Why More and More Americans Are Choosing Europe
For business owners, expats, and investors, the United States and Europe are two of the most popular destinations. Both of these regions offer diverse culture, a high quality of life, and various incentives for entrepreneurs.
While it may come as a shock to learn that more Americans are choosing Europe as their new homes, this guide will provide insight into their reasoning. As you weigh the benefits of living in Europe vs. US, you might also find the former to be more preferable. Moving forward, we’ll explore lifestyle differences, education opportunities, healthcare, public safety, and much more.
Let’s unpack this together.
USA vs. Europe: Differences in Living
As we discover the differences in living in Europe vs. US, we’d be remiss not to start with lifestyle. Europeans are known for valuing collective societal wellness, whereas Americans care deeply about individualism and competition. These differences are reflected in the US being far more religious than Europe, while Europe has far more social safety nets than America.
Work-life balance ties into this as well. With fewer social safety nets, US citizens place greater emphasis on careerism and getting ahead economically. In many regards, you could say that while Americans live to work, Europeans work to live. When weighing living in US vs. Europe, it’s important to remember American citizens are more likely than Europeans to view hard work as necessary to getting ahead in life.
Amid a breadth of available public services that aren’t as readily available in the United States, Europeans typically pay higher taxes. Though this factors into the cost of living in Europe vs. US, allowing residents of the former region to enjoy tuition-free colleges, universal healthcare, and other benefits.
These crucial lifestyle differences go all the way down to housing situations. In America, you’ll find that homes tend to be larger and more spacious. Europe, on the other hand, is home to cozier and more compact residences that are closely packed together. For instance, residential properties with giant backyards and plenty of room to run around are more associated with the United States than Europe.
Food Shopping
As we weigh the benefits of living in Europe vs. US, food is a major factor. Many foods that Americans eat in the states have been banned in European nations. This is due to their artificial colors and other chemicals that prove harmful. With this in mind, one could easily assert that the cost of living in Europe vs. US is having access to a healthier diet!
American supermarkets are also quite different from their European counterparts. US shoppers will find that meats, for instance, are usually less expensive than in Europe. However, the quality also tends to be lower. While food shopping in European countries, you’ll notice easier access to sustainable and nutritious ingredients. Unlike American supermarkets, even the “junk food” you come across in Europe has fewer additives.
In both regions, farmers markets and groceries stores are often readily available for food shopping. Across rural areas, many residents view farmers markets as reliable means of purchasing healthy foods while supporting hard working members of the community.
Health and Lifestyle
When faced with the opportunity of living in Europe vs. US, the former makes exercise and healthy living far easier. Across multiple countries, Europeans are known for walking on a daily basis. This gives them regular exercise, while also allowing them to dodge the many medical drawbacks of a sedentary lifestyle.
Americans, on the other hand, struggle greatly with sedentary living, which is reflected in the US’ rising obesity levels. Obesity rates in America far outpace those across Europe, which will pose some long term health complications in the years to come. While the United States has plenty of gyms and fitness centers, it’s still not uncommon for people to spend most of their days sitting, rather than moving.
Moreover, Europe’s streets and infrastructure are more conducive to walking on a daily basis. In America, there are many communities where transportation without a car is next to impossible.
With less of a fixation on careerism and strenuous hard work, Europeans typically find time to balance their day jobs with personal interests. Likewise, with more nutritious meals and government bans against many food additives found in the United States, Europeans also have an easier time with healthy eating.
As Americans weigh these differences, many are deciding the benefits of living in Europe vs. US are more than worth it.
Cost of Living Differences
The cost of living in Europe vs. US is a major factor that anyone should consider before relocating to either region. Understanding the costs of housing, transportation, healthcare, and other expenses makes weighing your options much easier. While individual expenses will differ, especially across European nations and American states, we’ll explore some averages and key variations.
Cost of Living in European Countries
Across Europe, Switzerland, Norway, and Denmark lead as the most expensive countries, while Portugal, Spain, and Greece are among the most affordable. It’s important to understand the cost of living index factors in houses, food, and transportation. In virtually all European countries, major cities like Zurich, Oslo, and Copenhagen come with higher living expenses than rural, countryside communities.
As you explore living in Europe vs. US, it’s important to take note of variations between different nations. Business owners who want to be in the heart of the city may not mind paying top dollar. Though retirees or digital nomads on a budget could find the countryside or communities outside of major cities to be more preferable.
Cost of Living in the US
In America, the most expensive states to call home are Hawaii, California, and Massachusetts. Among the most affordable states, however, are West Virginia, Mississippi, and Arkansas. Despite the differences of living in US vs. Europe, there are some commonalities.
In both regions, major cities are far more expensive to call home than small towns and rural communities. Honolulu, Los Angeles, and Boston come with far higher costs than Lewisburg, Bay St. Louis, and Greenwood.
While rural communities are more affordable, they offer fewer businesses, longer commute times, and less recreation than the big cities. Some Americans view this as a worthwhile tradeoff, whereas others prefer easy access to popular urban amenities.
Whether in Europe or America, big cities or rural communities, putting together a budget helps greatly with the costs of living. People across both regions have found that budgets allow them to know where their money is going and avoid overspending.
Education in Europe vs. US
The education system stands as one of the most pronounced differences of living in Europe vs. US. In European nations, children generally take all of their lessons in one classroom.
American schools, however, see kids move from one classroom to the next, with each containing a different teacher and lesson. US schools are also known for being much bigger than their European counterparts, due to the latter lacking athletic fields and gymnasiums.
