4 ms·
I've never lived in either of them, but visited Switzerland as a tourist. They're not in the European Union and both have wealth taxes (depending on where you l
by armitron 4y ago
I've never lived in either of them, but visited Switzerland as a tourist. They're not in the European Union and both have wealth taxes (depending on where you live, the wealth tax varies).
If I had to pick one or the other, I'd choose Switzerland and pick the lowest tax canton I could find. Keep in mind that the cost of living in Switzerland is very high and you might need to learn German.
Countries in (or used to be) the EU I've spent significant time in and my opinion of them:
UK: Salaries are higher than the rest of the EU, especially if you work in fintech, but London is outrageously expensive, especially if you maintain a car. The alternative is the Underground (metro system) which I despised. Not as bad as NYC MTA but close. NHS is a disaster. No wealth tax.
Germany: High taxes but lots of options/accounting maneuvering can reduce the burden. Cost of living is OK, very nice infrastructure, clockwork-like services and I love Berlin. Should learn German if you plan to live there for years, but can go by with English. National health system is excellent. No wealth tax.
France: I've lived in Paris for a few months. Avoid. Housing situation is insanely bad. Has a wealth tax but high threshold before it kicks in, still if you're HNW it will catch you.
Netherlands: Amsterdam is getting very expensive but super fun city. The wealth tax equivalent they have is insane. Medium-high cost of living. Super high taxes. National health system is good. Not recommend if you are a high net worth individual (1 million+).
Spain: High tax rate if you're resident there, 37% from 35k and 45% on anything above 60k EUR. Bad bureaucracy. Cost of living was good in Barcelona. Bad wealth tax which also includes real estate.
Greece: Nice for short vacation, definitely avoid for work. Bureaucracy and state services will drive one nuts. Health system is a disaster. High taxes and cost of living is high in the posh areas of Athens. Need to know/learn Greek if you plan to live there.