[hocuspocus]

Peace of mind with healthcare isn't so much about one-off costs when you catch a nasty flu. What happens if you're unable to work for months/years due to a health issue? Will you be able to pay your expensive rent and other expenses without worries?

Also you're a bit naive if you think raising kids will cost you only once they go to college. If you compare direct (daycare, preschool) and indirect (like moving to a good neighborhood) costs in the Bay area vs. a big European city, the difference is easily 5 figures year. And then there are things like parental leave.

But of course, as a 20-something you might not need these things.

[superuser2]

Then those (like rent, as I mentioned) are the much more compelling arguments.

If I'm unable to work for months, I'll have to draw down my emergency fund (probably move somewhere cheap to slow the burn rate). If in Europe I don't have to save for this, and can freely spend all of my paycheck, then that's a huge benefit. Ditto with retirement, which takes ~15% off the top of American salaries (unless you are irresponsible or in crisis so not saving for it).

Preschool is a valid point; moving to a good neighborhood is captured in rent.

I'm just saying healthcare and education aren't the interesting arguments. Housing costs and socialized savings plans are.