Amazon Home Setup for New US Apartments: Essential Purchases for Brits Moving to America (2026 Guide)
Moving from the UK to the USA is exciting, but one of the biggest surprises for many newcomers is how much they need to buy after arriving.
Whether you’re moving into your first apartment, relocating for work, or starting a new chapter in America, you’ll quickly discover that an empty apartment requires far more than just furniture.
To make things easier, I’ve created a complete Amazon Apartment Essentials List featuring the products I recommend for new arrivals.
Instead of spending hours researching what you need, I’ve put everything in one place — including bedding, kitchen essentials, furniture, TVs, storage solutions, and everyday home basics.
If you’re furnishing an apartment from scratch, this list can save hours of research. Inside you’ll find recommendations for:
- ✔ Bedroom essentials
- ✔ Kitchen must-haves
- ✔ Bathroom basics
- ✔ Living room furniture
- ✔ Home office equipment
- ✔ Storage and organization
🛌 Bedroom Essentials
Mattress and Bed Frame
A good mattress is one of the most important purchases you’ll make after arriving in America.
Look for:
Bedding and Pillows
Don’t forget:
Blackout Curtains
Many US apartments have large windows that let in a surprising amount of light. Blackout curtains are essential for getting a good night’s sleep in a new environment.
Laundry Hamper
An easy item to overlook until laundry day arrives. A sturdy laundry hamper and a few laundry baskets will make managing your clothes much easier.
🍴 Kitchen Essentials
Pots and Pans
A starter cookware set is often one of the first purchases new arrivals make.
Plates, Bowls and Cutlery
A matching dinnerware set, silverware set, and a reliable knife set make life much easier during those first few weeks.
Electric Kettle
A non-negotiable purchase for many Brits. This electric kettle is a great addition to any new kitchen.
Air Fryer
Perfect for quick weeknight meals and one of the most popular kitchen appliances in America. I recommend this Air Fryer for its versatility.
Food Storage Containers
Great for meal prep and leftovers. These food storage containers will keep your kitchen organized.
🏠 Living Room Essentials
Smart TV
One of the first major purchases many expats make. Whether you’re streaming British TV, Netflix, sports, or keeping up with your favourite shows from home, a Smart TV quickly becomes the centrepiece of your apartment.
Recommended sizes:
TV Stand
Adds storage and helps create a finished look. This TV stand is a great choice for any apartment.
Comfortable Sofa
You’ll probably spend more time on your sofa during your first few months than you expect.
Look for:
Coffee Table
Adds both storage and functionality. Coffee Table
Area Rug
A simple way to make a new apartment feel more like home. Area Rug
💻 Home Office Essentials
Desk
Ideal for remote work, job applications, and managing your move. Desk
Ergonomic Office Chair
A worthwhile investment if you spend long hours at a desk. Ergonomic Office Chair
Monitor
Can significantly improve productivity. Monitor
Desk Lamp
Particularly useful in apartments with limited lighting. Desk Lamp
Looking for everything mentioned in this guide?
💰 Big-Ticket Purchases Worth Budgeting For
When setting up a new life in America, these larger purchases often make the biggest difference to your comfort and quality of life. While prices vary, here are some realistic budget ranges to help you plan ahead.
📺 Smart TV ($200–$1,000+)
Whether you’re catching up on British shows, streaming sports, or relaxing after a long day, a Smart TV is one of the best upgrades you can make. Many quality 43″–55″ models can be found for under $400.
🛋️ Sofa or Futon ($200–$1,500+)
A comfortable sofa quickly turns an empty apartment into a home. If you’re furnishing on a budget, a futon can provide both seating and a guest bed, while larger sectional sofas can cost significantly more.
🛏️ Mattress ($200–$1,000+)
Never underestimate the value of good sleep during a major international move. A quality mattress is one of the most important purchases you’ll make, and there are excellent options available.
🛏️ Bed Frame ($100–$500+)
Many apartments don’t include bedroom furniture, so you’ll likely need a bed frame as well as a mattress. Platform beds are often affordable, stylish, and easy to assemble.
🍽️ Dining Table & Chairs ($150–$800+)
A dining set provides a place to eat, work remotely, and host friends. Compact sets are perfect for apartments, while larger tables offer more flexibility for families.
💻 Home Office Setup ($150–$1,000+)
If you work remotely, investing in a proper desk, office chair, monitor, and lighting can dramatically improve productivity and comfort.
🧹 Vacuum Cleaner ($100–$500+)
A cordless vacuum quickly becomes one of the most-used appliances in your home. It’s one of those purchases you may not think about until you need it every day.
☕ Espresso Machine or Coffee Station ($50–$800+)
Whether you’re replacing your daily coffee shop habit or creating a dedicated coffee corner, a good coffee setup can save money over time and make your new apartment feel like home.
🚿 Bathroom Essentials
Towels
Buy at least two sets per person. Towels
Shower Curtain and Liner
Many apartments require tenants to provide their own. Shower Curtain and Liner
Bathroom Storage
Shelving and organizers help maximize space. Bathroom Storage
Cleaning Supplies
A few basic cleaning supplies make moving day much easier. Cleaning Supplies
✨ Final Thoughts
Setting up a home in America can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re starting from scratch. Focus on the essentials first, then gradually build a home that fits your lifestyle and budget.
If you’re looking for a shortcut, my Apartment Essentials List contains many of the products I recommend for new arrivals and can help make your move a little smoother.
This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.