Cost of living, salaries, tax rates & quality of life
Quick FactsKey stats and figures for United States
Capital
Washington, D.C.
Languages
English
Currency
US Dollar (USD)
Cost of Living
Same as US
Avg. Salary
$ 51k/yr
Timezone
UTC-5 to -10
Population
335 million
Expats
51.6 million
Based on Numbeo Quality of Life Index
Compare expenses and earning potential across major cities
| City | Rent | Total |
|---|---|---|
| New York | $4,478 | $5,306 |
| San Francisco | $3,200 | $3,950 |
| Austin | $1,800 | $2,430 |
Rent based on 1-bedroom apartment in city center. All values in USD/month.
Key tax information for United States
10%-37% (federal) + state
21% (federal)
0%-20% (long-term) + 3.8% NIIT
No federal VAT; state sales tax 0%-10.25%
Worldwide taxation for citizens and residents
What to expect when living in United States
English proficiency required for most visas
No official language, but English is de facto standard
Before You Go
Essential reading for anyone considering the move
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Last updated: April 2026
Disclaimer: The information on this page is for general guidance only and should not be considered legal or financial advice. Cost of living, salary, and quality of life data are estimates based on third-party sources and may vary. Always verify current information with official government sources before making immigration decisions.