Originally Posted by NotMrNiceGuy

10X? Wow. That sounds like a lot.



The only people that think that superficial view of Europe vs. the US are doing so through their convenient political lens. Look, I love Europe. Fantastic locations, history, and scenery. There may even be a case that QOL there if you make less than $45K/€/£. But above that threshold, it’s not even close.



Tech:

US - Google, Facebook, Twitter, Uber, Netflix, Amazon, Apple, etc.

Europe - Nokia?

Education:

US - 7 out of top 10 universities in the world. Other three in the UK.

Transportation:

I’m guessing you like the train system? It’s true, many major EURO cities have great subway systems and city infrastructure. But beyond that, the trains were unreliable and not punctual. Plan an extra 45 minutes for everything (German/Italy) experience.

Welfare/Social Programs:

This is where it’s political. If that’s what you like, then it’s probably some kind of Utopia to you. But in Germany, those folks pay between 7-8% of gross for that healthcare. The UK is no different. Denmark is off the charts. Not to mention employer contribution of the same percentage. That’s more than three times what comes out of my paycheck. And the actual care? My wife had a baby here and abroad. The level of care is not the same. She said she felt like she was at a five star resort having the baby here in the US. No sharing rooms with other patients. Own bathroom. Meals that consisted of more than just bread and cheese.



Europe is definitely first world and is really nice. But nowadays, Americans tend to forget why their ancestors came here. Until you actually experience it, I think that European mystique is more hype than substance. It’s just annoying to hear over and over how incredible Europe is by those that just repeat talking points and have never spent any meaningful time there.