What a month in the US actually costs
Beyond rent: health insurance, a car, utilities and phone add up fast — and several of them are costs newcomers simply don't have back home.
Beyond rent: health insurance, a car, utilities and phone add up fast — and several of them are costs newcomers simply don't have back home.
Key points to understand
A realistic monthly breakdown: rent, utilities, health insurance, transport, groceries, phone
A realistic monthly breakdown: rent, utilities, health insurance, transport, groceries, phone. In practice, this is one of the details newcomers most often ask about, so take a moment to understand how it applies to your situation before moving on.
The costs that surprise people: health insurance premiums, car insurance, and tipping
The costs that surprise people: health insurance premiums, car insurance, and tipping. In practice, this is one of the details newcomers most often ask about, so take a moment to understand how it applies to your situation before moving on.
Sales tax is added at the till — the shelf price is not the price you pay
Sales tax is added at the till — the shelf price is not the price you pay. In practice, this is one of the details newcomers most often ask about, so take a moment to understand how it applies to your situation before moving on.
Practical tips
- Prepare your documents and translations in advance — most delays come from missing paperwork.
- Always note the office name, address, and a contact number before you go.
- Ask the community on MyHAbroad if you’re unsure — chances are someone has already been through it.
Always verify with official sources before acting on the information above.
MyHAbroad is an independent app and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or representing any government or public authority. Content is general information only — not legal, tax, medical, or financial advice. Always confirm details with the official sources above before acting.