In early 2020, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle made headlines by stepping back from their roles as senior members of the British royal family and eventually relocating to Los Angeles, California. Their decision to move was widely debated, with questions circulating about whether financial pressures, family tensions, or personal ambitions drove their choice. Here, we’ll explore the nuanced reasons behind their high-profile move and consider whether it was financially motivated or simply a fresh start.
One of the most immediate consequences of their royal departure was a shift in financial independence. As senior royals, Harry and Meghan received funding from the Sovereign Grant, a taxpayer-funded allowance that supports royal activities and duties. However, stepping back from their royal roles meant relinquishing this financial support, requiring them to cover their expenses independently. This change would likely have weighed on the couple, who needed to support themselves in a way they hadn’t before.
While in the UK, their living expenses and security costs were largely funded by Prince Charles through the Duchy of Cornwall. Once in the United States, Harry and Meghan were responsible for securing income streams to support their lifestyle and fund ongoing security needs. Securing lucrative media deals became essential to ensure their financial stability and help pay for the substantial security costs required to protect their family, especially under the intense public and media scrutiny they continue to face.
Los Angeles was a natural choice for Meghan, who had an established acting career before joining the royal family, and had expressed a desire to return to media-related projects. Settling in LA offered her proximity to Hollywood and opportunities to connect with influential figures in the entertainment industry. Shortly after their move, the couple signed major media deals with companies like Netflix and Spotify, paving the way for them to produce content and work on philanthropic projects close to their interests.
For Harry, living in the U.S. also provided a platform for causes close to his heart, particularly around mental health and veterans’ support. Partnering with American organizations, he has been able to expand his work through various media and tech projects, such as his involvement with BetterUp, a mental health coaching platform.
Besides financial considerations, the desire for a more private and independent life motivated Harry and Meghan's decision. As prominent royals, they had been subject to relentless media coverage in the UK, with Meghan frequently targeted by tabloids. The couple expressed frustration over the intense media intrusion and sought a place where they could raise their children, Archie and Lilibet, without constant public scrutiny.
In Los Angeles, they could set boundaries around their personal lives and maintain some distance from the British press. They settled in Montecito, a quiet community outside Los Angeles known for its exclusivity, where they could maintain a lower profile and create a more private, family-oriented environment.
Finally, the U.S., and California in particular, offered an environment that aligned with Harry and Meghan’s progressive values. Los Angeles is known for its focus on social justice, inclusivity, and advocacy for mental health—all of which align closely with causes the couple actively supports. By moving to a city with a forward-thinking culture, they could more freely engage in charitable work and speak out on important issues.
Harry and Meghan’s move to Los Angeles stemmed from a complex blend of financial necessity, career ambitions, and a desire for personal autonomy. While leaving the UK may have been partially driven by financial realities, the decision also appears rooted in a broader vision for their lives—a hope to shape their careers, support their family, and make a meaningful impact, all on their terms.
