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
Deep DivesA data-driven ranking of the top destinations for software engineers, data scientists, and product managers - factoring in visa processing speed, tech salaries, cost-adjusted take-home pay, and quality of life.
Deep DivesAs AI automates routine cognitive labor, the global workforce is bifurcating. The competitive advantage for any nation - and any company - is now the ability to attract and relocate the AI-Orchestrators who manage these new systems.
Deep DivesThe L-1, ICT, and their equivalents move thousands of employees across borders every year - often faster and with fewer requirements than standard work visas. Here's how multinationals and their employees use them.
Deep DivesInvestment-based immigration remains one of the fastest routes to residency - but minimum thresholds range from €250,000 to $1,050,000. We compare the world's top investor visa programs side by side.
Deep DivesNavigating global visa requirements often feels like a full-time job. We explore why eligibility is so fragmented and how BorderProof simplifies the path to your next destination.
Policy UpdatesA deep dive into the sweeping changes to US immigration policy in 2026, including new wage requirements and streamlined processing.
Special TreatiesEverything you need to know about the E-3 visa, a specialized residency pathway exclusively for Australian professionals working in the United States.
Deep DivesAn analytical study of the most active migration routes in 2026, from digital nomad trails to professional power corridors.
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.