Prince Harry and Meghan currently live in Montecito, California, where they reside at the Ivy property with their children, while also maintaining a presence near the Royal Foundation and their commercial ventures. Since stepping back from senior royal duties, they have moved between homes in the UK and the United States, including Frogmore Cottage, a rented residence on the Royal Estate in Windsor, and a previous property in Vancouver. Their choices balance privacy, security, and proximity to work, family, and schooling. This profile breaks down their known locations, why these places matter, and how their housing reflects a blend of personal and professional needs.
Primary Home in Montecito, California
Since 2022, Prince Harry and Meghan have made their main home in Montecito, a coastal community near Santa Barbara. The purchase of an estate-style property known as Ivy has anchored their family life in the United States, offering space for their children and proximity to trusted circles. The move reflects a long-term shift toward establishing roots in California while remaining engaged with global initiatives through Archewell and their media and philanthropic activities.
Why Montecito Offers Stability and Privacy
Montecito balances luxury with a lower public profile than central London. Its setting supports quieter routines, important for family life and sustained focus on their ventures. Proximity to Los Angeles enables their professional commitments, including Netflix and Spotify work, while the community’s character aligns with a family-oriented lifestyle. Security considerations also play a role in their preference for this region.
Previous UK Residence: Frogmore Cottage
Before moving to California, Harry and Meghan lived at Frogmore Cottage on the Windsor Estate, provided rent-free as part of their transition. This arrangement offered proximity to family members, including Prince William and Kate, and maintained a connection to the Royal Estate during overlapping commitments. The cottage’s location within the broader Windsor grounds allowed flexibility for events and private moments while they finalized longer-term plans.
Practical Aspects of Frogmore Cottage
- Located on the Royal Estate in Windsor, with ties to the broader grounds
- Provided as a rent-free residence during their transition period
- Proximity to both family networks and ceremonial obligations
- Reported renovations to suit long-term family living
Earlier Housing in the United Kingdom
Prior to Frogmore Cottage, they resided in a rented home in the Notting Hill area of London shortly after their wedding. That period aligned with early royal duties, media engagements, and the arrival of their first child. The move to Frogmore represented a deliberate shift toward greater stability, space, and separation from intense media environments.
Key London Location Details
- Notting Hill rental served as an initial UK base after the wedding
- Offered temporary proximity to central London offices and events
- Transitioned to Windsor-based arrangements to support growing family needs
Interim Period in Vancouver
In 2019, Harry and Meghan spent time based in Vancouver, where they lived in a rented home while preparing for the arrival of their second child. The move provided a quieter backdrop compared with London, with access to nature and a more private routine. That period highlighted their effort to balance public roles with family-centered days, choosing short-term flexibility during a time of significant change.
Vancouver as a Temporary Base
- Rented residence used during a planned transition phase
- Chosen for relative calm and family-friendly surroundings
- Supported continuity of work while accommodating new parenthood
Context on Their Current Setup and Comparisons
Today, their household is rooted in Montecito, where Ivy serves as the main family residence. They also keep a workspace nearby and remain accessible for select UK visits and responsibilities. This differs from earlier years when frequent moves reflected evolving priorities and security needs. Their choices emphasize fewer relocations, deeper community ties, and alignment with long-term personal and professional goals.
| Attribute | Verified Detail | Source Type |
|---|---|---|
| Current Primary Residence | Montecito, California (property known as Ivy) | On-the-record statements and public records |
| Previous UK Home | Frogmore Cottage, Windsor Estate (rent-free) | Royal Household announcements and estate records |
| Earlier UK Rental | Notting Hill, London (private rental) | Media reports citing local sources |
| Interim Location | Vancouver, Canada (rented home) | Official statements and local coverage |
| Family Focus | Space for children and stable schooling | Interview context and lifestyle reporting |
Security and Lifestyle Considerations
Harry and Meghan’s housing choices consistently factor in security, family well-being, and professional demands. Larger estates in quieter regions allow for controlled access, safer environments for children, and reliable infrastructure for remote work. Their arrangements also accommodate ongoing projects, such as podcasting, documentary work, and charitable initiatives, which require both privacy and reliable connectivity. By centering family needs, they have prioritized fewer, more stable locations over frequent relocation.
Summary of Living Situations
Prince Harry and Meghan’s residences have evolved from short-term rentals in London to a settled household in Montecito, anchored by the Ivy property. Earlier stops included Frogmore Cottage on the Windsor Estate and a rented home in Vancouver, each reflecting distinct phases of their transition. Their current setup balances personal comfort, children’s stability, and access to key professional networks. These choices underscore a pragmatic approach to housing, media, and royal ties in the years following stepped-back royal duties.
FAQ
Reader questions
Where do Prince Harry and Meghan currently live?
They primarily reside in Montecito, California, at a property known as Ivy, which serves as their main family home.
Did they live in the UK after stepping back as senior royals?
Yes, they initially stayed at Frogmore Cottage on the Windsor Estate before moving to the United States.
Why did they move from London to California?
The shift offered greater privacy, stability for raising children, and proximity to their professional and commercial activities in the U.S.
Do they keep homes in the UK now?
They maintain connections to the UK through visits and responsibilities, but their primary residence remains in California. Security considerations, family well-being, and the need for a controlled environment have consistently shaped their location decisions.