Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, stepped away from senior royal duties and relocated to pursue financial independence and personal security. Their move marked a significant shift from life based primarily in the United Kingdom to a new chapter centered in North America.
Details about their exact initial destination and subsequent long term location have been clarified through official statements and documentary disclosures. The following sections outline where they initially settled and where they ultimately established their long term household, supported by a detailed comparison table.
Initial Relocation and Security Context
| Residence Phase | Primary Location | Key Purpose | Timing |
|---|---|---|---|
| Temporary Protection | Canada (British Columbia) | Secure housing while arrangements were finalized | March 2020 |
| Settlement | California, United States | Establish long term home and professional base | Summer 2020 onward |
| Ongoing Operations | Los Angeles, California | Central hub for business, media, and family life | 2020 to present |
Relocation to Canada in Early 2020
In early 2020, Harry and Meghan moved to Vancouver Island on the west coast of Canada, choosing British Columbia for its privacy and established royal protection infrastructure. This phase provided a secure environment while they finalized agreements regarding security funding and professional commitments.
The decision to reside temporarily in Canada was influenced by proximity to family, existing royal security protocols, and logistics related to Meghan’s pregnancy. Canadian officials coordinated with British authorities to ensure continuity of protection during the transition period.
Establishing Long Term Home in the United States
By mid 2020, the couple announced they would settle in Southern California, valuing the region’s climate, entertainment industry connections, and established expatriate community. Southern California offered convenient access to both coasts for business travel and family visits.
They focused on communities in and around Los Angeles to remain close to production studios, media partners, and their new commercial ventures. This deliberate choice allowed them to rebuild professional infrastructure while maintaining a degree of personal discretion.
Professional and Family Life in Los Angeles
Since relocating to Los Angeles, Harry and Meghan have developed production ventures, signed media agreements, and navigated intense public scrutiny. Their base in California has enabled them to record interviews, launch podcasts, and produce documentaries through their company Archewell Productions.
Schooling arrangements and family planning have also factored into their preference for the Los Angeles area, where they can balance private family time with high profile professional obligations. Proximity to specialized security resources has remained a priority in their location strategy.
Key Locations and Security Overview
- United Kingdom (London and family homes)
- Vancouver Island, British Columbia, Canada (temporary 2020 stay)
- Montecito, California, United States (near Santa Barbara)
- Los Angeles, California (current primary hub)
- New York City (frequent professional travel)
- Malta (brief stop during royal transition in 2020)
Strategic Location Choices Moving Forward
Harry and Meghan’s location strategy balances professional opportunity, family safety, and personal well being. Their ongoing presence in Los Angeles reflects a commitment to building sustainable ventures while adapting to evolving media and security landscapes.
- Prioritize secure, family friendly neighborhoods near key business hubs
- Maintain flexibility for international travel while anchoring in California
- Leverage Los Angeles media ecosystem for content creation and advocacy
- Coordinate security arrangements with local and royal partners
- Evaluate long term housing needs as family and careers grow
FAQ
Reader questions
Where did Harry and Meghan initially move after stepping back from royal duties?
They first moved to Vancouver Island, British Columbia, Canada, to reside temporarily while finalizing security and operational plans.
Which U.S. city have they centered their life and work around since 2020?
Los Angeles, California, serves as their primary base for family, business, and media activities.
Have they ever lived in New York City full time since stepping back?
No, they have not established permanent residence in New York, though they travel there frequently for professional projects and family events.
Why did they choose Southern California over other U.S. regions?
They selected Southern California for its proximity to entertainment industry partners, favorable climate, established royal protection networks, and alignment with their long term family and business goals.