Moving to Europe in 2020, first to Ukraine and then to Poland due to the ongoing conflict, I discovered that life here is significantly easier than in America. Every aspect of living seems to be more manageable. Despite having a comfortable life in the U.S.—earning a six-figure salary, enjoying free healthcare through military service, and living in a good neighborhood—I felt that life was unnecessarily challenging. My sons attended quality schools, and we often traveled in the summers, either to Europe or the Rocky Mountains. While my life was enviable by American standards, it still felt burdensome.

Now, my income in Europe is only a third of what it was in the U.S. Although I initially relocated to Ukraine, the war has forced us to stay in Poland for safety. Interestingly, despite the turmoil, Ukrainians outside the conflict zones face less gun violence than many Americans.

My departure from the U.S. wasn't solely due to gun violence, but rather two main issues: transportation and healthcare. Without a comparison to European standards, one might underestimate the difficulties of American life.

Transportation in Europe operates on a different model, emphasizing public transit over personal vehicle ownership. My biggest error upon moving was bringing my American car; I quickly realized I didn't need it. Had I sold it before relocating and avoided the costs of shipping and taxes, I would have saved a substantial amount. Weekend trips can be made simply by renting a car, which can be delivered to my door. Public transport options are abundant and affordable, making car ownership in the U.S. seem exorbitant, with monthly costs ranging from $700 to $1,500. In contrast, I can travel throughout Europe using public transport for less than that.

Additionally, car-centric infrastructure in America leads to a cycle of dependency on vehicles, requiring extensive roads and parking. In my European city, I can easily walk or take trams, with grocery stores just a few minutes away. I still own a car but use it infrequently, primarily for errands.

Healthcare is another significant difference. The high costs of American healthcare inflate insurance premiums. In Europe, car insurance covers only vehicle damage, as health systems handle personal injuries, eliminating the risks of exorbitant payouts. The overall economic burden of healthcare in the U.S. escalates the cost of living, forcing employers to increase wages to cover medical expenses.

To illustrate, Americans spend an average of $13,493 per person on healthcare annually, with additional costs associated with car ownership and housing. In contrast, many Poles own their homes outright, avoiding rental costs altogether. The average expenses in Poland are significantly lower, with many families thriving on far less than American families need.

In Poland, the average cost of living for a family of four is around $2,400, compared to $4,165 in the U.S. This amount allows for a comfortable lifestyle, including dining out and gym memberships. My family of three enjoys a high quality of life with significantly lower expenses.

Moreover, America incurs unnecessary healthcare costs amounting to $7,000 per person each year, primarily benefiting insurance companies. A family of four pays nearly $24,000 for coverage, exclusive of copays and out-of-pocket expenses. Meanwhile, in Poland, I have access to quality healthcare services for a fraction of the price.

The financial strain of healthcare in the U.S. is detrimental to the economy. Imagine the impact on American families if they could save $28,000 annually. This figure does not account for additional employer contributions or government expenditures on programs like Medicare and Medicaid.

Transitioning to a more efficient healthcare system could drastically improve financial situations for families and businesses alike. For instance, my three-year-old attends a top-notch daycare that costs $400 per month, offering a wealth of enrichment activities, far more affordable than similar services in the U.S.

Parks and recreational spaces in Europe also surpass those in America, with a plethora of playgrounds and green areas available in urban neighborhoods. The emphasis on maintaining green spaces over parking lots enhances the quality of life.

While highways exist in Poland, the availability of frequent train services offers a viable alternative, reducing the need for personal vehicles and their associated costs. The convenience of public transport allows for more leisure time during commutes.

America possesses many advantages, but its persistent issues, particularly in transportation and healthcare, are increasingly problematic. As we continue to invest in more roads and complex insurance systems, we neglect to address the core issues affecting quality of life.

I remain hopeful for a future change that benefits my children, while I observe the situation from Europe.

Thanks for reading! Your comments and support motivate me to keep sharing. If you wish to help fund my son's Latin lessons, consider contributing on BuyMeACoffee!

Dylan Combellick is a writer with a holistic view on geopolitical issues. As a retired intelligence analyst and world traveler, he explores themes surrounding war and society. Check out his work at buymeacoffee.com.