Relocating your career overseas is a major decision: exciting, challenging, and full of unknowns. For many Quantity Surveyors, the idea of working in the United States feels appealing but out of reach. The questions are always the same: What is life actually like over there? How different is the construction market? Will the move accelerate my career or put it on pause?

To shed light on the reality behind the leap, we caught up with one of our placed candidates, now two years into his move from the UK to the US. His experience captures the themes we hear most often from professionals considering relocation:

• The importance of supportive onboarding.
• The adjustment to new ways of working.
• The role of advocacy, and community in settling in.
• The sheer scale of opportunity available in the US market.

At Capstone, we see first-hand how transformative the right move can be, which is why our Relocation Services are built to guide candidates through every step, from market insight to visa guidance, onboarding support and long-term career development. His story is a grounded, honest look at what it really means to build a life and career in America as a Quantity Surveyor.

How are you finding life in the states?

I am loving it, I’m having the best time. I can’t believe it has been 2 years already, I think it’s flown by so quickly because I am enjoying it so much.

What made you decide to relocate to the US originally?

I visited America a few years ago on holiday, and ever since, I had the desire to move there, but I wasn't aware there were opportunities in the US market. I didn't know anyone who had moved out - most of the Quantity Surveyors I knew who relocated had moved to the Middle East or Australia. It wasn't until I did some more research that I realised there were opportunities and it was something I could pursue. It felt like a really natural move to me as, growing up, we are surrounded by American culture. So I always felt really closely aligned to that, it was always something I wanted to do, I just didn't realise I could.

Did it live up to the expectations you had?

Absolutely. It is everything you think it will be and more.

How did you find the relocation and onboarding process?

Once I came across Annabel, I found the move super easy, I thought it would be much more difficult. A large part of that is down to the support I received from my company. They have a buddy programme and set you up with someone to make sure you have everything you need. It can be an intimidating move but the support I received was vital to helping me settle in.

What were your first impressions of working in the US construction market?

I find the US construction market very different from the UK. I was contractor side so that was different too. I find it much more collaborative and relationship based, which is really good as it builds great connections across all stakeholders involved. The work is probably not as detailed in some aspects, but the main change is the volume is much higher. The value of the projects are on a much larger scale so they are much higher than projects I was on in the UK.

What has been the biggest learning curve so far?

The biggest learning curve for me has been measuring in feet and inches! You have to be mindful that you are not in the UK anymore, that was a big adjustment for me, which took some time to get my head around. Not a challenge, just an adjustment.

How has the move impacted your career progression?

It has really fast-tracked me. There is so much opportunity out here in the States. It feels like it really grows arms and legs when you get out here. Every project I have joined has evolved and diversified, and I’ve then in turn looked at other projects in client portfolios. So I’ve progressed well, but it is down to the opportunities available here. If you want that progression and are willing to work hard, you will get it. I have gained my MRICS and progressed from Senior Quantity Surveyor with no US experience to an Associate Director in 2 years.

What do you enjoy most about living in Texas?

I could talk all day about this. I love the people in Texas - there's a real charm here. I have made some great friends, everyone is so welcoming. I love being able to travel, and Texas is a great central hub. You can easily get cheap flights and go away for the weekend – I’ve been to visit 30 states so far! I would highly recommend a low cost of living area as it enables you to live well and also travel in your free time, which is incredibly easy to do in the US.

What advice would you give to someone considering relocating?

First and foremost, do your research. Look up things like the cost of living, housing options and availability, and taxes. Make sure you’re comfortable with the move. Ensure you're doing your research so you can make an informed decision.

Would you recommend the move? Why?

I would recommend this to anyone regardless of their level of experience. We are seeing more roles coming up at Assistant up to Senior Quantity Surveyor level. It really is fantastic, and the lifestyle and career opportunities are endless.

This candidate’s journey is a powerful reminder that relocation isn’t just about changing jobs, it’s about stepping into a new network, adapting to a new environment, and embracing growth that often happens far faster than expected. With the right support system, strong mentoring, and a team advocating for your success, the move can open doors that simply don’t exist elsewhere.

If you're considering taking your QS career to the US, whether for lifestyle, opportunity, or long-term progression, Capstone’s Relocation Services are designed to make the process seamless. From market guidance and employer introductions to practical relocation support and settling-in assistance, we help you navigate every stage with confidence.

To explore what relocating could look like for you, or to learn more about opportunities across the US construction and development sectors, get in touch with the Capstone Relocation team today.