Why comparing salaries between US and Europe is irrelevant

When people start planning to move abroad, one of the first thing they look for is the salary level. Will they make more in the country they are going to (if they get a job), than where they actually live. I can understand the logic but generally, we have to consider many factors.

1st: Will your main source of income be generated in the country you're choosing to relocate to, or will you bring your job with you? Because if you bring your job with you (if you're working remotely, or if you're an expatriate), then there should be no problem if your country is a place where wages are high. You should even be very comfortable, specially if you are hired as an expat, which comes with many privileges.

2nd: The question becomes critical when you're supposed to find a job where you go, if you're unable to have a remote job. Then you should definitely compare, and it might be frightening. For example, American often say that French salaries are low. If you just look at the numbers it is true. For example, a sales executive that might be paid 45000 euros will probably have 70000 dollars in the USA. But once you've said that, there are a lot of things you must look at to see if it is worth it or not.

What will you actually pay with your salary? Are you going to have benefits or help on some levels in your life?

In the US, the pay can be high but you have to pay for everything? Your health costs a lot (so much more than in France), good schools are often private if you have kids, if you have to hire a nanny it costs a lot, if you live in a big city, the rent is very high, restaurants, movies, everything is higher than what you pay in France or other places in Europe. In most french cities, you don't need a car. In the US, only New-Yorkers live without car, this country is built for cars. This is when you should take an excel file and check everything you have to pay monthly to have a decent life. Once you compare this, you really can say that it is worth it (or not)

3rd: But then the question might be: How are you going to find a job? Is it relevant to go there without a job? And if you do so, how likely are you to be hired? You may be confident and wish for success, but sometimes reality is more complex. And when you're abroad, you can't rely on your network. So you have to be realistic. Do you speak the language? Are your skills sought for on that market? Are there American companies that may hire you in this country? And can you legally work visa-wise?

If you go without a remote contract, you would be wise to come with a lot of savings, just in case things go wrong. You must be able to go back or hold on until your knowledge and network allow you to find a job.

4th: What can you afford in terms of quality of life? It is not only about how much it is, it is also about how good it is. When it comes to food, for the same price, the quality is better in France. When you plan for car insurance, you get full coverage for 3 times less than a partial coverage in the US. If you or your kid study in France, prestigious private schools cost the same thing as public colleges in the US. And public universities are free, many of them have great programs. Travelling in Europe doesn't cost a lot and you change country by frying 1 hour. Paris is at 1 hour from Barcelona, London, Berlin, Amsterdam etc. And by train, it takes you 3 hours to reach Amsterdam, or London, or the French Riviera. Working full time gives you a minimum 5 paid week leave and 11 days of. Much more than in the USA. Except if you live in a rural area, you probably don't need a car.

So yes, it is normal to compare salary levels, but if you do so, take the context and the lifestyle in consideration. Don't hesitate to purchase my relocation guide if you feel ready to plan a move.