Living in US vs. Europe means attending schools that are funded via local, state, and federal taxes. Though their European counterparts rely upon capital from both private and public sources.
In exploring educational differences, we also have to note variations between student assessment methods and curriculum structures. American schools are famous for a more flexible grading system (A through F), while European schools use the 1, 2, 3 system. 1s are As, but only go to the most exceptional students. As such, it’s not uncommon for 2s (Bs) and 3s (Cs) to be viewed as good grades.
Schools in the United States rely heavily on standardized testing to ascertain students’ learning levels and capabilities. In Europe, you’ll notice a much stronger focus on vocational training. This assists young people with gaining useful, marketable skills that will come in handy after they’ve completed their education.
Over the years, the American education system has received a fair amount of criticism for its one-size-fits-all approach. Some voices are advocating for a more flexible, nuanced approach to education that mirrors what’s seen in Europe today.
Amid weighing the benefits of living in Europe vs. US, access to colleges and universities is a big deal. Higher education in America is notoriously expensive, so much so that most young people take out expensive student loans in order to continue their studies. Europe, on the other hand, has more affordable colleges and universities, which are largely funded by taxes.
In the United States, growing debates and public discontent have surged regarding the costs of higher education. Many people feel that student loans, especially the interest that comes along with them, are downright predatory and should be waived by the federal government.
As such, some individuals view Europe’s approach to college and university as more publicly accessible. This, too, is a factor in more Americans choosing Europe, especially parents of children who will soon be looking for opportunities in higher education.
Healthcare in Europe vs. US
In many ways, access to healthcare in Europe vs. America mirrors that of higher education. Most countries across the former region provide universal healthcare, which is paid for by taxes. This lowers the out-of-pocket costs that people incur, making a doctor’s office visit or a run to the emergency room far less expensive.
In the United States, private insurance is the norm. The average American can end up paying hundreds of dollars per month for this coverage. This naturally drives up the overall costs of healthcare, which many US citizens are deeming to be increasingly unaffordable.
When it comes to medical coverage, living in US vs. Europe has its tradeoffs. Healthcare throughout the latter region tends to be less costly. However, some critics have raised concerns about the quality of care and the various wait times tied to universal coverage. Europe is not without private healthcare insurance options. Though these are heavily regulated and rife with competition.
Public Safety in Europe vs. US
As more Americans choose Europe, public safety is an undeniable factor. Over the years, the United States has come under fire for a litany of mass shootings that are unseen in other countries. Throughout most European nations, civilians are not permitted to own firearms, which naturally prevents shootings in schools, malls, and other public areas.
To date, gun violence is a major problem that America continues to struggle with. Gun laws vary by state, with liberal ones being more restrictive and conservative states taking a more permissive attitude towards firearms. Some US officials have also argued that mass shootings have less to do with guns and more to do with mental health challenges among the public.
While political leaders and their constituents battle over the best ways to curtail gun violence, some Americans see Europe as a safer region to settle down and raise families.
Political Tensions
European are home to many political parties, such as the Social Democratic Party, People’s Party, and more. Such diversity allows for variations in political affiliations among civilians, while also cutting down on hyperpartisanship and gridlock. This is one of many benefits of living in Europe vs. US. This may also depend on the regions, for example Eastern Eurıpean countries or comparing with Western Europe.
Some people now feel that a multi-party system is most effective at checks and balances. The view is common when contrasted with the United States’ separation of powers across the federal, judiciary, and executive branches of government.
Across America, the two major parties that control governments and elections are the left-wing Democrats and right-wing Republicans.
Despite the United States housing third parties, such as the Libertarians and Green Party, these groups have yet to gain enough power to truly sway the electoral system. In fact, America’s political system is organically designed to ensure third parties don’t siphon away power from Democrats and Republicans.
The end result of this has led to major division and hyperpartisanship with the United States. Amid the chaos, many Americans are advocating for political system reforms that mirror dynamics seen in European nations.
Europe vs. US: The Final Round
In this guide, we thoroughly explored the differences between living in Europe vs. the US. We saw the variations between healthcare and education systems while also discovering similarities in the cost of living. During our assessments of public safety and political tensions, we dived into the various matters driving Americans to pick Europe as their new home.
Hopefully, the ins and outs of this guide revealed the benefits, cultural differences, and cost of living in Europe vs. US. Whether you’re an expat, business owner, digital nomad, or investor, this comprehensive guide should provide more insight into why more Americans are choosing Europe.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of health insurance in Eastern European countries compared to Southern Europe?
As Eastern European countries may have lower costs of living than Southern Europe, the health insurance premiums tend to be lower as well.
Are there any countries in Europe that offer completely free healthcare?
The answer is yes. There are indeed many European countries that offer free universal healthcare systems funded by taxes so that these countries’ citizens and residents can have access to healthcare services without having to pay any extra.
What are the average income tax rates in most European countries?
Some countries may have relatively high-income tax rates, while some in Europe have lower rates. There might be many factors, including property taxes, sales taxes, and social security contributions.
What are some of the cultural differences between Eastern Europe and Southern Europe?
There are many and various types of European countries. It is normal for Eastern Europe and Southern Europe to have distinct cultural traditions and influences. Though, there are some similarities in terms of language, cuisine, music, and social customs. So, European culture is not one but many and diverse.
Can I start my own business in any European country?
Yes, you can own your business and start one in most European countries, depending on your work permit situation.
