Meghan Markle was reportedly surprised by the lavish lifestyle of Prince William and Princess Kate, which she observed after visiting their residence, Apartment 1A at Kensington Palace. This 20-room residence starkly contrasted with the modest Nottingham Cottage where Meghan and Prince Harry lived. According to royal commentator Robert Jobson, Meghan was not necessarily jealous but taken aback by the disparity in living conditions between the two couples. This initial shock and the perceived inequity in accommodations reportedly contributed to the underlying tensions between the Sussexes and the Waleses.
Prince Harry himself felt a sense of discomfort about their living situation. In his memoir “Spare,” he described Nottingham Cottage as “palace adjacent,” acknowledging its modesty compared to the grander residences of other royals. This difference in living standards underscored broader issues of hierarchy and privilege within the royal family, which became a point of contention for the Sussexes. Meghan’s experience at William and Kate’s “museum-like” home further highlighted these disparities, leading to feelings that Harry, despite being a royal prince, deserved better accommodations.
These disparities and the couple’s dissatisfaction with their position within the royal family ultimately influenced their decision to relocate. In 2019, Harry and Meghan moved to Frogmore Cottage in Windsor, seeking a more fitting residence as they prepared for the birth of their son, Archie. However, their desire for a different lifestyle and greater autonomy led them to step back from their senior royal duties in early 2020. By the summer of that year, they had moved to Montecito, California, where they sought a fresh start away from the constraints and scrutiny of royal life.
The differences in living conditions between the two royal couples were more than just a matter of comfort; they symbolized the broader challenges and dynamics within the royal hierarchy. These issues, along with cultural and personal differences, played a significant role in the growing rift between the Sussexes and the rest of the royal family. The move to the United States marked a significant shift for Harry and Meghan as they pursued a life outside the traditional royal framework.
