You may not realize it, but for some things, our wallets are a lot lighter in America than in other parts of the world. Why does it seem like we’re spending more at home on the same stuff that costs peanuts abroad? Today, we’re looking at 18 things you might not know you’re overpaying for in America compared to other places.
Fee vs Free
Going to college for free sounds like a dream, but in places like Germany, it’s a reality. Thanks to their tax-supported universities, students of all kinds, including international ones, don’t have to pay a dime for tuition. But here in the USA, many students graduate with a mountain of debt and a diploma.
A Bitter Pill
It’s no secret that our prescriptions cost an arm and a leg, especially compared to our neighbors up north in Canada. The government has a price cap on mediation, which keeps their prices affordable. Unfortunately, it’s pretty much the Wild West over here, as companies set prices depending on what the market can bear.
Browsing on a Budget
In America, checking your favorite sites on your phone can eat up quite a bit of your budget. But in places like India, people are playing a lot less for their mobile data. Thanks to a ton of competition among telecom companies, prices have fallen quite a lot in India, meaning that it’s much easier and cheaper to stay connected than in the States.
Welcome to the World, That’s $20,000, Please
If you’re having a baby, then get ready for a pretty hefty bill if you’re in the USA, which is usually a little under $20,000. Meanwhile, in Finland, welcoming a new member of the family isn’t going to bankrupt you. In fact, their healthcare system covers most of the cost, so they’ll have peace of mind without the price tag.
Cheaper Smiles Down South
Many Americans dread the dentist’s bill more than the drill because a simple checkup can cost quite a bit. But if you hop over the border to Mexico, you’ll pay a lot less for the same care for your teeth. It’s no surprise that so many Americans go south for their dental needs.
The Cost of Getting Around
In theory, taking the bus or train is supposed to save you some money. Sadly, in America, it feels like just the opposite, especially since you never even know if your public transport is going to arrive on time. Just compare that to Taiwan, where their efficient and subsidized public transport system means getting around is easy and economical.
Expensive Energy
Thinking of going green with some solar panels? That should save you some money, but not in America because setting up those panels on your roof can be pretty expensive. While you can get some rebates and tax credits from having a solar panel, it’s nothing compared to China. Their government subsidies are a lot higher, and it’s made green energy way more accessible.
In the Tropics
In the USA, many of us dream about spending retirement relaxing on a beach, although that dream can cost you a pretty penny. But, thanks to lower living costs and beautiful views, it’s a lot easier to retire on the beach in Costa Rica. It’s a paradise for anyone looking to spend their golden years without the golden price tag.
Fresh for Less
Who doesn’t love eating organic food? But maybe not at the prices of US stores, as they can be quite high. Over in Brazil, growing organic food is a lot easier because there’s less regulation around it, meaning that organic veggies are a lot cheaper for shoppers. This also helps to support local farmers and makes it easier for everyone to grab some greens for less green.
Paying More For a Fancy Ride
Hefty import taxes and shipping fees mean that luxury European cars are much more expensive here than across the pond. In the places where these cars are made, like Germany or France, that fancy set of wheels is a lot cheaper. We might get regular cars for cheaper, but there’s a clear price difference for the luxury ones.
Knowledge Breaks the Bank
The cost of college textbooks in America can be downright criminal, especially when you compare it to the prices down under. In Australia, they have a much better handle on keeping the cost of learning low since they have a lot of resources at reduced or no cost. Students can actually afford to focus on their studies instead of struggling to afford their books.
A Better Buzz
Fancy a glass of wine? In America, it’s going to come with a fancy price tag, even though we produce a lot of wine. Taxes and distribution fees mean that the cost of wine is a lot higher here than somewhere like Spain. Over there, you can drink superb wines for a fraction of the cost since Spanish vineyards are a place for quantity and quality.
Pet Care For Less
Caring for your pets in America can mean facing some seriously high vet bills. But take a trip to Hungary, and you’ll see that the costs are much more manageable because affordable pet care is a big deal there. This means that pet owners can keep their furry friends happy and healthy without financial worries.
Savor the Savings
If you’re in the mood for some gourmet cheese without the gourmet price, then you’re best off looking outside the USA. Artisan cheese isn’t as big here as it is in other countries, so production scales are a lot smaller, and labor costs are a lot higher. But in France, cheese is a staple, and the cost of buying it is a lot easier to swallow.
Cheering Without Overpaying
Going to a live professional game is a huge investment in America, as a ticket for just one game is around $297. In the UK, though, fans can enjoy watching their favorite teams for a lot less. Lots more people can experience the excitement of live sports instead of just watching from their living room couches.
The Hassle of Home Appliances
The cost of a new fridge or washer is pretty high in America, which is mostly due to import tariffs and a lack of competition. But if you go to South Korea, you’ll find that the sheer amount of local manufacturing means that appliance prices are much more down to Earth. Most South Koreans can get high-tech appliances for a lot cheaper than here.
Beauty Bargains
Who doesn’t want to look beautiful? Unfortunately, in America, that can be quite costly, unlike in South Korea. Over there, the beauty scene is big, and there’s a lot of competition, meaning that many companies give great products for low prices. You can keep up with beauty trends without emptying your wallet.
The Cost of Law and Order
Sadly, the cost of getting legal help in America is a lot higher than it should be, as most attorneys charge around $327 an hour on average. The story’s completely different in New Zealand as legal fees are much more budget-friendly since the legal system’s a lot simpler. Over there, an attorney is half the price.
19 Grim Realities of Dating After 50 That Are Often Overlooked
19 Grim Realities of Dating After 50 That Are Often Overlooked
26 Things That Will Be Extinct Because Millennials Refuse to Buy Them
26 Things That Will Be Extinct Because Millennials Refuse to Buy Them
24 Outdated Slang Terms You Absolutely Shouldn’t Be Using Anymore
24 Outdated Slang Terms You Absolutely Shouldn’t Be Using Anymore
25 Hardest Parts About Getting Older That No One Ever Talks About
25 Hardest Parts About Getting Older That No One Ever Talks About
