Ever dreamed of packing up and moving to Europe? It’s a romantic notion, and while it might feel unrealistic or just short of a pipe dream, those lush landscapes and alluring architecture could be closer than you might think.
SmartAsset Digs Deeper Into Comparable Cost of Living
With the goal of examining the cost of living comparisons between America’s fifty states and European countries, SmartAsset studied the data for basic monthly costs for one adult in 2023. The goal was to find which of the 38 European countries would reflect most similarly to each American state, boiling down to the last dollar.
Euros Vs Dollars
The euro has, for the most part, eclipsed the American dollar for the entirety of its existence. Between June 2002 and July 2022, it held firm, valued higher than the American dollar. And while the value currently sits at 1.07 USD, overall, the two currencies are somewhat comparable.
Which Are the Most Expensive States?
To analyze cost of living comparisons, first the cost of living must be determined. According to SmartAsset, the most expensive states to live in are Hawaii, California, New York and Massachusetts.
With an estimated monthly cost of about 3,150 dollars, the most expensive four states were comparable with just one European country: Denmark.
Recorded as one of the happiest countries in the world, in addition to being one of the most peaceful, Denmark has offerings of beautiful landscape, culture and history. And for the same price for a poky apartment in West Village, what’s to say a studio in Copenhagen is out of the question?
Which States Offer the Cheapest Cost of Living?
If 3000 dollars feels out of your price range, there are other options available. SmartAsset recorded the most inexpensive American states as being Kentucky, Arkansas, Mississippi and Oklahoma, all of which settled with an average monthly cost of 2,290 dollars.
A significant amount cheaper, these states all compared directly to another European country: Belgium. And though you may have to learn one of Belgium’s three national languages (French, Dutch or German), there is still an excess of things to enjoy about the country.
Belgium is a small country, but home to the European Union capital, Brussels. Filled with rich history, including many medieval castles and architecture, Belgium is considered a hub for chocolate, waffles and beer.
Mid Range Comparisons
SmartAsset additionally found that middle-of-the-range states like Vermont and North and South Carolina were comparable with living in Germany. Others like Nebraska and Michigan found equal ground with the small nation of Malta.
As for Texas, America’s second largest state, at an average monthly cost of 2,555 dollars, Finland would be an apt comparison.
Cost Of Living Gap
The cost-of-living gap in Europe is far larger than that in the United States. While America’s most expensive and cheapest states (Hawaii and Kentucky) share a gap of under 2000 dollars, Europe’s most expensive is Switzerland at 4059 dollars while Europe’s poorest, Bosnia is only 900 dollars per month, establishing a gap of over 3000 dollars.
Ultimately, Europe is a cheaper area with 26 countries costing less per month than America’s most inexpensive state (Kentucky). That means France, Spain, Sweden and even Italy are softer on the wallet for the budget-conscious. What’s not to love about that?
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This article was produced by TPR Teaching. Source.
Caitriona Maria is an education writer and founder of TPR Teaching, crafting inspiring pieces that promote the importance of developing new skills. For 7 years, she has been committed to providing students with the best learning opportunities possible, both domestically and abroad. Dedicated to unlocking students' potential, Caitriona has taught English in several countries and continues to explore new cultures through her travels.