The cost of immigrating to the USA isn’t just a number—it’s a wake-up call. You hear about the American Dream, but what no one tells you is how much it costs to get there and stay there. Rent eats your paycheck. Healthcare drains your savings. Even basic groceries cost more than you expect.
When Maria moved from the Philippines to Los Angeles, she thought she was prepared. She had a job lined up, enough savings to cover her first few months, and a detailed budget. What she didn’t expect? The reality of U.S. prices. Her rent was twice what she planned for, taxes took a bigger bite than expected, and a simple hospital visit set her back $800. She made it work, but not without stress.
If you’re planning your move, don’t step in blind. This guide will break down the cost of immigrating to the USA—from visa fees to daily expenses—so you can prepare and avoid costly surprises.
What It Really Costs to Immigrate to the USA
Before you even start your life in the U.S., you’ll be paying thousands in immigration-related costs.
Upfront Costs You Can’t Ignore
- Visa Fees: $1,225 for a green card, $725 for citizenship, up to $6,500 for an H1B visa (if not covered by employer).
- Legal Fees: If you hire an immigration lawyer, expect to pay $2,000–$5,000.
- Relocation Costs: Flights, shipping, and deposits can add up to $5,000–$10,000 before you even arrive.
And that’s just the start. Let’s talk about what happens once you land.
Housing Costs: Your Biggest Expense
Rent in the U.S. will shock you—especially if you’re coming from a country with a lower cost of living.
Average Monthly Rent in Major Cities
- New York City: $3,500
- Los Angeles: $2,800
- Austin, Texas: $1,800
- Berlin, Germany: $1,600
- Bangkok, Thailand: $800
Housing alone can take 30–50% of your paycheck. No rent control. No subsidies. Just you vs. the landlord.
Daily Expenses: What You’ll Spend on Food and Necessities
Groceries in the U.S. cost more than in most other countries, and eating out? Expect taxes and tips to drive up the bill.
Monthly Grocery Costs for One Person
- USA: $300–$500
- Germany: $250–$400
- Mexico: $150–$300
- India: $100–$200
If you’re coming from a country where $5 buys you a full meal, the U.S. will feel expensive.
Healthcare: The Expense No One Warns You About
Most developed countries have free or low-cost healthcare. The U.S.? You pay—and you pay a lot.
- Health Insurance: $450–$700 per month
- Doctor Visit (Without Insurance): $150–$300
- Emergency Room Visit: $1,000+
Maria’s first medical bill in the U.S. was $800 for a minor infection. In her home country, that same visit would’ve cost $20. If you’re moving to the U.S., health insurance isn’t optional—it’s survival.
Transportation: Public Transit vs. Owning a Car
In many American cities, you need a car. Public transit is unreliable or nonexistent outside of major hubs like New York and San Francisco.
- Owning a Car: $600–$1,000 per month (gas, insurance, maintenance).
- Public Transit (Monthly Pass): $75–$130 (if your city has a decent system).
If you’re coming from a place where public transport is cheap and efficient, be prepared for a change.
Taxes: How Much Do You Really Take Home?
Your salary offer might look great on paper—until you see how much goes to taxes.
Taxes on a $60,000 Salary
- USA: $12,000–$18,000 in taxes
- Germany: $14,000–$16,000
- Canada: $12,000–$14,000
- UAE: $0 (No income tax)
Some U.S. states—like Texas and Florida—don’t have state income tax, but in places like California and New York, expect to lose even more.
Is It Worth It?
The cost of immigrating to the USA is high. But for many, the opportunities outweigh the price tag. Higher salaries, career growth, and the potential for a better future drive millions to take the leap.
The key is preparation. If you’re moving, plan ahead. Budget for surprises. Choose your city wisely. Most of all—know what you’re walking into. Because the American Dream isn’t free, but with the right strategy, it can still be worth it.