Note that if you enter the US as a visitor, you cannot change your status once in the country. Cost of Living Click here for some general guidance about the cost of living in the US compared to other world cities. Housing The cost of housing is one of the key considerations in the cost of living in a country. Rental prices are dependant on the location, size, and quality of property. In general rented accommodation isn t difficult to find in the US with the exception of large cities and their suburbs where there s a strong demand and rents are high.
Most property is let unfurnished and even furnished apartments are sparsely equipped.
The US has two levels of income tax, federal and state, and some cities or counties also levy a local income tax. The tax system is based on self-assessment and returns are complicated and often require an expert s help. State income tax rates vary depending on the state. The US is the richest country in the world with the most successful economy and the standard of living is high and the cost of living considerably lower than most countries in Western Europe, therefore in theory your money should go a long way. The cost of luxury imported goods is lower than in almost any other country and cars are inexpensive, costing up to 50 per cent less than in many European countries.