The Duke and Duchess of Sussex are preparing to return to the United Kingdom, settling into a third residence after six years in the United States. While the exact location remains unconfirmed, reports suggest the couple may move to the Cotswolds, an area where they previously rented a cottage in 2018 and where their children are anticipated to attend private school.

The couple will not receive a royal residence from King Charles III, instead opting for private accommodation likely outside London. Property experts indicate that acquiring a suitable estate in the Cotswolds could be a substantial financial undertaking. Jonathan Bramwell of Bramwell Prime Property Search noted that homes in the northern Cotswolds tend to be more expensive than those in the south. He estimated that a six- to seven-bedroom house with staff quarters and significant land—around five to ten acres—would cost at least £10 million (approximately $19 million) in the northern area, with prices in the south starting around £7.5 million.

In addition to housing, education expenses are expected to be significant. Melanie Sanderson, managing editor of The Good Schools Guide, outlined that private school fees in the region range from about £28,000 annually at smaller preparatory schools to over £50,000 a year for two children at top day schools. By comparison, the Duke’s former school in London had fees nearing £70,000 annually for two students.

The couple also face extensive security costs. Since stepping back from royal duties in 2020, the Sussexes have lost their entitlement to state-funded armed police protection. The Duke has unsuccessfully challenged this decision in the High Court. John Moore, managing director of Westminster Security, estimated that private security for the family in the UK would require a minimum of four bodyguards and two vehicles, costing in excess of £3 million per year, and potentially rising to £5 million depending on factors such as international travel and public engagements.

Security concerns have intensified following revelations of a 2023 al-Qa’ida threat against the Duke. Reports indicate that intelligence agencies notified the Sussex security team after senior al-Qa’ida figures allegedly circulated documents on encrypted messaging platforms calling for his assassination. Prince Harry reportedly accused the chair of RAVEC, the independent body managing police protection decisions, of failing to inform him or relevant authorities about the threat. The Duke has written to Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood, requesting her personal intervention in reviewing his family’s protection arrangements.

The Home Office declined to comment on specific security matters but reaffirmed a policy of withholding detailed information to avoid compromising protective measures. Meanwhile, while the Sussexes continue maintaining their 9,000-square-foot mansion in Montecito, California—with upkeep costs estimated at up to $600,000 annually—their imminent move back to the UK brings new financial and security challenges amid their ongoing transition from royal roles.