King Charles won’t live at Buckingham Palace, officials announce

Key Points:

• King Charles and the Prince and Princess of Wales will not reside at Buckingham Palace after its £369 million refurbishment, opting instead to live at Clarence House and Forest Lodge, respectively, marking the end of a centuries-old tradition of monarchs living at the palace.
• Buckingham Palace will continue as the symbolic and official headquarters of the monarchy, hosting state events and royal functions, but will no longer serve as a residential home.
• The King and Prince of Wales have disclosed their personal tax payments as part of a transparency initiative, with Charles paying £12.9 million and William £7.76 million in the 2024-25 financial year, totaling over £50 million paid to HMRC since Charles ascended the throne.
• The decision to not live at Buckingham Palace aims to increase public access to the building by reducing residential restrictions, though it has faced criticism for potentially diminishing the palace's appeal and symbolic status as a royal home.
• The move reflects a modernizing monarchy focused on transparency and public engagement, despite concerns from some royal commentators that the palace may become perceived more as a museum than a vibrant royal residence.