Is Life Better in Germany or the USA for a Single Person and Why

I have been living in California since 1975, yet the two-month visit to Germany in 1964 left a lasting impression on me. During a visit to the cinema, I watched a group of five people at an intersection patiently waiting for the traffic light to change, even when the street was empty. This behavior significantly differed from what I observed in California, leading me to feel more comfortable adopting the American approach to life.

Germany vs. the USA: A Cultural Comparison

Germany, a relatively small country with a predominantly homogeneous population, stands in stark contrast to the United States, a melting pot of diverse cultures and races. Historical evidence supports the US as a land that attracts the best and brightest from around the world due to its commitment to democracy and freedom. This has shaped the nation into a global hub of innovation and progress.

Pros and Cons of Living in Germany Compared to the USA

Pros of Germany:

Better beer and cakes Closer proximity to popular European tourist destinations Typically, Americans might appear more slender compared to the Germans Once Nazis have been eradicated

Cons of Germany:

Chilly weather Average wine Unattractive shorts Tough love culture

Pros of the USA:

A melting pot of diverse cultures Weather is generally more varied Cultural diversity leading to rich experiences Permissive lifestyle

Personal Insights: A Comparative Analysis

As a Danish woman of German heritage, spending summers in Germany and a semester in the USA, I have a unique perspective. While many might argue for Germany's advantages, I dispute the notion that living in Germany brings any significant benefits over the USA. At best, proximity to European attractions is a marginal advantage, just as such an advantage can be found in Slovakia.

The quality of life in Germany is inherently challenging. Consider the aspect of "free" healthcare and education, which are marred by high tax burdens. My uncle, a mechanical engineer in Hamburg, paid 42% of his monthly salary in taxes and social benefits. Add to this the extortionate toll taxes for using what are hailed as the legendary highways. Even the roads, far from being exemplary, lag behind a country like Croatia, which joined the EU in 2017. VAT taxes stand at 19%, the Radio and TV tax, the religion tax, and the mandatory car insurance further strain the wallets of its citizens. When all these expenses are factored in, it's no exaggeration to claim that citizens pay 2/3 of their incomes for the "free stuff."

The "free stuff," however, is often of questionable quality. Roads are subpar, and healthcare appointments can take weeks or even months to schedule. Moreover, the German culture itself presents obstacles to foreigners. Restaurants in Berlin frequently refuse credit cards to save on revenue, and landlords are notoriously uncooperative. The general risk aversion and reluctance to take initiative are deeply concerning. Shortly after a power outage at Hamburg Airport, the airport remained closed for an entire day due to inadequate Sunday staffing. Most businesses shut down on Sundays, barring personal conviction, not out of choice but due to governmental mandates.

Germany's forward progress is perhaps best seen in its car industry, but heavy environmental fines imposed by the government to appease the Green Party are stifling innovation. The current government, led by the "Christian Conservative" party, is paradoxically supported by a far-left party pushing for gender-neutral schools and kindergartens. This political concoction is both perplexing and concerning. The older generation, who built their wealth through hard work, are risk-averse, preferring to enjoy their wealth without taking risks.

Conclusion

In summary, while Germany offers several unique and potentially appealing aspects, the overall quality of life, especially for singles, is fraught with challenges. The USA, with its diverse population and more permissive lifestyle, seems to offer a better alternative. Regardless of personal preference, understanding the pros and cons of living in each country is crucial for single individuals navigating their life choices.