A Look at Life Across the Atlantic
Many Americans are currently grappling with frustration regarding their lives back home.
We can empathize with that sentiment.
In 2016, the evening of Donald Trump’s presidential victory marked our decision to relocate.
Since then, Michael and I have spent about half of the past seven years navigating life as nomads in Europe.
While our departure doesn’t imply we’ve turned our backs on important issues, we also acknowledge a degree of privilege in our ability to leave.
The question on many minds is whether they should make a move across the ocean, a choice heavily influenced by personal perspectives and the current state of the U.S.
Moreover, American perceptions of Europe often split along political lines.
For some, it represents an idyllic escape free from problems, where a progressive figure like Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez would be seen as a moderate.
Conversely, others view Europe as a stifling bureaucratic nightmare where progress stalls, and aspirations fade.
It turns out there’s a kernel of truth in both viewpoints, though the idea of Ocasio-Cortez being moderate is quite a stretch, as her progressive values resonate strongly even in Europe.
When discussing “Europe,” it’s crucial to remember the vastness of the continent.
Spanning a area slightly larger than the U.S. and home to over twice its population, Europe consists of between 44 and 50 countries, depending on how one defines it.
Broad generalizations about such a diverse region often miss the mark.
Yet, notable differences allow for some shared understandings.
From our viewpoint, the positives of living in Europe far outweigh the negatives.
Especially in Western Europe, we’ve found that its culture and lifestyle closely align with our personal values and priorities.
Places in Southern and Eastern Europe also appeal to us, thanks to their comparatively low cost of living.
Deciding whether a move to Europe is right for you hinges significantly on your feelings about the current state of affairs in America—particularly as we near another pivotal election.
But it also relies on identifying your personal values and what lifestyle changes you’re seeking.
One of the most significant advantages of relocating is undoubtedly the enhanced quality of life.
Many Americans are aware that Europeans work fewer hours, enjoy longer vacations, and benefit from stronger government safety nets, making aspects like child-rearing and healthcare significantly easier.
This reality has been echoed by various outlets, including one recent Atlantic article suggesting that relocating to Europe might be the best parenting advice.
However, this cultural shift isn’t solely the result of government programs; it’s ingrained in the societal norms as well.
For instance, during our time in Italy, I was astonished to see how lunch breaks often morphed into leisurely gatherings lasting hours.
Initially, I wondered how I’d manage productivity in such a laid-back atmosphere, but soon enough, I embraced this new pace of life.
On the flip side, higher taxes and lower wages can be tough to swallow.
Although I adore the European lifestyle, it comes at a literal cost—taxes are steeper and average salaries lag behind the U.S.
The debate surrounding economic comparisons between the two regions rages on, with discussions about the disparities in salary and living standards often missing crucial points about lifestyle and priorities.
Post-pandemic, America’s economy seems to have taken the lead globally, making some argue that higher income compensates for its downsides, like exorbitant healthcare costs and long work hours.
But does that extra cash really outweigh the complications involved?
For expats, especially, engaging with local tax systems, which might require paying for benefits never directly received, can feel baffling.
Let’s not romanticize Europe entirely—social issues exist here too, with right-wing politics gaining traction in places like Italy and The Netherlands.
Moreover, while fitting into the expatriate community may feel seamless, integrating with the locals can pose challenges given their deep-rooted family histories.
European cities, though, offer a refreshing contrast.
Vibrant and pedestrian-centric, urban life here prioritizes social interaction, healthier lifestyles, and community.
Here, cafés buzz not with the sound of laptop keys, but with lively conversations.
During our stint in Istanbul, we loved the accessibility of local cafés, while back in the States, traffic kept us from venturing out as often as we’d like.
Life in Europe also means downsizing your living space.
Expect smaller apartments and a lifestyle that values simplicity over excess.
Unlike Americans, who often chase after bigger homes and more possessions, Europeans tend to embrace a different ethos.
The emphasis is placed on experiences and connections rather than accumulating “stuff.”
For those seriously contemplating a permanent move, many avenues exist for Americans looking to live in Europe full-time.
Options range from ancestral citizenship applications to short-term tourist visas and long-term work permits.
Yet, the process can be complex—many visas come with hefty fees and restrictions on employment, and navigating the regulations can certainly feel daunting.
In a nutshell, shifting to Europe is more challenging than a fleeting thought might suggest.
But for Michael and me, the freedom of being digital nomads and the experiences we’ve gathered have proven to be some of our finest life decisions.
Those interested in making the leap should prepare to do their research—it’s an adventure that requires due diligence, but it can ultimately lead to a life immensely richer than expected.
