I agree that it's quite expensive in the UK. I think that's all I agree with though.

I came from the US, and yes it's a lot more expensive here. However, my part of the US has a climate almost identical to the part of the UK where I now live.

I also grew up in a big American city. I'm now living in a medium-sized English town. Although it's purported to be a terrible area for crime, I can't see it. I've had almost no crime affecting me personally. The worst thing that's happened is we left the lawn mower out and some teenagers apparently took it for a walk, then ditched it down the street from our house. Oooh. Scary.

The countryside is gorgeous here. There are an endless number of interesting places to visit within easy driving distance. We have excellent restaurants, wonderful museums, and an incredible music scene.

If I could afford it, I'd retire here. Wait, now that I think of it, I WILL be retiring here. Why move if I love it where I am?