Summary

The author, a European who lived in the US for nearly two decades, argues that the cost of living and lifestyle in Spain are significantly more favorable than in the United States, offering a better quality of life with less financial strain and more time for personal enjoyment and social interactions.

Abstract

The article titled "The surprising Truth About Spain vs the US: The Grass is Always Greener" presents a personal perspective on the stark differences between living in Spain and the United States. The author, who has experienced both cultures extensively, challenges the notion that one's attitude solely determines the quality of life. They highlight the high energy demands and financial burdens of the average American lifestyle, where mere survival entails a cycle of working and paying for basic necessities. In contrast, the author describes Spain as a country where the cost of living is more manageable, allowing for a lifestyle that includes leisure activities, better healthcare affordability, and the possibility of

The surprising Truth About Spain vs the US: The Grass is Always Greener

The Proof which one is “greener.” You decide!

As a European, I often compare the lives of people in Europe, particularly in Spain and the United States, expressing my astonishment at how much easier and simpler it is to live in Spain.

I lived in the US for almost 2 decades, I understand American way of life really well.

Many are led to believe that life may be enjoyed anywhere; only your attitude determines how wonderful it is. How upbeat are you? There are also a lot of nonsense reasons. And if it is not wonderful, it is only your fault.

But that is all BS.

The average American’s lifestyle is incredibly energy demanding, and living simply for survival is the only option. Working, paying for necessities, and repeating the cycle what is life about in the US.

Simply put, the cost of living in America skyrocketed for most individuals. It is even difficult to afford necessities.

I am sure you heard the stories about couples living on $100k a year, from paycheck to paycheck. I believe them because America is so expensive.

Some people even advised me I should have more hobbies so I could enjoy life in the United States, yet this was beyond my means, as well.

How can you enjoy hobbies if everything is expensive, and you can’t afford it?

My daughter had bad asthma when she was younger and despite having health insurance, I still have to spend $200 a month extra on her meds.

I love to paint with acrylics, but 1 tube of quality acrylic paint costs around $15 in the US, in Spain $5.

My daughter is horse riding in Spain and has private lessons too. I pay in Spain for the rental of the horse, with classes of $300 a month. In the US, it will be close to $2000.

Do you see the difference?

In the US, I could never afford to buy land, in the location I love for less than $100k, but in Spain, I can.

In the US, I have to work full time or more to survive, but in Spain, I don’t have to. I can choose to work part-time, or freelance.

And because of the extra free time, I am free to spend my time as I wish and with who I choose.

And that brings me to social life. In the US, people work constantly. Not in Spain. People have time to meet and enjoy time together.

Rocco Pendola published an article about my costs comparison in the US vs Spain. This article explains about my lifestyle and costs in both countries. Please read it to understand my point better.

He concludes the article with the quote:

But that’s the question when you make a drastic move like this — is the grass always greener?

It is greener. American life is excessive and drastic, not the one in Spain. Life in Spain is how it should be: human.

Life should be accessible, pleasant, and stress-free; it shouldn’t have to revolve around work and finances until you’re on your deathbed because you couldn’t afford not to work or pay for the necessities.

You can’t socialize because everyone, including you, is always working or running arounds.

I don’t know about you, but I would gladly take the Spanish lifestyle over the American one.

What do you think? Is the grass really greener in Spain? Let me know in the comments below!