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Chapter 3 of 15

Cost of Living

Cost of living, rent by city, Council Tax, energy

Summary

The cost of living in the UK varies enormously by region. London is one of the most expensive cities in the world, while cities in northern England, Wales, and Scotland are significantly more affordable. The main costs are housing, Council Tax (municipal tax), energy, transport, and groceries. Overall, the UK is 10-20% more expensive than the Netherlands, but this difference is largely determined by your choice of region.

What you need to know

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Knowledge Base

Glossary
  • Settled Status (EU Settlement Scheme)

    The residence right for EU citizens in the UK after Brexit. Settled Status (5+ years residence) gives indefinite right to remain. Pre-Settled Status (< 5 years) gives temporary residence right.

  • National Insurance Number (NIN)

    The British social security number, comparable to the Dutch BSN. Required for working, taxes and access to government services. Apply by phone or online.

  • Council Tax

    The British municipal tax on your property. Amount depends on the value band (A-H) of your property and your council. Paid monthly to your local council.

  • NHS (National Health Service)

    The British public healthcare system. Free for all residents. Register with a local GP (general practitioner) as soon as you have an address. Wait times can be long.

  • GP (General Practitioner)

    The British family doctor. You must register at a local GP surgery. The GP is your first point of contact for medical care and refers to specialists.

  • HMRC (Revenue and Customs)

    The British tax authority. Here you file tax returns (Self Assessment), register as self-employed and handle all fiscal matters. Much online via the Government Gateway.

  • Right to Rent Check

    Landlords are legally required to check your immigration status before renting to you. You must prove you are legally in the UK (settled/pre-settled status, visa).

  • BRP (Biometric Residence Permit)

    The biometric residence permit for non-EU citizens. Contains your photo, fingerprints and residence conditions. EU citizens with settled status have digital proof instead of a BRP.

  • PAYE (Pay As You Earn)

    The British payroll tax system: your employer directly withholds tax and National Insurance from your salary. Comparable to the Dutch payroll tax system.

  • Tenancy Deposit Protection

    Landlords must protect your deposit via an approved deposit protection scheme. If they fail to do so, you can claim up to 3x the amount back.

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