[weberc2]

Disclaimer: I know this because I tried very hard to justify living in Europe for a few years.

It is true for salaried professionals. Salaries are about 30-40% higher in the states. Taxes (which cover education up to uni), health insurance, and 401K account for roughly 30% of our gross salaries, leaving us with more left over than our European counterparts gross (we also work more hours, but not enough to make up the difference). Of course, if you look at non-professional employees, it’s probably better to be European.