In the US, PVC/CPVC is widely used where freezing isn't generally an issue. The north east for example, tends to use copper or more recently PEX which is made

In the US, PVC/CPVC is widely used where freezing isn't generally an issue. The north east for example, tends to use copper or more recently PEX which is made of HDPE and actually won't split if it freezes. Copper, aside from being expensive take a long time to install as each piece needs to be measured, cut and either soldered or crimped (e.g. ProPress). CPVC also has higher install costs as like copper, each length needs to be measured, cut and glued. PEX will generally have a central manifold with "home runs" to each faucet/toilet etc as it can be pulled through the framing and can make turns generally without needing to be cut and have elbows installed.