
I'm a simple emigrant and I came with an unpopular opinion
Germany is relatively cheap. Let's be clear from the start: firstly, this is my opinion, and secondly, I'm not talking about a luxurious life. That can instantly raise the "average cost of living" by leaps. But everything related to the ordinary life of an ordinary person is quite cheap. Of course, Germany is very diverse, but I live and write about one of the most expensive cities. With an average salary of €4,300 before taxes (about €2,700 take-home for singles), if you compare with other countries, prices here are much more comfortable. For example, groceries in supermarkets are as affordable as they can be and still good. Our tech is also fairly cheap. Furniture and everything else to furnish a home — IKEA or even free from the streets, eBay or similar groups on Facebook and Telegram. Yes, in this case you have to spend time, but that's normal. Free events are also available. From what is considered expensive: a single ride is indeed very expensive at €3.80, but a nationwide pass across Germany for €60 a month is wonderful. Renting an apartment — well, if you want to be in the best district of a financial city — it's really expensive, but if you step out of this bubble, options are available for any budget. That's the reality wherever demand greatly exceeds supply. There are things that really are expensive: everything related to travel, restaurants, slightly higher-quality or specialty products, luxury furniture and everything made to order. Well, who said it has to be cheap? It's great when there's an opportunity to fly for pennies, but it's not a basic necessity for most. And, compared with other countries, you notice that Germany, despite its costliness, is cheaper than many countries. In expensive countries like the United Kingdom, France, the USA, Belgium, etc., wages are at least comparable. And in Spain, Italy, Turkey, Russia, etc., prices at the average wage are much lower than here. And what do you think about this, and how do you feel about the standard of living where you live? It's also interesting how these feelings change with the arrival of a family and children, or perhaps other priorities. Tell us in the comments! #money