I initially posted this question in a London forum before finding out about this one, so I am reposting the same question here with apologies to anyone who has seen or answered it elsewhere.
I've travelled to the UK quite a bit and have become curious about the local economy, especially now that the currency exchange with the dollar is highly favorable to you and excruciatingly tough on many American tourists. My question has to do with the purchasing power of the pound in the UK vs. the US$ in America. I have noticed that, provided one disregards currency differences, a British pound in the UK buys basically the same product or good as the US$ does in the USA. That is, something that costs 50.00UK in the UK pretty much costs
50.00US in the States. Of course, the American tourist today ends up paying double for that West End Show or dinner in Britain than were s/ he to purchase a Brodway show ticket or dinner in NYC. The British tourist, though, makes out like a champ in the US under current currency rates.Now, what salary levels are necessary for someone to lead a reasonably "comfortable" existence in the UK? By "reasonably comfortable" I mean a single wage earner, no second job needed, purchase whatever one wants or chooses, live in a moderately sized flat or home, vacations during the year (domestic or international), does not feel in anyway constrained or burdened by debts, etc.
Perhaps salary comparisons could be made between a white collar worker with and without university training, or professional training, vs.someone with the equivalent of a 12th grade education (no college) and some form of occupation, as opposed to a profession.
I know this may be complicated to answer and might result in more questions that I could possibly anticipate, but if anyone has a clue as to what I'm looking for,I'd appreciate an answer...
Thanks!
Pete in Sunny Florida