Smooth operators – coast to coast house moves.
The Victorian sea front at St Leonards, one of Englands first purpose built resorts.
A quiet yet significant migration is unfolding across the Atlantic. Americans from the West Coast, particularly those from California, Oregon, and Washington, are choosing to relocate to the picturesque coast of Sussex, a county in the south of England. This new wave of expatriates and returning Brits has been noticed by local communities and real estate agents as more individuals seek refuge from the high cost of living and the chaos caused by the recent LA fires. And they’re finding a warm welcome.
White Rock Gardens, a sea view townhouse for sale in St Leonards £1,250,000
The allure of Sussex, with its rolling chalk hills, pretty villages, and expansive coastal views plus easy accessibility to London and the rest of Europe makes this region a great base after the hustle of Silicon Valley or the crowded streets of Los Angeles. Some of those making the move are retirees seeking a quieter and more secure lifestyle but an increasing number of younger professionals are also drawn to the area, keen to strike a balance between work and lifestyle. The shift amongst this demographic has been catalysed by factors such as the pandemic-induced remote work revolution.
A medieval masterpiece in Hastings Old Town, for sale £895,000.
One of the biggest draws to Sussex, according to those who have made the move, is the quality of life. “There’s something incredibly calming about the rhythm of life here,” says Julia James, a former San Francisco resident who relocated to the seaside town of Eastbourne. “The cost of living is much lower, and there’s a palpable sense of community. Plus, the scenery is just breathtaking. We’ve also really enjoyed being able to travel easily and cheaply to Europe for weekend breaks – something we obviously couldn’t do when we were living in California. Recently we’ve travelled to the South of France by train for some winter sun, to Vienna, Lisbon and Paris for weekend breaks and up to Scotland too.”
For some, the move is about more than just the lifestyle. It’s also about the cultural and historical immersion that’s an embedded part of life in the UK. The charming picture-perfect villages and centuries-old pubs offer a stark contrast to the unforgiving contemporary urban environments many West Coast transplants are used to. The quaintness is complemented by an appreciation for the arts, food, and wine, making Sussex a natural fit for those looking for cultural exploration and good, locally grown food.
Real estate agents in the area have seen a marked increase in interest from American buyers, with many opting for properties near the coast in towns like Hastings, Rye and Brighton. “It’s clear that the Sussex coast has become a haven for Americans seeking a more fulfilling lifestyle,” Madelaine Cooper, Area Partner with Unique Property Company, a real estate agency specialising in character and unusual homes. “They are drawn not only to the beauty of the landscape but also to the area’s historical charm, rich cultural offer and proximity to London.”
“The Edge” a seaside home for sale in Pett Level, Sussex. £1,200,000
While the transition from West Coast cities to the Sussex coast may seem like an unlikely one, it’s a move that many are finding to be life-changing. For those tired of the fast-paced grind of American cities, the Sussex coast offers a refreshing change—a blend of natural beauty, rich culture, and a more interesting and intentional way of life.
Life by the sea can be a life changer. Just ask our area partner, Madelaine Cooper, who took the plunge a few years ago.
Madelaine can guide you through the process of heading to the Sussex coast if you’re contemplating such a move and if your thinking of selling or renting your unique coastal home, we’re all ears.
020 3987 1739 or contact Madelaine directly, [email protected]
