For those who’ve lived in both Europe and the USA, I would like to hear your take. What do you love about each place, and what drawbacks have you noticed? Whether it’s the Old World charm of Europe or the dynamic lifestyle in the USA, spill the beans. In the end, what was the game-changer that made you pick one over the other and if you could share the decision-making behind your preferred choice.
Yes and no. You won’t be able to afford to buy as much stuff but you can start a small business much more easily or work part time or do consulting or contract work and keep your health insurance. I’m in the US now making into the 6-figures but I have no flexibility at all. it’s work 40hrs a week 48 weeks a year or bust. And then I see people going bankrupt anyway after an illness and I wonder why bother?
Also the cost of living has gone insane in the last three years. If you left before 2019 it’s hard to understand how completely insane it is here now. And its everywhere, even formerly lcol areas are nuts.
Many many Americans spend $3-5k a month on health insurance, childcare and student loans before even addressing the traditional costs like housing, food or utilities. It’s a CRAZY amount.
It’s not that difficult getting health insurance as a freelancer unless business is slow. You just pay for it on your own via the marketplace and account for it as a business expense when charging clients.
If anything, the US is actually one of the easiest places in the world to start your own small business and work independently. There’s a reason we’re the startup capital of the world.