Ask HN: Should I move from the U.S. to work in the EU? • Hacker News Board

Re: Ask HN: Should I move from the U.S. to work in the EU?

#11

Post by muzani » Sat, Apr 23, 2022, 12:06 AM UTC

I'd take the French job because I'd say new experiences matter a lot more than a little more money. It's still enough to buy a home in most parts of the US.

There's also the third option of making a European salary then buying a mansion on some Indonesian island.

Re: Ask HN: Should I move from the U.S. to work in the EU?

#12

Post by WheelsAtLarge » Sat, Apr 23, 2022, 5:07 AM UTC

You're in your 20's. Do it. You are at a time in your life when you can take chances. Make a plan, don't over think it and go for it. If it doesn't work out in 2 years come back and resume your life. Enjoy!

Re: Ask HN: Should I move from the U.S. to work in the EU?

#13

Post by keiferski » Sat, Apr 23, 2022, 5:45 AM UTC

I recommend trying to get a remote job that pays in dollars. It is much, much better to earn an American salary and live in Europe than to work locally. There are a million cultural things you’ll need to learn (good and bad) and I would only jump into that quagmire if you plan on living in France indefinitely.

Once you have that, try France (and Europe in general) as a digital nomad first. It’s pretty easy to jump from the Schengen Area to Morocco, the Balkans, Turkey, etc. for three months at a time. You could also look for digital nomad-centric visas, which are becoming a thing. I believe Portugal has one, other countries no doubt have options too.

Re: Ask HN: Should I move from the U.S. to work in the EU?

#14

Post by rungu » Tue, Apr 26, 2022, 11:10 AM UTC

You should also consider what you are taking home after taxes, health care, social contributions etc. I don't know how is it in the USA but in Germany on your €55k salary you would take home around €34k (https://visualsm.art/gross-net-salary-calculator/?y=0&LZZ=1&...) But at the same time you won't get bankrupt if you need to visit a doctor, you are also covered if you lose your job, so with the high taxes it came a lot of benefits. Also the governments takes car of the poor or unfortunate people by providing at least housing for them.

You should consider all these perks. On the other hand, you learn languages and have a base to explore France, Germany and maybe Europe, in case if you like traveling ;)