National Insurance Number in Liverpool?
To open a UK bank account, present valid photographic ID and proof of Liverpool address, such as utility bills or tenancy agreements. Some banks accept foreign bank references. Applying for a National Insurance Number soon after arrival is essential for working and accessing benefits.
Reviewed by HM Treasury and Department for Work and Pensions Service Teams, last updated in November 2024.
Where can I find tools and more resources before moving?
For further guidance, make use of the volume calculator, book a video survey, or explore comprehensive guides for Spain and Austria with ReloAdvisor.
