Use one currency and a defined household
Use GBP consistently. Convert any foreign-currency quotes yourself using a dated rate before entering them. Define the region, dates and number of people on your own notes. This calculator has no live price database and does not estimate tax, benefits or affordability.
Separate recurring and one-off costs
Include rent, utilities, food, transport, insurance and any paid support in monthly costs. Keep deposits, moving, furnishing and initial travel separate. A refundable deposit still ties up money: this is a cash-needed calculation, not an accounting expense calculation.
Stress-test your own assumptions
Try a second scenario with higher recurring costs or a longer overlap between two homes. The reserve percentage is your assumption, not a recommended universal amount. Add a separately chosen return reserve, particularly where an extra flight or temporary accommodation could be needed.
Your cost scenario
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Formula: months × (local monthly costs + continuing home costs) + one-off costs; add your percentage reserve to this subtotal, then add the separate return reserve.
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