When Meghan Markle and Prince Harry traded palace halls for sun-soaked California, they left behind the gilded comforts of royal life and embraced a world of their own making. Every corner of their home whispered independence, a sanctuary crafted with love and vision, far from the scrutinizing eyes of the monarchy. In contrast, Prince William and Kate Middleton continued their polished, predictable existence within Buckingham Palace, shielded by tradition yet confined by expectation. Despite all the pomp and prestige, Prince William and Kate Middleton’s latest purchase has fallen short of the Sussexes.

Prince William and Kate Middleton’s $21 million new home commands attention, yet it faces natural comparisons to Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s Montecito estate.

Forest Lodge may sound like a quaint countryside hideaway, yet its eight bedrooms, majestic fireplaces, and sparkling chandeliers reveal a far grander reality. Valued at approximately $21 million, it represents the polished elegance of Prince William and Kate Middleton’s latest acquisition. Meanwhile, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s Montecito mansion, originally purchased for $14.65 million, has surged in value, now estimated at $29 million.

Forest Lodge sits just four miles from Prince William and Kate Middleton’s current residence, keeping the family close to home. Nestled within the historic 4,800-acre Windsor Great Park, the estate has welcomed an array of notable figures over centuries, from Princess Margaret’s private secretary, Lord Napier, to royal party planner Alex Fitzgibbons, who orchestrated celebrations for both Prince William and Kate Middleton, as well as Prince Harry and Meghan Markle. However, their big move to Forest Lodge has reportedly negatively affected two families.

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Prince William and Kate Middleton’s move to Forest Lodge has displaced two families, revealing the hidden consequences of royal life within the historic bounds of Windsor Great Park.

Royal expert Ian Pelham Turner told Fox News Digital that close neighbors were reportedly surprised to be asked to leave their homes to ensure privacy for Prince William and Kate Middleton with their children. Sources indicate no formal eviction notices were issued, and the families have relocated to comparable or superior housing within the 4,800-acre Great Park, remaining on Crown Estate properties. A well-connected insider told the Daily Mail that the families “were not expecting it” and were told to move.

Royal expert Richard Fitzwilliams told Fox News Digital that neighbors near Forest Lodge were asked to relocate for security, given the homes’ closeness to Prince William and Kate Middleton. While the families remain on Crown Estate land in alternative residences, the move underscores the pressures of royal life under constant media scrutiny. Even as Prince William and Kate Middleton work to shield their children from Prince Harry’s explosive revelations, their new home still falls short of the sun-soaked glamour and privacy of the duke and Meghan Markle’s Montecito estate.

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What do you think about Prince William and Kate Middleton’s new home falling short of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s Montecito estate? Let us know in the comments below.