Cost of Living in America: One of the Highest in the World
The United States of America is one of the countries that most people find enchanting. Infrastructure is amazing, houses are impressive, education is world-class, and technology is simply great. These are just few of the reasons why a lot of expats are choosing this country to be their home. If you’re one of them, it’s important that you know how much it will cost you to live in the land of milk and honey.
The cost of living in America is different from state to state. The most expensive states to live in include Massachusetts, California, and New York.
Rent
A lot of people who move to the US starts by renting an apartment as buying a decent property can be extremely expensive. The rent for a common apartment, when shared with other people, is around $150 on suburbs. However, a small apartment in New York can cost as much as $2,000 per month. Note that when you move, you’ll be asked for at least one-month advance and one-month deposit. Typically, you will spend at least 15%-20% of your salary on rented accommodation. It’s best if you share find a roommate to split the cost.
Utilities
Although the rent varies from state to state, the utilities are basically the same. This means you’ll pay the same amount of money for cable, phone, gas, and water whether you’re living in New York or small town in Montana. Expect to spend at least 5-10% of your monthly salary on utilities.
Food
Food is generally affordable in all states. If you take the time to do your grocery and eat home cooked meals most of the time, you can expect to spend no more than $300 per month without starving. However, if you love eating outside and trying out restaurants every now and then, you could spend $500-$1,500/month depending on the type of restaurants that you choose. America, compare to other developed countries has one of the lowest food and essential cost.
Entertainment
When it comes to entertainment, there’s a huge difference in price between states. For example, if you watch Broadway musical in New York, you can expect to spend at least $1,500-$2,000. However, you can watch a nice movie in Montana for about $7-$20.
Tax System
Most Americans complain because they feel that they’re paying lots of different taxes. They’re legally obliged to pay federal and state taxes which can get pretty expensive. Unlike in Australia where there’s only one income tax system that include 1.5% health care levy that funds the health care system in the country.
Health care
Majority of Americans get their health insurance and benefits from the company that they’re working for. Most midsize and large companies in this country provide health insurance as part of their employee benefits package. Americans who are self-employed on the other hand, are encouraged to buy their own health insurance which can get expensive depending on the coverage. The government pay for the health insurance of Americans who are disabled, have little to no income, and those who are 65 years and older.
