Moving to the USA from Australia: The 2025 Relocation Guide

Why Move from Australia to the USA?

The United States continues to be a top destination for Australians seeking new experiences, career growth, and academic advancement. With a vast and diverse landscape, globally influential cities, and a high standard of living, the US presents a unique blend of opportunity and innovation.

Career advancement in major industries
The US is a global leader in technology, finance, healthcare, media, and entertainment. Cities like New York, San Francisco, Los Angeles, and Austin are hubs for professionals across sectors. Australians with in-demand skills, international experience, and English fluency are well-positioned to thrive in the American job market.

World-class education and research institutions
From Ivy League universities to community colleges and technical schools, the US offers some of the best educational opportunities in the world. This makes it an ideal destination for Australians seeking undergraduate, graduate, or research-based programs.

Diverse lifestyle and geography
Whether you’re drawn to fast-paced urban centres, coastal towns, or scenic national parks, the US has something for everyone. With varied climates, regional cultures, and endless recreational options, it’s easy to find a city or state that suits your lifestyle.

Cultural familiarity with a global edge
Australians often find it easy to integrate due to the shared language and cultural references, while also enjoying the vibrancy of a diverse and multicultural society.

Education in the USA

Canada boasts a globally respected education system that offers a structured and comprehensive learning pathway from early childhood to postgraduate studies. Education is managed at the provincial or territorial level, meaning curriculum, school year dates, and assessment methods can vary slightly depending on location. However, all regions emphasise core competencies such as literacy, numeracy, science, and critical thinking, with growing attention to bilingual education—particularly in English and French-speaking provinces.

Primary and Secondary Education

Schooling typically begins with kindergarten at age five, followed by twelve grades. Elementary school covers Grades 1–5, middle school Grades 6–8, and high school Grades 9–12. Public education is generally free and funded by local and state governments. School districts vary in quality, so many families choose housing based on proximity to reputable schools. In addition to public schools, private schools, charter schools, and international schools are available, particularly in large urban centres.

Special programs such as Advanced Placement (AP) and International Baccalaureate (IB) are widely offered in high schools to prepare students for tertiary education. Children of international workers on valid visas can often enrol in public schools, though regulations vary by state.

Higher Education and Universities

The US is home to thousands of universities and colleges, including world-renowned institutions like Harvard University, Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Stanford University, and University of California Berkeley. Degrees include Associate’s (2 years), Bachelor’s (4 years), Master’s (1–2 years), and Doctoral programs (PhD, JD, MD).

In addition to academic programs, community colleges provide technical, vocational, and bridge courses for those seeking quicker entry into the workforce or a stepping-stone to a university degree. Admissions requirements and tuition fees vary widely, but many universities offer scholarships and assistantships to international students. Institutions often have dedicated International Student Offices that assist with visa maintenance, housing, academic support, and cultural adjustment.

Healthcare in the USA

Healthcare in the USA is predominantly privatised and considered one of the most important aspects to plan before relocating.

No Universal Healthcare

Unlike Australia, the US does not offer a national public healthcare system. Instead, most residents access care through private health insurance, often provided by their employer. Without insurance, medical treatment can be extremely expensive — even routine visits can cost hundreds of dollars.

Health Insurance Options

International newcomers should explore health insurance options before arrival or immediately upon entry. Some popular private insurers include:

• Blue Cross Blue Shield
• UnitedHealthcare
• Aetna
• Cigna
• Kaiser Permanente

Plans typically include coverage for hospital stays, doctor visits, prescriptions, and sometimes dental and vision. Monthly premiums, deductibles, and co-payments vary, so compare carefully based on your personal or family needs.

Public Healthcare Programs

• Medicare: Available only to US citizens and permanent residents aged 65 and older.
• Medicaid: This offers coverage for low-income individuals, but eligibility is limited and often not available to recent arrivals or non-residents.

Emergency Care

Hospitals in the US are required to provide emergency care regardless of insurance status, but the costs can be high and billed afterward. Always ensure your health insurance includes emergency and hospital coverage.

Finding Providers

Once insured, you will usually need to choose a Primary Care Physician (PCP) within your network who manages your general healthcare and referrals to specialists. Telehealth options are also growing and offer convenient access to general consultations.

Setting Up Essentials in the USA

Utilities

Once you’ve secured a home, you’ll need to set up accounts for utilities, including electricity, gas, water, internet, and garbage collection. In many areas, local municipalities manage water and waste services, while electricity and gas are provided by private or regional companies. Popular providers include:

• Con Edison (New York)
• Pacific Gas & Electric (PG&E) (California)
• Duke Energy (southeastern states)
• Florida Power & Light (FPL) (Florida)

For internet and cable, large providers include Xfinity (Comcast), AT&T, Verizon Fios, and Spectrum. Internet speeds and costs can vary widely depending on location. It’s recommended to organise utility connections ahead of your move-in date to ensure service is active when you arrive.

Banking

Setting up a bank account in the US is essential for receiving wages, paying rent, and managing everyday expenses. Major national banks include:

• Chase Bank
• Bank of America
• Wells Fargo
• Citibank
• Capital One

Most banks offer checking (transactional) and savings accounts. To open an account, you’ll typically need:

• A valid passport
• A US visa or immigration documentation
• Proof of address (rental lease or utility bill)
• A Social Security Number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) (some banks accept ITINs for non-residents)

Many banks also offer online banking apps and customer support services for newcomers. Some financial institutions, like HSBC or TD Bank, offer international account transfers or multi-currency accounts that can be useful when transitioning from Australia.

Phone Numbers

Mobile service in the US is generally reliable, with several major carriers offering nationwide coverage. Bring an unlocked phone to use with a local SIM card, or purchase a new phone with your plan.

Top providers include:

• Verizon Wireless
• AT&T
• T-Mobile

Affordable prepaid services are also available from Mint Mobile, Cricket Wireless, and Metro by T-Mobile, which are ideal for those who want flexible, contract-free plans. Plans typically include unlimited calls, texts, and data. Wi-Fi access is widespread in public spaces, coffee shops, libraries, and public transport stations.

Housing

The US housing market offers a wide variety of accommodation types, including apartments, duplexes, townhouses, single-family homes, and shared housing. Lease agreements are typically for 12 months but can range from month-to-month to multi-year contracts.

Useful websites for finding rental housing include:

• Zillow
• Realtor.com
• Apartments.com
• HotPads
• Craigslist (with caution)

Expect to provide:

• Photo ID (passport or driver’s license)
• Proof of income (pay slips or employment letter)
• Rental application and references
• A security deposit (usually one month’s rent)

In high-demand cities like New York, San Francisco, or Los Angeles, competition is high. It’s wise to work with a licensed realtor, especially if you’re unfamiliar with US rental practices.

Getting Around In The USA

Public Transport

Public transport availability varies significantly between cities. In large metropolitan areas like New York City, Chicago, Boston, San Francisco, and Washington, D.C., public transport is reliable, extensive, and widely used. Services include subways, buses, commuter trains, and light rail systems. These cities often offer monthly transit passes and contactless payment options.

Apps such as Google Maps, Transit App, and city-specific apps can help you plan journeys, check schedules, and purchase fares. In contrast, many suburban and rural areas have limited or no public transport, which makes owning a car essential.

Ride-Sharing and Taxis

Services like Uber and Lyft are available across most US cities and offer a convenient alternative to public transport. In urban areas, taxis are also commonly available, particularly near airports, train stations, and hotels.

Driving and Licences

Australians can typically drive in the US with their valid Australian driver’s licence for up to three months, depending on the state. After this period, you’ll be required to obtain a state-specific driver’s license through the local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). The process may include a written knowledge test, vision screening, and, in some cases, a road skills test.

Some states, such as California and New York, allow licence exchange or waiver of driving tests for Australians, while others may not. International Driving Permits (IDPs) are useful for short-term visitors but are not a substitute for a local licence long-term.

Purchasing a vehicle requires insurance, registration, and a US license. Be aware that traffic laws, road signs, and insurance requirements differ between states.

Life in the USA – What to Expect

Employment

The US job market is fast-paced and highly competitive. Employment culture places a strong emphasis on results, networking, and personal branding. Standard working hours are 40 hours per week, and benefits such as health insurance, paid time off, and retirement savings plans (401(k)) vary by employer.

To job hunt effectively, use platforms like:

• LinkedIn
• Indeed
• Glassdoor
• Monster

It’s important to adapt your resume (called a “résumé” in the US) to local formats—concise, achievement-focused, and often limited to one or two pages. Cover letters are typically expected, and references may be requested during or after the interview process.

Work Visas and Taxes

Work visa holders must stay employed with their sponsoring employer to maintain legal status. When employed, you’ll receive a Social Security Number (SSN), which is essential for tax reporting, credit history, and accessing government services.

Culture and Social Life

Culturally, the US is diverse and regionally distinct. While there’s a shared sense of national identity, customs, food, language use, and lifestyle vary widely between the East Coast, West Coast, Midwest, and South.

Australians often find Americans friendly, enthusiastic, and open to new friendships, though work-life balance can differ from Australian norms. Community activities, volunteer organisations, and local clubs are great ways to meet people and integrate.

Common Challenges Faced When Moving to the USA

Relocating to a new country comes with its share of obstacles. Some of the most common challenges for Australians moving to the US include:

Healthcare Navigation

The US healthcare system can be confusing and expensive for newcomers. Understanding insurance terms like deductibles, copayments, and out-of-network services is vital. It’s advisable to work with an insurance broker or consult with your employer’s HR team.

Understanding US Bureaucracy

Applying for visas, registering a vehicle, getting a driver’s license, and filing taxes all involve detailed processes that differ between states. Keep important documents organised, maintain copies, and seek professional advice when needed.

Cost of Living Differences

While some areas in the US are more affordable than Australia, cities like New York and San Francisco are significantly more expensive. Rent, healthcare, childcare, and education can add up quickly without thorough financial planning.

Cultural Adjustments

While there are many cultural similarities, some differences—such as tipping norms (15–20% for service), gun laws, political dynamics, and legal systems—may require an adjustment period.

Building Credit History

Credit history is essential for everything from renting an apartment to getting a mobile plan. Newcomers should apply for a secured credit card and pay it off monthly to begin building a US credit score.

Why Choose OSS World Wide Movers for Your Relocation to the USA?

Moving internationally requires trusted expertise and careful coordination. OSS World Wide Movers has over 50 years of experience helping Australians relocate to the United States. We understand the logistics, regulations, and emotional journey involved in starting over abroad.

Our services include:

• Full-service packing and international shipping
• Door-to-door delivery with customs clearance
• Shared and full-container load options
• Secure storage solutions in both Australia and the USA
• Guidance on documentation and customs regulations

With offices across New South Wales, Victoria, and Queensland, our experienced team is ready to help with everything from planning your move to settling in your new home.